Science
BUA’s science sequence takes students through physics, chemistry, and University biology. An inquiry-based approach to science allows students at all grade levels to make connections between concepts learned in class and the reality of the world around them. Students are exposed to real-life science through hands-on laboratory work, demonstrations, and discussions that encourage them to become actively involved in their own learning. Students are asked to predict, observe, explore, question, measure, and compare; to test theories and articulate beliefs with their peers and teachers; and to modify their thoughts and draw conclusions based on experience. BUA students may also arrange for research opportunities in University labs in the summer before senior year.
PY25: Physics
This is a hands-on inquiry based course with a heavy emphasis on collaboration and scientific processes. The topics covered include classical Newtonian mechanics, states of matter, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, waves, sound, optics, and modern physics. A knowledge of Algebra I is expected as a prerequisite. Text used: Conceptual Physics by Hewitt, Problem Solving Exercises by Hickman.
CH45: Chemistry
This course is an intensive study of general chemistry. The course experimentally and theoretically investigates both the structure and properties of matter as well as how it changes. The historical and societal implications of chemistry are explored. Topics include stoichiometry, chemical bonding, thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium, acid-base chemistry, reduction-oxidation reactions, and kinetics. All students keep an active lab notebook, write formal lab reports, give presentations on everyday chemical topics, and write a research paper. Students complete weekly laboratory experiments that correlate with topics studied throughout the year. Homework problems and laboratory exercises allow students to experience how theories and principles can be used to explain their observations firsthand. Physics is a prerequisite for this course. Text used: Chemistry: An Atoms First Approach, Zumdahl and Zumdahl.
CAS BI 107: Biology I
BUA students typically enroll in Biology 107 at the University in the fall semester of their junior year. The focus of this course is on the evolution and diversity of life, principles of ecology, and behavioral biology. It requires three hours of lecture and three hours of lab each week. The course is taught by a University professor for University credit.
CAS BI 108: Biology II
BUA students typically enroll in Biology 108 at the University in the spring semester of their junior year. The focus of this course is on cell and molecular biology, molecular genetics, physiology, and neurobiology – the molecular, biochemical, and cellular basis of life. It requires three hours of lecture and three hours of lab each week. Carries natural science divisional credit (with lab) in CAS. A year of introductory chemistry and BI107 are assumed. The course is taught by a University professor for University credit.
Junior Research Seminar: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
The class explores research science at Boston University and in the surrounding area. The students read and discuss research articles, then meet the investigators and tour the various research labs. In the spring, they choose a lab for a hands-on rotation and training session to set-up for a six-week summer research experience. The goal is that this summer research will lead to the basis of the senior thesis. For 11s only.