Science

3 credits of Science are required to graduate from Bigfork High School

1 credit MUST be in either Chemistry or Physics

Grade 9

Integrated Science 9

Integrated Science 9 1152, 1352

Required

Grade 9

Year

Credit: 1

Integrated Science 9 is a comprehensive, standards-based science course aligned to the Minnesota Academic Standards in Science (2019). This course emphasizes Earth and Space Science while integrating key concepts from physical science, life science, and engineering to develop students’ scientific literacy and problem-solving skills.

Students explore the dynamic systems of Earth, including geologic processes, plate tectonics, Earth’s materials, natural resources, and human impacts on Earth systems. The course examines weather and climate systems, energy transfer within the atmosphere and hydrosphere, and the evidence and mechanisms of climate change. In astronomy, students investigate the origins and evolution of the universe, the life cycle of stars, the structure of the solar system, and gravitational interactions.

By the end of the course, students will be able to apply scientific principles to real-world issues, analyze environmental challenges, and understand the interconnected nature of Earth and space systems. Integrated Science 9 will count for 1.0 of the required Science credits needed toward graduation.

Grade 10

Biology

BIOLOGY 10 1153, 1353

Required

Grades 10

Credit: 1

This course is designed to give students a general background in the major concepts, investigative lab procedures, and terminology of the biological sciences. The units include cell biology, origins, genetics, biochemistry, environmental science, This course will meet all Minnesota Academic Standards in the areas of 10th grade Life Science and will meet 1.0 of the required Science credits needed toward graduation.

Grade 11

Juniors and Seniors must select one of the following courses (they may take both):

Chemistry

CHEMISTRY 1155,1355

Grades 11, 12

Year

Credit: 1

Chemistry is a laboratory-based science course aligned with standards from the Minnesota Department of Education. Students investigate the structure and properties of matter, chemical reactions, energy changes, and real-world applications of chemistry. Through hands-on experiments, problem solving, and scientific inquiry, students develop skills in data analysis, critical thinking, and scientific communication while exploring connections between chemistry, technology, and society. This course will meet the 1.0 of the required Science credits needed toward graduation.

Physics

PHYSICS 1157,1357

Grades 11, 12

Year

Credit: 1

Physics is a laboratory-based science course aligned with standards from the Minnesota Department of Education. Students study motion, forces, energy, waves, electricity, and magnetism through hands-on investigations and real-world applications. Emphasis is placed on scientific inquiry, mathematical problem solving, and understanding how physical laws explain everyday phenomena and modern technologies. This course will meet the 1.0 of the required Science credits needed toward graduation.

Science Electives open to grades 11 and 12:

Anatomy and Physiology I

Anatomy and Physiology I:

Grades: 11-12

Credit: .5 / semester course

This course is recommended for those looking at a health or medical related field. We will begin by learning the basic Language of Anatomy, and then move on to study the Integumentary System

(skin/hair/nails), the Skeletal System (bones) and the Muscular System. Medical terminology will be intertwined as we progress through the units. Lab dissections are a part of this course.

Health Care Careers

Grade 10, 11, 12

.5 credit / semester course

This course provides an overview of the healthcare industry, including its history, the various career pathways (Diagnostic, Therapeutic, Health Informatics, Support Services, and Biotechnology), and the foundational skills required for all healthcare professionals.

Microbiology

Grades 10, 11, 12

.5 credit / semester course

Welcome to the invisible world! "Intro to Microbiology" explores the fascinating, microscopic organisms that impact our daily lives, our health, and our planet. Students will investigate bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protists. Students will learn essential microbiological techniques including aseptic culturing, staining, and microscopy. We will explore disease outbreaks, the human microbiome, and how microbes are used in the food industry and biotechnology.

Winter Camping & Travel

Grade 10,11, 12

.5 credit / semester course

Students will learn effective ways to regulate body temperature in sub-freezing conditions, utilize shelters and technical gear to protect them in the cold, and safely navigate winter terrain using skis, snowshoes, and sleds to travel in the wilderness.

Outdoor Living Skills

Grade 10,11, 12

.5 credit / semester course

This class will focus on empowering students with the technical skills, risk management judgment, and environmental ethics necessary to plan and execute safe multi-day backcountry travel in the wilderness.

Forestry

Grade 10, 11, 12

.5 credit / semester course

This course provides an introduction to the science and art of managing forest resources. Students will explore forest ecology, dendrology (tree identification), silviculture, forest measurements, mapping, and the societal and economic importance of forests. The course emphasizes hands-on field skills, safety, and sustainable stewardship.

Plants, Trees & Forests

Grade 10,11, 12

Credit: .5 / semester course

The purpose of this class is to develop the interests, appreciations, understandings and competencies needed as you further your education in the fields of Natural Resources. Emphasis will be placed on soils, plan and tree identification, and the world of forestry. Students will learn about industrial, economical, conservational, aesthetic and educational values of Minnesota’s forests, as well as hands-on skills in forest safety, measurements,identification, management and stand improvement.

Wildlife & Fisheries Management

Grade 10, 11, 12

Credit: .5 / semester course

This course introduces students to the history, ecology, and methods used to manage fish and wildlife populations in North America. Students will explore the complex relationship between habitat, populations, and human use. The curriculum emphasizes the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, field identification skills, population survey techniques, and the legal frameworks that guide professional management.

Certified Nursing Assistant

NAHA 1100: Intro to Nursing Assistant/Home Health Aide - Minnesota North College (CNA)

Elective

Grades 11-12

High School Credit: .5

College Credit: 4.0

Lecture Hours/Week: 2

Lab Hours/Week: 4

This course covers the Introductory Theory and Skills of Nursing. The Units include maintaining a safe and clean environment, communicating information, meeting basic human needs, obtaining/measuring Vital Signs, understanding mental health and social service needs, and caring for clients with special needs, equipment or procedures. The course teaches the student to be able to perform these skills in a healthcare facility or home setting. Instruction is provided through lectures (in person and/or web based),

videos, assignments, and Instructor demonstration. The students are given practice time in the lab and subsequently must give return demonstrations of skills learned. The students will experience supervised

practical training and application of the skills learned by participating in client care in the skills lab and/or at the clinical site.

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