Science

GRADUATION REQUIREMENT: All students are required to pass a minimum of three credits of Science to graduate. Recommended sequence: 

• one credit of Topics in Physics 

• one credit of Chemistry or Earth Science

• one credit of Biology (including Biology EOC)

Course Descriptions

Topics in Physics

Grade: 9             Credit: 1.0 Science         Length: Year

Prerequisite: none

Course Description: Physics is the science of energy and its physical effects on matter. Topics include: mechanics, motion, heat, sound, and light.  We will also be using the scientific method to solve problems and measure using the International System of Units. 

Honors Topics in Physics

Grade: 9             Credit: 1.0 Science         Length: Year

Prerequisite: A "C" or better in Algebra 1 and a teacher recommendation

Course Description: This course takes an in-depth look at how matter and energy are related. Topics to be covered include motion, energy, heat, magnetism, and electricity. Students will use problem solving strategies to complete hands on activities. 

Earth Science

Grade: 10-12             Credit: 1.0 Science         Length: Year

Prerequisite: none

Course Description: Earth Science introduces students to the Earth and the intricate workings of our Earth’s systems.  The students will study basic principles of earth science, which may include Geology, Meteorology, Oceanography, and Astronomy.  Students will be given opportunities to analyze and evaluate these topics and how they relate to one another and the network of systems that make up our planet.  Diverse learning opportunities include videos, interactive presentations, projects, discussions, and laboratory experiments.  Students will refine basic laboratory and study skills while developing and honing their understanding of the scientific process as it relates to biological systems.

Chemistry

Grade: 10             Credit: 1.0 Science         Length: Year

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Topics in Physics

Course Description: Chemistry is a study of matter and the changes matter undergoes from a molecular point of view. Through practical application and laboratory experiments, students will explore topics including atomic structure, bonding, the periodic table, reactions, energy, and experimental design. 

Honors Chemistry

Grade: 10             Credit: 1.0 Science         Length: Year

Prerequisite: A "C" or better in Honors Topics in Physics, Algebra 1 (or concurrent enrollment) or teacher recommendation

Course Description: Honors Chemistry is an in-depth, mathematical and rigorous study of matter and the changes matter undergoes from a molecular point of view. It is designed for those students with an advanced level of interest and self-motivation. Through practical application and laboratory experiments, students will explore in-depth chemistry topics including atomic structure, bonding, the periodic table, intermolecular forces, solutions, reactions, energy, and experimental design. *This course requires summer work.*

Biology

Grade: 11             Credit: 1.0 Science         Length: Year

Prerequisite: Successful completion of two years of science courses

Course Description: Students will investigate biological systems at the molecular, cellular, and macrobiological level. Selected biological topics will include biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology. Learning activities will include laboratory experiments, written exercises, and discussion of these topics. Students should possess basic laboratory and study skills. 

Honors Biology

Grade: 11             Credit: 1.0 Science         Length: Year

Prerequisite: A "C" or better in Honors Topics in Physics and Honors Chemistry or a teacher recommendation

Course Description: Honors Biology students will undertake an in-depth study of life including concepts in biochemistry, cells and cellular processes, heredity and DNA technology, evolution, ecology, and conservation biology. The course will allow students to explore these concepts with an emphasis on research, data collection and analysis, inquiry, and designing and performing experiments. 

Forensic Science

Grade: 12             Credit: .05 Science         Length: Semester

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology

Course Description: Forensic Science introduces the scientific principles and field methods used to solve forensics problems. This course focuses on practices and analysis of physical and biological evidence found at crime scenes. Students will take on the various roles of crime scene investigator, laboratory analyst, and medical examiner in order to collect and evaluate evidence in a problem-solving environment. 

Zoology

Grade: 12             Credit: 0.5 Science         Length: Semester

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology

Course Description: Zoology is a survey of the animal kingdom with an emphasis on diversity, anatomy, evolutionary relationships, functional adaptations, and environmental relations. This course focuses on project-based learning and students will actively participate in group projects, dissections, laboratory exercises, and other field experiences. 

Honors/ACP Human Anatomy and Physiology

Grade: 12             Credit: 1.0 Science         Length: Year

Prerequisite: A "B" or better in Biology or Honors Biology

Course Description: Honors/ACP Human Anatomy and Physiology is designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester college introductory anatomy and physiology course for students interested in pursing healthcare careers. Students may enroll through UMSL to receive dual credit. Students will engage in an intensive study of anatomical structures and physiological systems including the integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, and nervous system and special senses. The majority of the course will be taught through the use of an online platform where students will listen to lectures, participate in discussions, and submit assignments. The class will meet after hours in the second semester in order to participate in dissections. 

AP Physics 1

Grade: 12             Credit: 1.0 Science         Length: Year

Prerequisite: A "C" or better in Honors Topics in Physics and a "B" or better in Honors Pre-Calculus or an "A" in College Algebra

Course Description: AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based college level physics course. Topics that are covered include linear and rotational motion, work, energy, waves, magnetism, and electricity. Students will use critical thinking skills to complete inquiry based activities. 

AP/ACP Biology

Grade: 11-12             Credit: 1.0 Science         Length: Year

Prerequisite: A "B" or better in Honors Biology or a teacher recommendation

Course Description: Honors AP/ACP Biology is designed to be the equivalent of a two-semester college introductory biology course. Students may enroll through UMSL to receive dual credit. Students will engage in an intensive study of the four Big Ideas as outlined by the College Board and make connections across these Big Ideas while studying molecules and cells, heredity and evolution, ecology, and biodiversity. Students will demonstrate their knowledge of the process of science by participating in laboratory activities that use the Seven Science Practices as outlined by the College Board.   

AP/ACP Environmental Science

Grade: 12             Credit: 1.0 Science         Length: Year

Prerequisite: A "B" or better in Biology

Course Description: AP/ACP Environmental Science is designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester college introductory environmental science course. Students may enroll through UMSL to receive dual credit. Environmental science is an interdisciplinary course where students will investigate the interconnection of the natural world, identify and analyze current global environmental problems, and explore alternative solutions and strategies for problem resolution. Major topics include: earth systems and resources, the living world, population, water and land use, energy resource and consumption, pollution, and global change.