Full-year course Advanced Placement 1 credit Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite:  Chemistry Honors or AP Chemistry

This course is a college-level investigation of biology. Students should have a keen interest in biology and should have proven academic achievements in science.  The subject matter is divided into three broad areas: molecular and cell biology, genetics, and population biology. In-depth laboratory experiences parallel the class work. This course includes content and activities surrounding genomics, technology and ethics developed in partnership with Jackson Labs.  The students use a college textbook and all will be expected to take the Advanced Placement Examination in May.

Half-year course Advanced Placement ½ Credit     Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite:  Chemistry Honors or AP Chemistry; concurrent enrollment in AP Biology.

This lab accompanies the AP Biology course. Selected projects develop skills in experimental design, data analysis and scientific writing. Must be taken in conjunction with Advanced Placement Biology.

Full-year course Advanced Placement 1 credit Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Chemistry or Chemistry Honors  

This course provides students with a college-level foundation to support future advanced work in chemistry at the college level.  Strong emphasis is placed on the development of problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.  Students cultivate their understanding of chemistry through inquiry-based investigations, as they explore content such as:  atomic structure, intermolecular forces and bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics & equilibrium (College Board 2019).  All students are expected to take the Advanced Placement Examination in May.

Half-year course Advanced Placement ½ Credit Grades 11, 12 

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Chemistry or Chemistry Honors; concurrent enrollment in AP Chemistry  

This lab accompanies the AP Chemistry course. Selected projects develop skills in experimental design, data analysis and scientific writing. Must be taken in conjunction with Advanced Placement Chemistry.

Full-year course Advanced Placement 1 credit Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite: Chemistry & Biology Honors or AP Biology concurrently

This is a college-level course that focuses on the “real science” behind environmental problems and issues. The course is designed to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world; to identify and analyze environmental problems (both natural and human-made); to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems; and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Laboratory and field studies are important elements of this course.  The major content areas of this course include scientific analysis, interdependence of Earth’s systems, human population dynamics, renewable and non-renewable resources, environmental quality, global changes and their consequences, environment and society, and choices for the future.  The students use a college textbook and all will be expected to take the Advanced Placement Examination in May.

Full-year course Advanced Placement 1 credit Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite: Physics and Algebra II

Recommended: Pre-calculus

This college-level course in physics is designed for students who wish to pursue advanced studies in physics at the non-calculus level and is equivalent to a first-semester college course in algebra-based physics.  The course provides a systematic investigation of the fundamental principles of physics and emphasizes the development of conceptual understanding and problem solving ability using algebra and trigonometry.  The course covers Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum); work, energy, and power; mechanical waves and sound.  It will also introduce electric circuits.  Laboratory investigations will be a key component of student learning.  The students use a college textbook and all will be expected to take the Advanced Placement Examination in May.

Half-year course                             Advanced Placement             ½ Credit      Grades 11, 12 

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Physics and Algebra II Recommended: Pre-calculus; concurrent enrollment in AP Physics

This lab accompanies the AP Physics 1 course. Selected projects develop skills in experimental design, data analysis and scientific writing. Must be taken in conjunction with Advanced Placement Physics 1.

Full-year course                         Advanced Placement                1 credit             Grade 12

Prerequisite: Completion of Physics and Calculus AB or Concurrent Enrollment in Calculus BC 

This is a challenging, college-level course designed to teach the principles of physics with full application of calculus techniques. The first half of this course will prepare students for the AP Physics C exam (Mechanics), which equates to one semester of college credit. Topics include kinematics (motion), dynamics (forces), conservation laws (work, energy, power, momentum and impulse), torque & rotation as well as universal gravitation and oscillations. The second half of the course will prepare students for the AP Physics C exam (Electricity & Magnetism), which equates to one semester of college credit. Topics include electrostatics, capacitors, DC circuits, magnetism, and electro-magnetism including induction. While the primary goal is to cover the comprehensive curriculum in depth, the class will also target many of the skills represented in Farmington's Vision of the Global Citizen. Students who take AP Physics C will be challenged to apply the critical physics ideas presented within the course to a wide variety of situations. Each new scenario will ask students ideas presented within the course to a wide variety of situations. Each new scenario will ask students to connect the recently presented concepts to the specific set of conditions at hand. Students use a college textbook and all will be expected to take both Advanced Placement Examinations in May.

Half-year course                         Advanced Placement                1/2 credit             Grade 12

Prerequisite: Completion of Physics and Calculus AB or Concurrent Enrollment in Calculus BC 

The lab accompanies the AP Physics C course. Selected projects develop skills in experimental design, data analysis and scientific writing. Must be taken in conjunction with Advanced Placement Physics C.

Full-year course College Prep 1 credit Grade 11 

Prerequisite: Chemistry 

This course emphasizes the skills of problem solving and innovation and critical thinking and reasoning and emphasizes the cell as the basic unit of life. The structure and function of living things, ranging from very simple one-celled examples to more complex forms, are explored. Emphasis is placed upon understanding the relationship between the structure and function of the human body.  Students conduct a variety of laboratory investigations.  Dissections, which are integrated with classroom anatomical studies, are also part of the course.  Students will also learn how to represent and analyze data, draw conclusions and defend them using evidence.  

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grade 11 

Prerequisite: Chemistry

This course emphasizes the skills of problem solving and innovation and critical thinking and reasoning and is a challenging survey of basic topics in biological science that build upon cellular structure and function.  In-depth studies of energy transformations, heredity, evolution, molecular biology and anatomy are presented. A laboratory experience includes biochemistry, biotechnology, physiology and dissection.  Students will also learn how to represent and analyze data, draw conclusions and defend them using evidence.  

Full-year course College Prep 1 credit Grade 10

Prerequisite: Physics

This course emphasizes the skills of problem solving and innovation and critical thinking and reasoning and is intended to provide a challenging background for students in the basic principles of chemistry in a context of authentic contemporary issues. There is an emphasis on cultivating skills related to key chemical and physical processes, the Laws of Conservation of Matter and Energy, thermodynamic principles, reaction rates, and chemical equilibria. Students will gain a greater appreciation and understanding of chemistry in their daily lives and how it impacts their future.   Students will also learn how to analyze data, draw conclusions and defend them using evidence. The concepts and skills are learned through explanation of phenomena which are aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards.

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grade 10

Prerequisite: Physics

This course emphasizes the skills of problem solving and innovation and critical thinking and reasoning and is designed as a challenging introduction to the principles basic to all fields of chemistry both in the laboratory and the classroom.  Students are challenged to think independently and critically about experiments and relevant, real-world situations. By examining the structure and composition of matter and its interaction with energy, students will interpret, explain, and make predictions about key chemical and physical processes, the Laws of Conservation of Matter and Energy, thermodynamic principles, reaction rates, and chemical equilibria.   Students will also learn how to analyze data, draw conclusions and defend them using evidence. The concepts and skills are learned through explanation of phenomena which are aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards. Successful completion of this course will provide the student with a strong preparation for college chemistry and a framework for understanding our complex world. 

Full-year course College Prep 1 credit Grade 9

This course emphasizes the skills of problem solving and innovation and critical thinking and reasoning and is designed to help students answer the fundamental question: “Why do things in the physical world happen the way that they do?”  Students will investigate topics such as motion, forces, energy, momentum, electricity, and magnetism.  The course is taught through a project-based approach in which students will plan investigations and solve problems while applying physics concepts.  Students will also learn how to analyze data, draw conclusions and defend them using evidence. The concepts and skills are learned through explanation of phenomena which are aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards.

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grade 9

Prerequisite: Algebra I or concurrent enrollment in Geometry

This course emphasizes the skills of problem solving and innovation and critical thinking and reasoning and is designed to help students answer the fundamental question: “Why do things in the physical world happen the way that they do?”  Students will investigate topics such as motion, forces, energy, momentum, electricity, magnetism, sound, and light.  The course is taught through a project-based approach in which students will plan investigations and solve problems while applying physics concepts.  In Physics H, students will use algebra to solve problems and also learn how to analyze data, draw conclusions and defend them using evidence. The concepts and skills are learned through explanation of phenomena which are aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards.

Half-year course College Prep ½ credit Grades 10, 11, 12

This course is intended for students interested in extending their understanding of the systems of the human body beyond the introduction given in biology courses. A case study approach is used to explore the topics of: orientation to the human body, integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, and cardiovascular system. The course is designed to help prepare students for more advanced courses in health-related fields such as physical therapy, sports medicine, and physical education.

Half-year course Honors ½ credit Grades 10, 11, 12

Students would take this semester long course to extend their learning from Anatomy and Physiology I.  This course will primarily focus on more challenging topics, including the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems.  Case studies, dissections, and project based learning will enable students to deepen their knowledge of the human body and compare it to other organisms.

Half-year course ½ credit 1 semester Grades 11, 12

Do you like to bike? Are you interested in designing and building your own custom bike frame? In this course, students will learn about frame geometry, bicycle handling, bicycle fit, material properties, and fabrication techniques. Students will learn how to design a bicycle using BikeCAD, select bicycle tubing, notch tubing, and braze tubing in order to fabricate a custom road bike frame to keep for themselves. This bike frame will be used as the product of learning and showcased as part of each student’s VOGC Exhibition of Learning.  *May be subject to course fee for materials

Half-year course ½ credit 1 semester Grades 11, 12

In this course, students will develop an understanding of a globally sustainable society and the environmental challenges that humans face in its creation.  Through inquiry-based interdisciplinary projects, students will have the opportunity to create solutions for topics such as sustainable agricultural practices, alternative energy sources, and closing the loop in municipal recycling programs.  An example of a project created through this course includes the design and fabrication of a hydroponic growing system.  Students will leave this course with an understanding of their role in creating a future for our planet and the skills to make lasting change.

Half-year course ½ credit 1 semester Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite:  Forensic Science

Imagine the horror of being erroneously convicted of a crime?  The ASPIRE:  Crime in Society course will explore crimes in society as they relate to wrongful convictions.  Students will engage in an inquiry project based on wrongful convictions cases within the criminal justice system.  Students will explore the processes necessary for exoneration and the long-term impact of wrongful convictions.  The final product of student learning from this class will be showcased as part of each student's VOGC Exhibition of Learning. 

Half-year course ½ credit 1 semester Grades 11, 12

An overview of allied health professions. A variety of allied health professions will be highlighted. Speakers representing each profession will be invited to describe their work/general duties of the profession, the work environment, educational requirements and employment trends. Goal: By investigating various professions in allied health and participating in career exploration assignments, students will have the opportunity to make informed career decisions and will prepare to work with different members of the healthcare team. 

Half-year course ½ credit 1 semester Grades 11, 12

This  course will explore the intersection of Computer Science and automation by using real world digital and analog sensor inputs to control the actions of programmable output devices. Students will construct, test and control effectors through a series of predefined tasks using sensory input  including, but not limited to: switches, proximity sensors, rotational encoders and digital imaging.  Course will strengthen the Engineering  design process through real world application. The final product of this course will e showcased as part of each student's VOGC Exhibition of Learning.

Half-year course ½ credit 1 semester Grades 11, 12

Students will research (via book study, podcasts, journals) various aspects of mindfulness and develop an action research project that can be done in our building/community to educate peers/families on mindfulness and wellbeing. An introduction of the brain and nervous system (parts and functions) and basic neuroscience principles (electric potential and neuron functions)  will lead students to choose and explore their own pathway to base their action research on. Possible springboard topics: breathing techniques, meditation, journaling, grounding in nature, mindful creativity, movement, mindset, etc. The final product of this course will be showcased as part of each student’s VOGC Exhibition of Learning.

Half-year course ½ credit 1 semester Grades 11, 12

Are you interested in public health and how epidemiology plays a critical role in preventive health care?  If so, then the ASPIRE Public Health Course is for you.  Students in this interdisciplinary course will study how often different diseases occur, and why, and the impact of epidemiology on public policy decisions.  Students will engage in an inquiry project that demonstrates the impact of epidemiology on public health, food production and the environment. The final product of this course will be showcased as part of each student’s VOGC Exhibition of Learning.

Half-year course Honors ½ credit Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite: Biology (may be concurrent with prior approval)

The theme of this single semester course is DNA, the master molecule of life. Students study and evaluate the ability to engineer DNA in ways that make it possible to alter the genetic makeup of organisms to solve problems and develop beneficial products. This requires the use of current laboratory methods and technology to investigate advances in molecular genetics. The content of this inquiry-based curriculum includes the history of biotechnology, tools and techniques of DNA science, microbiology, genetics, immunology, forensics and related issues.  This course includes content and activities surrounding genomics, technology and ethics. 

Full-year course 1 credit Grades 11, 12

Quantum computing represents a revolution in the capabilities and potential of what we think of as computers today.   It is an application which combines the fields of mathematics, physics, and computer science. Students will develop a foundational understanding of quantum computing, including basic linear algebra, quantum mechanics, quantum computation and information, and quantum algorithms. Students will spend the first half of the course developing skills in math and the Python programming language. The second half of the course will focus on coding quantum circuits and quantum algorithms, leading to students coding on a real quantum computer. This product will be showcased as part of each student’s VOGC Exhibition of Learning.

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grades 11, 12

This dynamic Capstone course caters to students seeking entry into the healthcare industry. It provides a comprehensive blend of in-person, online, and hands-on learning experiences. Throughout the course, students will engage with guest speakers, conduct independent fieldwork, and undertake in-depth research. Students will be required to successfully finish an Introduction to Medical Terminology course, obtain First Aid/CPR/AED certification, foster community ties, spend 15 hours observing healthcare professionals, and culminate their learning journey with an advanced research paper. The final product from this class will be showcased as part of each student’s VOGC Exhibition of Learning.

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grades 11, 12

Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be used to solve some of the 21st century's most challenging problems.  In this course, students will gain cutting-edge knowledge and skills in AI with a focus on Machine Learning (ML).  Students will develop foundational skill in Python programming, data science, and machine learning.  They'll experience AI at the intersection of fields such as healthcare, robotics, and social media.  Key concepts covered include ML Algorithms, AI Ethics, Data analysis and visualizations, Deep Learning, and Natural Language Processing (NLP). Throughout the course, students will work on real-world AI projects, culminating in a Capstone project.  This project will be showcased as part of each student's VOGC Exhibition of Learning.

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grades 11, 12

The Science Research course will offer students, especially those interested in careers in the health field, the physical sciences, or research, a chance to be actively engaged in the pursuit of their own interests. The purpose of the Science Research course is to research, design, carry out, and present an original scientific experiment to demonstrate the skills and knowledge acquired during your high school career. Students learn the components of scientific research and apply these concepts in various settings, including designing and conducting an authentic science research project and communicating results in a public forum. Depending on the selected science research topics, students might explore field trips, guest speakers, out-of-school mentors, and/or perform statistical analyses. The final product from this class will be showcased as part of each students VOGC Exhibition of Learning.

Half-year course College Prep ½ credit Grades 11, 12

Prerequisites:  Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (may be concurrent)

This course will focus on the causes and hazards associated with profound catastrophic events that impact humanity.  The curriculum explores topics such as hurricanes (Andrew, Katrina), tornadoes, earthquakes, volcanoes (Krakatoa, Pompeii), tsunami, and impact events (Chicxulub).  This course has been set-up as a collaborative learning environment, where the students work in group settings to explore these topics.  The students will participate in classroom discussions, projects and assignments designed to answer their questions about each of these catastrophic events.  Through this course the student will focus on the science behind each event and the human costs associated with each. 

Half-year course College Prep ½ credit Grades 11, 12

Prerequisites:  Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (may be concurrent)

This one-semester course is designed to provide students with an avenue to explore the science behind environmental issues of their choice. Students select three to four major issues on which to focus. Background environmental concepts are woven into each topic by the instructor providing a depth of knowledge on which the students build their independent research. Working in groups and ultimately independently, students conduct their research in preparation for an assessment method of their choice. 

For example, students may choose to write a paper, deliver a presentation, or write a lab report. These are critiqued and refined until all students meet both Vision of the Graduate and Next Generation Science Standards. Problem solving, synthesis of information across the disciplines, critical thinking, and communication skills are emphasized throughout the course.

Half-year course College Prep ½ credit Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite:  Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (may be concurrent)

This one-semester survey course is designed to allow students to explore many fields within forensic science and how it is used in the criminal justice system. Through an examination of scientific information, use of laboratory activities, and a study of real-life cases, students will understand how forensic scientists do their jobs. Topics covered include: processing a crime scene, determining cause and time of death, fingerprint evidence, blood spatter, blood types and DNA analysis, forensic chemistry and toxicology. This course will help prepare students for advanced course work and careers in science, law enforcement, criminology, biotechnology, and forensic science.

Half-year course Honors ½ credit Grade 12

Prerequisite: Chemistry Honors or AP Chemistry

This course is a unique opportunity for students that will provide a fundamental overview of organic chemistry to students interested in pursuing a career in the sciences. Upon successful completion of this class, students will understand the relationship between structure and function of molecules, the major classes of reactions, reaction energetics and mechanisms, synthesis of organic compounds, and how to determine structure via various spectroscopic techniques. Only students intending a career in chemistry, nursing, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, medical technology, science laboratory work or related sciences should take this class. 

Half-year course College Prep ½ credit Grades 10, 11, 12

This course explores the branch of biology that deals with animals and animal life, including the study of the structure, physiology, development and classification of animals. Some of the topics discussed include the classification of invertebrate animals (sponges, cnidarians, worms, mollusks, insects, arthropods, echinoderms) and vertebrate animals (fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals). This course will allow students to study the evolutionary trends in the animal kingdom.

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

In this introductory course of the PLTW Biomedical Science program, students explore concepts of biology, medicine, and health care as they take on roles of different medical professionals to solve real-world problems. Students will work through real-world situations, cases, and problems, such as solving a medical mystery case, diagnosing and treating a patient, and responding to a medical outbreak. Through scaffolded activities and projects, students are introduced to human physiology, medicine, genetics, microbiology, public health, research processes and bioinformatics. They step into the roles of biomedical science professionals and work together in teams to find unique solutions, and in the process, learn in-demand, transferable skills like critical thinking and communication.

Full-year course Advanced Placement 1 credit Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: AP Computer Science Principles with App Inventor or instructor approval

This full-year course is intended for those students who want an in-depth experience with a text-based programming language used by professionals. Currently, the course language is Java. This course is equivalent to one semester of a college-level computer science programming course. It is especially valuable to students considering majoring in Computer Science and pursuing careers in disciplines that require significant involvement with computing. Students learn the Java programming language, problem solving and debugging techniques, major object-oriented programming concepts, designing/implementing algorithms, and data structure fundamentals. Each student will spend approximately 50 percent of their time working hands-on with Java programming lab assignments. Students use an online textbook and will be expected to take the Advanced Placement Examination in May. 

Full-year course Advanced Placement 1 credit Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Algebra I or instructor’s approval

This course is an appropriate starting point for students with previous coding experience. Through both its content and pedagogy, this course aims to appeal to a broad audience. In this full-year course, students will learn that computer science (CS) is creative by its nature and that, at its core, CS is about thinking and problem-solving. They will engage in programming challenges, building an increasingly complex portfolio of applications using MIT's App Inventor and the text-based language Python. This course will introduce students to the software engineering design process. Connections between CS and other fields will be explored. For the AP Create performance task, students will spend a month creating a piece of software of their own design, which will be uploaded to their AP Digital portfolio. Students will be expected to take the Advanced Placement Examination in May. 

NOTE: This course is an appropriate starting point for a student with some previous experience. 

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Completion of one course in the Computer Science pathway

Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computer systems, computer networks, and digital information. This PLTW course introduces the tools and concepts of cybersecurity and encourages students to create solutions that allow people to share computing resources while protecting privacy. It provides students with a broad exposure to the many aspects of digital and information security, while encouraging socially responsible choices and ethical behavior. It inspires algorithmic and computational thinking, especially "outside-the-box" thinking. It also aims to develop students' skills as consumers, friends, citizens, and employees who can effectively contribute to communities with a dependable cyber-infrastructure that moves and processes information safely.

Half-year course Honors ½ credit               Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Algebra I or instructor’s approval 

Do you like to solve puzzles and play thinking-type games? This half-year course is a gentle but exciting introduction to solving real-world problems like a computer scientist. This course is specifically designed for students with no previous programming experience. It is useful to students interested in all career paths. Students are immersed in computational thinking activities as they solve problems both off and on the computer. Using Scratch, a free, online, block-based programming environment from MIT, students design increasingly complex interactive animations. This is followed by learning a text-based programming language called Processing. The course concludes with a project in which students explore a CS-related tool of their choosing and create a software artifact with it.

NOTE: Students with significant prior programming experience should consider taking the APCS Principles course instead. 

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grades 11, 12 

Prerequisite: At least two (2) Engineering courses

In this culminating Project Lead the Way Capstone experience, students work in teams to research, design and construct a solution to an open-ended engineering problem. Students apply principles developed in the preceding Project Lead the Way courses and are guided by a community mentor. Students must present progress reports, submit a final written report and defend their solutions to a panel of outside reviewers at the end of the school year. This is the culminating experience in the pre-engineering sequence. The final product from this class will be showcased as part of each student’s VOGC Exhibition of Learning.

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grades 11, 12

Prerequisite: Algebra I 

In this full-year course, students have the opportunity to design electronic circuits and devices with professional simulation software that leads to actual circuit construction. Students will use mathematics in real world engineering problems such as in the design and optimization of smart circuits found in watches, calculators, video games and computers. A major focus of the course is to expose students to logic design, teamwork, engineering standards, and technical documentation. Projects typically require a “division of labor” and coordination of resources. Students in this course will work collaboratively as they design and test circuits. They will present and reflect on their designs.  Students will experience the "maker" spirit first hand.

Full-year course Honors 1 credit               Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Algebra I or Concurrent enrollment in Geometry

Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) is a unique course that is designed to be fun and interesting, and spark an interest in Engineering as a potential career. IED will teach problem-solving skills using an engineering design development process. The students will use the design process and their imaginations to conceptualize, design, create, and improve various products. Models of the product are created, analyzed and communicated using solid modeling computer design software called Onshape. 

Full-year course Honors 1 credit Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Geometry

This course is designed to provide a real experience for what it is like to be an engineer. Students will utilize the engineering design process in a team setting to analyze and design solutions to everyday problems and challenges. Students will learn the connection among mathematics, science, and technology as they explore energy and power, basic electrical circuits, control systems related to robotics design, vector analysis related to bridge truss design, strength of materials, statistics, and kinematics. This is primarily a “hands-on” course where students build their designs in the classroom. Skills students will learn include teamwork, communications, critical thinking, creativity, and problem solving.