Science Course Descriptions

Description:  This course integrates the disciplines of physics and chemistry in topics such as the following:  motion, waves, energy, transformations, properties of matter, changes in matter, and solution chemistry.  The use of technology and laboratory investigation will be a primary focus in instruction.  Student investigations will emphasize accurate observations, collection of data, data analysis, and the safe manipulation of laboratory apparatus and materials in the laboratory. 

Next Course: 2320 Biology or 2322 Pre-AP Biology*

* Must meet the High School Pre-AP/AP Course Eligibility Requirements.

Description: Biology is the study of the structure, growth, and function of the life systems of selected organisms.  This study encompasses historical contributions to biological concepts; energy production, transfer, and use in living systems; and the relationships of organisms with each other and with their environments.  Students acquire data using their senses and instrumentation.  Observations are made of living organisms in the environment, prepared specimens, various ecosystems, and inherited traits.  Student investigations emphasize accurate observations, collection of data, data analysis, and the safe manipulation of laboratory apparatus and materials in the field and the laboratory. 

Next Course: 2130 English 3 or 2133 AP English Language & Composition*

* Must meet the High School Pre-AP/AP Course Eligibility Requirements.

Description:  Biology AP is the study of general biological principles as well as of the specialized biological sciences.  Cytology, biochemistry, developmental biology, genetics, ecology, taxonomy, and various aspects of adaptation are integrated into the course.  Relationships and applications of concepts within and among the various sciences are explored.  The student acquires data by using his senses and instrumentation.  Student investigations emphasize accurate observations, collection of data, data analysis and the safe manipulation of laboratory apparatus and materials in the laboratory and field.  As an advanced course, Biology AP has as prerequisite Biology and Chemistry.  This course prepares the student to take the Advanced Placement exam.

* Must meet the High School Pre-AP/AP Course Eligibility Requirements.

Description: The Pre-AP Chemistry course is designed to introduce the student to the qualitative and quantitative aspects of a first-year chemistry program.  An in-depth study of the mathematical applications will be stressed.  The course will emphasize the theoretical concepts of molecular bonding, thermodynamics, kinetics, and equilibrium.  The descriptive aspects of the periodic table will be dealt with throughout the course  

Next Course: 2340 Physics or 2341 Pre-AP Physics or 2327 AP Biology or 2337 AP Chemistry

* Must meet the High School Pre-AP/AP Course Eligibility Requirements.

Description: Physics is the study of matter and energy and their interactions.  Students are introduced to fundamental concepts in the areas of mechanics, light, sound, heat, electricity, magnetism, and nuclear phenomena.  Students acquire information using the senses and instrumentation.  Observations of the laws of force and motion, the nature of light, wave phenomena, and properties of electricity and magnetism are integral components of the course.  Student investigations emphasize accurate observations, collection of data, analysis of data, and the safe manipulation of laboratory apparatus and materials. 

Next Course: 2348 AP Physics or 2327 AP Biology or 2337 AP Chemistry

* Must meet the High School Pre-AP/AP Course Eligibility Requirements.

** Must meet the Dual Credit Course Requirements.

Description: This course is designed to be the equivalent of a first-semester college course in algebra-based physics.  This advanced science course covers topics in Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum); work, energy, and power; mechanical waves and sound; introduction to electric circuits.  This course is intended for the pre-med, pre-dental, pre-vet, pharmacy, and architect students.

* Must meet the High School Pre-AP/AP Course Eligibility Requirements.

Description:  

* Must meet the High School Pre-AP/AP Course Eligibility Requirements.

Description:  The Environmental Systems course will focus on the study of the environment with an emphasis on ecology and natural resources.  The current energy situation will be studied, and the recycling of natural resources will be evaluated.  Emphasis on people and society, including cultural perspectives and pollution problems, will be made.  Field trips, laboratory experiences, group discussions, and other special activities will be planned. 

Description:  This course is a rigorous, college-level study of environmental topics including: the interdependence of Earth’s systems; human population dynamics; renewal and nonrenewal resources; environmental quality; global changes and their consequences; and environmental decision-making.  A strong lab component designated by the Advanced Placement Board is required.   Students will prepare to take the AP Environmental Science exam in the spring. 

* Must meet the High School Pre-AP/AP Course Eligibility Requirements.

Description:  Provides a survey of biological principles with an emphasis on humans,  including evolution,  ecology  (plant and animal),  plant and animal diversity, and physiology.  BIOL  1309  is the second part of a two-semester introduction to these concepts.  Other concepts are included in BIOL  1308.  Emphasis will be placed on selected topics in contemporary biology.    

Co-requisite: passing scores on TSI or SAT or ACT

** Must meet the Dual Credit Course Requirements.

Description:   Students in Medical Microbiology explore the microbial world, studying topics such as pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms, laboratory procedures, identifying microorganisms, drug-resistant organisms, and emerging diseases.

Note: This course satisfies a science credit requirement for students in the Foundation High School Program. 

Description:    This course examines the interrelatedness of human, scientific, and technological dimensions of livestock production. Instruction is designed to allow for the application of scientific and technological aspects of animal science through field and laboratory experiences.

+ Prerequisite: Biology & (Chemistry or IPC); Algebra I and Geometry; and either Small Animal Management, Equine Science, or Livestock Production

Note: This course satisfies a science credit requirement for students in the Foundation High School Program. 

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

Note: 

• This course satisfies a science credit requirement for students in the Foundation High School Program. 

• This course may satisfy the fourth science credit.  Students pursuing the Distinguished Achievement Program, Forensic Science may satisfy the fourth science credit if taken after successful completion of a Biology course.