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SCIENCE CURRICULUM Three units of science are required for a high school diploma. Students have the option of taking technology preparation, college preparation, or honors courses. Students taking technology preparatory courses should take physical science and some combination of applied biology, applied physics, applied chemistry, and electives. Students electing to take the college preparatory program should take a course in each of the four sciences: physical science, biology, chemistry, and physics. (Note that most colleges will not accept physical science as a laboratory science.) Several electives are appropriate for this group of students. Honor students should take physical science/honors, biology/honors, chemistry/honors, and physics/honors. Honors level students should take three or more science courses during their junior and senior years. The program of studies includes Advanced Placement courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. 321100TW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Physical Science/Applied Prerequisites: None Credits: 1 Unit Physical Science/Applied emphasizes the basic laws of the physical sciences. Applied methods of instruction are used to teach the concepts of the physical sciences. This course is designed to prepare students for further studies in Applied Biology 1, Chemistry for the Technologies, and Principles of Technology. 321100CW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Physical Science Prerequisites: Algebra I or Mathematics for the Technologies 1 should be taken prior to or in conjunction with Physical Science Credits: 1 Unit Physical Science includes an introduction to the simple laws of physics and chemistry. Included in the course will be a study of the metric system, atomic and molecular structure, chemical compounds, molecules, equations, formulas, chemical reactions, motion, work, power, energy, machines, electricity, magnetism, heat, sound, and light. 321100HW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Physical Science/Honors Prerequisites: Algebra 1 should be taken prior to or in conjunction with Physical Science/Honors. Teacher Recommendation Credits: 1 Unit Physical Science/Honors includes an introduction to the simple laws of physics and chemistry to prepare the honors student for further studies in the sciences. Included in the course will be a study of the metric system, the scientific method, properties of matter, density, chemical and physical changes, modern atomic theory, introduction to the periodic table, atomic and molecular structure, covalent and ionic bonding, mixtures, elements, chemical compounds, molecules, balancing equations, formulas and chemical reactions, Newton's laws of motion, acceleration, velocity, work, power, energy, machines, electricity, magnetism, electromagnetism, heat, wave motion, sound, light, and lenses. First preference for this course will be given to students identified on the weighted profile as gifted. Based on state regulations, class size is limited to twenty students. Other students may be given provisional trial placement based on acceptable achievement test scores, prerequisites, demonstrated past performance, and availability of space. 322600TW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Applied Biology 1 Prerequisites: Physical Science Credits: 1 Unit Applied Biology 1 offers students an opportunity to learn biology while applying skills in realistic laboratory situations. This is part of the Tech Prep program of studies linking high school and associate degree curricula. The traditional lecture method of teaching is replaced with hands-on, cooperative strategies. Career-related materials are used. Topics of study include the biology and chemistry of disease and wellness, the continuity of life, animal life processes, plant growth and reproduction, and community of life. 322700TW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Applied Biology 2 Prerequisites: Applied Biology 1 Credits: 1 Unit Applied Biology 2 offers students an opportunity to learn biology while applying skills in realistic laboratory situations. This is part of the Tech Prep program of studies linking high school and associate degree curricula. The traditional lecture method of teaching is replaced with discussion and hands-on, cooperative strategies. Career-related materials are used. There are five specific areas of study: nutrition, microorganisms, natural resources, water, and waste management. 322100CW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Biology 1 Prerequisites: Physical Science Credits: 1 Unit Biology 1 is designed to introduce first-year biology students to the most basic unit of life - the cell. During the first section, students will use laboratory experience and lecture to become more familiar with the cell and its functions such as cell respiration, protein synthesis, reproduction, and heredity. During the second section, students are introduced to basic anatomy and physiology of vertebrates, including humans. With this basic foundation, students will study multicultural organisms such as the earthworm, clam, crayfish, frog, and perch through dissections. Students will study classification and learn how this is related to an organism's morphology. The students will also be introduced to the structure and function of plants and gain an understanding of their economic importance. Finally, students will gain an understanding of interrelationships of living organisms in their environment. 322100HW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Biology 1/Honors Prerequisites: Physical Science with "B" average or better Credits: 1 Unit Biology 1/Honors is designed for students who excel in science and math and will prepare them for Advanced Placement science courses. Students will have an in-depth study of the cell and cellular processes. Laboratory experiences will include microscopic work and introduction to analytical skills involving biochemical and mathematical procedures used in the laboratory. This course will also provide an introduction to anatomy and physiology of vertebrates, including humans. With this basic foundation, students will study comparative anatomy with use of various dissections. The structure and function of plants will be introduced and students will explore the impact of human activities on the biosphere. First preference for this course will be given to students identified on the weighted profile as gifted. Based on state regulations, class size is limited to twenty students. Other students may be given provisional trial placement based on acceptable achievement test scores, prerequisites, demonstrated past performance, and availability of space. 322201HW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Biology 2/Anatomy and Physiology/Honors Prerequisites: Biology 1/Honors with a "B" average or better and Chemistry 1/Honors with a "B" average or better Credits: 1 Unit Biology 2/Anatomy and Physiology/Honors includes the basic concepts of human anatomy and physiology. The major body systems-their components, functions, and diseases-are studied. Special emphasis is placed on the concept of homeostasis in the physiology of each system. Lab experiences include the dissection of the fetal pig and microscope studies. Students are encouraged to take this course prior to taking Biology/AP. 322201CW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Biology 2/Botany Prerequisites: Biology 1 Credits: 1 Unit Biology 2/Botany is designed to expand the knowledge of a student in the area of plant anatomy and physiology. The student will study all structures and the developmental stages of plants. Starting with the non-vascular plants, the study will move to the vascular plants. Students will also spend time with the identification of local species. The last portion of the course will be spent in propagation and landscaping design with future business opportunities in mind. 322202HW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Biology 2/Genetics/Honors Prerequisites: Biology 1 with a "B" average or better and Chemistry 1 with a "C" average or better Credits: 1 Unit Biology 2/Genetics/Honors is designed for the advanced student who has a desire to conduct an in-depth study in the ever-changing field of genetics. Students will cover principles of both Mendelian and molecular genetics. Students will compare chromosomes and gene mutations as well as investigate chromosome mapping techniques. Students will participate in various labs such as karyotyping and genetic crossing. Students will uncover the importance of genetics in today's society through the Human Genome Project and genetic crossing. Students will also look at the future of genetics in the fields of medicine and agriculture. 322202CW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Biology 2/Zoology Prerequisites: Biology 1 with a "C" average or better Credits: 1 Unit Biology 2/Zoology will cover the major animal kingdoms, phyla, and classes. The systems of each, as well as the differences among them, will be emphasized. Laboratory experiences will include dissection of the dogfish shark and the white rat. 326100CW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Environmental Science/Ecology Prerequisites: Physical Science and Biology 1 are recommended Credits: 1 Unit Environmental Science/Ecology is designed to help students understand and solve environmental problems such as pollution, resource shortages, and over-population. The course will begin with ecosystem structures and factors that cause balance or imbalance such as population growth. Each resource in an ecosystem will be examined. These will include food, wildlife, water, energy, and air. The course will conclude by showing relationships between pollution, economics, and government. 327700AW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Environmental Science/AP Prerequisites: Physical Science and Biology 1 are recommended Credits: 1 Unit Environmental Science/AP is the study of the natural sciences in an interdisciplinary context. It includes many aspects of biology, earth and atmospheric sciences, fundamental principles of chemistry and physics, human population dynamics, and an appreciation for biological and natural resources. The goal of the Environmental Science/AP course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies needed to understand the interrelationships between people and their environments, to identify and analyze environmental problems, both natural and human made, to assess the risks associated with these problems, and to identify solutions for resolving or preventing them. In this course, it will be important for the student to understand natural systems, be able to ask questions, recognize when and how human actions may become or have become problems, and understand the limits of what questions science can answer. The laboratory portion of this course will be an integral part of gaining an understanding of the natural systems and thought processes in environmental analysis. Students should be aware that afternoon labs will be part of this course. The Advanced Placement Examination is a requirement of this course. 327200AW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Biology/AP Prerequisites: Biology 1 with a "B" average or better, Chemistry 1with a "B" average or better. (Students are strongly encouraged to take Anatomy and Physiology and Chemistry 2 prior to taking Biology/AP.) Credits: 1 Unit Biology/AP is designed to introduce students who have excelled in previous science and math courses to college level material and is considered the equivalent to a first year introductory course for a college freshman majoring in biology. Major topics of study will include emphasis on biochemical processes, molecular and Mendelian genetics, population genetics, speciation, botany and zoology. Biological themes such as homeostasis, correlation of structure to function and science, technology and society will be emphasized throughout the course to help the student unify topics and apply concepts. Laboratory experiments and analysis of laboratory data will be a major component of the course. Students should be aware that some afternoon lab activities may be required for this course. The Advanced Placement Examination is a requirement of this course. 323600TW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Chemistry for the Technologies Prerequisites: Physical Science and Math for the Technologies 1 or Algebra 1 Credits: 1 Unit Chemistry for the Technologies is designed to prepare
the student for eventual employment in the chemical and chemical-related industries
in 323100CW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Chemistry 1 Prerequisites: Algebra 1 (with "B" or better) Credits: 1 Unit Chemistry 1 is intended for students who plan to attend a four-year college and may have to take chemistry as part of their college curriculum. The content covered in this course includes: atomic theory, nomenclature, formula writing, writing and balancing equations, stoichiometry, gas laws, calorimetry, molecular structure and hybridization, intermolecular forces, colligative properties, equilibrium, reaction rates, and acids and bases. 323100HW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Chemistry 1/Honors Prerequisites: "A" or "B" average in Algebra I and/or Geometry, "A" or high "B" average in science courses Credits: 1 Unit Chemistry 1/Honors is intended for the student who intends to enter a four-year college and may pursue a career in science or intends to enroll in Chemistry/AP later in high school. The content covered in this course includes a rigorous study of: atomic theory, nomenclature, formula writing, writing and balancing reactions, stoichiometry, gas laws, calorimetry, molecular structure and hybridization, intermolecular forces, colligative properties, equilibrium, reaction rates, acid and bases and nuclear chemistry. First preference for this course will be given to students identified on the weighted profile as gifted. Based on state regulations, class size is limited to twenty students. Other students may be given provisional trial placement based on acceptable achievement test scores, prerequisites, demonstrated past performance, and availability of space. 323200CW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Chemistry 2 Prerequisites: "C" or "B" in Chemistry I/Honors or "B" or "A" in Chemistry 1 Credits: 1 Unit Chemistry 2 is designed for students whose postsecondary education will require a broader knowledge in the field of chemistry. The content will include: Kinetics Equilibrium Acid-Base Thermodynamics Electrochemistry Solubility and Complex Compounds and Organic Chemistry Biochemistry 323200HW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Chemistry 2/Honors Prerequisites: Grade of " A" or "B" in Chemistry 1/Honors or an "A+" in Chemistry 1. (This course is highly recommended for students planning to take Biology/AP.) Credits: 1 Unit Chemistry 2/Honors is designed for students who intend to take Chemistry/AP or are going into a science field in college which will require a strong chemistry background. The content of the course will include a rigorous study of kinetics, equilibrium, acid-base, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, solubility and complex compounds, organic chemistry, and biochemistry. 327300AW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Chemistry/AP Prerequisites: "A" average in Chemistry 1 or "A" or "B" average in Chemistry 1/Honors. (Students are strongly encouraged to take Chemistry 2/Honors prior to or concurrent with Chemistry/AP.) Credits: 1 Unit Chemistry/AP is an advanced study of atomic structure, orbital theory, chemical formulas, molecular geometry, hybridization, intermolecular forces, classification of solids, periodicity, gas laws, stoichiometry, solutions, colligative properties, reaction rates, chemical equilibrium, acids and bases, organic chemistry, and nuclear chemistry. The Advanced Placement Examination is a requirement of this course. 324300TW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Physics for the Technologies 1 Prerequisites: Algebra 1 or Math for the Technologies 1 Credits: 1 Unit Applied Physics 1 gives students an opportunity to learn math and science while applying skills in realistic laboratory situations. Students work with laboratory equipment found in many high-tech jobs. Units of instrumentation include force, work, resistance, energy, power, and force transducers. 324400TW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Physics for the Technologies 2 Prerequisites: Applied Physics 1 (with a "C" or above) Credits: 1 Unit Applied Physics 2 is an extension of Applied Physics 1. This course is part of the Tech Prep program of studies linking high school and associate degree curricula. The Applied Physics 2 curriculum is designed for students to learn modern technologies by participating in activities including laboratory work (computer oriented), discussion, demonstrations, and presentations. The course will include instruction in the following areas: momentum, vibrations and waves, energy converters, transducers, radiation, optics and optical systems, and time constants. 324100CW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Physics Prerequisites: "A" or "B" average in Geometry or successful completion of Algebra 2 Credits: 1 Unit Physics is a study of mechanics; heat and thermodynamics; waves, optics and sound; electricity and magnetism; and modern physics. 324100HW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Physics/Honors Prerequisites: "A" or "B" average in Geometry/Honors or successful completion of Algebra 2. Credits: 1 Unit Physics/Honors includes a study of kinematics, dynamics, kinetic theory and heat. Studies also include the topics of sound, optics, electricity, magnetism, nuclear, and atomic physics. 327500AW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Physics/AP Mechanics Prerequisites: Successful completion of Physics/Honors (with "C" or better) or Physics (with "B" average or better; co-requisite: Calculus Credits: 1 Unit Physics/AP Mechanics provides a systematic introduction to the main principles of physics and emphasizes the development of problem-solving ability. The course forms the first part of the college sequence that serves as the foundation in physics for students majoring in the sciences, engineering, or pre-medicine. Students should be familiar with algebra and trigonometry. Methods of calculus are used in formulating physical principles and in applying them to physical problems. The Advanced Placement Examination is a requirement of this course. 327600AW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Physics/AP Electricity and Magnetism Prerequisites: Physics/Honors (with "B" average or better) or Physics (with "A" average or better) co-requisite: Physics/AP Mechanics and Calculus/AP Credits: 1 Unit Physics/AP Electricity and Magnetism is a study of electricity and magnetism on the calculus-based level. Calculus will be used fluently in the course. Topics of discussion include electrostatics; conductors and dielectrics; electric currents; magnetostatics; and electromagnetism. The Advanced Placement Examination is a requirement of this course. 326500CW SCIENCE CURRICULUM Earth Science Prerequisites: Physical Science Credits: 1 Unit Earth Science is a study of how the Earth relates to the solar system and universe and their effect on the Earth. Students will also study the chemistry of rock formation, physical processes that shape the Earth, the history of the Earth, and environmental concerns. |
