SCIENCE

 

 

EARTH SCIENCE   --  Grade 9  --  1 unit of credit

                                                                                                       

Course Objectives:

                  This focus of Earth Science is on the general structure of the earth and how it was formed, on the atmosphere and the constant changing weather, and on the area of space and the various bodies found beyond the earth.  The course emphasizes the forces of nature that are constantly shaping and molding the earth.  The approach to the course is an in-depth study of the text and the use of laboratory exercises to reinforce the concepts presented.  This is a background for a continued study of science and is recommended before a student takes Biology.

 

HONORS EARTH SCIENCE  --  Grade 9  --  1 unit of credit

                                                                                                         

Course Objectives:

                  This course offers the same material as Earth Science.  As an honors course the material will move at an accelerated rate and be presented with special emphasis on laboratory procedures.

 

BIOLOGY  --  Grade 10, 11, 12  --  1 unit of credit

                                                                                                  

Course Objectives:

                  Theoretical and practical point of view about life forms.  Lecture-laboratory oriented course encompassing the diversity of life and life needs.  Understand the investigative nature of science, inquiry skills, biological experiments.  Acquire values, attitudes essential to scientific inquiry.  A background in Earth Science is required.  Basic laboratory course for study of science.  Background for study in college and technical schools.  Background for nursing and related health fields.

                 

HONORS BIOLOGY  --  Grade 10  --  1 unit of credit

                                                                                                                    

Course Objectives:

                  An introduction in the general principles of Biology, behavior of organisms in their environment biochemistry and the study of enzymes.  Cellular biology, photosynthesis and cellular respiration, genetics and DNA, animal development and systems, plant reproduction and related systems and ecology.  As an honors course the material will move at an accelerated rate with emphasis on expertise and experience in laboratory procedures.

Prerequisite:

                  Students are placed on basis of ability, previous experience and recommendation.

 

GENERAL CHEMISTRY  -- Grade 10, 11, 12  --  1 unit of credit

                                                                                                  

Course Objectives:

                  Provides a broad theoretical background in chemistry, atomic theory, quantum chemistry, bonding and structure.  Lab procedures and lab reports are an integral part of the course.  Instruction in proper lab procedures.  A strong algebra background is recommended.

                  Provides a background for advanced study in laboratory science, for successful study of science in college or technical schools and necessary for nursing and related health fields.

 

CHEMISTRY IN THE COMMUNITY  --  Grade 11, 12  --  1 unit of credit

 

Course Objectives:

                  Chem Comm attempts to enhance science literacy by emphasizing chemistryÕs impact on society.  It is aimed at the student who will become a citizen but not necessarily a scientist in a technological society.

                  Each of eight units revolves around a societal question.  The context of each question is within a community: local, work place, national or global.  The student is lead to integrate what they have learned to see how it addresses issues in the real world.  It is the long term goal of the curriculum to present to the students the need and the skills to acquire knowledge to make intelligent decisions for themselves and for the communities in which they belong.

                  This course fulfills a science unit requirement for graduation.

 

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY  --  Grade 11, 12  --  1 unit of credit

                                                                                                   

Course Objectives:

                  A study of chemical equilibrium, electrochemistry, kinetics, stoichiometry, periodicity, thermochemistry, quantum mechanics, and organic chemistry.  Laboratory activities will reinforce important chemical concepts after they are introduced in the classroom.

                  Students will analyze and study chemical equilibrium before and after chemical reactions, and kinetic stability of a chemical reaction.  They will study the process of thermodynamics in relationship to heat and work in all living and nonliving systems.

                  This is an introductory college chemistry course.  Students taking this course will have the opportunity to take the Advanced Placement Exam.  Colleges and Universities establish their own policies for accounting the results of the Advanced Placement Exams.

                  Students should have a ÒBÓ average in Algebra 2 and Chemistry.

 

HONORS CHEMISTRY  --  Grade 11  --  1 unit of credit

                                                                                                                 

Course Objectives:

                  Develop an understanding of the history, basic concepts and principles of chemistry, the structure and changes of matter, periodicity, bonding and equilibrium.  Students will develop logical thought processes through the application of quantitative and qualitative data, and other scientific process skills.

                  Provide problem solving and decision making skills to resolve personal and social issues related to chemistry.  Following directions for laboratory activities and manipulating apparatus skillfully is an integral part of Honors Chemistry.

                  As an honors course the material will move at an accelerated rate and emphasis on expertise and experience in laboratory procedure.

                  Available to those students who have demonstrated ability and interest in science, technology or medical related careers.  Placement based on testing, student skills, teacher and counselor recommendations.  Students should concurrently be taking or have credit in Algebra 2.

 

PHYSICS  --  Grade 12   --  1 unit of credit

                                                                                                                  

Course Objectives:

                  Background in physical laws, forces, motion, energy, sound, heat, electricity and atomic physics.  Planned laboratory experiments in physics.  Provides an understanding of the physical world.  Develops scientific thinking and comparison of scientific information.

                  Students need a background in Earth Science, successful experience in Algebra 2 and successful experience in Chemistry.

                  Essential for students studying engineering, sciences or technical fields after high school.  Completes the background for a major in science in high school.

 

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY  --  Grade 12  --  1 unit of credit

                                                                                                       

Course Objectives:

                  Advanced biology dealing with the location of physical body parts, processes and characteristics.  Detailed study of human body, cellular structure, organs, tissues and systems.  Experience in an advanced laboratory procedure.  Dissection of preserved specimens are an integral part of this course.

                  Students need a background of ÒCÓ average in Biology and success in Chemistry.

                  A background course for students planning to enter biology, nursing, medical or other health related careers.

 

INTERVENTION EARTH SCIENCE  --  Grade 9  --  1 Unit of Credit

 

INTERVENTION BIOLOGY  --  Grade 10  --  1 Unit of Credit

 

These courses are for the student whose IEP (Individualized Education Program) specifies that he/she needs a more restrictive resource room setting for his/her Science instruction.  The level of Science will be individualized to the studentÕs developmental level while still following the appropriate course of study.