Science Department

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 9        Est Fee: Not to exceed $10 

Students are introduced to the basic concepts of chemistry and physics through lectures and laboratory investigations. Chemistry topics include the properties of matter, patterns in the periodic table of elements, and reactions of matter. During the physics overview, students will be introduced to topics in energy and Newton’s laws of motion. In addition to the subject matter, students are trained in proper scientific techniques, including assembling lab equipment, conducting investigations, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting and justifying conclusions. Students will use analytical problem solving and mathematical concepts including graphing.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 9        Est Fee: Not to exceed $10 

Prerequisite: Algebra I or a passing score on the algebra assessment and teacher recommendation. 

Honors Physical Science is designed for freshman students who have a strong interest in STEM fields and plan to pursue upper-level Honors and/or AP science courses. This course will introduce students to the basic concepts of chemistry and physics through both lectures and laboratory investigations. Topics covered include the properties of matter, patterns in the periodic table of elements, reactions of matter, energy, and Newton’s laws of motion. These topics will be given a more rigorous, in-depth treatment than general Physical Science and will also introduce material not covered in, but expected in, the summer assignments for upper-level Honors Chemistry and Physics courses. This course will train students in proper scientific techniques, including assembling lab equipment, designing investigations, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting and justifying conclusions. Analytical problem solving and mathematical concepts, including algebra and graphing, will also be highly utilized. After taking this class, highly motivated students may additionally opt to take Honors Biology and Honors Chemistry concurrently in their sophomore year, providing more AP course options during their junior and senior years.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 10-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $10 

Prerequisite: 

Biology is an introductory course designed to acquaint students with the 4 core concepts: Heredity, Cells Evolution, Diversity, and Independence of life. Biology not only provides the student with the opportunity to learn about and appreciate other organisms that live on earth, but also develops the background necessary to provide an understanding of the multitude of physical and physiological processes that are characteristic of the living condition. The laboratory experience is essential in this course and students receive experiences that parallel work done by scientists. A variety of modeling, discussions, simulations and other critical thinking opportunities are used to both reinforce and extend the course content and concepts.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 10-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $20 

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

Honors Biology is designed for highly motivated students with considerable interest in the sciences. Honors Biology is a laboratory-oriented course in which the students spend a portion of their time in the laboratory or laboratory-related activities. Lab investigations are designed to allow the students to collect data, analyze it and make inferences to basic biological concepts. Students delve into the 4 core concepts: Heredity, Cells Evolution, Diversity, and Independence of life. Problem-solving, critical thinking, and data analysis skills are essential to the successful completion of this course. A variety of modeling, discussions, and simulations are used to both reinforce and extend the course content and concepts.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 11-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $15 

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation, Biology or Honors Biology, Chemistry or Honors Chemistry or being taken concurrently. 7 Periods or Equivalent

A course for highly motivated/interested students, AP Biology gives in-depth treatment to cell structure and function, taxonomy, evolution, ecology, biosynthesis, genetics, protein synthesis, plant and animal physiology, applied botany, biogenergetics, history of biology, homeostatic mechanisms, behavior, gene action, and more. Laboratory experiences provide opportunities for the student to further develop observational and analytical skills and are an integral component of the program. These serve to extend concepts covered in class and in the text. Students will employ a variety of techniques to investigate macromolecule structure, photosynthetic rates, enzyme function parameters, transformation in bacteria, plant and animal morphology and histology, microbial activity and identification and electrophoresis as well as other laboratory topics. Tests emphasize both the course content and its concepts. Students electing to take AP Biology should see the instructor before the end of second semester exams to sign out a text.  The course is recognized by colleges as a laboratory credit course. It is expected that students will take the AP Exam.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 10-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $10 

Prerequisite: Phys. Science or H. Phys. Science, Biology and Algebra I.  7 Periods or equivalent.

Chemistry is a lecture-laboratory course that focuses on methods and techniques of measurements and problem solving as pertaining to atoms and chemical reactions.  To better understand the invisible world of atoms, mathematical problem solving skills are used often throughout the year in chemistry.  Topics covered include atomic structure, bonding, acids and bases, chemical reactions, thermochemistry, gas laws and stoichiometry.  Laboratory experiments are used to further emphasize the concepts which are taught and further develop skills of observation and data analysis.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 10-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $15

Prerequisite: Algebra I & Physical Science or Honors Physical Science with B or better grades; teacher recommendation. 7 Periods or Equivalent

Honors Chemistry covers the same general topics as Chemistry, but in greater depth and at an accelerated pace.  The course would be most appropriate for the study with definite future goals in chemistry, engineering, pre-med, etc.  With permission, sophomores could take Biology and Chemistry concurrently or Honors Biology and Honors Chemistry.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 11-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $30 

Prerequisites: Algebra II, Chemistry with a GPA of “B” or better, and teacher recommendation. 7 Periods or Equivalent

A course for the advanced college-bound science student, AP Chemistry emphasizes the quantitative, experimental aspects of Chemistry.  Some of the early work in the course will serve as a review of Chemistry, including topics such as periodicity of matter and chemical reactions, bonding, formula writing, and balancing equations.  To further the skills of the above concepts there will be a greater emphasis on the chemical and mathematical formulation of these principles.  Additional topics studied in-depth are thermochemistry, acid-based theory, chemical equilibrium, rates of reaction, chemical thermodynamics, and electrochemistry.  With the availability of analytic balances, pH meters, and various probes.  Students will be able to further their understanding of chemistry through weekly laboratory work.  AP Chemistry is equivalent to a college freshman course and is recognized as a laboratory credit course. It is expected that students will take the AP exam. 

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 11-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $10 

Prerequisite: Biology 

Environmental Science engages students in asking valid scientific questions and gathering and analyzing information. It incorporates a range of areas of scientific study. It uses real-world scenarios to examine the environmental impact of population growth on natural resources, mineral and resource extraction, water resource use and pollution, air pollution, energy and climate change. Class will consist of hands-on, project based activities, lab investigations inside and outside the classroom, research projects and presentations.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 11-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $25

Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry (is recommended), Algebra, teacher recommendation. 

7 periods per week 

The AP Environmental Science course is designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester, introductory college course in environmental science. 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 anthropogenic, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Students will have the opportunity to explore the topics of: ecosystems, biodiversity, populations, Earth's resources, energy, pollution and global change through various methods such as; lab investigations, outdoor activities, group and individual projects, guest speakers and community events/presentations. All students are encouraged to take the AP exam.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 11-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $10 

Prerequisites: Algebra II or permission of instructor. It is recommended Pre-Calculus be taken concurrently. 7 periods or equivalent

This course covers a broad spectrum of topics generally considered to be included in an introductory course in Physics. Emphasis is on the understanding of general principles and models and on the nature of scientific inquiry. The level of mathematical sophistication will extend to simple trigonometry but rarely beyond. The historical development of science is considered along with the role of science in contemporary society. Students who are going to major in physical science or engineering should consider taking AP Physics. 

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 10-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $10 

Prerequisite: Science, Algebra II, teacher recommendation Corequisite: Pre-calculus or Calculus Students must have a non-programmable scientific calculator. 7 periods per week

This first year course in Physics is designed for the student who is planning on pursuing a career in a science, engineering or medical related field of study in college. Students who enroll in those programs of study are generally required to take a Physics course. Honors Physics would be the course to take in high school to prepare you for college physics. Coursework in Honors Physics will include the mechanics of motion, waves, sound, optics, and electricity. Extensive lab work, data analysis and problem solving are the main foci of the course.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 10-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $10 

Prerequisite: Enrollment in Precalculus or Calculus preferred; completion of Algebra II required. 

AP Physics 1 is the equivalent to a first-semester college course in algebra-based physics. The course covers kinematics, dynamics, gravitation, circular motion, work, energy, impulse momentum, simple harmonic motion, rotational kinematics, torque, angular dynamics, rotational energy and angular momentum. Students will learn through inquiry at the lab bench and rigorous mathematical analysis. They will apply first principles and design experiments utilizing a range of simple tools to advanced sensors and high-precision equipment. AP Physics 1 is equivalent to a college freshman course and is recognized as a laboratory credit course. It is expected that students will take the AP exam.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 11-12        

Prerequisite: AP Seminar and teacher recommendation 

AP Exam Required

AP Research, the second course in the AP Capstone experience, allows students to deeply explore an academic topic, problem, issue, or idea of individual interest. Students design, plan, and implement a yearlong investigation to address an original research question. Through this inquiry, they further the skills they acquired in the AP Seminar course by learning research methodology, employing ethical research practices, gathering and analyzing data, synthesizing information and drawing appropriate conclusions. Basic statistics are often used in analysis. Students reflect on their skill development, document their processes, and curate the artifacts of their scholarly work through a process and reflection portfolio. The course culminates in an academic paper of 4,000-5,000 words and a 20-minute presentation with an oral defense. Additionally, students are expected to communicate their original research at various precollegiate science competitions. 

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 11-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $30 

Prerequisite: Physical Science or Honors Physical Science, Biology, Honors Biology, Chemistry or Honors Chemistry or taken concurrently highly recommended

Students selecting Anatomy should have a minimum GPA of “B” in Biology. Anatomy and Physiology is a rigorous, lab advanced life-science course designed to educate the student about the human body. This course is based on the understanding of human functions through a complete examination of human structures. The course begins with a review of the principles of biochemistry and cell biology (both previously developed and learned in Biology and/or Chemistry). It continues with a thorough examination of human primary tissues and concludes with a study of each of the body’s systems. Anatomy and Physiology are supplemented throughout the year including an extensive vertebrate dissection. This course is recommended for those students interested in any medically related career or who are otherwise highly motivated to learn about the human body.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 11-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $30 

Prerequisite: Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, with teacher recommendation. Students must have a non-programmable scientific calculator.

Honors Anatomy covers the same general topics as Anatomy and Physiology, but at an accelerated pace and in greater depth. This course requires reading, writing, and oral expression, with an emphasis on higher level critical thinking skills

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 11-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $5

Prerequisite: Algebra I and Biology or H Biology

Astronomy I is a general survey course first introducing the students to the night sky, its many constellations, brighter stars and motions. The historical development of astronomical thought and our place in the Universe is the second major topic of study. The course concludes with a study of the moon, lunar exploration, planets, and other bodies in our solar system. The manned and unmanned exploration of the planets will also be discussed. Students will also be introduced to the use of telescopes and satellites as a tool of research in Astronomy. Because our knowledge of the Universe depends on gathering various forms electromagnetic waves an understanding of the properties of light will be investigated. The majority of the course will explore the origin, formation and evolution of stars. Lab work in this course will make extensive use of computer software and the Internet.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 11-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $10

Students must have a non-programmable scientific calculator. Prerequisite: Physical Science Biochemistry is an integrated course combining chemistry and biology with a major emphasis on chemistry. It is designed for the 11th or 12th grade student who does not have the math prerequisite for Chem I. Topics include bio/medical applications, environmental technology, and engineering technology. It is an applications based course.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 11-12        Est Fee:  Not to exceed $5

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Biology

Physical Geology is an advanced science course offering college credit for students who are not necessarily looking to pursue a college degree in a science field. Most colleges require students to take at least one science lab course as a part of their general education requirements. CCP Physical Geology offered through Owens Community College would satisfy this requirement. This course would provide students with 4 college credit hours for the Owens Community College Course GEO 111 (3 lecture, 1 lab) as well as an advanced science elective credit for graduation. This course is aimed at the population of students who are college-bound but may not be AP or honors students in science. The course will certainly be challenging but will not come with the math demands that other advanced science courses have. The class will also be more flexible to schedule than other advanced science courses as it does not require a double-blocked lab period. The content standards addressed by this course are outlined in the Ohio Science Standards for Physical Geology plus additional topics required to meet CCP requirements to be discussed with Owens Community College faculty.

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 11-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $10

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Biology

Forensics is the rigorous application of science in the processing of physical evidence during criminal investigations. The field of forensic science uses analytical and empirical evidence to help support the legal system in its prosecution of the perpetrators of a crime. You will study the various principles and methods used in the sciences to evaluate evidence at a crime scene, ultimately using the evidence and your deductive reasoning skills to solve the crime. Real life case studies will be integrated into each unit. Sciences used in forensics include any discipline that can aid in the collection, preservation, and analysis of evidence, such as chemistry, physics, or biology. 

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 11-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $10

Prerequisite: Physical Science and Biology. Teacher recommendation required.

Honors Forensic Science covers the same general topics as Forensic Science but at an accelerated pace and greater depth, with an emphasis on higher level critical thinking skills. 

Year Credit: 1 Grade Level: 11-12        Est Fee: Not to exceed $10

Prerequisite: Biology 

Zoology is an elective science course involving the study of invertebrate and vertebrate animals. Specific studies in this course consist of taxonomic, anatomical, and physiological examinations of selected organisms and groups of organisms. Zoology includes topics such as evolution and animal diversity, animal ecology, and the study of the following major Phyla: Porifera, Cnidaria, Annelida, Mollusca, Arthropoda, Echinodermata, and Chordata. In other words, anything from single-celled animals to sponges, spiders, starfish, reptiles, birds, and mammals. The class will consist of lab investigations, research projects and presentations, fieldwork, lectures, and a wide variety of dissections. Current issues in biodiversity and threats to animal species will also be researched and discussed. 

Year Credit 1 Grade Level: 10-11   

Prerequisite: Honors Science and Honors English or Teacher Approval 

AP Seminar is a foundational course that engages students in cross-curricular conversations that explore the complexities of academic and real-world topics and issues by analyzing divergent perspectives. Using an inquiry framework, students practice reading and analyzing articles, research studies, and foundational, literary, and philosophical texts; listening to and viewing speeches, broadcasts, and personal accounts; and experiencing artistic works and performances. Students learn to synthesize information from multiple sources, develop their own perspectives in written essays, and design and deliver oral and visual presentations, both individually and as part of a team. Ultimately, the course aims to equip students with the power to analyze and evaluate information with accuracy and precision in order to craft and communicate evidence-based arguments.