Science

SCIENCE PATHWAY

Grade 9: Biology (EOC) or Honors Biology (EOC)

Grade 10: Integrated Physics & Chemistry (IPC), Chemistry, or Honors Chemistry

Grades 11-12: Advanced Science (3^rd) and 4^th Science for Endorsement Options

Anatomy and Physiology (CTE)

Aquatic Science

AP^®/Dual Biology

Chemistry

Honors Chemistry

AP^®/Dual Chemistry

Chemistry Dual (ASU)

Earth and Space Science

AP^® Environmental Science

Environmental Systems

Food Science (CTE)

Physics

AP^® Physics 1

AP^® Physics 2

AP^® Physics C

Physics Dual: UT OnRamps Mechanics, Heat, and Sound

Physics Dual (ASU)

Astronomy Dual (ASU)

BIOLOGY (#3101)

In Biology students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific practices during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem-solving. Students also study a variety of topics that include structures and functions of cells and viruses, growth and development, DNA & genetics, levels of organization, biological evolution, taxonomy, metabolism & energy transfers in living organisms, homeostasis, and ecosystems. Through this course, students will have an opportunity to consider the vast diversity and astonishing unity within the natural world around us.

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 9
Tier 3; Tier 4 Basic class of 2022; On-Level class of 2023 and beyond.

HONORS BIOLOGY (#3102)

Honors Biology extends and deepens the topics covered in Biology. Emphasis is placed on analytical reading and writing, and modeling biological processes. Independent research activities and projects are included. Assessments emphasize higher-order thinking skills and introduce the AP^® testing format. (GT#3106)

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 9
Tier 2 class of 2022; Advanced class of 2023 and beyond.

AP^®/DUAL BIOLOGY (#3103)/(#3104DN)

AP^®/Dual Biology aligns with the full-year, introductory biology course usually taken by biology majors during their first year of college as designed by College Board. The curriculum is based on four Big Ideas: evolution, energy, information, and systems. Most biological concepts fall under more than one Big Idea. The course provides students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to think critically about our growing understanding of biology. AP^® students must take the AP^® exam or a final modeled after the AP^® exam in rigor and length. Dual credit students must have completed BIOL 1406 with a grade of “C” or better to continue in BIOL 1407 during the spring semester. Dual credit students take semester exams.

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry
College Credit: NVC (BIOL 1406 & 1407, Biology for Science Majors I & II)
Dual Credit Prerequisites: NVC application, TSI scores
Tier 1 class of 2022; Advanced class of 2023 and beyond.

INTEGRATED PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY (#3001)

In Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC) students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific practices during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical-thinking and scientific problem-solving skills. This course integrates the disciplines of physics and chemistry in the following topics: force, motion, energy, and matter. (IPC INC #3005) (IPC BAS #9322) (IPC ELL #3009)

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 10
Prerequisites: Biology
Tier 3; Tier 4 Basic class of 2022; On-Level class of 2023 and beyond.

CHEMISTRY (#3201)

In Chemistry students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific practices during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem-solving. Students study a variety of topics that include characteristics of matter, trends of the Periodic Table, development of atomic theory, chemical bonding, chemical stoichiometry, gas laws, solution chemistry, thermochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. Through this course, students will learn to recognize the essential role of chemistry within their daily lives. (CHEM INC #3205; CHEM BAS #9323 )

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 10-12
Prerequisites: Algebra I, Biology
Tier 3; Tier 4 Basic class of 2022; On-Level class of 2023 and beyond.

HONORS CHEMISTRY (#3202)

Honors Chemistry extends and deepens the topics covered in Chemistry. Emphasis is placed on analytical reading and writing, and modeling chemical processes. Independent research activities and projects are included. Assessments emphasize higher-order thinking skills and introduce the AP^® testing format. (GT #3206)

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 10-12
Prerequisites: Algebra I, Biology
Tier 2 class of 2022; Advanced class of 2023 and beyond.

AP^®/DUAL CHEMISTRY (#3203)/(#3203DN)

AP^®/Dual Chemistry aligns with the first year of college general chemistry and is designed by College Board. Students cultivate their understanding of chemistry through inquiry-based investigations as they explore topics such as atomic structure, intermolecular forces & bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics, and equilibrium. Students must take the AP^® exam or a final modeled after the AP^® exam in rigor and length. Dual credit students must have completed CHEM 1411 with a grade of “C” or better to continue in CHEM 1402 during the spring semester. Dual credit students take semester exams

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, Algebra II
College Credit: NVC (CHEM 1411 & 1402, General Chemistry I & II)
Dual Credit Prerequisites: NVC application, TSI scores
Tier 1 class of 2022; Advanced class of 2023 and beyond.

CHEMISTRY DUAL (#3203DA)

Dual Credit Chemistry through Angelo State University offers an introduction to the fundamental laws and theories of chemistry, chemical nomenclature, stoichiometry, atomic structure, chemical bonding, the periodic table, chemical equations and reactions, and the properties of heat flow and gases. Dual credit students take semester exams. ASU course may be online depending on enrollment numbers.

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, Algebra II (can be taken concurrently)
College Credit: ASU (CHEM 1311/1111, General Chemistry I)
Dual Credit Prerequisites: ASU application, 3.0 GPA Minimum
Cost to Student: $200 ($50 per credit hour) plus possible instructional materials
Tier 1 class of 2022; Advanced class of 2023 and beyond.

PHYSICS (#3301)

In Physics students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific practices during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem-solving. Students study a variety of topics that include laws of motion, changes within physical systems, conservation of energy and momentum, forces, thermodynamics, characteristics & behavior of waves, and atomic, nuclear & quantum physics. With the successful completion of Physics, students will acquire factual knowledge within a conceptual framework and will grow in their ability to synthesize and evaluate experimental designs through the application of vital science practices. (PHYSICS INC #3305)

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11-12
Prerequisites: Algebra I, Biology
Tier 3 class of 2022; On-Level class of 2023 and beyond.

AP^® PHYSICS 1 (#3306)

AP^® Physics 1 is the equivalent of a first semester college course in algebra-based physics as designed by College Board. Students develop a deep understanding of the physics content while applying their knowledge through inquiry labs. The course covers Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum), work, energy, & power, mechanical waves & sound, and introduces electric circuits. Students must take the AP^® exam or a final modeled after the AP^® exam in rigor and length. This course satisfies physics science credit.

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology, after or concurrently with PreCalculus
Tier 1 class of 2022; Advanced class of 2023 and beyond.

AP^® PHYSICS 2 (#3307)

AP^® Physics 2 is the equivalent of a second semester college course in algebra-based physics as designed by College Board. Students develop a deep understanding of the physics content while applying their knowledge through inquiry labs. The course covers fluid statics & dynamics, thermodynamics with kinetic theory, PV diagrams & probability, electrostatics, electrical circuits with capacitors, magnetic fields, electromagnetism, physical & geometric optics, and quantum, atomic & nuclear physics. Students must take the AP^® or a final modeled after the AP^® exam in rigor and length.

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology and AP^® Physics 1
Tier 1 class of 2022; Advanced class of 2023 and beyond.

AP^® PHYSICS C (#3308)

AP^® Physics C aligns with a full-year, calculus-based, college-level physics course. This course is especially appropriate for students planning to specialize or major in physical science or engineering. This course is designed by College Board. In the fall semester, students will study mechanics, and, in the spring semester, students will study electricity & magnetism. Introductory differential and integral calculus is used throughout the course. Students must take the AP^® or a final modeled after the AP^® exam in rigor and length.

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 12
Prerequisites: Biology and AP^® Physics 1, after or concurrently with Calculus
Tier 1 class of 2022; Advanced class of 2023 and beyond.

PHYSICS DUAL (#3301DA)

The Online Dual Credit General Physics I & II semester courses through Angelo State University offer an algebra-based, college-level introduction into mechanics, thermodynamics, waves, electricity, magnetism, light and atomic physics. Dual credit students must complete PHYS 1401 with a grade of “C” or better to continue PHYS 1402 during the spring semester. Dual credit students are required to take semester exams. This course satisfies physics science credit. Online course with in-person laboratory component at high school campus.

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology, Algebra II
College Credit: ASU (PHYS 1401 & 1402, Physics I & II)
Dual Credit Prerequisites: ASU Application, 3.0 GPA Minimum
Cost to Students: $400 ($50 per credit hour)
Tier 1 class of 2022; Advanced class of 2023 and beyond.

PHYSICS: UT OnRamps MECHANICS, HEAT, AND SOUND (#3301DU)

UT OnRamps Mechanics, Heat, and Sound is a general physics course that introduces big ideas in physics, such as Newtonian mechanics (including motion, force, energy, and rotation), as well as solid and fluid mechanics, oscillations, waves, sound, and heat. This is an algebra-based course in mechanics that lays the conceptual groundwork for STEM majors and reinforces the idea that the behavior of many systems in the world can be described precisely with simple mathematics. This course also includes a lab component that will engage students in both guided and open inquiry investigations to instill foundational scientific reasoning and analytical skills. This course satisfies physics science credit.

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology, Algebra I, Geometry (Algebra II or Precalculus Recommended)
College Credit: UT (PHYS 1301/1101, General Physics Technical Course)
Cost to Students: $149
Tier 1 class of 2022; Advanced class of 2023 and beyond.

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY (CTE #3502)

Anatomy and Physiology topics include the structure and function of the human body and the interaction of body systems for maintaining homeostasis. Students conduct laboratory investigations, apply the scientific method, and make informed decisions using critical-thinking and scientific problem-solving skills. This course fulfills a science graduation credit. Students in the Health Science Pathway are given Priority Enrollment, as they MUST take this course before the Practicum (Grades 10 or 11).

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 10-12
Prerequisites: Biology, after or concurrently with Chemistry
Recommended Prerequisite: Principles of Health Science
Tier 3 class of 2022; On-Level class of 2023 and beyond.

AQUATIC SCIENCE (#3501)

In Aquatic Science students study the interactions of biotic and abiotic components in aquatic environments, including impacts on aquatic systems. Investigations and fieldwork in this course will emphasize the freshwater aspect of aquatic science. Students acquire knowledge about a variety of aquatic systems, conduct investigations & observations of aquatic environments, work collaboratively with peers, and develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. (AQUA SCI INC #3505) (AQUA SCI BAS #9324)

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology, after or concurrently with Chemistry
Tier 3; Tier 4 Basic class of 2022; On-Level class of 2023 and beyond.

ASTRONOMY DUAL (#3606DA)

PHYS 1303 is an introductory study of the current knowledge and techniques of astronomy with an emphasis on stellar astronomy and cosmology. PHYS 1304 is a study of the current knowledge and techniques of astronomy as applied to our solar system with an emphasis on information obtained from recent planetary probes and lunar exploration. Dual credit students are required to take semester exams. Online course for 21-22 school year.

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11-12
Dual Credit Prerequisites: ASU application, 3.0 GPA Minimum
College Credit: ASU (PHYS 1303 & 1304, Fundamentals of Astronomy & Astronomy of the Solar System)
Cost to Students: $300 ($50 per credit hour) plus possible instructional materials
Tier 1 class of 2022; Advanced class of 2023 and beyond.

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (#3601)

Earth and Space Science is a capstone course designed to build on students’ prior scientific and academic knowledge and skills to develop understanding of Earth’s systems. Students discover the Earth’s long, complex, and dynamic history through studying the properties and processes of the solid and fluid Earth. Students identify the interacting components of Earth’s systems and how changes occur both naturally and through human-influenced processes. Additionally, students will use Earth-based and space-based astronomical observations to understand the structure, scale, composition, origin, and history of the universe. (EARTH SPACE INC #3605; EARTH SPACE BAS #9326)

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11-12
Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry, Biology, Chemistry or IPC after/concurrently with 3^rd Math and 3^rd Science Credit
Tier 3; Tier 4 Basic class of 2022; On-Level class of 2023 and beyond.

ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS (#3401)

In Environmental Systems, students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific practices during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical-thinking and scientific problem-solving skills. Students study a variety of topics including biotic & abiotic factors in habitats, ecosystems & biomes, interrelationships among resources & an environmental system, sources & flow of energy through an environmental system, relationship between carrying capacity & changes in ecosystems, and a variety of environmental changes. (ENVIRSYS INC #3405; ENVIRSYS BAS#9325)

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry or IPC
Tier 3; Tier 4 Basic class of 2022; On-Level class of 2023 and beyond.

AP^® ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE (#3403)

AP^®Environmental Science is equivalent to a one-semester introductory college course in environmental science. Students engage with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. The course challenges students to identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. This course is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from geology, biology, chemistry, and geography. AP^® Environmental Science is designed by College Board. AP^®students must take the AP^® exam or a final modeled after the AP^® exam in rigor and length.

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11-12
Prerequisites: Algebra I, Biology, Chemistry
Tier 1 class of 2022; Advanced class of 2023 and beyond.

FOOD SCIENCE (CTE#5557)

Food Science covers food science principles, nutrition and wellness, food technology, world food supply, managing multiple family, community, & wage-earner roles, and career options in nutrition, food science & food technology. Topics also include diet-related disorders, diets appropriate to the life cycle & other factors, therapeutic diets, chemical and physical changes that affect food safety & sanitation standards, market research, and legal issues & food policies. Students within the Hospitality and Tourism Cluster coherent sequence receive priority scheduling.

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 12
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, 3^rd Science Credit (Principles of Hospitality and Tourism Recommended)
Tier 3 class of 2022; On-Level class of 2023 and beyond.

FORENSIC SCIENCE (#5568)

Forensic Science is a course that uses a structured and scientific approach to the psychology of criminal behavior and the investigation of crimes of assault, abuse, neglect, domestic violence, accidental death and homicide. Students will learn terminology and investigative procedures related to crime scenes, questioning, interviewing, criminal behavior characteristics, truth detection, and scientific procedures used to solve crimes. Using the scientific method, students will collect and analyze evidence in case studies and simulated crime scenes through fingerprint analysis, ballistics, and blood spatter analysis. Students will learn the history, legal aspects, and career options for forensic science. Students in the Health Science Pathway will be given priority enrollment.

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11-12
Prerequisites: Algebra, Geometry, Biology, Chemistry
Tier 3 class of 2022; On-Level class of 2023 and beyond.

SUMMER SCIENCE COURSE OPPORTUNITIES

AQUATIC SCIENCE – SUMMER (#3501)

The Aquatic Science summer course includes a classroom and a field component. Students study the interactions of biotic and abiotic components in freshwater and marine aquatic environments. Students conduct investigations and make observations of aquatic environments, work collaboratively with peers, and develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills. During the field component students will travel to distinct aquatic ecosystems to discover the unique characteristics of each. Although offered annually, this course is subject to change or cancellation depending on the availability of a BISD teacher, chaperones, and a minimum of twenty-five students. The approximate cost will range from $1,000 to $2,600 depending on the final field component destinations. The fee includes tuition, transportation, food, lodging, and activities.

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11 (also to include summer after 10th grade)
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry or IPC
Tier 3 class of 2022; On-Level class of 2023 and beyond.

ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS - SUMMER (#3401)

The Environmental Systems summer course includes a classroom and a field component. Students use the scientific practices to think critically and problem-solve in many different biomes. Students make connections between scientific concepts to arrive at informed decisions about current topics in environmental science. Students study a variety of topics including biotic and abiotic factors in habitats, ecosystems & biomes, interrelationships between resources & environmental systems, sources & flow of energy through an environmental system, the relationship between carrying capacity and changes in ecosystems, and various environmental changes. During the field component of the course, students travel to several locations to experience different ecosystems. Although offered annually, this course is subject to change or cancellation depending on availability of a BISD teacher, chaperones, and a minimum of twenty students. The approximate cost ranges from $1,000-$2,600 depending on the field component destinations. The fee includes tuition, transportation, food, lodging and activities.

Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11 (also to include summer after 10th grade)
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry or IPC
Tier 3 class of 2022; On-Level class of 2023 and beyond.

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