HS Science Courses
Science
For most standard courses for graduation, regular as well as Pre-Advanced Placement (Pre-AP) or Advanced Placement (AP), Dual Credit, and OnRamps course offerings may be available for students. All course options fully address the state-mandated essential knowledge and skills. Pre-AP courses are designed to provide academic challenge and extensive enrichment at each grade level in preparation for students’ enrollment in College Board Advanced Placement, Dual Credit, and OnRamps courses in their junior and senior years. Pre-AP, AP, Dual Credit, and OnRamps courses emphasize cognitive concepts and processes using higher-level skills, independent studies, mathematical applications, and analytical and communication skills that are consistent with the structure of the science disciplines. A minimum of 40% of instructional time is committed to laboratory/field experiences in all 9-12 science courses.
Biology
Grade: 9 -12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: 4007 PEIMS: 03010200
Prerequisite: None
Endorsement: Multi
NCAA Approved
In Biology, students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students in Biology study a variety of topics that include: structures and functions of cells and viruses; growth and development of organisms; cells, tissues, and organs; nucleic acids and genetics; biological evolution, taxonomy; metabolism and energy transfers in living organisms; living systems; homeostasis; and ecosystems and the environment.
Biology - Advanced
Grade: 9 -12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: 4006 PEIMS: 03010200
W4006
Prerequisite: None
Endorsement: Multi
NCAA Approved
UIL Exempt Course
QP - 5
In Biology - Advanced students will develop advanced inquiry and reasoning skills, such as designing a plan for collecting data analyzing data, apply mathematical routines, and connecting concepts in and across domains. Students will study a variety of topics that include: structures and functions of cells and viruses; growth and development of organisms; cells, tissues, and organs; nucleic acids and genetics; biological evolution, taxonomy; metabolism and energy transfers in living organisms; living systems; homeostasis; and ecosystems and the environment. These topics are the same as taught in the regular course but covered in greater detail. Advanced courses focus intently on preparing students for a successful transition to college credit courses such as Advanced Placement (AP), University of Texas OnRamps and dual credit and future college success.
GT Biology Advanced
Grade: 9 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: 4006G PEIMS: 03010200
W4006G – RHS Magnet ONLY
Prerequisite: None
Endorsement: Multi
NCAA Approved
UIL Exempt Course
QP - 5
In GT Biology Advanced, students will grow in scientific understanding by conducting field and laboratory investigations – engaging scientific process skills, traditional lab equipment, and current, innovative technology. As students improve their science skills through personalized learning, goal setting, service learning, career exploration, inquiry-based investigations and experiences, they increase their understandings through integration of these topics: develop advanced inquiry and reasoning skills, such as designing a plan for collecting data, analyzing data, and connecting concepts in and across domains. Students will study a variety of topics that include: structures and functions of cells and viruses; growth and development of organisms; cells, tissues, and organs; nucleic acids and genetics; biological evolution, taxonomy; metabolism and energy transfers in living organisms; living systems; homeostasis; and ecosystems and the environment. These topics are the same as taught in the regular course but covered in greater detail. Advanced courses focus intently on preparing students for a successful transition to
college credit courses such as Advanced Placement (AP), University of Texas OnRamps and dual credit and future college success.
Biology AP
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: 4013 PEIMS: A3010200
W4013 (RHS Magnet ONLY)
Prerequisite: Bio or Bio Advanced; Chem or Chem Advanced (or concurrent enroll)
Endorsement: Multi, STEM
Advanced Course
NCAA Approved
UIL Exempt Course
QP - 10
AP Biology is the equivalent to a two-semester college introductory biology course. It is a laboratory-oriented course, which includes the study of basic concepts and principles of specific life processes. Students will develop advanced inquiry and reasoning skills, such as designing a plan for collecting data, analyzing data, applying mathematical routines, and connecting concepts in and across domains. The expectation is that the student takes the AP Biology test at the end of the course.
OnRamps Biology
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: U4037 PEIMS: 13037220
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry
Endorsement: Multi, STEM
Advanced Course
QP - 10
Tx Common Course Number: BIOL 1306 and BIOL 1106
Students who take their course cannot take OnRamps Physics 2 (U4038) and Young Students in Science and Engineering II (CT4418).
(Upon successful completion of this course, the student will receive both RISD credit for graduation and college credit from University of Texas.)
Molecular and cellular biology is the focus of this introductory biology course. The course revolves around three big ideas of biology starting with the study of the structure and function of biomolecules. The flow of energy through living systems via photosynthesis and cellular respiration is the second big idea of the class. The course finishes with investigation of how genetic information is expressed and transmitted both within and between cells.
GT OnRamps Biology
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 - full year
RISD: U4037G PEIMS: 13037220
UW4037G (RHS Magnet ONLY)
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry
Endorsement: Multidisciplinary
Advanced Course
UIL Exempt
QP: 10
TCCN: BIOL 1306 and BIOL 1106
4 SCH: 3 lecture + 1 lab
Students who take this course cannot take OnRamps Physics 2 (URP#*) or OnRamps Chemistry # (U4049G)
(Upon successful completion of this course, the student will receive both RISD credit for graduation and college credit from University of Texas.)
In GT OnRamps Biology, students will put to use the skills acquired in prior Biology courses as they participate in this introductory college-level biology course. This course will focus on molecular and cellular biology. The course revolves around three bit ideas of biology starting with the study of the structure and function of biomolecules. The flow of energy through living systems via photosynthesis and cellular respiration is the second big idea of the class. The course finishes with investigation of how genetic information is expressed and transmitted both within and between cells.
GT Biology AP
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 - full year
RISD: 4013G PEIMS: A3010200
W4013G (RHS Magnet Only
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry
Endorsement: STEM, Multidisciplinary
NCAA Approved
UIL Exempt
QP: 10
In GT AP Biology, students will put to use the skills acquired in prior Biology courses as they participate in this introductory college-level biology course. Students will cultivate their understanding of biology through an inquiry-based investigations course which will explore the basic concepts and principles of specific life processes such as cellular processes, energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology, and interactions. The expectation is that the student takes the AP Biology test at the end of the course.
Chemistry
Grade: 10 -12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: 4008 PEIMS: 03040000
Prerequisite: Algebra 1; 1 science credit
Endorsement: Multi
NCAA Approved
In Chemistry, students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem-solving. Students study a variety of topics that include characteristics of matter, use of the Periodic Table, development of atomic theory and chemical bonding, chemical stoichiometry, gas laws, solution chemistry, thermochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. Students will investigate how chemistry is an integral part of our daily lives.
Chemistry - Advanced
Grade: 10-12 Credit: 1 - full year
RISD: 4009 PEIMS: 03040000
4009G - GT 10th grade
Wf009 - RHS Magnet ONLY
Prerequisite: Algebra 1; 1 science credit
Endorsement: Multi
The Chemistry-Advanced course offers students extensive inquiry experiences in which the major concepts involving chemical changes of matter are developed through experiments and classroom discussion. Experiments and their results are the central aspects of the curriculum. Advanced level research of selected chemistry topics is conducted as independent study under the supervision of the instructor. This course includes topics taught in the regular course but covered in greater detail. Mathematical applications are emphasized. Advanced courses focus intently on preparing students for a successful transition to college credit courses such as Advanced Placement (AP), University of Texas OnRamps and dual credit and future college success. Advanced courses focus intently on preparing students for a successful transition to college credit courses such as Advanced Placement (AP), University of Texas OnRamps and dual credit and future college success.
OnRamps Chemistry 1
Grade: 11 -12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: U4008 PEIMS: 03040000
UW4008 – RHS Magnet ONLY
Prerequisite: Algebra 1
Endorsement: Multi
QP - 10
Tx Common Course Number: CHEM 1311 and CHEM 1111
Students who have taken Chemistry 4008 or Pre-AP Chemistry 4009 cannot take this course.
(Upon successful completion of this course, the student will receive both RISD credit for graduation and college credit from University of Texas.)
This course introduces the fundamentals of general chemistry which includes unit conversions, nomenclature, composition stoichiometry, and reaction stoichiometry. Additional topics covered are atomic theory, bonding, states of matter, and thermodynamics.
GT OnRamps Chemistry
Grade: 10-12 Credit: 1 - full year
RISD: U4008G PEIMS: 03040000
Prerequisite: Algebra 1
Endorsement: STEM, Multidisciplinary
NCAA Approved
QP: 10
TX Common Course Number CHEM 1311 and CHEM 1111
Students who have taken Chemistry 4008 or Pre-AP Chemistry 4009 cannot take this course.
(Upon successful completion of this course, the student will receive both RISD credit for graduation and college credit from University of Texas.)
As students improve their science skills through personalized learning, goal setting, service learning, career exploration, inquiry-based investigations and experiences, they increase their understandings through integration of these topics: introduction to the fundamentals of general chemistry, which includes unit conversions, nomenclature, composition stoichiometry, and reaction stoichiometry. additional topics covered are atomic theory, bonding, states of matter, and thermodynamics.
Chemistry - AP
Grade: 11 -12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: 4014 PEIMS: A3040000
W4014 (RHS Magnet ONLY)
Prerequisite: Chem. or Chem Advanced; Alg. 2; Rec: Physics or AP Physics 1, Precalculus (or concurrent enrollment)
Endorsement: STEM, Multi
Advanced course
NCAA Approved
UIL Exempt Course
QP - 10
AP Chemistry is an introductory college-level Chemistry course. The student in such a course will attain a depth of understanding of fundamentals and competence in dealing with chemical problems. Students will develop advanced inquiry and reasoning skills, such as designing a plan for collecting data, analyzing data, applying mathematical routines, and connecting concepts in and across domains. Upon conclusion of this course, students are expected to take the College Board Advanced Placement exam for AP Chemistry.
Integrated Physics & Chemistry
Grade: 9 -12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: 4005 PEIMS: 03060201
Prerequisite: None
Endorsement: Multi
NCAA Approved
In Integrated Physics and Chemistry, students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific methods during investigation, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. This course integrates the disciplines of physics and chemistry in the following topics: force, motion, energy, and matter.
GT OnRamps Chemistry 2
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 - full year
RISD : U4049G PEIMS: 13037220
Prerequisite: OnRamps Chemistry 1, AP Chemistry or equivalent
Endorsement: STEM, Multidisciplinary
Advanced Course
UIL Exempt
QP: 10
TCCN: CHEM 1312 + CHEM 1112
4 SCH: 3 lecture + 1 lab
Students who take this course cannot take OnRamps Biology or GT (U4037 or U4037G), OnRamps Physics 2 or GT (U4038 or U4038G)
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will receive both RISD credit for graduation and college credit from University of Texas.
GT OnRamps Chemistry 2 continues the development and application of concepts, theories, and laws underlying chemistry that were introduced in a Principles of Chemistry course. The course extends the study of thermodynamics taught in a Principles of Chemistry course to the development of chemical equilibria and kinetics with applications to water chemistry and electrochemistry. In addition, students will gain insight into the workings of the material world through an introduction to nuclear chemistry, battery technology, polymer chemistry, and applications in organic chemistry and biochemistry.
OnRamps Chemistry 2
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 - full year
RISD: U4049 PEIMS: 13037220
WU4049 (RHS Magnet Only)
Prerequisite: OnRamps Chemistry 1, AP Chemistry, or equivalent
Endorsement: STEM, Multidisciplinary
Advanced Course
UIL Exempt
QP: 10
TCCN: CHEM 1312 + CHEM 1112
4 SCH: 3 lecture + 1 lab
Students who take this course cannot take OnRamps Biology or GT (U4037 or U4037G), OnRamps Physics 2 or GT (U4038 or U4038G)
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will receive both RISD credit for graduation and college credit from University of Texas.
OnRamps Chemistry 2 continues the development and application of concepts, theories, and laws underlying chemistry that were introduced in a Principles of Chemistry course. The course extends the study of thermodynamics taught in a Principles of Chemistry course to the development of chemical equilibria and kinetics with applications to water chemistry and electrochemistry. In addition, students will gain insight into the workings of the material world through an introduction to nuclear chemistry, battery technology, polymer chemistry, and applications in organic chemistry and biochemistry.
Physics
Grade: 9 -12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: 4010 PEIMS: 03050000
4010D - Dual Credit PHS
Prerequisite: Recommend: Algebra 1
Endorsement: Multi
NCAA Approved
In Physics, students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem-solving. Students study a variety of topics that include laws of motion; changes within physical systems and conservation of energy and momentum; forces; thermodynamics; characteristics and behavior of waves; and atomic, nuclear, and quantum physics. Students who successfully complete Physics will acquire factual knowledge within a conceptual framework, practice experimental design and interpretation, work collaboratively with colleagues, and develop critical thinking skills.
Physics 1 Mechanics-OnRamps
Grade: 11 -12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: U4039 PEIMS: 13037210
UW4039 – RHS Magnet ONLY
Prerequisite: Algebra 1, Geometry Recommended: Algebra 2 or Precalculus
Endorsement: Multi
Advanced course
UIL Exempt Course
QP - 10
Tx Common Course Number: PHYS 1301 and PHYS 1101
(Upon successful completion of this course, the student will receive both RISD credit for graduation and college credit from University of Texas.)
This course introduces big ideas in physics such as Newtonian mechanics, which describes objects changing their state of motion because of forces causing them to accelerate; and it reinforces the general idea that the behavior of many objects in the world can be described precisely with simple mathematics. This is an algebra-based (non-calculus) course in mechanics that fulfills a general physics requirement (proficiency in Algebra and Geometry is assumed). Students will practice problem solving and analyzing physical situation involving motion, force, energy, rotations, heat, oscillations, waves, and sound. They will explore concepts in small groups, develop ideas, and explain those ideas. This course lays the groundwork for college majors including engineering, physics, chemistry, and mathematics.
Physics 2 Electricity and Magnetism - OnRamps
Grade: 11 -12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: U4038 PEIMS: 13037220
UW4038 – RHS Magnet ONLY
Prerequisite: Physics, Algebra 2 and Geometry; recommend Physics 1 OnRamps, or AP Physics I, Precalculus
Endorsement: Multi
Advanced course
QP - 10
Tx Common Course Number: PHYS 1302
This course is an introduction to the mechanics of solids and fluids, heat, and waves. You will gain an understanding and appreciation of how the scientific method is used to reveal the fundamental principles by which the universe operates and will observe how knowledge of these principles is applied to the invention of new technologies and has helped shape the modern world.
GT Physics 1 Mechanics - OnRamps
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 - full year
RISD: U4039G PEIMS: 13037210
UW4039G (RHS Magnet ONLY)
Prerequisite: Algebra 1, Recommended Geometry
Endorsement: Multidisciplinary, STEM
Advanced Course
UIL Exempt
QP: 10
TCCN: PHYS 1301 and PHYS 1101
(Upon successful completion of this course, the student will receive both RISD credit for graduation and college credit from University of Texas.)
In OnRamps Physics 1 Mechanics GT students will put to use the sills acquired in prior math and science courses as they participate in this introductory college-level Physics course. This course introduces big ideas in physics such as Newtonian mechanics, which describes objects changing their state of motion because of forces causing them to accelerate; and it reinforces the general idea that the behavior of many objects in the world can be described precisely with simple mathematics. This is an algebra-based (non-calculus) course in mechanics that fulfills a general physics requirement (proficiency in Algebra and Geometry is assumed). Students will practice problem solving and analyzing physical situation involving motion, force, energy, rotations, heat, oscillations, waves, and sound They will explore concepts in small groups,develop ideas, and explain those ideas. This course lays the groundwork for college majors including engineering, physics, chemistry, and mathematics.
GT Physics 2 Electricity and Magnetism - OnRamps
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 - full year
RISD: U4038G PEIMS: 13037220
UW4038G (RHS Magnet ONLY)
Prerequisite: TEKS-based Physics, Algebra II, and Geometry; Recommended: OnRamps PHY 1 Mechanics, AP Physics I, or PHYS 1301, Precalculus
Endorsement: Multidisciplinary
Advanced Course
UIL Exempt
QP: 10
Students who take this course cannot take OnRamps Biology or GT (U4037 or U4037G), OnRamps Chemistry 2 or GT (U4049 or U4049G)
TCCN PHYS 1302 (3 SCH: 3 lecture)
GT OnRamps Physics 2 Electromagnetism, Optics, and Nuclear Physics serves as an introduction to electricity, magnetism, optics, waves, and quantum and nuclear physics. Students will explore these topics as they obtain practical experience with electrical circuits and optical devices. Students will also investigate modern physical phenomena including the quantum nature of light (photons) and properties of the atomic nucleus. Students will learn both how scientific inquiry reveals the fundamental properties of the universe and how these properties are applied in technologies that shape the modern world.
GT Physics C: Mechanics-AP-fall
GT Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism - AP - Spring
Grade: 12 Credit: 2 – full year
RISD: 4021G fall PEIMS: A3050006
4022G spring A3050005
W4021G fall (RHS A3050006
Magnet ONLY)
W4022G spring A3050005
(RHS Magnet ONLY)
Prerequisite: Physics and Calculus (or concurrent enrollment)
Endorsement: STEM, Multi
Advanced Course
UIL Exempt Course
QP - 10
In GT AP Physics C, students will put to use the skills acquired from previous math and physics courses. Mechanics is a calculus-based, college-level physics course. It covers kinematics; Newton's laws of motion, work, energy, and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation, oscillations, and gravitation. Electricity and Magnetism is a calculus-based, college-level physics course, especially appropriate for students planning to specialize or major in one of the physical sciences or engineering. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through classroom study and activities as well as hands-on laboratory work as they explore concepts like change, force interactions, fields and conservation. Upon conclusion of this course, students are expected to take both the College Board Advanced Placement exam for AP Physics C.
Physics I: Algebra-based - AP
Grade: 11 -12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: 4028 PEIMS: 03050003
W4028 – RHS Magnet ONLY
Prerequisite: Geometry; Recommend: Algebra II
Endorsement: Multi
Advanced course
NCAA Approved
UIL Exempt Course
QP - 10
AP Physics 1: Algebra-based is equivalent to the first semester of a typical introductory, algebra-based, college physics course. Topics include Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum); work, energy, and power; mechanical waves and sound; and an introduction to electrical circuits. Upon conclusion of this course, students are expected to take the College Board Advanced Placement exam for AP Physics I.
Physics II: Algebra-based - AP
Grade: 12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: 4029 PEIMS: A3050004
Prerequisite: Physics I AP, Algebra II; Recommended Precalculus
Endorsement: STEM, Multi
Advanced course
NCAA Approved
UIL Exempt Course
QP - 10
AP Physics 2: Algebra-based is equivalent to the second semester of a typical introductory, algebra-based, college physics course. Topics include fluid mechanics; thermodynamics; electricity and magnetism; optics; atomic and nuclear physics. Upon conclusion of this course, students are expected to take the College Board Advanced Placement exam for AP Physics II.
GT Physics I: Algebra -based - AP
Grade: 11-12 Credit:1 - full year
RISD: 4028G PEIMS: A3050003
W4028G (RHS Magnet Only)
Prerequisite: Geometry, Recommended: Algebra II
Endorsement: STEM, Multidisciplinary
Advanced Course
NCAA Approved
UIL Exempt
QP: 10
In GT AP Physics 1, students will put to use skills acquired from previous math and science courses as they participate in an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through classroom study, in-class activity, and hands-on, inquiry-based laboratory work as they explore concepts like systems, fields, force interactions, change, conservation, and waves. waves. Upon conclusion of this course, students are expected to take the College Board Advanced Placement exam for AP Physics I.
Physics C: Mechanics - AP (fall)
Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism - AP (spring)
Grade: 12 Credit: 2 – full year
RISD: 4021 fall PEIMS: A3050006
4022 spring A3050005
W4021 fall (RHS A3050006
Magnet ONLY)
W4022 spring A3050005
(RHS Magnet ONLY)
Prerequisite: Physics or AP Physics I; Calculus (or concurrent enrollment)
Endorsement: STEM, Multi
Advanced Course
UIL Exempt Course
QP - 10
AP Physics C Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism course is equivalent to two one-semester calculus-based college-level physics courses. These courses are especially appropriate for students planning to specialize or major in physical science or engineering. Mechanics explores topics such as kinematics; motion and rotation; and oscillations and gravitation. Electricity and magnetism explores topics such as electrostatics; conductors, capacitors, and dielectrics; electric circuits; magnetic fields; and electromagnetism.
Biotechnology 1
Grade: 9-12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: CT4413 PEIMS: 13036400
Prerequisite: Principles of Applied Engineering
Endorsement: STEM
Berkner High School ONLY
This course provides an overview of biotechnology, bioengineering, and related fields. Students study the important agricultural, environmental, economic, and political roles of bioenergy and biological remediation through the roles of nanoscience and nanotechnology in biotechnology medical research and future trends in the industry. The course will be delivered through various project-based learning methodologies in both classroom and laboratory settings. This course satisfies a high school science graduation requirement.
Biotechnology 2
Grade: 10-12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: CT4414 PEIMS: 13036450
Prerequisite: Principles of Applied Engineering
Endorsement: STEM, Multi
Advanced course
Students in this course will apply advanced academic knowledge to the emerging fields of biotechnology such as forensics, agriculture, regulatory, and medicine. Student will have the opportunity to use state of the art industrial equipment, perform statistical analysis, and practice quality control techniques. At least forty percent of course time will be spent using laboratory and field hands-on investigations. This course satisfies a high school science graduation requirement.
Advanced Animal Science
Grade: 9-12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: CT4411 PEIMS: 13000700
Prerequisite: Prin. of Ag, Food, Nat. Res.; Small Animal Management
Endorsement: B&I, STEM, Multi
Advanced course
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. Students will conduct field and laboratory investigations using safe, environmentally appropriate, and ethical practices in a simulated environment as well as real field observations that extend beyond the classroom.
Earth and Space Science
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: 4032 PEIMS: 03060200
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry
Endorsement: STEM, Multi
Advanced course
NCAA Approved
Students who take this course cannot take Geoscience – OnRamps (U4032).
Earth and Space Science is a capstone course designed to build on students’ prior scientific and academic knowledge and skills to develop understanding of Earth’s system in space and time. Students will use an Earth systems approach to studying the three themes of Earth in space and time, solid Earth, and fluid Earth.
Geoscience - OnRamps
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: U4032 PEIMS: 03060200
Prerequisite: Biology or IPC
Recommended: Chemistry
Endorsement: STEM, Multi
Advanced course
UIL Exempt Course
QP - 10
UT Course Code: GEO 302E
(Upon successful completion of this course, the student will receive both RISD credit for graduation and college credit from University of Texas.)
Students who take this course cannot take Earth and Space Science (4032).
This course covers the fundamentals of how Earth works, and how its various systems – the lithosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere – interact to form the complex world in which we live. Many of the most complex scientific problems of this century – energy resources, water supply, and climate change – require the skills introduced in this class to solve. Students will be introduced to the major areas of geoscience and will develop critical, creative, and geological problem-solving skills as applied to 21st century scientific problems.
Engineering Design and Problem Solving
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: CT4405 PEIMS: 13037300
Prerequisite: Algebra II, Chemistry, Physics
Endorsement: STEM, Multi
Advanced course
NCAA Approved
This course is designed to stimulate students’ ingenuity, intellectual talents, and practical skills in devising solution to engineering design problems. Students use the engineering design process cycle to investigate, design, plan, create, and evaluate solutions. Components of the course include engineering design problem and solutions, critical thinking skills, engineering careers, implications of technology, math models to develop solutions, relevant chemical, biological, mechanical, electrical and physical properties of materials, open and closed loop systems, culminating in an engineering design project.
Principles of Engineering
Grade: 10 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: MT4412 PEIMS: 13037500
Prerequisite: Intro to Engineering Design
Endorsement: STEM, Multi
Berkner High School ONLY
Students explore technology systems and manufacturing processes to find out how math, science, and technology help people.
Environmental Systems
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: 4018 PEIMS: 03020000
Prerequisite: Biology, 1 credit physical science
Endorsement: STEM, Multi
Advanced course
NCAA Approved
Students conduct field and laboratory investigations, use scientific methods and equipment during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Study topics include biotic and abiotic factors in habitats; ecosystems and biomes; interrelationships among resources and an environmental system; sources and flow of energy through an environmental system; relationship between carrying capacity and changes in populations and ecosystems; and changes in environments.
Environmental Science - AP
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: 4019 PEIMS: A3020000
W4019 – RHS Magnet ONLY
Prerequisite: Biology, 1 credit physical science
Endorsement: STEM, Multi
Advanced course
NCAA Approved
UIL Exempt Course
QP - 10
AP Environmental Science is the equivalent of a one-semester, introductory college course in environmental science. AP Environmental Science is a course providing students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the inter-relationships of the natural world. In addition, it will offer students opportunities to identify and analyze environmental problems, to evaluate risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Upon conclusion of this course, students are expected to take the College Board Advanced Placement exam for AP Environmental Science.
GT Environmental Science AP
Grade: 12 Credit: 1 - full year
RISD: 4019G PEIMS: A3020000
W4019G
Prerequisite: Biology, 1 credit physical science
Endorsement: STEM, Multidisciplinary
Advanced Course
NCAA Approved
UIL Exempt
QP: 10
In GT AP Environmental Science, students will put to use the sills acquired from previous science courses as they participate in the equivalent of a one-semester, introductory college course in environmental science, through which students engage with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships within the natural world. The course requires that students identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Environmental science is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from geology, biology, environmental studies, environmental science, chemistry, and geography. Upon conclusion of this course, students are expected to take the College Board Advanced Placement exam for AP Environmental Science.
Forensic Science
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: CT4404 PEIMS: 13029500
Prerequisite: Biology, Chem.; Recommended: Prin. Safety, Corrections and Security, Law Enforcement I
Endorsement: STEM, PS, Multi
Advanced course
NCAA Approved
Forensic Science uses a structured and scientific approach to the investigation of crimes of assault, abuse, neglect, domestic violence, accidental death, homicide, and the psychology of criminal behavior. Components of this course include critical thinking skills, safety, systematic investigations, laboratory procedures, fingerprinting, DNA testing, ballistic and bullet marks, anthropology, decomposition, serology, and toxicology tests.
Food Science
Grade: 11-12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: 4018 PEIMS: 03020000
Prerequisite: 2 credits in science, Principles of Hospitality & Tourism
Endorsement: B&I, STEM, Multi
Advanced course
This course is the study of the nature of foods, the causes of deterioration, the principles underlying food processing, and the improvement of foods for the consuming public with 40 percent of instruction laboratory based. Components of the course include scientific methods and inquiry, food safety and microbiology, food chemical properties, food enzymes and properties, food additives, food basic nutrients, food groups, USDA guidelines, and food preservation.
Medical Microbiology
Grade: 10-12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: CT4409 PEIMS: 13020700
Prerequisite: 2 credit science
Endorsement: STEM, PS, Multi
Advanced course
NCAA Approved
In Medical Microbiology, students conduct field and laboratory investigations, use scientific methods and equipment during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students study a variety of topics that includes: the relationship between microbes and health maintenance, and the role of microbes in infectious diseases.
Pathophysiology
Grade: 10-12 Credit: 1 - one semester
RISD: CT4410 PEIMS: 13020800
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry
Endorsement: Pub. Svcs., STEM
Berkner High School ONLY
The Pathophysiology course is designed for students to conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students in Pathophysiology will study disease processes and how humans are affected. Emphasis is placed on prevention and treatment of disease. Students will differentiate between normal and abnormal physiology. This course can count as a science credit.
Anatomy & Physiology - Honors
Grade: 10-12 Credit: 1 – full year
RISD: CT4407 PEIMS: 13020600
WT4407 (RHS Magnet ONLY)
Prerequisite: 2 Science credits
Endorsement: STEM, PS, Multi
Advanced course
NCAA Approved
UIL Exempt Course
QP - 5
In Anatomy and Physiology of Human Systems students conduct field and laboratory investigations, use scientific methods and equipment during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students will study a variety of topics that includes structures and functions of organs and systems and their interactions with each other and their environment, and body processes that maintain homeostasis.
Dual Credit Earth and Space Science
Grade: 11, 12 Credit: 1 - full year
RISD: 4032D PEIMS: 03060200
Prerequisite: TSIA 2 Test - Students who have taken 4032 Earth and Space Science cannot take this course.
Endorsement: Multidisciplinary, STEM
Advanced Course
UIL Exempt
QP: 10
Dual Credit Earth and Space Science is a two-semester college course that allows for students to earn a full year high school credit in Earth and Space Science and 8 SCH College credit hours in Texas course GEOL 1401 which is an introductory survey of physical geology, historical geology, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy. it relates the interaction of the earth sciences to the physical world. The spring semester is college course ENVR 1401 which is an interdisciplinary study of both natural (biology, chemistry, geology) and social (economics, politics, ethics) sciences as they apply to the environment.