Students begin by exploring the interaction between function (physiology) and form (anatomy) – why living things have the shapes they do.  To deepen understanding students draw and model structures and organs to artistically and physically experience nuances of form – the bones, muscles, brain and nervous system.

In contrast to this emphasis on form we look at processes and systems.  Rather than present a fragmentary succession of organs and systems we consider the relationships between them – understanding the details of gaseous exchange in the lungs, respiration in the tissues, hemoglobin in the blood, excretion in the kidneys, enzyme activity in the alimentary tract. Unlike the organs these substances and processes are not directly visible, they require clear thinking that meets the growing adolescent intellect.

Our aim is for students to experience a real satisfaction in understanding these biological processes, and how each is coordinated with another to create a harmonious balance against a changing environment.