Since the beginning, there have only been two higher-level science-related classes at Del Mar: IB Biology and IB Environmental Systems (ESS). A while ago, science teachers Abigail Nicholson and Ivan Lee surveyed students, and the results showed that there was a high interest in the new course. Now, starting next school year, Del Mar will be bringing IB Chemistry to the table.
“When we first started the IB program, we gave some students surveys to try and generate the interest for which of the courses we were going to offer,” says Jay Grover, IB ESS teacher as well as the Science Department Chair, “And IB Chemistry actually [ranked] slightly higher than IB ESS, but because of the credentials of the people who were working here, we chose to go with the IB Environmental Systems class over IB Chemistry”
“I think we did have an AP chemistry before we started IB,” says IB coordinator Ariel Dukellis, “But that was 10 years ago, so it’s definitely been a decade since we’ve had an honors chemistry class.”
“I am very excited to teach IB chemistry,” says Mrs. Nicholson, “Ever since I got to Del Mar, like three years ago, I realized that we didn’t have a higher-level chemistry course, and to me, that’s what best prepared all my classmates and me for when we went to college.”
Bringing IB Chemistry to Del Mar will give students a new IB class to add to their schedule, but students should be sure to choose the course that is the best fit for them.
“Biology has a lot more content that you need to memorize,” says Mrs. Nicholson, “Where chemistry doesnt have as much vocab necessarily, but the way it works itself is more complex. So it really depends on what you find difficult.”
Biology is the study of living organisms and life, which includes the study of microorganisms, bacteria, different plants, and various ecosystems. On the other hand, Chemistry is the study of matter: the way it’s structured and how it works. Chemistry includes the study of atoms, elements, and chemical reactions. Both Biology and Chemistry are their own respectable difficulties. Neither subject is harder than the other; it all depends on the student.
“Biology has a lot more content that you need to memorize,” Said physics/chem teacher Mrs. Nicholson. “Where chemistry doesnt have as much vocab necessarily, but the way it works itself is more complex. So it really depends on what you find difficult.”
Already, there has been much interest amongst students about IB Chemistry. Some students are planning on taking the course in order to complete their IB Diploma requirements, while others are showing their interest in science by taking both IB Chemistry and IB Biology simultaneously.
“I really like the sciences, and that’s what I want to major in when I’m in college,” says Sophomore Zane Smith, “I’m excited that Mrs. Nicholson is teaching IB chemistry; she is nice.”
“I’m trying to get as many diplomas as possible, and IB Chemistry is going to be a big help, especially for my future career as a marine biologist,” says Sophomore Ashley Ramirez, “I’m trying to get into this university, and while they’re not like, very prestigious, they’re still relatively good.”
April 10th is the last day to change or add classes to your schedule for next year, so be sure to discuss adding IB Chemistry to your plan with your counselor and be a part of Del Mar’s new program.
