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WELCOME TO ISTEM ALGEBRA 1
ISTEM: Algebra 1 Cluster
Credits: 3 Length: Full Year Grade: 9-12
✨ The I-STEM Program: Integrated Learning Through a Mission to Mars
✨ The I-STEM Program: Integrated Learning Through a Mission to Mars
The I-STEM Program is a dynamic, integrated curriculum cluster composed of three linked courses—I-STEM Mathematics for Algebra 1 (Honors), Honors I-STEM Universal Science, and Honors I-STEM Creators of Curiosity—that seamlessly combine Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math principles.
This program is fundamentally designed to help students actively explore, acquire, and master essential research and problem-solving skills. Every day, students are expected to utilize critical thinking and advanced troubleshooting abilities as they engage with course material.
The entire year is unified by a compelling thematic approach: a full-scale “Mission to Mars” simulation. This immersive context brings abstract concepts to life through hands-on projects, including designing and building drones, rovers, and engines; launching rockets; modeling terraforming; engineering resilient HAB (Habitat) designs; developing sustainable aquaponics/hydroponics systems; and constructing efficient solar/thermal tracking arrays.
This rigorous curriculum is reinforced through regular field experiences, intensive lab experiments, detailed projects, and educational class trips, ensuring a deep, applicable understanding of STEM concepts.
ISTEM Mathematics for Algebra 1 (Honors)
Credits: 1 Length: Full Year Grade: 9-12
📐 Mathematical Foundations: Algebra and Beyond
📐 Mathematical Foundations: Algebra and Beyond
The mathematics curriculum is strategically designed to provide students with the foundational skills and concepts necessary for success on the Keystone Algebra 1 exam while simultaneously building a robust base for all future advanced mathematics courses. Content is integrated directly into the engineering and design challenges of the Mission to Mars simulation, making abstract concepts tangible and relevant.
Core topics covered include:
Linear Equations and Systems: Students will master solving, graphing, and modeling real-world data using linear equations, inequalities, and systems of linear equations, applying these to trajectory calculations, resource allocation, and budget planning within the Martian mission.
Introduction to Non-Linear Functions: The course introduces the fundamental properties of exponential and quadratic equations. Exponential functions will be used to model population growth or decay (e.g., in aquaponics systems), while quadratic equations will be essential for calculating parabolic arcs in rocket launches and antenna designs.
This applied approach ensures students achieve deep conceptual understanding, moving beyond simple calculation to use mathematics as a powerful tool for problem-solving and critical analysis.
Honors ISTEM Universal Science
Credits: 1 Length: Full Year Grade: 9-12
🔬 Core Scientific Content: Project-Based Exploration
🔬 Core Scientific Content: Project-Based Exploration
This course delivers a comprehensive exploration of key scientific concepts, all introduced and mastered within a dynamic Project-Based Learning (PBL) environment. Rather than traditional lectures, students will tackle complex, integrated projects that bring the following content to life:
Physical Sciences: Students will investigate waves and electromagnetic radiation (from radio waves to visible light), delve into the principles of matter and energy (including thermodynamics and conservation laws), and explore the mechanisms of chemical reactions.
Earth and Space Science: The curriculum covers complex space systems and planetary science (crucial for the Mission to Mars simulation), alongside practical studies of weather patterns and climate.
Life and Environmental Science: A major focus will be placed on human sustainability and the intricate balance of ecosystems, connecting the fundamental needs of a Mars habitat to environmental stewardship on Earth.
By embedding these topics within active projects, students won't just memorize facts; they'll apply their knowledge to solve tangible problems, significantly enhancing retention and practical skills.
Honors ISTEM Creators of Curiosity
Credits: 1 Length: Full Year Grade: 9-12
This highly integrated and project-based course is designed to continually immerse students in real-world scenarios derived from a comprehensive "Mission to Mars" simulation, demanding a rigorous application of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) principles. Students will engage in complex challenges, such as designing and programming autonomous rovers and drones (integrating physics and computer science), engineering sustainable aquaponics and hydroponics systems for food production (applying biology and chemistry), developing structurally sound and radiation-shielded Martian Habitats (HABs) (using applied geometry and material science), and constructing efficient solar/thermal tracking arrays for power (utilizing thermodynamics and electrical concepts), all of which will cultivate essential 21st-century skills, including advanced troubleshooting, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving, thereby serving as a foundational stepping-stone for further exposure to STEM disciplines and related professional careers.
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