Science’s Impact on Society

by Gilly Dryjanski

11th Grade Physics Teacher

To kick off the year in Physics, junior students are examining the role of science in the world and its impact on society. As part of the IB philosophy enacted at Clemente, students look beyond the traditional formulas and calculations of science and dig deep into how science has changed society, whether it be for good or bad. The Physics students began their investigation last week by exploring the effects of the Manhattan Project and the dropping of atomic bombs in Hiroshima. Students worked with Zaption, a video-based learning platform with interactive content and tools, to evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of the atomic bomb. Students explored how the atomic bomb shortened an otherwise drawn-out, bloody war but left a lasting mark on Japan and its inhabitants.

The juniors continued their analysis of science’s impact on society by studying how three drugs—heroin, cocaine and LSD—were originally created as medicine yet morphed into dangerous, illegal substances that altered the fabric of American life. Students traced the transformation of the drugs and presented their findings in the form of a Tackk board, which is a digital, hands-on poster that allows them to weave pictures and videos into their writing. As part of the project, students drew conclusions about how the intention and execution of innovative science can have enduring, negative effects on the world.