Science

BIOLOGY 1

Graduation Requirement

Suggested Grade Level: 9

Prerequisites: None

Max G.P.A: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: Students develop a conceptual understanding of biological sciences, as outlined in the Kentucky Academic Standards for Science. They experience concepts such as the cellular organization; molecular basis of heredity; biological change; interdependence of organisms; matter, energy and organization in living systems; and behavior of organisms. Students will learn these core ideas through the use of the science and engineering practices and crosscutting concepts. The science and engineering practices are the tools students will use, and skills they develop, as they investigate the natural world, and develop solutions to problems. The crosscutting concepts are conceptual ways of thinking that cross the domains of science.

PRE-AP BIOLOGY

Graduation Requirement if not taking Biology 1

Suggested Grade Level: 9 Prerequisites: "A" in 8th grade science; Teacher recommendation

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Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0 Course Description: This course is designed for the college-bound student who wishes further investigation into the biological sciences. This course would help better prepare those students wishing to enroll in AP Biology in the future as well as fulfill the state requirement for a biological science. This course will examine such disciplines as genetics, evolution, ecology, microbiology, biotechnology, and DNA. In addition, the areas of plant biology, mammal anatomy, scientific method, invertebrates and cellular processes will be thoroughly investigated throughout the year. Extensive inquiry labs and student derived labs are an integral component of this rigorous course. Strong reading and writing skills are essential. This course also requires a strong math foundation and math reasoning skills in order to analyze and interpret data in a statistical manner. Only students motivated to do additional assignments and papers, including possible summer assignments, are encouraged to consider enrolling in this course.

BIOLOGY 2

4th Elective Science Course Option

Suggested Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisites: Biology 1

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: This is a second-level biology course for average or college track students. This course is designed to go beyond Biology 1 and focus on animals, microbiology and plants. In the microbiology unit bacteria and viruses will be studied with a focus on disease transmission. Zoology will focus on the comparative anatomy of vertebrate and invertebrate animals with some dissection. Botany will focus on plant growth and development. This course is excellent preparation for students exploring a career in healthcare.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) BIOLOGY

4th Elective Science Course Option

Suggested grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisites: A “B” or better in Biology 2 or an “A” in Pre-AP Biology 1; Teacher Recommendation

Max. G.P.A.: 5.0 Credits: 1.0

Students completing this course are required to take the AP Exam.

Course Description: AP Biology is an introductory college-level biology course. Students cultivate their understanding of biology through inquiry-based investigations as they explore the following topics: evolution, cellular processes — energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology, and interactions. College credit is earned with a qualifying score on an AP exam. Students planning on a medical or veterinary science career should strongly consider taking this course. Students must meet eligibility requirements and must take the A.P. exam in May to receive the weighted GPA and the Advanced Placement Course Title on the transcript.

INTRODUCTION TO BIOLOGY for Non Majors– JCTC BIO 112 - 4 hours

JCTC BIO 113 – 1 hour Lab

4th Elective Science Course Option

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisites: Biology 1 or Pre-AP Biology

Max. G.P.A.: 5.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: A one-semester course dealing with biological principles and designed primarily for the non-biology majors. Topics include organization of living matter, cellular biology, metabolism, reproduction, genetics, evolution and ecology. The course would include lecture and lab components. This course is designed for non-biology majors and can satisfy the General Education Natural Science requirement.

INTRODUCTION TO CHEMISTRY WITH EARTH/SPACE

Graduation Requirement if not taking Chemistry 1

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisites: Principles of Science, Biology and Alg. 1; Student should not take Chemistry 2 due to the higher math level.

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: Students develop a conceptual understanding of Chemistry and Earth/Space Science, as outlined in the Kentucky Academic Standards for Science, through the use of the science and engineering practices. They experience chemistry and Earth/space science concepts such as the structure of atoms, structure and properties of matter, chemical reactions, geochemical cycles, and formation and ongoing changes of the universe. The use of the science practices describes the behaviors students will engage in as they investigate the natural world. Students will learn these core ideas within these topics through the use of the science and engineering practices and crosscutting concepts. The science and engineering practices are skills students will use as they investigate the natural world and develop solutions to problems. The crosscutting concepts are conceptual ways of thinking that cross the domains of science.

CHEMISTRY 1

Graduation Requirement

Suggested Grade Level: 10-11

Prerequisites: Algebra 1

*A student wishing to take this course concurrently with Biology 1 may do so provided the following prerequisites are met: “A” in Algebra 1; recommendation from previous year’s science teacher.

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: This course focuses on problem solving techniques; bonding; equilibrium; equations. Students develop a conceptual understanding of chemistry content, outlined in the Kentucky Academic Standards. Students will learn these core ideas within these topics through the use of the science and 211 engineering practices and crosscutting concepts. The science and engineering practices are skills students will use as they investigate the natural world and develop solutions to problems. The crosscutting concepts are conceptual ways of thinking that cross the domains of science.

CHEMISTRY 2

4th Elective Science Course Option

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisites: “B” in Chemistry 1

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: This college level course focuses on the study of the structure of matter, chemical kinetics, solution chemistry, and laboratory techniques. This course offers students advanced-level and enrichment experiences in concepts involving chemical changes of matter. Laboratory activities and investigation are presented in the spirit of inquiry and research. Advanced-level laboratory techniques are developed to further the pupil’s ability to pursue a chemical science related career.

PRE-AP CHEMISTRY 1

Graduation Requirement if not taking Chemistry 1

Suggested Grade Level: 10-11

Prerequisites: Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 (or taking concurrently with Pre-AP Chemistry 1

Max G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: The rigor of this course will prepare students for AP chemistry. This course goes deeper and farther into more complex content than regular Chemistry 1. This course focuses on problem solving techniques; bonding; equilibrium; equations. Students develop a conceptual understanding of chemistry content, outlined in the Kentucky Academic Standards. Students will learn these core ideas within these topics through the use of the science and 211 engineering practices and crosscutting concepts. The science and engineering practices are skills students will use as they investigate the natural world and further develop solutions to problems. The crosscutting concepts are conceptual ways of thinking that cross the domains of science.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) CHEMISTRY

4th Elective Science Course Option

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisites: An “A” in Chemistry I or an “A” or “B” in Pre-AP Chemistry and Algebra II; Complete Application Process

Max. G.P.A.: 5.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: The AP Chemistry course provides students with a college-level foundation to support future advanced coursework in chemistry. Students cultivate their understanding of chemistry through inquiry-based investigations, as they explore topics such as: atomic structure, intermolecular forces and bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics, and equilibrium. College credit is earned with a qualifying score on an AP exam. Students who are interested in the medical field, pharmacy or chemical engineering are encouraged to take this course. Students must meet eligibility requirements and must take the A.P. exam in May to receive the weighted GPA and the Advanced Placement Course Title on the transcript.

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY – JCTC BIO 137 (3 hours)

JCTC BIO 137 – Lab (1 hour)

BIO 139 (4 hours)

BIO 139 (1 hour)

4th Elective Science Course Option

Suggested Grade Levels: 11-12

Prerequisites: At least a “B” in Biology 1

Benchmark scores for JCTC College Dual Credit: ACT English 18+ and Reading 20+ OR SAT Writing 430 and Reading 470 (There may be an additional math requirement – TBA)

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: Major concepts addressed in this course include plant structure, animal structure, tissues, organs, and systems. The interrelationship of structure and function of each body system will be presented in two semesters. The first semester will include basic chemistry, cell structure, cell physiology, metabolism, tissues, and integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. The second semester will include digestive, respiratory, urinary, cardiovascular, lymphatic, endocrine and reproductive systems, in addition to development and inheritance. This course is heavily laboratory based with multiple mandatory dissections. This course is available as a dual credit course through JCTCS. Students can obtain 4 dual credit hours for each semester, with a maximum total of 8 college credit hours upon successfully completing the course.

FORENSIC SCIENCE

4th Elective Science Course Option

Suggested Grade Level: 12

Prerequisites: Biology

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: This course is a problem-based inquiry course dealing with Forensic sciences. Forensic science is the study of scientific principles, laboratory, and field methods that are used to solve crimes. Forensics provides impartial scientific evidence for use in the courts of law and in criminal investigations. Forensic science relies on multiple fields of science including biology, chemistry and anatomy. This course requires students to be detail oriented with good lab skills. Forensic science will investigate evidence and analyze crime scenes using inquiry-based investigations. A mature attitude is needed. This course will also explore pursuing a career in the areas of forensics, including the police force, psychology, and many others.

ASTRONOMY

4th Elective Science Course Option

Suggested Grade Level: 12

Prerequisites: Biology

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: This course focuses on the study of basic astronomical principles, stars, planets, and galaxies. This course takes an in-depth look at the physical and chemical nature of the universe as well as the many matter-energy relationships that exist throughout space. An in-depth look at our galaxy and solar system will help students understand other concepts such as evolution, gravity, physical states, etc. This course explores areas of biology, chemistry and physics and encourages the development of scientific and technical skills that will be beneficial in numerous careers. In addition to astronomy, other atmospherically related sciences will also be explored.

MARINE BIOLOGY

4th Elective Science Course Option

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisites: Principles of Science, Biology 1, and science teacher recommendation

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: This course addresses key concepts related to marine science, including ocean zones, seawater, habitats, and marine taxonomy.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

4th Elective Science Course Option

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisites: Principles of Science, Biology 1, and science teacher recommendation

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: Students will develop understanding of environmental concepts as outlined in the Kentucky Academic Standards for Science, such as cycling of matter, biodiversity, earth systems, energy flow and climate, and human impact. Students will learn these core ideas through the use of the science and engineering practices and crosscutting concepts. The science and engineering practices are the skills students will use as they investigate the natural world and develop solutions to problems. The crosscutting concepts are conceptual ways of thinking that cross the domains of science.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

4th Elective Science Course Option

Suggested Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisites: Successfully completing one year each of life science, physical science and algebra 1. Complete Application Process

Max G.P.A.: 5.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: The AP Environmental Science course is designed to be 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 of 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. College credit is earned with a qualifying score on an AP exam. Students must meet eligibility requirements and must take the A.P. exam in May to receive the weighted GPA and the Advanced Placement Course Title on the transcript.

INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICS WITH EARTH/SPACE

Graduation Requirement if not taking Physics 1

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry; CERT Math benchmark scores/ACT Math benchmark scores will be utilized in addition to current math and science grades for placement

This course does not count as a math based course.

Max GPA: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: Students develop a conceptual understanding of physics and Earth/space science content, as outlined in the Kentucky Academic Standards for Science, through the use of the science and engineering practices. They experience physics and Earth/space science concepts such as motions and forces, conservation of energy and the increase in disorder, interactions of energy and matter, and energy in the Earth system. Students will learn these core ideas through the use of the science and engineering practices and crosscutting concepts. The science and engineering practices are skills students will use as they investigate the natural world and develop solutions to problems. The crosscutting concepts are conceptual ways of thinking that cross the domains of science. For this course, the suggested sequence is Introductory Physics with Earth/Space Science, Introductory Chemistry with Earth/Space Science, and Introductory Biology with Earth/Space Science.

PHYSICS 1

Graduation Requirement

Suggested Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisites: Geometry and Algebra 2 concurrently; CERT Math benchmark scores/ACT Math benchmark scores will be utilized in addition to current math and science grades for placement

Max. G.P.A.: 4.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: Students develop a conceptual understanding of physics as outlined in the Kentucky Academic Standards for Science. They experience concepts such as motions and forces, conservation of energy and the increase in disorder, interactions of energy and matter. Students will learn these core ideas through the use of the science and engineering practices and crosscutting concepts. The science and engineering practices are skills students will use as they investigate the natural world and develop solutions to problems. The crosscutting concepts are conceptual ways of thinking that cross the domains of science.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) PHYSICS 1: ALGEBRA-BASED

4th Elective Science Course Option

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisites: “A” in Algebra 2 or “A/B” in Advanced Algebra 2 and Teacher Recommendation; Complete Application Process

Max G.P.A.: 5.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through inquiry-based investigations as they explore these topics: kinematics; dynamics; circular motion and gravitation; energy; momentum; simple harmonic motion; torque and rotational motion; electric charge and electric force; DC circuits; and mechanical waves and sound. College credit is earned with a qualifying score on an AP exam. This course does not count toward some colleges’ A.P. credit programs. Students must meet eligibility requirements and must take the A.P. exam in May to receive the weighted GPA and the Advanced Placement Course Title on the transcript.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) PHYSICS C -- MECHANICS

4th Elective Science Course Option

Suggested Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisites: A.P. Physics 1 or Physics and Teacher Recommendation; Co-requisite: AP Calculus AB

Max G.P.A.: 5.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: AP Physics C: Mechanics is equivalent to a one-semester, calculus based, college-level physics course, 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 is used throughout the course. College credit is earned with a qualifying score on an AP exam. This course does not count toward some colleges’ A.P. credit programs. Students must meet eligibility requirements and must take the A.P. exam in May to receive the weighted GPA and the Advanced Placement Course Title on the transcript.

JCTC INTRODUCTION TO BIOLOGY (BIO 112- 3 hours) with

JCTC INTRODUCTION TO BIOLOGY LAB (BIO 113 – 1 hour)

4th Elective Science Course Option

Taken at Carrollton Campus

Suggested Grade Level: 12

Prerequisite: None Must have qualifying ACT Score to receive university credit.

*Benchmark scores for JCTC College Dual Credit: ACT English 18+ and ACT Reading 20+ OR SAT Writing 430+ and SAT Reading 47+

Max. GPA: 5.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description BIO 112: Basic study of structure, function and interactions of living organisms including cell theory, genetics, energetics, evolution and ecology.

Course Description BIO 113: Emphasizes basic laboratory studies of structure, function, and interactions of living organisms including cell theory, genetics, energetics, evolution, and ecology.

JCTC ENVIRONMENTAL GEOLOGY (GLY 110 - 3 hours)

Graduation Requirement for Senior Core Students if didn’t take Physics 1

Taken at Carrollton Campus

Suggested Grade Level: 12

Prerequisite: None Must have qualifying ACT Score to receive university credit.

*Students who have not met high school earth/space requirement, may take this course. This course replaces Physics.

*Benchmark scores for JCTC College Dual Credit: ACT English 18+ and ACT Reading 20+ OR SAT Writing 430+ and SAT Reading 47+

Max. GPA: 5.0 Credits: 1.0

Course Description: Introduces and applies basic geological concepts to current environmental issues including the availability and use of water and soil resources, pollution causes, effects and solutions, and causes and prediction of environmental hazards including floods, landslides, subsidence, earthquakes and volcanoes.