Course Descriptions 

THE SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

The science department at South Kingstown High School recognizes the common core of learning - communication, problem solving, body of knowledge, and responsibility. We agree that all students graduating from South Kingstown High School will address the unifying concepts of: systems, cycles, models, habits of mind, and the nature of science. Students will understand the use and application of technology and its significance in the scientific world. 

Core course selections are aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). All students must complete the following core science courses in order to demonstrate proficiency with the NGSS Performance Expectations: Biology (Grade 9 or 10), Chemistry (Grade 10 or 11), and a laboratory-based science elective. Course descriptions including the Pathway designation are part of an approved career and technical education pathway. 

Freshmen will automatically be enrolled in Biology or Honors Biology if they meet the criteria for placement in the accelerated course sequence or have opted to enter the biomedical pathway. The criteria includes Grade 8 testing results, course grades in English language arts, mathematics, and science, and Grade 8 science teacher recommendation. Incoming freshmen meeting the selection criteria may enter an accelerated sequence of science courses including Honors Biology (Grade 9), Honors Chemistry (Grade 10), and Honors Physics (Grade 10 or 11). 

Students may elect to enter pathways in the science department. Current offerings include Certified Nursing Assistant and Emergency Medical Technician.  A biomedical science pathway is under development.  Pathways in science have specific course sequences as shown on the Pathways page. 

The following course descriptions are for informative purposes only. You should review the Program of Studies for specific course requirements, prerequisites, and pathway sequences.

Earth and Space Science 11401 (1 credit) Grade 9-12 

The fundamental goal of the course is to provide a contemporary approach to quantitative and conceptual understanding of Earth and space science.  This course emphasizes the connection between science and real-world applications, providing an opportunity for analytical thinking and collaboration.   Content includes exposure to geology, solar system astronomy, and extra-solar astronomy. Through inquiry-based learning, students will demonstrate an understanding of the physical laws of nature and applied mathematics.  Students are responsible for the timely completion of laboratory experiences and projects. Tools and technology are used to develop laboratory skills. Understanding of basic mathematical concepts is recommended in order to apply quantitative and problem solving techniques to scientific data.  

Biology 11421 (1 credit) Grades 9-10 

This course emphasizes the basic principles common to all living things, including how life is interrelated and diverse, through the study of life at a molecular, cellular and organismal levels.  Topics include ecology, biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, and evolution. Information on careers in biology and health sciences is presented. There is a focus on laboratory investigation, scientific writing and problem solving.  The course involves using lab data, mathematical computation and analysis. This course is a laboratory science.

Honors Biology 11420 (1 credit) Grades 9-10 

This course emphasizes the basic principles common to all living things, including how life is interrelated and diverse, through the study of life at a molecular, cellular and organismal levels.   Topics include ecology, biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, and evolution. Information on careers in biology and health sciences is presented. There is a considerable focus on laboratory investigation, scientific writing and problem solving.  The course involves using lab data, mathematical computation and analysis. The purpose of this course is to provide students with an opportunity to practice greater in-depth analysis of Biology concepts. Extensive writing and reading, advanced mathematical calculations and additional inquiry opportunities will provide added rigor.  This course is recommended for those taking the SAT Subject Test in Biology. This course is a laboratory science.

Astronomy 11406 (½ credit) (1 semester) Grades 11-12 

This course will provide students with an introduction to the concepts of modern astronomy, including the origin and history of the universe and solar system. Students will participate as citizen scientists and contribute to the field of astronomy by categorizing galaxies, searching for near-earth asteroids and locating new black holes. We will examine how the heavens have influenced human thought and action and look at how our understanding of Earth’s place in the  universe has changed over time. The course will demonstrate how the laws of physics are used to reveal mysteries of the universe. Elementary physics and mathematics will be used to obtain both a qualitative and a quantitative understanding of astronomy. Spectroscopy, space technology, planetary motion, quasars, black holes, stellar evolution, measuring distances in space and the search for extraterrestrial life are among topics covered. 

Tides Over Time:  Oceanography & Maritime History 11464 (1/2 credit each) (1 semester each) Grades 10-12

This course will provide an introduction  to biological, geological, physical, and chemical oceanography including an exploration of ocean technology and engineering.

Topics include:  the geological structure of the ocean floor and mineral resources, paleoceanography, the chemical composition and properties of seawater and pollutants; the physical study of waves, tsunamis, tides , and currents, the diversity of marine ecosystems, and the role of the oceans in climate change.  The course also introduces students to the history of North American seafaring from the Pre-Colombian Era through the twentieth century.  There will be an emphasis on New England's relationship to the sea.  We will explore the historical, economic, and political ties to the ocean.  In understanding the scientific aspects of the ocean, it is essential to include our region's history and dependence on the sea.

The Physical Ocean 11460 (1/2 credit) (1 semester) Grades 10-12 

The Physical Ocean course is designed to be an elective course for students with a career or special interest and high motivation for an in-depth study of the physical properties of the Earth's oceans.  Using tools and techniques of oceanographers, students will explore physical, geological, and chemical oceanography.  The global ocean is the key element in understanding Earth's hydrological cycle and its role in the planet's climate.

Marine Biology 11462 (1/2 credit) (1 semester) Grades 10-12 

This elective course is designed for students with a career or special interest and high motivation for an in-depth study of marine biology.  This course focuses on the identification, classification, and interaction of marine organism from plankton to apex predators.  There is a focus on fish diversity, sharks, marine mammals, and deep-sea biology.  Topics of study include ecological concepts of  the sandy beach, rocky shore, and benthic communities in Rhode Island waters.

Human Anatomy & Diseases 11452 (1 credit) Grades 11-12 

The relationships between structure and function in the human body are studied in this course. This is accomplished through experimentation, examination of organs and comparison of systems. A survey of common diseases of the human body are addressed in this course. Topics of study include medical terminology, the nervous, skeletal, integumentary, digestive, cardiovascular, endocrine, vascular, respiratory and excretory systems, as well as the senses. This course is useful to students intending to pursue a career in the healthcare field.

Honors Anatomy & Physiology 11451 (1 credit) Grades 11-12 

The relationships between structure and function in the human body are studied in this course. This is accomplished through experimentation, examination of organs, comparison of systems Sand discussion and study of cellular and histological functions. Topics of study may include biological chemistry, the nervous, skeletal, digestive, cardiovascular, endocrine, vascular, respiratory and excretory systems, as well as the senses. Students’ personal experiences related to disease and body malfunctions, careers in the science field and current events are incorporated into the study. This course is useful to students intending to pursue a career in the healthcare field or planning on completing the SAT Subject Test in Biology. 

AP Biology 11424 (1 credit) Grades 10-12 

The AP Biology course is designed to be the equivalent of a two-semester college introductory biology course.  Topics to be discussed include: the chemistry of life, cell structure and function, cellular energetics, cell communication and the cell cycle, heredity, gene expression and regulation, natural selection, and ecology. All of these topics fall under the four big ideas for the course: Evolution, Energetics, Information Storage and Transmission, and Systems Interaction.  AP Biology aims to provide a laboratory experience equivalent to that of a typical college course. This course is intended for students who have a strong interest in biology or who are considering a career in the biological sciences. 

Environmental Biology 11461 (1 credit) Grades 11-12 

This course is designed for students interested in a broad picture of the inner workings of nature and sustainability practices. Students will explore the environmental, social, and economic issues that affect the present and future health of our world. Experiential learning will include agriculture and a small mammal field study. Students will have the hands on opportunity to grow food.  Course topics include: Earth’s climate, major biomes of the world, ecosystem structure, environmental problems, food webs, population control, predator/prey relationships, biodiversity, and botany. The program is highly recommended for students interested in pursuing environmental studies in college. 

Sustainable Agriculture 1     11402 (½ credit) (fall semester) Grades 11-12

An introductory courses for those students interested in exploring humans’ interaction with plants as we strive to maintain a sustainable environment.   This semester includes fall harvest and garden maintenance. Academic topics include the relationships between plants and other organisms, how plants cope in their environments, and plant-human interactions.  Growing could include fall greens and plant propagation techniques such as cuttings and layering. The course will employ the SKHS greenhouse, gardens, and student kitchen. Students will gain hands-on gardening and cooking skills that will last a lifetime.  They will develop an appreciation for the agricultural system that we all rely on to put food on our plates as well as the use of plants in the beautification of our surroundings. This course is a laboratory science, recommended for students considering careers in botany, agriculture, and landscaping.

Sustainable Agriculture 2     11403 (½ credit) (spring semester) Grades 11-12

Horticulture is the cultivation of plants for food, comfort, and beauty.  An introductory courses for those students interested in exploring human’s interaction with plants as we strive to maintain a sustainable environment.   This semester includes spring seedling production in the greenhouse culminating in a community plant sale. Academic topics include soils, plant nutrition, and pest management.  Garden tasks include transplanting from greenhouse to SKHS garden beds. The course will employ the SKHS greenhouse, gardens, and student kitchen. Students will gain hands-on gardening and cooking skills that will last a lifetime.  They will develop an appreciation for the agricultural system that we all rely on to put food on our plates as well as the use of plants in the beautification of our surroundings. This course is a laboratory science, recommended for students considering careers in botany, agriculture, and landscaping.

AP Environmental Science 11458 (1 credit) Grades 11-12

The AP Environmental Science course is equivalent to a one-semester introductory college environmental science course. The course is designed to be taken by students after successful completion of Biology and Chemistry. The goal of the AP Environmental Science course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, 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 or preventing them. Environmental science is interdisciplinary; it embraces a wide variety of topics from different areas of study such as Earth Systems and Resources, The Living World, Population, Land and Water Use, Energy Resources and Consumption, Pollution and Global Change.  

Animal Behavior 11481 (½ credit) (1 semester) Grades 11-12 

This course covers the behaviors employed by animals to facilitate their survival and improve their fitness.  Topics to be covered are learning and instinct, animal migration, feeding behavior, reproduction and mating, parenting and social behavior. Concepts from genetics, natural selection and evolution will be applied to animal behavior. Current articles on animal behavior will be read and discussed, and laboratory activities will be conducted. A research project involving independent field work is required. 

Chemistry 11431 (1 credit) Grades 10-12 

This is a laboratory course that meets the standards in preparation for further post-secondary science programs. Problems solving, concept building and reasoning skills are integral to this course. This involves interpretation of word problems; application of acceptable methods for solving problems along with hands-on lab experience. Emphasis will also be placed on critical thinking, use of tools and technologies, scientific communication, and scientific inquiry and investigation, and alternate methods of assessment. Focus is placed on the quantitative as well as the qualitative analysis of problems and experimental evidence. Topics include Relationships between Matter and Energy, Properties and Classification of Matter, Atomic Structure, Electron Arrangement, Periodicity and the Periodic Table, Chemical Bonding, Reactions and Reaction types, Chemical Shorthand and Equations, Stoichiometry, and Gas Laws. The course employs physical science concepts, technology and applied standards from the New Standards. A strong mathematical foundation is recommended to ensure success in this course. 

Honors Chemistry 11432 (1 credit) Grades 10-12 

This is a laboratory course that meets the standards in preparation for further post-secondary science programs. The program focuses on greater depth and breadth of the concepts covered in Chemistry 431. Emphasis is placed on problem solving, concept building, critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and reasoning skills. These skills are accomplished by means of word problems, application of acceptable methods for solving problems, alternate assessment, and hands-on lab experience. The curriculum employs a strong commitment to an accurate, authoritative and comprehensive view of chemical principles. Topics include properties of matter, atomic theory, chemical reactions, periodicity and the periodic table, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, quantum theory, electron configuration, and chemical bonding. A deep understanding of mathematical concepts and skills to apply mathematics in scientific context is strongly recommended for this course.

AP/RIC Chemistry 11433 (1 credit) Grades 11-12 

The AP Chemistry course is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first college year. Students in this course will attain a depth of understanding of fundamentals and reasonable competence in dealing with chemical problems. The course will contribute to the development of the students’ abilities to think clearly and to express their ideas, orally and in writing, with clarity and logic. Topics to be discussed are: the kinetic-molecular theory, liquids, solids and solutions, acid-base reactions and buffer systems, oxidation-reduction reactions, equilibrium, kinetics and thermodynamics, and organic chemistry. AP Chemistry aims to provide a laboratory experience equivalent to that of a typical college course. This class is intended for students who have a strong interest in chemistry or are considering a career in the medical field, biology or engineering. A college text is used in this course and this course is considered a laboratory science, as well. Students taking this course are eligible for college credit in conjunction with the Rhode Island College Early Enrollment Program. 

Physics 1 11446 (1 credit) Grades 11-12 

The fundamental goal of the course is to provide a mathematical and conceptual understanding of physics concepts. The program emphasizes the development of mathematical problem solving skills, along with laboratory techniques and computer skills. A strong background in algebra, geometry and introductory trigonometry is required. The course covers structure and function of matter, motion, forces, energy conservation and transfer, momentum, torque and power. Students will have the opportunity to complete portfolio assignments in this course. A final culmination of this course requires that students identify, manage, and carry out a curriculum-encompassing engineering project. 

Honors URI Physics 1     11445 (1 credit) Grades 11-12 

This introductory course is the equivalent to a first-semester college course in algebra-based physics. The course covers Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum); work, energy, and power; and mechanical waves and sound. It will also introduce electric circuits. It is the appropriate course selection for those students anticipating a university curriculum where science or technology might be considered. The fundamental goal of this course is to provide a conceptualization of the physical environment and utilizes a university text. Students will develop concepts in basic physics, but there is emphasis on mathematical problem solving skills and laboratory techniques. An integrated knowledge of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry is required.  A final culmination of this course requires that students identify, manage, and carry out a curriculum – encompassing engineering project.  This course offers concurrent enrollment credit from the University of Rhode Island.

AP Physics 2     11444 (1 credit) Grade 12 

This advanced course considers traditional topics in physics beyond those in AP Physics 1 (11445) and represents a preparation targeted for further study in the physical sciences or in engineering at the university level. The fundamental goal of the course is to provide a further conceptualization of the physical environment. While still algebra-based, this course is the equivalent to a second-semester college course in algebra-based physics. The course covers fluid mechanics; thermodynamics; electricity and magnetism; optics; and atomic and nuclear physics. Mathematical analysis of situations and problem solving are heavily stressed, and laboratory design techniques supplement this goal. A working knowledge of introductory calculus is important for success in this program. This is a college program course, and students are expected to manage their own portfolios, final course projects, and their year-long performance. 

Certified Nurse Assistant (2 credits) (1 year, 2 periods) Grade 11, 12 Science 11470 1.5 Credit CNA Health/Physical Education 11472 ½ Credit 

The CNA course will prepare students to learn about the patient care in nursing facilities, patient homes and hospitals. Upon successful completion of this high school Nursing Assistant training program, the candidate will know and be able to: 

1. Assist patients/residents with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) including personal hygiene, dressing and grooming, nutrition and hydrations, elimination, rest/sleep/comfort; 

2. Perform basic nursing skills including, following infection control and safety/emergency procedures/practices, therapeutic/technical procedures, data collection and reporting; 

3. Assist patients/residents with restorative care skills; 

4. Assist patients/residents with emotional and Mental Health needs; 

5. Communicate with medical personnel and patients; 

6. Abide by client’s rights, legal and ethical behaviors; 

7. Be an active member of the healthcare team; 

8. Provide care that meets spiritual and cultural needs. 

Students may be expected to complete the required fieldwork experience outside of their school day 

Credentials: The CNA program at SKHS comprises of a total of 233 hours between classroom and clinical internship before the student is allowed to take the state certification exam. Successful completion of coursework and field work offered through this course will prepare students to take the Rhode Island Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license secured by successfully passing a written exam/skills evaluation with an associated cost of $99.00. *A student is allowed one (1) year from the date you began your nursing assistant training program to pass the nursing assistant examination. If you do not pass the NNAAP Examination within the 1-year training period or have failed the examinations three (3) times, candidate is required to re-train in program. Other credentials included within the training course: BLS for the healthcare provider CPR Credits Successful completion of this course will allow students to gain 0.25 credits in health, 0.25 credits in PE and 1.5 credit in Science 

Emergency Medical Technician (2 credits) (1 year, 2 periods) Grade 12 Science 11480 1.5 Credit EMT Health/Physical Education 11482 ½ Credit 

In this course students will complete 233 hours of EMT training which comprises of all related coursework and fieldwork experience. This training prepares students to take the NREMT computer based certification exam along with a NREMT Based practical skills exam required in order to become a licensed EMT in Rhode Island. The exam has an associated cost of approximately $80. Once licensed the individual may work in both the public and private EMS setting. The EMT is considered the entry level provider to work on an ambulance or rescue in RI. At SKHS the EMT candidate will receive training in the required curriculum for the course, but will also receive; certification in emergency vehicle operations for ambulances, Supra-glottic airway management, and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), advanced pharmacology and Rhode Island Pre-hospital Care Protocols. Students may be expected to complete the required fieldwork experience outside of their school day 

Credentials: The students, who wish to become a skilled EMT in Rhode Island, have to go through an EMT training program and may have to provide a Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) report. Students must be 18 years old with a high school diploma. Other Credentials included within the training course: BLS for the Healthcare provider Incident Command System 100 Incident Command System 200 National Incident Management System 700 National Incident Management System 800 AWR-160 (terrorism awareness) 

Credits: Successful completion of this course will allow students to gain 0.25 credits in health, 0.25 credits in PE and 1.5 credit in Science 

PLTW-Principles of Biomedical Science 11475 (1 credit) Grade 9 

In the introductory course of the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Biomedical Science program, students explore concepts of biology and medicine to determine factors that led to the death of a fictional person. While investigating the case, students examine autopsy reports, investigate medical history, and explore medical treatments that might have prolonged the person’s life. The activities and projects introduce students to human physiology, basic biology, medicine, and research processes while allowing them to design their own experiments to solve problems. 

PLTW - Human Body Systems 11476 (1 credit) Grade 10-11

Students examine the interactions of human body systems as they explore identity, power, movement, protection, and homeostasis. Exploring science in action, students build organs and tissues on a skeletal Maniken®; use data acquisition software to monitor body functions such as muscle movement, reflex and voluntary action, and respiration; and take on the roles of biomedical professionals to solve real-world medical cases.

PLTW - Medical Interventions 11477 (1 credit) Grade 11-12

Students follow the life of a fictitious family as they investigate how to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. Students explore how to detect and fight infection; screen and evaluate the code in human DNA; evaluate cancer treatment options; and prevail when the organs of the body begin to fail. Through real-world cases, students are exposed to a range of interventions related to immunology, surgery, genetics, pharmacology, medical devices, and diagnostics.

PLTW - Biomedical Innovation 11478 (1 credit) Grade 12

In the final course of the PLTW Biomedical Science sequence, students build on the knowledge and skills gained from previous courses to design innovative solutions for the most pressing health challenges of the 21st century.  Students address topics ranging from public health and biomedical engineering to clinical medicine and physiology.  They have the opportunity to work on an independent design project with a mentor or advisor form a university, medical facility, or research institution.

PLTW/URI Cybersecurity 11490 (1 credit) Grades 10-12

Overview of the technical background required to provide solutions to many cyber security problems. This background includes: binary/hex number systems, operating systems concepts, file systems, OSI model, network topologies and protocols. The material will be presented in the context of its necessity for providing cyber security solutions. Students may be eligible to earn 4 credits at the University of Rhode Island for successful completion of this course. 

Course Goals:  

• To introduce students to basic cyber security concepts. 

• To provide students with hands-on practice with fundamental cybersecurity practices. 

• To prepare students to, with some further study, take the A+ Certification exam if they choose to. 

• To prepare students for more advanced cyber security and digital forensics courses. 

• Specific learning outcomes are listed in each lesson under the Curriculum. 

AP/PLTW/URI Computer Science Principles 11467

(1 credit) Grades 10-12

This is a 4 credit concurrent enrollment University of Rhode Island course (CSC 106: The Joy of Programming).  Using Python® as a primary tool, students learn the fundamentals of coding, data processing, data security, and task automation, while learning to contribute to an inclusive, safe, and ethical computing culture.  The course promotes computational thinking and coding fundamentals and introduces computational tools that foster creativity.  Computer Science Principles helps students develop programming expertise and explore the workings of the Internet.  Projects and problems include app development, visualization of data, cybersecurity, and simulation.  PLTW is recognized by the College Board as an endorsed provider of curriculum and professional development for AP® Computer Science Principles (AP CSP).  This endorsement affirms that all components of PLTW CSP's offering's are aligned to the AP Curriculum Framework standards and the AP CSP assessment.  

Students taking this course are eligible for credit in conjunction with the University of Rhode island.  The Concurrent Enrollment Program at the University is designed for motivate students who seek to get a head start on college credit and who are looking to be challenged academically while in high school.  HS students are expected to have a 3.0 minimum high school GPA.  In order to receive a URI transcript for the HS course, students are required to follow all URI enrollment procedures and complete the enrollment process by the university registration dates.  Student work will be assessed according to the university's grading policy.

Genius Hour 11494 (½ credit) (semester) Grade 9-12

Genius hour has its origins at Google where engineers are allowed to spend 20% of their time at work focusing on a project of interest.  At SKHS Students will deeply explore a topic/question of personal interest - “passion projects”. They will document their progress, and finally - will present what they’ve created to a greater audience.  They will be guided by the teacher to 1) choose the topic; 2) pitch the idea (including setting a goal that indicates success to them); 3) research/learn; 4) make, create, design, build a product; 5) present their creation (e.g. TED talk style) to the world/larger audience; 6) reflect on their learning process.  Each project might take 6-9 weeks to complete. Grading will focus just as much on progress and reflection of learning as on the final product.

For sample Genius Hour projects from 2020-2021 click HERE