Science

SCIENCE

50541B  CORE ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

(Grade 9) (1.0 Credit) 

(Prerequisite:  None)

In this course, students will develop a basic understanding of the interactions between living things and the world around them.  Students will use a systems approach to learn about: ecology and ecosystems; biodiversity and sustaining biodiversity; and environmental quality, management, and concerns.  Throughout this course students will be challenged to discuss and seek solutions to the problems caused by human impact on natural mechanisms.  Achievement will be demonstrated through a variety of methods including: laboratory investigations (physical and virtual), current events, research, projects, cooperative learning activities, and quizzes/tests.  

*50541A  COLLEGE PREP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

(Grade 9) (1.0 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  None)

In this course, students will develop a strong understanding of the interactions between living things and the world around them.  Students will use a systems approach to learn about: ecology and ecosystems; biodiversity and sustaining biodiversity; and environmental quality, management, and concerns.  Throughout this course students will be challenged to discuss and seek solutions to the problems caused by human impact on natural mechanisms.  Achievement will be demonstrated through a variety of methods including: laboratory investigations (physical and virtual), current events, research, projects, cooperative learning activities, and quizzes/tests.  

50512B  CORE BIOLOGY

(Grade 10) (1.0 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  None)

Students will develop a basic understanding of the major concepts and techniques of biology.  They will learn about the chemical basis for life, cell structure and function, energy transformations through photosynthesis and cellular respiration, cell growth and reproduction, genetics and the inheritance of traits, and finally the evolution of life and diversity on Earth.  Students will use scientific problem-solving skills in both laboratory and case-study scenarios.  Achievement will be demonstrated through cooperative learning activities, laboratory and virtual investigations, and quizzes/tests.

*50511A  COLLEGE PREP BIOLOGY

(Grade 10) (1.0 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  None)

Students will develop an understanding of the major concepts and techniques of biology.  They will learn about the chemical basis for life, cell structure and function, energy transformations through photosynthesis and cellular respiration, cell growth and reproduction, genetics and the inheritance of traits, and finally the evolution of life and diversity on Earth.  Students will use scientific problem-solving skills in both laboratory and case-study scenarios.  Achievement will be demonstrated through laboratory investigations, short research projects, cooperative learning activities, virtual investigations, and quizzes/tests.

*50513H  HONORS BIOLOGY

(Grade 9,10) (1.0 Credit)

(Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 1 or concurrent enrollment in Accelerated Algebra 1 and science teacher recommendation)

Students will develop an in-depth understanding of the major concepts and techniques of biology.  They will learn about the chemical basis for life, cell structure and function, energy transformations through photosynthesis and cellular respiration, cell growth and reproduction, genetics and the inheritance of traits, the evolution of life and diversity on Earth, and finally the interconnectedness of our ecosystems.  Students will use scientific problem-solving skills in both laboratory and case-study scenarios.  Achievement will be demonstrated through laboratory investigations, short research projects, cooperative learning activities, virtual investigations, and quizzes/tests.  Assessments will include formal lab reports, research papers, projects, worksheets, quizzes and tests.

*50514H  ADVANCED PLACEMENT BIOLOGY

(Grade 11,12) (2.0 Credits)

(Prerequisite:  Completion of CP Biology/Honors Biology, CP Chemistry/Honors Chemistry and science teacher recommendation.)

AP Biology is designed to be the equivalent of a two-semester college introductory biology course.  The goals of AP Biology are to help students develop a conceptual framework for modern biology and to help students gain an appreciation of science as a process.  This course will emphasize and foster the development of a conceptual understanding rather than memorizing terms and technical details.  Great emphasis will be placed on science as a process rather than the accumulation of facts, personal experience in scientific inquiry, recognition of unifying themes that integrate the major topics of biology, and application of biological knowledge and critical thinking to environmental and social concerns.  Students will have the opportunity to register to take the AP Exam in May.  

50522B  CORE CHEMISTRY 

(Grade 11,12) (1.0 Credit) – Formerly called Applied Chemistry

(Prerequisite:  Algebra 1 or Core Algebra 1A/B)

Students will learn the fundamental principles of chemistry and their application to daily life.  They will demonstrate their understanding through their participation in laboratory investigations, analysis, problem solving, and data interpretation.  Achievement will be demonstrated through laboratory reports, homework, quizzes, tests and projects.

*50521A  COLLEGE PREP CHEMISTRY 

(Grade 11,12) (1.0 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  Completion of Algebra 1 and CP Biology)

This course is designed for the college-bound student who may or may not major in the sciences.  Students will learn the basic structure of atoms, ions, and molecules and how they determine properties of matter.  They will also learn chemical bonding, reactions, the periodic table, the mole concept, gas laws, writing chemical formulas, and dimensional analysis method to solve problems.  Students will understand and use the scientific method of inquiry by solving problems in the laboratory.  Working individually and in small groups, students will analyze and interpret data.  Achievement will be demonstrated through tests, quizzes, laboratory investigations, homework, and projects.

*50523H  HONORS CHEMISTRY 1

(Grade 10,11,12) (1.0 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  Successful completion of both Algebra 1 and CP/Honors Algebra 2 with science teacher recommendation)

This course is designed for students who have a solid background in math and science.  Throughout this course, students will learn a variety of concepts including the structure, composition and behavior of matter.  A solid mathematical background is necessary for students to develop an in-depth knowledge of dimensional analysis, chemical reactions, the mole, stoichiometry, and gas laws.  Students will use the scientific method of inquiry to solve problems.  Through laboratory investigations, students will collect, analyze and interpret data to prepare laboratory reports.  Achievement will be demonstrated through tests, quizzes, laboratory reports, homework and projects.

*50524H  HONORS CHEMISTRY 2 

(Grade 11,12) (1.0 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  Previously completed or concurrently enrolled in Trigonometry/Algebra 3 and successfully completed Chemistry with Chemistry teacher recommendation.)

Students will study equilibrium and solubility, chemistry of acids and bases, titrations, kinetics and thermodynamics, theoretical structure of atoms and descriptive chemistry.  Reduction/Oxidation (REDOX) reactions and electrochemistry will complete the study of the electronic structure of the atom.  Working individually and in small groups, students will use critical-thinking skills to analyze and interpret data and scientific information.  Achievement will be demonstrated through a variety of assessments, including tests, college-level experiments and projects.

*50525H  ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY

(Grade 11,12) (2.0 Credits – Full Year)

(Prerequisite: Previously completed or concurrently enrolled in Trigonometry/Algebra 3 and successfully completed.  Chemistry with Chemistry teacher recommendation.

This course prepares students for the Advanced Placement Chemistry Examination in May.  Students will experience a solid first-year college chemistry course both conceptually and in the laboratory.  Problem-solving skills, both on paper and in the lab, are emphasized.  Topics such as the structure of matter, kinetic theory, thermodynamics, chemical equilibria, chemical kinetics, electrochemistry, and organic chemistry, are now being presented in considerable depth.  Students will have the opportunity to register to  take the AP Exam in May.

  *50532B  CORE PHYSICS

(Grade 11,12) (1.0 Credit) – Formerly called Applied Physics

(Prerequisite:  Success Completion of Algebra 1)

Students will study Newton’s laws of motion, momentum, energy, optics, electricity and magnetism and their application to everyday life.  They will demonstrate their understanding through their participation in laboratory investigations.  An emphasis is placed on the concepts of physics, not on the mathematical evaluation of physics.  Achievement will be demonstrated through varied assignments, either individually or group, requiring data gathering and analysis and application of physics principles.

*50532A  COLLEGE PREP PHYSICS

(Grade 11,12) (1.0 Credit)

   (Prerequisite:  Previously completed or concurrently enrolled in Trigonometry/Algebra 3)

Students will study the fundamental laws that govern physical, chemical, and biological processes.  Topics covered will include Newton’s Laws of Motion, Momentum, Energy, Waves, Light and Optics.  Students will demonstrate their knowledge by using the computer, participating in laboratory investigations, homework, projects, quizzes and tests. 

*50531H  HONORS PHYSICS

(Grade 11,12) (1.0 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  Previously completed or concurrently enrolled in Trigonometry/Algebra 3 or Honors Trigonometry/Algebra 3 and science teacher recommendation)

Students will learn the behavior and structure of matter including Newton’s Laws of Motion, Momentum, Energy, and Optics.  They will comprehend the importance of using graphs, a necessary tool in determining mathematical relationships observed in various experiments.  Students will demonstrate their knowledge by using the computer, participating in laboratory investigations, projects, quizzes and tests.

*50533H  ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS 1

(Grade 11,12) (2.0 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  Completion of Trigonometry with preferred concurrent enrollment in Calculus and science teacher recommendation)

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 sounds.  AP Physics 1 is a full-year course that is equivalent of a first-semester introductory college course in algebra-based physics.  Trigonometric applications are prevalent throughout the course.  Students will explore hands-on laboratory work, with an emphasis on inquiry-based investigations that provide students with opportunities to demonstrate and apply the foundational physics principles.  Students will have the opportunity to register to take the AP Exam in May. 

*50544X  ZOOLOGY – PA WILDLIFE

(Grade 11,12) (1.0 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  Core Biology or CP Biology)

Students will learn about the fascinating fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals of Pennsylvania.  Students will learn to identify common species in PA, and they will investigate how they live and grow.  Students will investigate many other wildlife-related topics such as conservation and preservation of resources and species.  Achievement will be demonstrated through a wide variety of quizzes, tests, reports, and performance evaluations.

*50541X  ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 

(Grade 11,12) (1.0 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  CP Biology)

In this academic level course, students learn about ecosystem structure and function in terms of material and energy utilization and distribution.  Students will learn about the natural mechanisms that ecosystems use to enable homeostasis, and they will investigate what happens when those mechanisms fail.  Other topics will include animal and human population biology, problems and solutions associated with human population growth, inorganic and organic waste management, and pollution control.  The course focuses on understanding natural mechanisms, considering human impact on natural mechanisms, and seeking solutions to the problems caused by human impact on natural mechanisms.  Achievement will be demonstrated through a variety of methods including: laboratory investigations, short research projects, cooperative learning activities, virtual investigations, and quizzes/ tests.

*50547A  FORENSIC SCIENCE

(Grade 11,12) (1.0 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  CP Biology and completed or concurrently enrolled in CP Chemistry) 

This course surveys key topics in forensic science, including the application of the scientific process to forensic analysis, procedures and principles of crime scene investigation, physical and trace evidence, and the law and courtroom procedures from the perspective of the forensic scientist.  Through online lessons, virtual and hands-on labs, and analysis of fictional crime scenarios, students learn about forensic tools, technical resources, forming and testing hypotheses, proper data collection, and responsible conclusions.  The course will include case studies and examinations of reproduced evidence from actual crimes as well as laboratory analysis of evidence gathered at simulated crime scenes.

*50550A  HUMAN BIOLOGY

(Grade 10,11,12) (1.0 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Core, CP, or Honors Biology) 

This course is primarily designed for students who, upon graduation, plan to enter careers that provide support and technical services in the healthcare field.  Learners will gain a basic understanding of how the human body functions by exploring the major systems such as the skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory, and nervous systems and diseases of these systems.  Advancements in the medical field will also be investigated including medical imaging, tissue engineering, and stem cell treatments.  Students intending to pursue an advanced degree in medicine (nursing or pre-medicine for physical therapy, dentistry, etc.) should enroll in Honors Anatomy and Physiology.

*50552H  HONORS ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY 

(Grade 10, 11,12) (1.0 Credit)

   (Prerequisite:  Successful completion of CP Biology or Honors Biology and science teacher recommendation

Students will learn the structure and function of the human body.  They will understand that the human body is a highly integrated organism, which is dependent on the organization of its component systems to maintain its function.  Using critical thinking and problem-solving skills, students will understand the interdependence of body systems and the consequences of the destruction of homeostasis upon those systems.  Students will demonstrate their achievements through laboratory investigations including a cat dissection, case studies, research projects, laboratory practical exams, and tests.

*50551H  HONORS GENETICS

(Grade 10,11,12) (1.0 Credit)

(Prerequisite:  Successful completion of CP Biology or Honors Biology and science teacher recommendation)

Students will learn about DNA regulation, genetic screening, current genetic research and advancements, mutations at the gene and chromosome levels, population genetics, Mendelian genetics, patterns of inheritance and pedigrees.  Students will understand real-life genetic applications such as genetic engineering, gene therapy, and DNA fingerprinting.  Working individually or in small groups, students will analyze and interpret data, as well as scientific literature concerning research in genetic technology and the field of genetics as a whole.  Students will demonstrate their achievement through tests, laboratory investigations, case studies, scientific articles, projects, and cooperative learning activities.

50545H  HONORS EMERGING HEALTH PROFESSIONS (LCTI Program)

(Grade 12) (4.0 Credits)

(Prerequisite:  Core Biology, CP Biology or Honors Biology, a valid driver’s license and provide your own transportation to the internship, job, or volunteer site within two weeks from start of program; application and special criteria required.  Participants are responsible for the cost of the post-secondary courses, additional fees, and required textbooks).

The Emerging Health Professionals Program provides high school seniors with an opportunity to experience a variety of health care careers in a hospital setting and take Penn State/Lehigh Carbon Community College science courses for college credit.  Students spend one day a week rotating among various departments of a hospital.  Students will experience these departments through the three Lehigh Valley Hospital & Health Network facilities, St Luke’s University Health Network Allentown Campus, Country Meadows, and Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network.  The hospital portion of the program provides students with observational experience that enables students to observe various health career professionals as they work with patients.  Also, students have the opportunity to meet various health career professionals during presentations with the LVHN community.  In addition to these experiences, students are given an overview of the healthcare industry and all that it entails throughout their coursework at LCTI.  To learn more about the program and apply for admission, students should visit lcti.org/ehp.  This program is only available to senior students and has an early application deadline. 

50546H  HONORS ANIMAL SCIENCES (LCTI Program)

(Grade 12) (4.0 Credits) 

(Prerequisite:  Core Biology, CP Biology or Honors Biology, a valid driver’s license and provide your own transportation to the internship, job, or volunteer site within two weeks from start of program; application and special criteria required.  Participants are responsible for the cost of the post-secondary courses, additional fees, and required textbooks).

The Animal Sciences program provides high school seniors with the opportunity to explore a variety of veterinary and animal-centric careers in a professional setting while taking Lehigh Carbon Community College science courses for college credit. In a typical school week, students spend one half day immersed in the program curriculum at LCTI, two half days in veterinary terminology and veterinary biology courses at LCCC and two half days shadowing professionals or participating in other activities at Lehigh Valley Zoo and local veterinary clinics. Successful participants complete the program with at least eight readily-transferable college credits. Students also get the chance to earn industry credentials that signal their readiness for higher learning to college admissions officers. To learn more about the program and apply for admission, students should visit lcti.org/as.  This program is only available to senior students and has an early application deadline.