Biomedical Science

Note: Biomed. Science courses are electives and do not meet the graduation requirement for “science.”

Students who pass a Biomed PLTW course (except Biomedical Innovation) AND meet the cut score determined by PLTW on the final exam will be given Dual Credit weighting for the course.

Principles of Biomedical Science – CP or possible Dual Credit weighting for GPA       558000CW

Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of math and science courses

This course provides an introduction into the concepts of biological and medical concepts and career opportunities. Students begin the course by investigating the death of a fictional character. They examine autopsy reports, analyze trace evidence, investigate medical history and explore medical treatments that might have prolonged the person’s life. Students then investigate outbreaks and emergencies, learning about patient care, resource planning and crisis communication through participating in various roles in mock crisis scenarios. Students also explore medical innovations aimed at improving patient quality of care. This hands-on course allows students to develop concept knowledge and transportable life/career skills.

Human Body Systems (Biomed. Science 2) – CP or possible Dual Credit weighting for GPA      558100CW

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Principles of Biomedical Science

In this challenging hands-on course, students work through interesting real world cases and often play the role of biomedical professionals to solve medical mysteries. Students engage in the study of the processes, structures, and interactions of the human body systems. Important concepts in the course include: communication, transport of substances, locomotion, metabolic processes, defense, and protection. The central theme is how the body systems work together to maintain homeostasis and good health. The systems are studied as “parts of the whole,” working together to keep the amazing human machine functioning at an optimal level. Students will design experiments, investigate the structures and functions of body systems, and use data acquisition software to monitor body functions.

Medical Intervention (Biomed. Science 3) – CP or possible Dual Credit weighting for GPA        558200CW

Grades: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Principles of Biomedical Science and Human Body Systems

Throughout the Medical Intervention course, student projects investigate various medical interventions that extend and improve quality of life, including gene therapy, pharmacology, surgery, prosthetics, rehabilitation, and supportive care. The course explores the design and development of various medical interventions, including vascular stents, cochlear implants, and prosthetic limbs. In addition, students review the history of organ transplants and gene therapy, and stay updated on cutting-edge developments via current scientific literature.

Biomedical Innovation (Biomedical Science 4) - H                     558300HW

Grades: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Medical Intervention and Teacher Recommendation

In this capstone course, students apply their knowledge and skills to answer questions or to solve problems related to the biomedical sciences. Students design innovative solutions for the health challenges of the 21st century as they work through progressively challenging open-ended problems, addressing topics such as clinical medicine, physiology, biomedical engineering, and public health. They have the opportunity to work on an independent project and may consult with a mentor or advisor from a university, hospital, physician’s office, or industry. Throughout the courses, students are expected to present the results of their work to an adult audience, which may include representatives from the local business or healthcare community.