Science 

Advanced Biology

All students are able to access advanced coursework. Supports and extensions are built into the course to address the needs of all students. 

Students use scientific methods and critical thinking to study a variety of biology concepts. Topics include cell structure and function, genetics, evolutionary theory, biological processes and systems, and environmental systems. This course is taught at a high level, and prepares students for success on the STARR exam and in future science classes.

Chemistry

Students use scientific methods and critical thinking to study a variety of chemistry concepts. Topics include characteristics of matter, the periodic table, development of atomic theory and chemical bonding, chemical stoichiometry, gas laws, solution chemistry, thermochemistry, and nuclear chemistry.

*Chemistry is a prerequisite for most of the advanced science courses.

Advanced Chemistry

This course will provide students with an introduction to major chemistry principles including: characteristics of matter, the periodic table, development of atomic theory and chemical bonding, chemical stoichiometry, gas laws, solution chemistry, thermochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. While this is an introductory course to chemistry, it is also considered a pre AP level course. Students will be exposed to more rigorous and high level course work, which is closer to a college level.

*Chemistry is a prerequisite for most of the advanced science courses.

Physics 

Students should expect hands on learning in a collaborative environment in physics. This class involves experimental design and current scientific practices to critically solve problems in the physics space. Content covered includes: laws of motion, conservation of energy and momentum, force, thermodynamics, waves theory, and  quantum physics.

AP Biology- *Chemistry prerequisite recommended or taking chemistry concurrently*

This course is aimed to prepare students to earn college credit for biology. This class explores many different aspects of biology including animal behavior, CRISPR gene editing, heredity and genetics, cancer, and more. We work closely with insects, birds, and sometimes reptiles so you should be comfortable with animals. Some classes are also spent outside, so be prepared to do some walking! 

AP Environmental Science

In this advanced course, students will cultivate their understanding of the natural world through inquiry-based laboratory and field investigations. Concepts explored are energy transfer, environmental systems, inter-species interactions, and sustainability. Students will identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the associated relative risks, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them.

AP Biology- *Chemistry prerequisite recommended or taking chemistry concurrently*

This course is aimed to prepare students to earn college credit for biology. This class explores many different aspects of biology including animal behavior, CRISPR gene editing, heredity and genetics, cancer, and more. We work closely with insects, birds, and sometimes reptiles so you should be comfortable with animals. Some classes are also spent outside, so be prepared to do some walking! 

Physics 

Students should expect hands on learning in a collaborative environment in physics. This class involves experimental design and current scientific practices to critically solve problems in the physics space. Content covered includes: laws of motion, conservation of energy and momentum, force, thermodynamics, waves theory, and  quantum physics.

UT OnRamps Physics- *Algebra II prerequisite STRONGLY recommended.*

The UT On-Ramps program is a dual enrollment class, which offers students the ability to gain college credit while satisfying a core science class requirement. The class is taught at a college level, and gives students the opportunity to explore physics through hands-on laboratory activities. Course work is a combination of collaborative projects and rigorous online material. Content covered includes mechanics, solid and fluid mechanics, oscillations, and waves.

Anatomy and Physiology

This course explores the mechanics and functions of the human body. Students will learn about skeletal and muscular systems as well as the major organ systems and their functions. This class includes laboratory activities, such as dissections. This class is recommended for students interested in healthcare careers, or who are enrolled in the biomed pathway.

Aquatic Science

Aquatic Science is for any student who has a love for beaches, lakes, or anything related to water. Students will investigate a variety of freshwater and marine ecosystems with an emphasis on local Texas aquatic ecosystems.  Analysis will focus on current and historical human dependence on aquatic ecosystems and the effect of human activity on those ecosystems. 

Forensic Science

Students will learn about the science behind criminal investigations, and critically examine the validity of these techniques. Units in this program explore the many types of evidence collected and analyzed during criminal investigations. This course is taught in a hands on, collaborative environment. Some topics covered include eyewitness testimony, poisons and toxins, forensic anthropology, trace evidence, and more.

Medical Microbiology

This course introduces students to the microbial world. Topics covered include pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms, biotechnology, immunology, current best practices in the medical laboratory field. This course is taught at a high level, and involves a variety of laboratory activities.

Pathophysiology

Pathophysiology is a course designed to introduce students to the mechanisms behind disease. Students will explore disorders that are highly relevant in the medical field. We will discuss both medical and public health approaches to solving these problems. This course includes examining case studies, project-based learning, research writing, and student-centered exploration. Pathophysiology offers a chance to explore the many facets of modern healthcare. 

Engineering Design- *Physics prerequisite is recommended and optional UT dual enrollment is offered*

The Engineer Your World classroom is a place where students engage in authentic engineering practices in a project-based environment. Student learning is scaffolded over a series of design challenges that require the application of engineering principles and relevant STEM concepts.

UT Research and Design Internship- *Double-blocked, must apply with Ms. Harris*

UT Research and Design is a double-blocked, off-site internship at UT Austin. Crockett students are mentored by a UT scientist and learn cutting-edge lab techniques. Students participate in individual projects, contributing to UT research studies, which may become published. You must apply for this internship with UT. Applications will be accepted in the Spring prior to this course. Contact Ms. Harris for more information.

Earth and Space*Prerequisites: Biology/AP Biology and Chemistry/Advanced Chemistry. Physics not required, but could be helpful*

This course builds on students' prior knowledge and skills to develop understanding of Earth's systems. We will cover three main categories: Earth in space and time, solid Earth, and fluid Earth. Students will apply scientific and mathematical investigations in understanding course concepts.