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The pilot course was announced by the school district in a statement issued this week.
“This concept crosses all disciplines of science and therefore allows students to observe how fundamental components of the universe play essential roles in the physical and life sciences,” Principal Ann Meyer said. “The interdisciplinary approach to understanding a concept will allow our students to utilize the analytical skills needed for college science courses.”
Jonathan Peter, a science teacher at the high school, said having students discover the different phenomena of waves provides them with a richer experience for the remainder of their science classes.
“Our focus is to have students do the learning in a collaborative environment where they get to investigate all sorts of demonstrations and phenomena from a firsthand point of view,” he said.
The program has so far proven popular among students.
Kunzang Namgyla, a ninth grader, said she enjoyed the high levels of engagement and interactivity the course allows.
Namgyla and her classmates recently investigated how waves interact with each other and how white, visible light can be obtained through color addition.
“We get to play with models and do experiments,” Namgyla said. “It ties together all of our science classes and focuses around one topic.”
Michael Barr, another faculty member who teaches biology, chemistry and physics, said his primary goal is for the students to learn how to investigate through the process of inquiry.
“Even if they don’t encounter waves in their careers, the skills they learn by working in teams, doing inquiry, thinking in different ways and challenging their brains can be applied in other areas,” he said.
Closely aligned to the Bronxville Promise, the development of the course has provided faculty with the opportunity to work collaboratively and use innovative teaching methods as a means to open up new possibilities for students.
Visit the Bronxville School District’s website to view a video about the new waves course.
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