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A basic knowledge of science is fundamental for today’s world. Science involves the development of skills and habits of critical thinking.
A basic knowledge of science is fundamental for today’s world. Science involves the development of skills and habits of critical thinking.
The State of Iowa requires all high school students to complete 3 years of science; 4 years is encouraged. The 3 year sequence here at Camanche High School is Earth Science (9), Biology (10), then Chemistry (11). Senior electives include Physics and Anatomy & Physiology. Prerequisites will be mentioned for each class below.
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (2 semesters) Required for Graduation
Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 9
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: The Earth in space; structure of the solid Earth & atmosphere; formation; early history; dating rocks; plate tectonics and associated structures; the rock cycle; coevolution of Earth and life; effects of water; living with geologic hazards; climate change.
BIOLOGY (2 semesters) Required for Graduation
Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 10
Prerequisite: Completion Algebra 1
Course Description: Fundamentals of Biology; chemistry of life; cellular structure & function; cellular respiration & photosynthesis; mitosis, meiosis & basics of genetics; complex genetics & inheritance; structure & function of DNA; evolution; systematics; intro to environmental science; population biology; principles of conservation.
Either chemistry course Required for Graduation (not both)
INTRO TO CHEMISTRY (2 semesters)
Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Enrollment or completion Algebra 2
Course Description: Chemistry math; atomic theory and structure; periodic table; chemical names & formulas; bonding; properties of matter; chemical reactions; the mole; thermodynamics; gas laws; acids & bases; nuclear chemistry. Less mathematically rigorous than General Chemistry.
GENERAL CHEMISTRY (2 semesters)
Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Enrollment or completion Algebra 2
Course Description: Atomic structure; chemical names & formulas; the mole; chemical equations; stoichiometry; thermochemistry; gas laws; quantum mechanics; bonding; aqueous solutions; acids & bases; nuclear chemistry. A mathematically rigorous course for college bound students.
PHYSICS (2 semesters)
Credit: 1
Grade Placement: 12
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Pre-calculus & Chemistry
Course Description: Speed & velocity; acceleration; Newton’s Laws; combining vectors; momentum & impulse; resolution of forces; circular & satellite motion; relativity; vibrations & waves; sound; reflection; refraction. The course is a balance of laboratory work, detailed lecture, and problem solving with students applying knowledge to practical experimentation. In the past, the final engineering project has included a field trip to 6-Flags Great America and may be available again.
ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY (1 semester)
Credit: 0.5
Grade Placement: 11 or 12
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology & Chemistry 1st semester
Course Description: Human anatomy is the scientific study of the body’s structures including cells, tissues, organs, and systems. Human physiology is the scientific study of the chemistry and physics of the structures of the body and the ways in which they work together to support the functions of life. This course is designed as an introduction to anatomy and physiology for students planning on a health career.
ASTRONOMY (1 semester)
Credit: 0.5
Grade Placement: 10, 11 or 12
Course Description: Astronomy is the scientific study of the sky and objects in space including planets, stars, and galaxies. Students will learn how to find objects in the sky; how telescopes are used to get information about objects in space; the different types of planets in our solar system, as well as asteroids and comets; how stars are born, evolve, and die; and what exactly galaxies are and how they provide evidence for the Big Bang.
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