Course 1: Concentrator - Honors Biology for Biotechnology
Course 2: Concentrator - Honors Chemistry for Biotechnology
Course 3: Capstone - Honors Biotechnology / Molecular Biology
Primary Graduation Requirement: Biological Science Can meet alternate graduation requirement(s) below if primary is already fulfilled. Science Elective Electives
UC A-G Approved: D, G
This one-year course for 9th and/or 10th graders provides a more rigorous version of our college preparatory course and serves to introduce the principles of biology through a biotechnological perspective. This class will cover all the Next Generation Science Standards for grades 9-12 Life Sciences integrated with Health Science and Biotechnology Industry Sector CTE Standards. This high school biology class focuses on the study of life ranging from the atoms that build up the macromolecules that serve as the foundation of life to how different ecosystems interact within a biosphere. Biotechnology aims to help improve our lives and the health of our planet by harnessing cellular and biomolecular processes. Satisfies UC/CSU entry requirements.
SUGGESTED PREPARATION: Successful completion of Algebra I with a 'C' or better or concurrent enrollment of Algebra I is recommended. Acceptance into the Biotechnological / Medical Health Careers Academy (Recommended)
Course Length: Yearlong Course Credit: 10 Grade Level(s): 9 - 10
Primary Graduation Requirement: Physical Science Can meet alternate graduation requirement(s) below if primary is already fulfilled. Science Elective Electives
UC A-G Approved: D, G
Honors Chemistry for biotechnology is an enriched and accelerated chemistry curriculum not only covering the Next Generation Physical Science Standards, but also including gravimetric and volumetric analysis, chemical reactions including reduction/oxidation, intermolecular forces, gases, spectroscopy, equilibrium, electrochemistry, and organic and biochemistry. Strong emphasis is placed on solving a variety of challenging problems and there is an emphasis on analysis in the laboratory. Some of the laboratory activities will include inquiry labs, which will ask students to address a challenge, solve a problem, test a hypothesis, explain a phenomenon, or answer a question in the same manner that a scientist approaches a research question. The goal of an inquiry-based lab is for students of all backgrounds to learn chemistry by experiencing the process of science and the thrill of first-hand discovery. Satisfies UC/CSU entry requirements.
SUGGESTED PREPARATION: Algebra I completion recommended; Algebra II completion of concurrent enrollment is strongly recommended; Completion of CP Biology or Higher. Enrollment in the Biotechnology/Medical pathway is strongly recommended.
Course Length: Yearlong Course Credit: 10 Grade Level(s): 10 - 12
This is a comprehensive laboratory based course that prepares students for a variety of post-secondary options including four-year biotechnology degree programs, community college biotechnology certificate programs and industry workplaces. The course introduces students to biotechnology laboratory skills, the role of molecular biology in the manufacturing of commercial pharmaceutical and agricultural products. Students will gain proficiency in standard laboratory operating procedure, aseptic techniques, spectrophotometry, solution preparation and electrophoresis. Students learn to maintain laboratory documentation and follow research safety standards. At the end of the course, students will be given the final exam for Biotechnology M01A from Moorpark College and submit their laboratory notebooks for evaluation. Students who pass the final exam and demonstrate solid laboratory documentation practices will earn 4 units of credit from Moorpark Community College which is transferable to the University of California and California State University Systems. Satisfies UC/CSU entry requirements.