Science
3 CREDITS REQUIRED FOR GRADUATION
3 CREDITS REQUIRED FOR GRADUATION
Foundational Science Classes
Grade: 10th, 11th, 12th
Length: Year
Credit: 1.0 Core Science
Fees: Class Fee
Description: Welcome to the captivating world of Biology 101: Exploring Life's Wonders!
Embark on a journey that unravels the mysteries of life itself in this high school biology class. From the tiniest cells to the grandeur of ecosystems, get ready to dive deep into the science that explains the living world around us.
Comments: Students will participate in at least one dissection as part of this course.
Grade: 10th, 11th, 12th
Length: Year
Credit: 1.0 Core Science
Fees: Class Fee + AP Test
Description: This class offers an in-depth look at living things. Cells, ecology, genetics, and animal and plant systems are the main area of study. Labs are a main part of the class. It is recommended for honors level sophomores, juniors, and seniors wishing to earn college credit. Students who earn a score of 3 or above on the AP test will earn college credit. The class is recommended for students interested in a science-related career, such as medical, environmental, etc., or non-science majors trying to fulfill general science requirements.
Grade: 10th, 11th, 12th
Length: Year
Credit: 1.0 Core Science
Fees: Class Fee
Description: This course is the study of organisms and the relationship between living things using plants and animals. Students will learn scientific principles through the use of the scientific method, biotechnology, cells, anatomy and physiology, genetics, and ecology. This lab-based course provides students with a hands-on science approach. This course teaches the same principles as regular Biology but with an agricultural approach. Students in this course are eligible for FFA membership.
Grade: 10th, 11th, 12th
Length: Year
Credit: 1.0 Core Science
Fees: Class Fee
Description: Chemistry is taught with many hands-on experiences in the form of labs, group work, projects and other activities. This class is organized around the major concepts of matter, structure, energy and change. Problem solving skills will be stressed as well as working with others in groups.
Comments: Prerequisite: Math 1
Grade: 11th, 12th
Length: Year
Credit: 1.0 Science (WSU Chem 1010)
Fees: WSU CE
Description: Fulfills General Education Physical Science requirement. Emphasizes basic chemical concepts within daily life. At the successful conclusion of this course, students will be able to: 1. Use the language of chemistry. 2. Use the Periodic Table of Elements to predict the behavior of atoms. 3. Apply chemical skills such as balancing an equation or drawing a Lewis dot structure for a covalent compound. 4. Explain how chemical concepts apply to the world around you and your everyday life.
Grade: 10th, 11th, 12th
Length: Year
Credit: 1.0 Core Science
Fees: Class Fee
Description: This course is structured around solving problems and explaining every day events using critical thinking skills, applying math skills specifically from Algebra, conducting hands-on laboratory experiments and designing group projects. Topics covered include kinematics, dynamics, gravitation, energy, waves, electricity and magnetism. A Scientific Calculator is recommended.
Grade: 11th, 12th
Length: Year
Credit: 1.0 Core Science
Fees: Class Fee + AP Test and lab fee
Description: This is a algebra based college-level physics course intended for student going into the physical sciences as well as the life sciences, pre-medicine, applied sciences and engineering fields. A graphic calculator (TI-83) is required.
Elective Science Classes
Grade: 11th, 12th
Length: Year
Credit: Science Elective
Fees: Class Fee
Description: Study the earth. This course includes its landforms, rocks, minerals and history. The shaping of the earth’s surface is explored through uplifts, weathering, erosion and deposition. Earthquakes and volcanoes will be studied to develop the theory of plate tectonics which explains the changes in the earth’s surface. Learn about natural resources, including fossil fuel, rocks and minerals.
Grade: 10th, 11th, 12th
Length: Semester
Credit: Science Elective
Fees: Class Fee
Description: Welcome to the exciting world of Genetics 101: Unraveling the Code of Life! Get ready to embark on a DNA-packed adventure where you'll dive headfirst into the fascinating realm of genes, traits, and the incredible blueprint that makes each of us unique. In this high school genetics class, we'll decode the mysteries of heredity, explore the secrets hidden within your cells, and discover the science behind the traits that make you, well, you!
Some highlights of the class include:
Uncovering the historical pathway to what we know of genetics today
Unravel the twisted strands of DNA and learn how to decode the genetic language that determines everything from your eye color to your taste buds
Channel your inner scientist as we explore the world that is genetic engineering and learn how to use different variations of biotechnology!
Discover the role that mutations play in evolution and delve into the world of genetic anomalies. Research different genetic disorders and potentially find a newfound appreciation for the oddities of nature.
Grade: 10th, 11th, 12th
Length: Semester
Credit: Science Elective
Fees: Class Fee
Description: Astronomy introduces you to the Solar System, planets, and other objects found in space. Stars, galaxies and space travel will also be discussed. Constellations and their myths are part of this course. We will talk about our Moon and its exploration.
Grade: 10th, 11th, 12th
Length: Semester
Credit: Science Elective
Fees: Class Fee
Description: Introduces the origin and development of the oceans, marine geology and its effect on life in the seas. Discusses waves, tides, currents, and their impact on shorelines, the ocean floor, and basins. Examines physical processes as they relate to oceanographic concepts. Includes media as an alternative to the actual oceanic experience. Completer's should have a basic knowledge and appreciation of the ocean's impact to the world's ecology.
Grade: 11th, 12th
Length: Year
Credit: Science Elective
Fees: Class Fee
Description: Students will develop knowledge and skills in a wide range of scientific principles, including genetics, anatomy, physiology, nutrition, disease, pests, and management practices of the livestock. Career opportunities and educational preparation are examined. Learning activities are varied, with classroom, laboratory and field experiences emphasized. Students in this course are eligible for FFA membership.
Grade: 11th, 12th
Length: Year
Credit: Science Elective (USU CE)
Fees: Class Fee
Description: Plants are an essential part of our lives in many ways. This in-depth course allows students to explore the science behind growing and caring for plants. Students will learn principles of horticulture through hands-on learning experiences. Students will also have the opportunity to grow and maintain a variety of plants in the greenhouse throughout this year-long course. We will explore soils, plant anatomy and physiology, landscaping principles, greenhouse management, and career opportunities in the horticulture industry. Half of our time will be spent in the greenhouse.
Comments: 3rd year science credit, strongly encouraged to complete Biology or Bio Ag before enrolling
Grade: 10th, 11th, 12th
Length: Semester
Credit: CTE, Core Science, or Digital Studies (WSU CS1030-4 Credits)
Fees: WSU CE
Description: An exploratory course designed to introduce students to the basics of computer hardware, web development, programming and cybersecurity. Learning is project based and designed to teach essential technology skills used in a variety of careers.
Grade: 10th, 11th, 12th
Length: Semester
Credit: CTE or Core Science (WSU: CS 1400-4 Credits)
Fees: WSU CE Fees
Description: An introductory course to programming using the Python language. This course teaches how to design, code and test your own programs as you learn essential programming concepts including variables, loops, conditionals, functions and classes, providing students with the skills required to solve real-world problems through code.
Comments: Prerequisite: Computer Science Principles (Recommended)
Grade: 11th, 12th
Length: Year
Credit: 1.0 Science Elective (WSU: HTHS 1104 -3 Credits)
Fees: WSU CE
Description: Welcome to Anatomy and Physiology, an in-depth course designed to unravel the mysteries of the human body. This class provides a comprehensive exploration of anatomy, delving into the structure and organization of organs, tissues, and systems. You'll also delve into physiology, studying how these components function harmoniously to maintain life. Basic medical terminology will be a key focus, empowering you with the language necessary for effective communication in the healthcare field. Additionally, we'll explore various diseases and disorders, understanding their impact on the body's normal functioning. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical applications, this course promises a fascinating journey into the intricacies of the human form and function.
Comments: Prerequisite: Intro to Health Science
Grade: 11th, 12th
Length: Year
Credit: 1.0 CTE
Comments: Prerequisite Biology
Description: This year-long course is designed to create an awareness of the brand of health science relating to the medical forensics. This course focuses on introductory skills and assessments in order to develop the ability to identify, analyze and process logically using deductive reasoning and problem solving. Medical forensics involves many aspects of health science instruction including laboratory skills and safety, microscopy, toxicology, measurements, physical evidence identification, pathology, anthropology, entomology, psychology, blood spatter analysis, and career exploration.
Grade: 10th, 11th, 12th
Length: Semester
Credit: 0.5 Elective
Description: STEM focused class for members (or those interested in being members) of the MESA. Students will work on engineering projects, preparation for competitions, and other activities related to the club.