Science

• Credit Hours: 1

• Grade Level: 9-12

This two quarter course introduces students to the dynamic systems that shape our planet and the universe beyond. Through investigations, data analysis, and modeling, students explore Earth’s structure, surface processes, weather and climate, and our place in the solar system and universe. Students investigate real-world phenomena to understand how Earth’s systems interact and change over time. 

• Credit Hours: 1

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Prerequisite: Earth and Space Science

Biology is the study of living things. Term 1 will focus on cellular structure and function. Topics will include structure/function of cells, cell balance, respiration, nucleic acids (DNA/RNA), protein synthesis, cell division and genetics. Term 2 will focus on plants and animals. Topics for plant study will include structure/function, reproduction, photosynthesis, classification, and plant responses. Topics for animal study will include the invertebrate animal group of sponges, worms, mollusks, arthropods, insects, starfish, and the vertebrate animal group of fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals.

• Credit Hours: 1

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Prerequisite: Algebra I

Chemistry is the study of matter, its structure, properties and composition, and the changes that matter can undergo. It is a requirement for all pre-professional careers and many vocational and technical careers as well. This course is designed to meet the needs of the college-bound student. The emphasis on the development of thinking skills and the application of learned concepts will prove to be valuable for all students, not just for the student planning on a career in a science related field. 

• Credit Hours: 1

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Prerequisite: Biology

This course is a study of the human body and how it works. Emphasis is placed on the structure and function of the systems of the human body, including the integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems. Further, the course introduces the student to anatomical terms and tissues of the body. This course will be of value to all students who desire to learn more about their own bodies, and it is particularly helpful to those interested in pursuing a career in the biological sciences, physical education or medicine.

• Credit Hours: .5

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Prerequisite: Biology

This course will focus on the study of the relationship between the living world (plants and animals) and the nonliving world (air, water, soil, minerals, etc.) Major topics of study will include ecosystems and management; pollution, wastes and air; and management. Major projects and quizzes make up most of the grade. Daily work and assignments each quarter will also contribute to the final grade.

• Credit Hours: 1

• Grade Level: 11-12

• Co-prerequisite: Algebra II

This course is a necessary requirement for pre-professional careers and many vocational and technical careers as well. This course is designed in such a way that it is of value to any student interested in the physical world. The course has a heavy lab emphasis and the topics that will be covered are motion, forces, energy, work, momentum, heat and waves.

• Credit Hours: .5

• Grade Level: 11-12

This one quarter course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of chemistry through hands-on investigations, data analysis, and modeling. Through inquiry-based labs and real-world phenomena, students develop scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills. Students explore the structure and behavior of matter, the conservation of mass and energy, and the interactions that drive chemical change. Topics include atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical bonding, properties and states of matter, and energy in chemical fields. 

• Credit Hours: .5

• Grade Level: 11-12

This one quarter course introduces students to the fundamental principles of physics through hands-on investigations, real-world problem solving, and data-driven inquiry. Students explore motion, forces, energy, and waves to develop a conceptual and mathematical understanding of how the physical world works. Emphasis is placed on developing and using models, analyzing data, and constructing explanations to think and work like physicists. 

• Credit Hours: .5

• Grade Level: 11-12

• Prerequisite: Chemistry

This would cover kinetics, nuclear chemistry, thermodynamics, solids and liquids, molecular structure and more in-depth gas laws. This class would be geared toward students who would want to enter a science related field.

Course Objectives:
• Quantitatively and qualitatively describe chemical interactions.
• Create, conduct, and analyze the laboratory experiments to engage and reinforce learning of concepts taught throughout the course.
• Demonstrate critical and independent thinking.

• Credit Hours: .5

• Grade Level: 11-12

• Prerequisite: Biology

Advanced Biology is a one term (9 week) course for students interested in further exploring biology. This is a course emphasizing biological research and analysis in preparation for college life science classes. The course pursues areas introduced in Biology in more depth and focuses on biotechnology, genetics, evolution, and current research in biology.  The course is intended to be challenging and fast paced.  The successful Advanced Biology student will be a self-motivated and hardworking individual who manages their time well.  Students must complete Biology and Chemistry before taking Advanced Biology.

• Credit Hours: .5

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Prerequisite: Animal Science

This advanced course builds on foundational animal science principles, guiding students through in-depth studies of animal nutrition, breeding, genetics, and health management. Students will explore the science behind animal dietary needs, genetic selection, and reproduction techniques, along with best practices for maintaining animal health and preventing disease. Through hands-on labs and case studies, students will apply scientific principles to real-world challenges in animal production and care.