Science

Intro: Physics / chemistry - (required) - 9th grade

Prerequisite:  None                          

College Credits:  None                     

MHS Credit: 1 Credit

Grade Level: 9-REQUIRED          

Length:  One Year

This introductory physics & chemistry course allows for the development and understanding of basic concepts in both physics and chemistry.  Laboratory work is introduced in this course and is used extensively. In addition, current events in science and technology will be discussed weekly.  This course will allow students to improve upon their problem-solving skills and make real world connections to their coursework.

biology - (required) - 10th grade

Prerequisite:  None

College Credits:  None                      

MHS Credit: 1 Credit

Grade Level: 10-REQUIRED        

Length:  One Year

This traditional biology course follows the Colorado State Standards for Life Science.  This course will cover the fundamentals of general biochemistry, cellular biology, cellular energy, genetics, ecology, and environmental science.

Earth Science / PHysics: 11th grade

Prerequisites:  None                                           

College Credits:  None                     

MHS Credit: 1 Credit

Grade Level: 11-12 

Length: One Year

Earth Science / Physics is an introductory hands-on course based on the STEM principles.  Students will learn the Colorado State Standards for earth and physical science and do so on a conceptual level.  Students will learn about kinematics, waves, electricity and electronics, fluid dynamics, energy, and natural resources.

ap physics 1 - (11th - 12th grade)

Prerequisite:

• Received a grade of “B”or better in Physical Science. 

• College Algebra & College Trigonometry (or taking Concurrently)

• Must pass the Writing Accuplacer Exam, or have appropriate ACT and SAT Scores

College Credit:  (Varies)                  

MHS Credit: 1 Credit

Grade Level: 11-12                          

Length: One Year

 WEIGHTED COURSE for 2 Semesters

AP Physics 1 is an algebra based course in general physics designed for students who have not yet taken a Physics course, but have successfully completed Geometry and Algebra 2 (or taking concurrently) and are aspiring to pursue higher education.  General physics topics presented during this course closely follow those outlined by the College Board, while also mirroring an introductory level university physics course.  Units covered in AP Physics 1 include Kinematics (motion), Dynamics (forces), Circular Motion and Gravitation, Momentum, Simple Harmonic Motion, and Torque/Rotational Motion.  Students will prepare for, and take the AP Physics 1 exam.

bio 1006: college basic anatomy & physiology 

(11th-12th grade)

Prerequisites:

• Earned a grade of “B” or better in Biology

• Must pass the Math and Writing Accuplacer Exams, or have appropriate ACT and SAT Scores

College Credit: 4 Credits                                    

MHS Credit: 1 Credit     

Grade Level: 11-12                                        

Length: One Year

WEIGHTED COURSE FOR 1 SEMESTER 

This course considers human anatomy (structure of cells, tissues and organ systems) and physiology (function of cells, tissues and organ systems) with particular reference to applications in the health sciences.   The course begins with the study of cell structure and function and continues to include the study of tissues and organ systems.  The course will include considerable laboratory experience, including dissection and investigations into human physiology.

CHE 1111: GENERAL COLLEGE chemistry I w/ lab 

(10th-12th grade)

Prerequisites:

• Earned a grade of “B” or better in Algebra I

• Received a grade of “B” or better in General Chemistry (both semesters). 

• Must have passed (or be concurrently enrolled in) Algebra 2.

  • • • 10th Grade Students taking Algebra 2 are required to take College Algebra / Trigonometry their junior year AND either College Statistics or College Calculus their Senior Year. 

      • Please consider this requirement prior to taking College Chemistry in 10th Grade

• Must score 240 on QAS Math Accuplacer 

• Must score 246+ on Writing Accuplacer

• Teacher Recommendation / Permission required for 10th grade students wanting to take this course.

 College Credit: 5 Credits                  

MHS Credit: 1 Credit

Grade Level: 10-12                          

Length: One Year

 WEIGHTED COURSE for 1 Semester

This course is recommended for college bound students.  Focuses on basic chemistry and measurement, matter, chemical formulas, reactions, equations, stoichiometry, and thermochemistry. This course covers the development of atomic theory culminating in the use of quantum numbers to determine electron configurations of atoms, and the relationship of electron configuration to chemical bond theory, The course includes gases, liquids, and solids and problem-solving skills are emphasized through laboratory experiments. This course includes a great deal of lab work that requires critical thinking and problem solving.   Algebra is used extensively.  

Successful completion of this class should help increase ACT / SAT scores, improve problem-solving skills, and enhance study skills.  This course is highly recommended for students planning to attend a 4-year university after high school. This course is a statewide GT-SC1 transferable college science course, meaning that it will transfer to most colleges and satisfy a lab-science, graduation requirement.

**If a student did not earn a grade of "B" or better in either Algebra I or General Chemistry, but has demonstrated academic growth since taking those classes, they are encouraged to seek teacher approval to take this course.