STEMB: Science

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of Integrated Physical Science, and/or concurrent enrollment in Integrated Life Science and Algebra II or higher 

This course is a balance of theoretical work, laboratory skills and scientific inquiry. Topics include bonding, types of reactions, stoichiometry, acid and bases, introduction to organic chemistry and gas behavior. Topics are organized around current worldwide issues: Freshwater, Shortage of Resources, Polymers, Acid Rain and Global Warming. Both the midterm and final exams are laboratory based. 

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of  Integrated Physical Science, Integrated Life Science, Chemistry, Integrated Algebra II, and Pre-Calculus (can be taken concurrently) 

Students in this course will develop and apply advanced chemistry related skills and knowledge with preparation for the Advanced Placement Test in Chemistry. Topics include: redox reactions, chemical thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, gas behavior, equilibrium, spontaneity and electrochemistry. *This course follows the National Advanced Placement Curriculum which is equivalent to college inorganic chemistry. Students must own a TI-83 or later calculator. 

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of Integrated Physical Science, Integrated Geometry, and Integrated Algebra II

In this course, students will review, extend, and apply Physics related skills and knowledge. Topics include: energy and energy transformations, kinetic and potential energy changes, electrical forces and fields, laws of motion, friction, and forces influencing motion over long distances (gravity etc.), properties of waves, light, sound, relationship among heat, temperature, and entropy, kinetic theory, and heat transfer. Students interested in physics and/or a physics related career would be most thoroughly prepared by completing Physics as a junior and Advanced Placement Physics as a senior. 

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of Precalculus and Physics.  Students should have completed or be concurrently enrolled in AP Calculus I. 

Dual Enrollment Option Available for Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors 

AP Physics C: Mechanics is a calculus-based physics course that covers kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum, rotation, gravitation and oscillation. This course is the first of a two-course sequence that is equivalent to the introductory physics sequence taken by science and engineering students at most colleges and universities. Students are expected to take the AP Physics C: Mechanics Exam in May. Students must own a TI-83 or later calculator. 

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of  Integrated Physical Science, Integrated Life Science, Chemistry, Integrated Algebra I and II, and Integrated Geometry; Recommended: AP Chemistry and AP Statistics (prior to or concurrently) 

This course will assist students in developing and applying advanced biology related skills and knowledge with preparation for the Advanced Placement Test in Biology. Topics include: the chemistry of living things, the dynamics of cells and cellular processes, the cycle of energy through biological systems, genetic diversity and evolution, principles of ecology including the interaction and diversity of organisms, populations and the environment. A strong emphasis is placed on laboratory experiences which provides practical application of topics explored. 

Prerequisite(s): Integrated Physical Science and Integrated Life Science 

Students in this course will develop and apply skills and knowledge related to the human body. Topics and systems include: Lexicon (the language of A&P), Cell Membrane/Regulation, Integumentary, Skeletal, Muscular, Nervous & Endocrine, Circulatory & Respiratory, Blood & Immunity Systems, Digestive and Excretory Systems, and (time permitting), Reproduction and Development. The course examines how the body works to maintain homeostasis as well as malfunctions that may cause changes or problems in normal functioning. The structures, functions, interactions, and regulation of human body systems are examined. Topics will be explored through a variety of methods, including: modeling, dissection, lecture, and animations. 

Prerequisite(s): Physical Science and Integrated Life Science 

Did you love Ecology in your 10th Grade Science course? Then this course may be for you! Students will go beyond the basic concepts of ecology learned in previous courses to investigate and discuss environmental case studies and local field research to develop an understanding of complex environmental issues. Students will explore their own value systems regarding the environment and land-use decision-making. Focus will be placed on system interactions, local and global resources, and human impact on these systems and resources. Some topics may include: population/community ecology, biodiversity, landscapes, history of conservation, low impact development, riparian restoration, and forestry management. Environmental readings and outdoor field studies will be required. Each semester of Environmental Science will build on the concepts covered in prior semesters. Students must complete Environmental Science Fall to progress to the Environmental Science Spring curriculum. 

Prerequisite(s): Integrated Physical Science , Integrated Life Science and Environmental Science Fall 

Students will use background information from Environmental Science Fall to go deeper into sustainability opportunities, applied conservation efforts, and service learning in the local community and on the global scale. Focus will be placed on application of sustainability practices and conservation. Some topics may include: sustainable/alternative energy, invasive species, agriculture practices, recycling, and lowering overuse of available resources. Environmental readings and outdoor field studies will be required. Each semester of Environmental Science will build on the concepts covered in prior semesters. Students should complete Environmental Science Fall to progress to the Environmental Science Spring curriculum. 

Prerequisite(s): Integrated Physical Science and Integrated Life Science 

Biotech I is for the student who is curious about life science & wants a hands-on experience.  The course is heavily lab based and focuses on microbiology, with an emphasis on bacteria cultures & the creation of glow in the dark bacteria.  The course culminates with students developing their own antibiotic medicine derived from natural sources.  Additionally, each lab is accompanied by an understanding of the underlying mechanisms behind why the phenomenon is occurring. 

Prerequisite(s): Integrated Physical Science, Integrated Life Science, and Biotechnology I 

Biotech II is a continuation of the skills & concepts students develop in Biotech I.  This course covers topics related to the immune system and disease testing, gene editing techniques & biofuel production.   

Prerequisite: Integrated Physical Science and Integrated Life Science 

Did you know that Sherlock Holmes used forensic science methods before the police did? That until Prohibition, medical examiners did not know how to use science to tell what caused death? This course will explore the basic science behind modern detection.. Students will read and view mysteries and compare the methods to real life. Crime scene analysis, fingerprinting, DNA fingerprinting, blood spatter patterns, presumptive blood testing, blood typing, skeletal remains and establishing the time of death will be studied. Summatives (including the final exam) will be staged crime scenes. 

This course will introduce students to the basics of designing, building, coding, and testing their own robot to accomplish specific challenges, working in a team environment.  Students will have the experience of integrating hardware and software to accomplish specific tasks, utilizing the VEX Robotics platform.  These tasks start simple and become progressively more complex throughout the course.  Students will develop the knowledge and skills needed to understand and apply mechanical and programming concepts, safe and appropriate use of common tools and equipment, troubleshooting and problem-solving procedures, and workshop safety.  No previous experience is necessary. 

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Robotics or Instructor Permission

This project-based class will build on the learning in Robotics, with students working in a team environment to solve progressively more complex tasks through designing, building, and programming robots using the VEX Robotics platform. Each year Robotics Lab will build on the concepts covered in prior years. Participation on a competitive team is encouraged but not required. Students with substantial experience outside BHS should contact Mrs.Cafasso (pcafasso@bownet.org) to discuss appropriate placement.  This course may be taken multiple times.