CTY’s mathematics, science, and computer science courses are dedicated to Dr. Richard P. Longaker, Provost of Johns Hopkins University from 1979 to 1987, in recognition of his advocacy and guidance through CTY’s initial years. In all of CTY’s science courses, unless noted, students spend at least two hours a day doing lab and/or field work. Students gather and interpret data, master important scientific concepts, and recognize relationships among physical phenomena. In addition to lectures and reading assignments, science courses include oral presentations and writing assignments, particularly lab reports. Please refer to our Eligibility web page for minimum test score requirements for science courses. Sample syllabi for all courses are also available. Note: Selected biological science courses may include virtual or traditional dissection.
Introduction to Biomedical Sciences
This course is an introduction to human biology and the science of medicine. Drawing upon basic biological and chemical concepts, students explore the intricate anatomical and physiological mechanisms underlying normal human function. Students then examine the abnormal functions which occur in selected diseases. In learning about diabetes, for example, students gain an in-depth understanding of the endocrine system, the pancreas, the metabolism of sugar, and the biochemical effects of glucose. Lab work covers techniques in histology, anatomy and physiology (including dissections), biochemistry, and molecular biology. Additionally, students learn to read critically and respond to articles in scientific journals and the popular media. Note: This course is designed for students who have completed only grades 7 or 8. Students who, by this summer, will have completed grade 9 or higher are not eligible Sample text: The Human Body in Health and Disease, Thibodeau and Patton. Lab Fee: $65 Session 1: Carlisle, Los Angeles, Loudonville
Session 2: Carlisle, Lancaster, Los Angeles, Loudonville Top
The History of Disease
Throughout history, humans have been burdened with countless infectious diseases. Some of these, due to their lethality, their insidious spread, or their terrifying course, have become legendary. In this course, students examine the societal impact of, and science’s response to, history’s most significant diseases, including plague, leprosy, influenza, tuberculosis, smallpox, polio, cholera, malaria, syphilis, and AIDS.
Through reading, writing, and problem-based learning, students explore the effects of each disease on two levels: the biological (micro-biology, pharmacology, and immunology) and the societal (epidemiology, psychology, and sociology). Students attempt to understand the biology of each disease while also learning its historical framework. A wide variety of sources, such as medical literature, ancient Greek texts, religious writings, opera and theater, and articles from the modern media, places each scourge in the context of the society it traumatized. The ethics of infectious disease monitoring and control, including quarantines, mandatory health department notification, and the use of experimental drugs, are the focus of classroom debates. Reviewing the attempts to cure each disease, from primitive superstitions to cutting-edge designer drugs, provides an introduction to pharmacology. Students critically analyze the never-ending war between humans and microbes, contrasting modern perceptions of our victory over “germs” with the growing reality of microbial resistance. Sample texts: Man and Microbes, Karlen; A Brief History of Disease, Science, and Medicine, Kennedy. Prerequisite: Eligibility for both science and humanities CTY courses. Lab Fee: None; not a lab course. Session 1: Lancaster
Session 2: Lancaster Top
Fast-Paced High School Biology
This course covers the material ordinarily included in a year-long introductory course in high school biology (the usual prerequisite for honors or AP Biology). Students begin with the smallest unit, the atom, and build towards the final discussions of ecology and the environment. Along the way they sample biochemistry, move through genetics and cell reproduction, and then integrate these concepts in their studies of evolution, systems of living things, and reproduction. Through readings, lectures, and lab work (including dissections), students finish the course with a sound foundation in biological concepts. On the first and last days of class, students take a comprehensive test in biology to help assess their learning. Note: Students just completing 7th grade are urged to take CTY’s Introduction to the Biomedical Sciences before taking this course. This course is intended for students who have completed 8th grade or above and who plan to continue on to honors or AP Biology or to other advanced work in biology such as CTY’s Genetics or Neuroscience. Sample text: Biology, Campbell and Reece. Lab Fee: $65 Session 1: Baltimore, Carlisle, Lancaster, Los Angeles, Loudonville, Saratoga Springs
Session 2: Baltimore, Carlisle, Lancaster, Los Angeles, Loudonville, Saratoga Springs Top
Neuroscience
Not long ago, biology, chemistry, psychology, and physics were considered to be separate, barely overlapping disciplines. In recent years, however, the boundaries between these fields have begun to blur. Neuroscientists, among the first to take advantage of the breaking down of these walls, have used an interdisciplinary approach to study that most complex of all systems: the human brain. In this course, students approach neuroanatomy from the gross and cellular levels and learn how nerve cells communicate with each other chemically. They explore the embryonic development of the nervous system, the sensory and motor systems, the effects of changes in brain chemistry, aspects of learning and memory, and disorders of the nervous system. In addition to lecture and discussion sessions, students participate in dissection, model building, and laboratory activities that use principles from various scientific disciplines. Sample text: Neuroscience: Exploring the Brain, Bear and Connors. Prerequisite: Successful completion of CTY’s Distance Education Honors Biology, CTY’s Summer Programs Fast-Paced High School Biology, or at least a “B” in first-year high school biology. Lab Fee: $65 Session 1: Baltimore, Carlisle
Session 2: Baltimore, Carlisle Top
Genetics
If there were a blood test that could tell you every disease in your future, would you take it? Such a test may seem like science fiction, but modern geneticists are decoding new genes every day, and simple blood tests already exist for some diseases. In this course, students build on their knowledge of biology to investigate the principles and methods used to study the genetic qualities and traits of humans. This course covers concepts ordinarily taught in a one-semester college course. Topics span the biologic spectrum, from molecules of DNA to the evolution of populations, and include mitosis, meiosis, Mendelian inheritance, pedigree analysis, chromosomes and chromosomal aberrations, prenatal diagnosis, genes and cancer, inborn errors of metabolism, population genetics, genetic screening, and genetic counseling. In the laboratory, students are introduced to the basic techniques of genetics, including the process which revolutionized modern genetics, E. coli transformation. Exercises also include electrophoresis and DNA fingerprinting. By the end of the course, students debate the most difficult bioethical questions facing the discipline: eugenics, cloning, and the consequences of biotechnology. Sample text: Principles of Genetics, Snustad and Simmons. Prerequisite: Successful completion of CTY’s Distance Education Honors Biology, CTY’s Summer Programs Fast-Paced High School Biology, or at least a “B” in first-year high school biology. Lab Fee: $65 Session 1: Baltimore, Loudonville
Session 2: Baltimore, Carlisle, Los Angeles, Loudonville Top
Genomics
The mapping of the human genome—hailed by some as the first scientific milestone in the twenty-first century—gave rise to the new field of genomics. Where genetics has traditionally examined single genes, genome science considers all of the genetic information in an organism as a dynamic system: the genes, the function and organization of the genes, and regulatory elements. Building on knowledge they acquired in CTY’s Genetics, students in this course begin with an historical look at the field of genomics, including the first two approaches to the Human Genome Project, shotgun and contigs. They move on to study comparative genomics; the genetics of complex traits; genetic epidemiology; the genetics of common diseases (e.g., cancer genetics); modern chromosomal analysis; and computational genomics. In addition, students are introduced to the HapMap and ENCODE projects. Genomics relies heavily upon data analysis and computer technologies; the use of online databases and resources, both in the laboratory and research projects, is a central feature of the course. In addition to their classroom studies, students are introduced to the Johns Hopkins Center of Excellence in Genome Sciences (CEGS), which focuses on the new area of epigenetics, the study of inheritance other than the DNA sequence itself. Students visit the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), participate in a lab tour and demonstration offered by CEGS faculty, and attend a CEGS faculty lecture focusing on epigenetics and human disease. Sample text: Discovering Genomics, Proteomics & Bioinformatics, Campbell and Heyer. Prerequisite: CTY’s Genetics. Lab & Field Trip Fee: $85 Session 1: Not offered
Session 2: Baltimore Top
Fast-Paced High School Chemistry
This course covers material ordinarily included in a year-long introductory course in high school chemistry (the usual prerequisite for honors or AP Chemistry). Topics covered include the periodic table, the atom, chemical bonding, nomenclature, the mole concept, stoichiometry, acids and bases, organic chemistry, thermodynamics, kinetics, and equilibrium. On the first and last days of class, students take a comprehensive test in chemistry to help assess their learning. Note: Students just completing 7th grade are urged to take CTY’s Introduction to the Biomedical Sciences before taking this course. This course is for students planning to continue on to honors or AP Chemistry or to other advanced work in chemistry. Sample texts: Prentice Hall Chemistry, Wilbraham; an accompanying lab manual. Prerequisite: Algebra I. Lab Fee: $65 Session 1: Baltimore, Carlisle, Lancaster, Los Angeles, Loudonville, Saratoga Springs
Session 2: Baltimore, Carlisle, Lancaster, Los Angeles, Loudonville, Saratoga Springs Top
Electrical Engineering
The impact of electrical engineering can be seen all around us. As electronic components continue to shrink in size, the future promises even more astounding progress in fields such as robotics, satellite communications, energy conservation, factory automation, oil and gas exploration, and electrical power generation and distribution. This course offers students an introduction to the field of electrical engineering. Students learn the basic physical science behind circuits and electronics, including electrical current, voltage, resistance, conductivity, work, energy, power, and magnetism. They apply these concepts to draw simple schematic series and parallel circuits, and they analyze the circuits using mathematical tools such as Kirchoff’s laws. In laboratory exercises, students build their own circuits using power supplies, resistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes, and transistors. They then measure the circuits’ properties to test their mathematical predictions. Sample text: Materials compiled by the instructor. Prerequisite: Algebra I. Lab Fee: $65 Session 1: Carlisle, Los Angeles, Loudonville
Session 2: Carlisle, Los Angeles, Loudonville Top
Fast-Paced High School Physics
This course covers material ordinarily included in a year-long, algebra-based introductory course in high school physics (the usual prerequisite for honors or AP Physics). Class lectures and demonstrations include Newtonian mechanics, thermal behavior of gases, wave motion, geometric and wave optics, electromagnetism and DC circuits, and elementary modern physics. In labs, students learn to measure and analyze error; determine gravitational acceleration; and experiment with refraction and diffraction of light, waves, simple circuit analysis, and the magnetic deflection of electrons. On the first and last days of class, students take a comprehensive test in physics to help assess their learning. Sample text: Physics: Principles and Problems, Zitzewitz. Prerequisites: Algebra II (Geometry recommended). Lab Fee: $65 Session 1: Carlisle, Lancaster, Los Angeles, Saratoga Springs
Session 2: Carlisle, Lancaster, Los Angeles, Saratoga Springs Top
Investigations in Engineering
Engineering is an art that requires ingenuity, the ability to understand the components of a problem, facility in design, and the capacity to find creative solutions. This course exposes students to the excitement and challenges of scientific investigation. This class asks students to do more than calculate the solutions to well-posed, simplified problems. Rather, they are asked to translate problems often encountered by engineers (with no obvious solutions) into ones which can be tackled and resolved. These open-ended assignments require hands-on exploration. Some of the exploration uses a virtual environment with a set of laboratory experiments developed in HTML and Java. These exercises require students to develop a broad understanding of how to solve engineering problems. The virtual laboratory includes exercises such as drilling for oil, remote measurement, electronic circuit design, logical circuit design, and building a robotic arm. Investigations in Engineering is a first-year college course developed by Professor Michael Karweit, a faculty member of the Whiting School of Engineering at Johns Hopkins University. It can be taken as a credit or non-credit course. Credit costs an additional $300 and must be arranged with JHU directly (not CTY). For more information, please visit: www.cty.jhu.edu/summer/ieng.html Note: Returning CTY students report that this course is particularly intense. We do not recommend it as a student’s first experience at CTY. Sample texts: Engineering and the Mind’s Eye, Ferguson. Prerequisite: Pre-calculus. Lab Fee: $65
Session 1: Baltimore
Session 2: Baltimore Top
Astronomy
Not since the seventeenth century, when Galileo first looked through lenses into the skies, has there been such an explosion of discovery and understanding of the universe as in the past fifty years. In this course, students are exposed to the physics and mathematical concepts which are part of the science of astronomy, including such topics as planetary science; solar physics; stellar evolution; general relativity; and exotic objects such as quasars, pulsars, and black holes. Students also investigate the history of this ancient discipline, from Stonehenge to the Hubble Space Telescope. Students tackle many hands-on activities and labs: analyzing emission spectra, examining telescopic optics, plotting sunspots, determining Hubble’s constant, and calculating the distance and magnitude of stars. They have opportunities to visit local observatories, planetariums, or science centers. In class discussions, students use their new foundation in astronomy to consider its role in our lives on Earth, cosmology, and the search for extraterrestrial life. Sample text: Horizons: Exploring the Universe, Seeds. Prerequisite: Algebra I. Lab & Field Trip Fee: $85 Session 1: Baltimore, Lancaster
Session 2: Baltimore, Lancaster Top
Paleobiology
In this course, students integrate the study of the fossil record in its geological context with the principles of modern biology. For instance, students compare extinct and extant life by taking field trips to observe and collect fossils, dissecting present-day organisms in the lab, and then comparing the two. They learn quantitative analysis (measuring and graphing samples) and use present-day life forms to reconstruct the life habits of extinct organisms. Using these skills and data, students explore a range of topics crucial to our understanding of ancient life, including evolutionary theory, population genetics, and paleoecology. From plate tectonics to dinosaurs to the geometry of life forms, the topics of this course acquaint students with the history of life on Earth. Sample text: Earth System History, Stanley. Lab & Field Trip Fee: $85 Session 1: Lancaster, Los Angeles
Session 2: Lancaster, Los Angeles Top
Archaeology
Archaeologists search for hidden clues about our past. But how do archaeologists know where to dig and how to interpret what they find? The issues uncovered in archaeology range from geological to ethical, and in this introductory course students build the scientific foundation necessary to pursue the answers. Students learn to survey, map, and excavate sites; recover and record data; process and analyze artifacts; and create replicas of stone tools and pottery. Through these field and lab experiences they discover, discuss, and write about evidence of hominid evolution, human survival strategies, and religious and social rituals. They also consider pressing issues facing archaeologists, such as artifact looting and forgery, or the diverse interests of developers and indigenous peoples. Ultimately, students learn and analyze the scientific processes of archaeology as they unearth definitions of culture and history. Sample texts: Archaeology: Theories, Methods, and Practice, Renfrew and Bahn; Motel of the Mysteries, Macaulay. Lab & Field Trip Fee: $85 Session 1: Lancaster
Session 2: Lancaster Top
Oceanography: The Hawaiian Pacific
In this course, modeled on first-year college oceanography courses, students explore the physical, chemical, geological, and biological features of the waters of the Hawaiian Islands. Students learn the structure, formation, and features of the Pacific Ocean basin, and examine currents, tides, and waves. What, for example, accounts for the nearly mythical nalu that draws surfers from around the world to Hawaii’s shores? Students investigate the biochemical cycles that affect seawater, and discover the ocean-atmosphere interactions that account for Hawaii’s great variety of climates. They also explore the unique marine life and marine ecosystems of Hawaii, from the shorelines to the coral reefs to the deep ocean. Students consider the ocean as a natural resource, and learn how local people struggle to balance economic and environmental concerns. Field trips to nearby research facilities, including the Oceanic Institute, and to coral reefs, such as Hanauma Bay, complement daily reading, lectures, and lab work. Note: Students will snorkel while in the field; the ability to swim and a comfort with ocean water deeper than six feet, but not previous snorkeling experience, are required. While the level of this course is advanced, students from Hawaii may have covered at least some of the material in school. Please seek guidance from your science department in determining whether this course will be appropriate, given your knowledge and experience in this subject area. Note: This course is part of our CAA 7th Grade and Above program, but because of its unique nature, may be of special interest to students who are also eligible for CTY 7th Grade and Above courses. A separate CAA program application is not needed. Sample text: Oceanography: An Introduction to Marine Science, Garrison. Session 1: Kaneohe
Session 2: Kaneohe Top
Volcanoes: Hawaii
Few things in nature are as awe inspiring as an erupting volcano. From the explosive gases to the molten lava, volcanoes have captured our imaginations and shaped and reshaped our world. Students in this course focus on the volcanoes that formed the Hawaiian Islands and they examine their geological history and cultural impact. The course begins with a brief introduction to earth science, including a discussion of the geological layers of the earth, convection currents, and plate tectonics. Students then turn to the particulars of a volcan mantle plumes, magma flow, volcano pluming, and eruption. Throughout the course, students also link the geological characteristics of volcanoes to the particular environmental and cultural context of Hawaii. For instance, students might explore the flora and fauna of Hawaii as well as the foundation myth of Pele, the goddess of volcanoes, and her role in the creation of the Hawaiian Islands. The course culminates in a trip to the Big Island where students visit Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park—home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes: Mauna Loa and Kilauea. Through hands-on work, research, and time in the field, students leave the course with a greater understanding of the forces that created the Hawaiian Islands. Note: Students will visit Halema`uma`u Crater, Sulphur Banks, and other areas where volcanic fumes are present. Before enrolling, students with heart or breathing problems should seek advice from a physician about the suitability of visiting such locations. Note: This course is part of our CAA 7th Grade and Above program, but because of its unique nature, may be of special interest to students who are also eligible for CTY 7th Grade and Above courses. A separate CAA program application is not needed. Sample texts: New course. Session 1: Kaneohe
Session 2: Kaneohe Top | 
