10th-12th Grade Science

Program Description

The Mahopac High School Science Department offers a curriculum that implements the national and state standards for science education, builds on the natural curiosity of our students, and directs it toward developing scientifically literate and responsible young adults.

New York State has recently adopted new learning standards in Science. Specifically, there will be a shift away from rote memorization and towards students understanding the process of science. Emphasis will be placed EQUALLY on the Disciplinary Core Ideas (content), Science and Engineering Practices (thinking like a scientist) and Cross Cutting Concepts (making connections) Students will be challenged to analyze, interpret and predict outcomes based on existing and developing knowledge, critical skills for success in college and careers. More information can be found at: New York State P-12 Science Learning Standards

Please take note of the course pathways that students have access to throughout grades 10-12. Although this represents options for students to consider, students have the ability to "cross over" into an honors sequence, a AP/College sequence and back into a regents sequence. In addition to a core science course, students are encouraged to enroll in elective courses in the areas of their interest to deepen their understanding of the scientific world around them.

Courses

In order to qualify to take a Regents examination in any of the sciences, a student must complete 1200 minutes of actual hands-on (not simulated) laboratory experience with satisfactory documented laboratory reports. All lab work is expected to be completed by June 1 in order to sit for the Regents exam in each class ending in a Regents exam. Students that do not meet this eligibility requirement will take an alternate final exam.

EARTH SCIENCE REGENTS - 04206 - 1 CREDIT

EARTH SCIENCE LAB - 04206-L (EOD)

Prerequisite: Life Science: Biology

Credit: Science

Description:

This is a course of study designed to engage students in investigating their world and integrating scientific principles and attitudes. Students will gain new understanding of the world around them, and the processes of change. An inquiry-oriented approach is used to study meteorology, geology, plate tectonics and astronomy. This course uses Earth Science as a means for learning how to interpret observations, reason from observation, and apply the concepts learned. This is a laboratory-based program that requires students to draw inferences, analyze data and interpret the environment. This course provides a strong foundation for Chemistry, Physics and upper level electives. Students that satisfy the NYS laboratory requirement, above, will be eligible to take the Regents exam in Earth Science in June. Students need access to a scientific (not graphing) calculator for this course.

EARTH SCIENCE SUPPORT LAB - 04206-E- 1/2 CREDIT (EOD)

Prerequisite: Currently enrolled in Earth Science

Credit: Elective

Description: This academic support lab provides an opportunity for students to develop a deeper and more thorough understanding of the course content through new and unique learning experiences. Students will apply the content and skills that they have learned to practical and real-world scenarios. Through participation in these labs, students will develop and strengthen the skills that will lead to a strong foundation in the course. This course is designed for those students who have had academic difficulty passing Life Science: Biology

EARTH SCIENCE HONORS - 04211 - 1 CREDIT

EARTH SCIENCE HONORS LAB - 04211-L (EOD)

Prerequisite: Life Science: Biology and Teacher Recommendation

Credit: Science*

Description: This advanced course is designed for students who have strong motivation and interest in science and a proven record of high performance in previous science courses. The curriculum is similar to Regents Earth Science but topics are covered in substantially more depth and supplemented with a variety of long-term activities, advanced laboratory work, and additional content to prepare students for advanced coursework such as College Physical Geology in their junior or senior year. Laboratory activities related to all areas of the curriculum will be completed. Students that satisfy the NYS laboratory requirement, above, will be eligible to take the Regents exam in Earth Science in June. Students need access to a scientific (not graphing) calculator for this course.

COLLEGE/ADVANCED PLACEMENT ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE ES - 04504 - 1 CREDIT

COLLEGE/ADVANCED PLACEMENT ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE LAB ES - 04504-L (EOD)

(Earth Science Based)

Prerequisite: Life Science: Biology and Teacher Recommendation

Credit: Science*

Description: This advanced course follows a combined curriculum outlined by the New York State syllabus in Earth Science and that of the College Board for the Advanced Placement Program in Environmental Science. The course is designed to explore environmental topics in a depth equivalent to that of a first-year college course. It contains 40% more material than a standard Regents course. Due to the fast pace and depth of material, large amounts of work outside the classroom will be required of participants. Some topics include forms of pollution, population growth, use of natural resources, genetics, evolution, biochemistry, and ecology. Students generally experience success in this class if they average a grade of 90 or higher in Life Science: Biology. Students that satisfy the NYS laboratory requirement, above, will be eligible to take the Regents exam in Earth Science in June. All students are expected to take the AP Exam in early May. Successful scores on the AP exam may earn students college credit. MHS offers credit for this course through Westchester Community College for students that meet the college's pre-requisites. In order to be eligible for college credit you must have scored at least an 85% on the Life Science: Biology regents exam. Students that meet WCC requirements may elect to receive 3 college credits from Westchester Community College at a reduced cost. Students need access to a scientific (not graphing) calculator for this course. For information regarding AP exam dates and fees, please visit the College Board website at http://www.collegeboard.org.

CROSSCUTTING CONCEPTS IN THE PHYSICAL SCIENCES - 04250 - 1 CREDIT

Prerequisite: Two credits in Science

Credit: Science

Description: This course will explore science, technology, engineering and math as they relate to the physical settings of chemistry and physics. Crosscutting concepts will be explored to allow students to connect knowledge from chemistry and physics into a coherent and scientifically accurate understanding of the world. Problem based learning will be integrated with direct instruction and laboratory instruction for students to demonstrate their knowledge of the scientific method and STEM disciplines, collaborate with peers, apply their own creative process to develop solutions, and communicate them to their peers. An emphasis will be placed on laboratory and literacy skills, and data collection with analysis in both chemistry and physics.

CHEMISTRY REGENTS - 04305 - 1 CREDIT

CHEMISTRY REGENTS LAB - 04305-L (EOD)

Prerequisites: Algebra I and Life Science: Biology

Credit: Science

Description: The course approaches the study of chemistry in a mathematical and theoretical framework. Topics covered are matter and energy, atomic structure, bonding, periodic trends and equilibrium, acid base theories, redox, electrochemistry, and organic chemistry. This course will develop skills, which allow students to become independent problem solvers. Laboratory activities related to all areas of the curriculum will be presented and students are expected to become proficient in the safe and appropriate use of lab equipment. Students that satisfy the NYS laboratory requirement, above, will be eligible to take the Regents exam in Chemistry in June. Students that have earned at least a 75 in Life Science: Biology, Earth and Space Science and prior math courses generally find success in this course. Students need access to a scientific (not graphing) calculator for this course.

CHEMISTRY SCIENCE SUPPORT LAB - 04305-E - 1/2 CREDIT (EOD)

Prerequisite: Currently enrolled in Chemistry

Credit: Elective

Description: Enrollment is also open to any student enrolled in any Chemistry course that may benefit from additional time with their teacher. This class will be scheduled opposite the science lab. Students may also be placed into this class based upon teacher recommendation. This class is designed to review and strengthen content knowledge for Chemistry.

CHEMISTRY HONORS - 04311 - 1 CREDIT

CHEMISTRY HONORS LAB - 04311-L (EOD)

Prerequisite: Algebra I, Life Science: Biology Environment and Teacher Recommendation

Credit: Science*

Description: This course is for students who are motivated and interested in science, who have shown competence in previous science and math courses, and who are able to work independently. The curriculum is similar to the Regents Chemistry course but will also address the SAT Chemistry curriculum with more detail, especially in the areas of atomic structure, kinetics, equilibrium, acid base theory and redox electrochemistry. It requires abstract reasoning skills and involves a considerable amount of problem-solving. Lab work is an essential and integral part of this course. Students that satisfy the NYS laboratory requirement, above, will be eligible to take the Regents exam in Chemistry in June. Students currently enrolled in Algebra II and that have earned at least an 85 in Life Science: Biology, Earth Science and prior math courses generally find success in this course. Students need access to a scientific (not graphing) calculator for this course.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY 10 - 04610 - 1 CREDIT

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY 10 LAB - 04610-L (EOD)

Prerequisite: Geometry and Teacher Recommendation

Credit: Science*

Description: This course follows a combined curriculum outlined by the New York State Syllabus in Chemistry and that of the Advanced Placement Program in Chemistry. Quantitative differences appear in the number of topics treated, the time spent on the course by students, and the nature and the variety of experiments done in the laboratory. The laboratory experiments will include work with analytical balances and glassware. Chemistry techniques in analytical chemistry will be performed including distillation, chromatography, quantitative analysis, spectroscopy and varied separation techniques. The course contains over 50% more material than a typical Regents-level chemistry course, as it is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first year of college. This course enables students to complete second-year work in chemistry as freshmen in college or to register for courses in other fields. Double periods of instruction occur every day. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement exam which is given in early May. For information regarding AP exam dates and fees, please visit the College Board website at http://www.collegeboard.org Students that satisfy the NYS laboratory requirement, above, will be eligible to take the Regents exam in Chemistry in June. Students generally experience success in this class if they averaged a grade of 90 or higher in Geometry and College/Advanced Placement Environmental Science and concurrently enrolled in Algebra II. Students need access to a scientific (not graphing) calculator for this course. Please Note: This course is under review for consideration for credit with Westchester Community College.

PHYSICS - 04406 - 1 CREDIT

PHYSICS LAB - 04406-L (EOD)

Prerequisite: Geometry and one credit in science.

Credit: Science

Description: This course explores the basic concepts of physics and introduces the student to the physical world through the language of mathematics. Two major goals of the course are to develop an analytical attitude toward the physical world and to gain experience in the basic concepts of physics through the application of mathematical models. This course is a carefully coordinated study of scientific thought, describing motion, the cause of change of motion, energy, circular motion, wave theory, light, sound, electricity, magnetism, and relativity. Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on student inquiry, experimentation and discovery of the fundamental concepts involved. Students should be co-enrolled in Algebra II. Students that satisfy the NYS laboratory requirement, above, will be eligible to take the Regents exam in Physics. All students will complete a school final with lab practical in June. Students need access to a scientific calculator for this course.

PHYSICS SCIENCE SUPPORT LAB - 04406-E - 1/2 CREDIT (EOD)

Prerequisite: Currently enrolled in Physics

Credit: Elective

Description: Enrollment is also open to any student enrolled in a Physics course that may benefit from additional time with their teacher. Students may also be placed into this class based upon teacher recommendation. This class is designed to review and strengthen content knowledge for Physics.

COLLEGE/ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS - 04411 - 1 CREDIT

COLLEGE/ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICSLAB - 04411-L (EOD)

Prerequisites: Two credits in science and concurrently enrolled in Algebra II. Teacher Recommendation

Credit: Science*

Description: This course is for students who are motivated and interested in science, who have shown competence in previous science and math courses, and who are able to work independently. The curriculum is similar to Regents Physics course but will also address the AP1 Physics curriculum with more detail, specifically in rotational work, energy, momentum, torque, thermodynamics and electromagnetism. Students generally experience success in this class if they averaged a grade of 85 or higher in all previous science (including Chemistry) and math courses. Students should be co-enrolled in Algebra II. Students that satisfy the NYS laboratory requirement, above, will be eligible to take the Regents exam in Physics. All students will complete a school final with lab practical in June. Students need access to a scientific calculator for this course. Students that successfully complete this course can obtain as many as 8 credits from Syracuse University at a reduced tuition. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement exam in early May. For information regarding AP exam dates and fees, please visit the College Board website at http://www.collegeboard.org

SCIENCE ADVANCED PLACEMENT AND CONCURRENT COURSES

Teacher recommendations for advanced coursework are based on student performance in class.

Students generally find success in advanced courses if they have a grade of 85 or higher (unless otherwise noted) in their current (and previous) science courses, are capable of working independently, have a positive work ethic, submit all work by assigned dates and use strategies and self-advocacy to ensure success.

COLLEGE/SUPA SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH

Credit: Science*

Description: This authentic Science Research course enables students to perform authentic and original scientific research in an independent manner. The program is flexible and permits students to participate for 1, 2 or 3 years. The program affords students the opportunity to participate in the community of scientific research and scholarship as part of their high school experience. This course encourages students to work in conjunction with research scientists and professionals within their chosen field of research outside of class during the school year and/or summer months. Students may do independent research in mathematics, science, psychology, engineering, technology or the social sciences. Students are required to use the internet appropriately to develop their research plan, communicate via email, maintain a longitudinal portfolio of their research and present at a minimum of 3 science competitions in their second and third years. Assessment is accomplished by alternate means. To increase schedule flexibility, the first year of this course sequence is offered as a hybrid course. Students will be assigned to meet face to face every other day. The remainder of the course requirements will be done during unassigned time and will require students to interact with peers and instructors in an on-line environment. Students enrolled in this course as sophomores can gain early entry to the Science National Honor Society upon successful completion of their research project. Students may elect to earn as many as 8 college credits through Syracuse University at a reduced tuition. Students should consider enrolling in AP Statistics in their junior year to assist with the data analysis of their research project. Students should enroll in the appropriate course based on years in program:

Science research.mp4

COLLEGE/SUPA SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH Course Trailer

MHS Science Research Overview

3 Year Sequence:

2 Year Sequence:

COLLEGE CHEMISTRY - 04615 - 1 CREDIT

COLLEGE CHEMISTRY LAB - 04615-L (EOD)

Prerequisite: Regents or Honors Chemistry, Teacher Recommendation

Credit: Science*

Description: The intention of this course is to provide an introduction to understanding on a deeper level the role of chemistry in the modern world. This is accomplished by providing a rational basis for interpreting and predicting chemical phenomena through examples of chemical behaviors observed in nature. This course is intended for students with an interest and strong background in science, as evidenced by a grade of 85 or higher in Regents/Honors Chemistry. A general mathematical understanding of Algebra I and II, including but not limited to; decimals, exponents, logarithms, quadratics, and all types of equations is essential to success in this course. Topics included are atomic structure, electronic structure and chemical bonding, descriptive solution chemistry, and introductions to biochemistry, biopolymer chemistry, nuclear chemistry, and many others. College Chemistry is identical to the General Chemistry Lecture (106 & 116) and General Chemistry Laboratory (107 & 117) courses taught at Syracuse University. This course counts as a lab science for science majors. The credits earned by the student may be transferred to most colleges and universities. Students that successfully complete this course can obtain as many as 8 credits from Syracuse University at a reduced tuition.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS C - 04633 - 1 CREDIT

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS C - 04633 -L (EOD)

Prerequisite: Regents or College/AP Physics and Teacher Recommendation

Credit: Science*

Description: This course is equivalent to a one-semester, calculus-based, college-level physics course. As such, students must have taken, or be concurrently enrolled in Calculus. It is especially appropriate for students planning to specialize or major in physical science or engineering. The course explores topics such as kinematics; Newton's laws of motion; work, energy and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation; and oscillations and gravitation. Introductory differential and integral calculus will be used throughout the course. Students will establish lines of evidence and use them to develop and refine testable explanations and predictions of natural phenomena. The Science Department encourages all students to own a graphing calculator for this course. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement exam which is given in early May. Successful scores on the AP exam may earn students college credit. For information regarding AP exam dates and fees, please visit the College Board website at http://www.collegeboard.org

ADVANCED PLACEMENT BIOLOGY - 04620 - 1 CREDIT

ADVANCED PLACEMENT BIOLOGY LAB - 04620-L (EOD)

Prerequisite: Three credits in science and Teacher Recommendation

Credit: Science*

Description: This course is designed to engage students at the same level as a first year Biology course in college. It contains 40% more material than a standard Regents course. Due to the fast pace and depth of material, large amounts of work outside the classroom will be required of participants. Topics of this course include molecular and cell biology, genetics, evolution, plant biology and animal physiology. An average of 85 or higher on both the Life Science: Biology and Chemistry Regents exams are indicators of success for this course. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement exam which is given in early May. For information regarding AP exam dates and fees, please visit the College Board website at http://www.collegeboard.org Please Note: This course is under review for consideration for credit with Westchester Community College.

COLLEGE ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY - 04625 - 1 CREDIT

COLLEGE ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY LAB - 04625-L (EOD)

Prerequisite: Three credits in science and Teacher Recommendation

Credit: Science*

Description: The course explores the structure and function of organisms on the cellular, tissue, organ and system levels. Cellular metabolism, tissues and the following systems: skeletal, muscular and nervous (including the special senses) are examined. Students will explore current medical research relating to medical advances in the treatment and diagnosis of disorders. The course is designed to prepare students for a field in medicine. . Students will dissect multiple preserved specimens. MHS offers credit for this course through Westchester Community College for students that have scored at least an 85% on the Life Science: Biology regents exam and have passed at least 3 years of high school science. Students that meet WCC requirements may elect to receive 4 college credits from Westchester Community College at a reduced cost.

COLLEGE PHYSICAL GEOLOGY - 04630 - 1 CREDIT

COLLEGE PHYSICAL GEOLOGY LAB - 04630-L (EOD)

Prerequisite: Earth Science and two additional credits in science and Teacher Recommendation

Credit: Science*

Description: This full year course follows sections of the curriculum outlined by the New York State Syllabus in Physical Setting Earth Science, but extends far beyond these parameters. The course is designed to engage and challenge students in their understanding of Earth’s surface bedrock characteristics, the thermodynamics of the planet beneath the crust and the unifying theory of plate tectonics. Volcanism, seismology, petrology, mineralogy, groundwater, Earth’s resources, landscape formation, geological time, and erosional agents, among other topics, will be explored. Political implications, and topics on which the public is asked to be aware and vote upon, will also be discussed. Students generally experience success in this class if they averaged a grade of 85 or higher in Earth Science. Students that successfully complete this course can obtain as many as 3 credits from Oneonta College at a reduced tuition.

COLLEGE FORENSICS - 04635 - 1 CREDIT

Prerequisite: Three credits in science and Teacher Recommendation

Credit: Science*

Description: This course is designed to teach students how to process, prepare and analyze physical evidence by using deductive reasoning and the scientific method. Students will explore the science behind criminal investigation; the application of chemistry, physics, and biology to the criminal and civil laws that are enforced by police agencies in a criminal justice system..Students will investigate actual case histories and, with an increasing background in the subject area, analyze clues and answer questions presented by scientists and law enforcement agencies. Topics covered will include forensics chemistry, biology, earth science, physics, pathology, odontology, entomology, and anthropology. Students generally experience success in this class if they averaged a grade of 85 in at least 2 regents level science courses. Students that successfully complete this course can obtain as many as 4 credits from Syracuse University at a reduced tuition.

NEW YORK STATE CERTIFIED EMS BASIC - 04640 - 1 CREDIT

NEW YORK STATE CERTIFIED EMS BASIC LAB - 04640-L (EOD)

Prerequisite: You MUST reach your 17th birthday by May 31th of that academic year

Credit: Science*

Description: The New York State EMS class is an extensive program designed to educate individuals to provide basic life support in the prehospital setting. The course includes didactic learning, as well as hands-on practical skills requiring physical agility and strength to lift and move patients and equipment. State certification is contingent upon successful completion of a NYS practical skills and written exam. Students will be required to complete 12 hours of scheduled ambulance observation time. Some after school sessions will be scheduled and are required. Students that successfully complete this course can obtain 6 credits from Dutchess Community College at a reduced tuition. Enrollment preference given to seniors in good academic standing.

SCIENCE ELECTIVE COURSES

All science elective credits count toward the three required credits in science necessary for graduation. Students must complete course work in Biology, Earth and Space Sciences and the Physical Sciences of Chemistry and Physics. Our elective courses are designed to enhance, not replace, coursework in the traditional sciences listed in the New York State Science Standards. As such, they should only be taken after, or concurrently with, 3 years of high school level coursework in the traditional sciences.

GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES - 04501 - 1 CREDIT

Prerequisite: See above

Credit: Science

Description: This course examines natural systems and the adverse impacts that human activities have upon these systems. Students will be able 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. The topics that will be covered include human population growth; biodiversity; forests and deforestation; world hunger; energy resources; and water and air pollution.

TOPICS IN BIOLOGY - 04505 - 1/2 CREDIT (EOD)

Prerequisite: See above

Credit: Science

Description: This course explores the clash between modern biology and human values. Current topics in ethics and policy in medicine and science are presented, discussed and debated. Students will have the opportunity to develop ethical guidelines and be prepared to think in a critical fashion. Issues such as the use of stem cells, in-vitro fertilization, patient rights, biological weapons, genetics, epidemics and disease, public health, and issues arising as a result of the use of biotechnology will be discussed. The course will incorporate lectures, independent research, group assignments, discussions and case study analyses.

FIELD BIOLOGY - 04530 - 1/2 CREDIT (EOD)

Prerequisite: See above

Credit: Science

Description: The purpose of this course is to provide students with in-depth knowledge in field biology as it pertains to our own climate and local ecosystems. Students will be involved in both classroom and hands-on field work as we study our local flora and fauna. Examining ecological relationships between both living and nonliving parts of the ecosystem will be a large portion of the curriculum. As much as possible, the course will revolve around seasonal cycles and changes (phenology). Students will be required to keep an ongoing journal in which they record class notes, field studies, sketches and general observations. Students will also study the works of well-known naturalists, environmentalists, writers and nature artists.

ASTRONOMY - 04525 - 1/2 CREDIT (EOD)

Prerequisite: See above

Credit: Science

Description: This course is an extension of the earth sciences designed for upperclassmen. Material covered will include the contents of our solar system, the earth-moon system, evolution of stars and galaxies, celestial mechanics (motion and position of celestial bodies), astronomical instruments, observations and measurements. The course will look at new ways to visualize the fabric of the universe. Students will develop skills in naked eye observations of celestial objects.

METEOROLOGY - 04550 - 1/2 CREDIT (EOD)

Prerequisite: See above

Credit: Science

Description: This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the fluid dynamics and components in Earth’s and planetary atmospheres, climate and the inherent interactions with Earth’s oceans. This course provides an overview of the role of the water molecule in producing specific weather phenomena and events; interactions with the world's oceans; processes involved in storm formation; historical storm events; weathers’ relationship with climate and scales of climatic cycles. Skills that will be developed include computational skills, communication (via writing and language), reasoning, analytical skills in particular respect to real-time and historical data, spatial and temporal reasoning. These skills will be developed toward success in college and career skills in forecasting weather and climate prediction.

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