Biology studies the nature of life. Students will learn about biochemistry, cytology, genetics, ecology, the evolutionary process, anatomy, physiology, and human body systems. Extensive hands-on laboratory work, dissections, microscope investigations, projects, and computer labs are methods used by students to master the above topics.
Prerequisite: taken concurrently with Algebra I
Biology Honors parallels the core biology curriculum with greater rigor in skills and content. A course that receives an honors designation has expectations for students that are broader, deeper, or more complex in comparison to its standard course. Therefore, students must be motivated learners. This course incorporates project based learning and research projects.
An introduction to Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Science. Chemistry topics covered include atoms and molecules, the nature of matter, naming chemical substances, periodic nature of chemicals, and chemical bonds. Physics topics covered include matter and energy, energy resources, force, work and machines, electricity, and magnetism. Earth science topics include Earth’s structure, the rock cycle, volcanoes, earthquakes, tsunamis, weather, and climate. Lab work and projects accompany instruction.
Prerequisite: Algebra
This course investigates the substances, which make up our environment and the changes they undergo. Atomic theory, kinetic theory, equilibrium, acids and bases, and chemical bonding are studied during both semesters. Laboratory activities introduce students to verifications of the concepts presented during class.
Prerequisite: Chemistry I & Algebra I
This course is a continuation of Chemistry I. Some of the topics from the first year of chemistry will be treated in more depth. Atomic theory is emphasized in this course. Chemistry II will also include units on nuclear chemistry, electrochemistry, and organic chemistry. Laboratory work will make use of modern instrumentation.
Prerequisite: Biology, Physical Science or Chemistry
Earth Science explores the dynamic processes, properties, and biotic evolutions shaping our planet. From understanding the forces driving weather patterns to analyzing the 4 billion year process shaping today’s landscapes, students will gain insights into Earth’s intricate systems. Engage with topics such as atmospheric anomalies, the unique power of the water cycle, and how the specific climatic conditions that fostered our unique complex lifeforms hangs in the balance.
Prerequisite: Physical Science or Chemistry AND Algebra I
This course takes a look at our universe from a scientist’s perspective. We first look at the Night Sky as seen from Earth, identifying the best known constellations. We then zoom out, examining our Earth-Moon system, and then tour our Solar System. We take a good look at our Sun, learning about how it generates the energy we use, and examine its lifespan. We then learn about the planets, from the inner Rocky Planets to the Gas Giants. Zooming out further, the Milky Way Galaxy comes into view, and we learn about galactic structure and formation. Finally, we examine the large-scale structure of our universe, and discuss the possible futures of it in the study of Cosmology.
This course will not count as the FIRST Physical Science credit for graduation.
Prerequisite: Grade of “B” or better in Chemistry I AND Biology or Biology Honors
This yearlong elective course will review systems from Biology and explore additional systems. Students will study the human body from a textbook, anatomic models, and websites. By the end of the semester, students will have explored the eleven systems of the body to gain a general understanding of how the body works. Laboratory dissections of mammalian organs and one small mammal will allow comparison to human structures.
Prerequisite: Algebra II (Can be taken concurrently with Algebra II)
This course is designed to study basic concepts in mechanics, including motion in 1D and 2D, forces and equilibrium, work, power, energy, momentum, waves and sound, electrostatics, current electricity and DC circuits, and the study of electromagnetic radiations and light. Demonstrations and laboratory exercises are integrated into the course to provide student involvement in the study of Physics. A working knowledge of algebra will be utilized extensively in this course.
Prerequisite: Physics I, Algebra II (Can be taken concurrently with Algebra II) and/or consent of instructor
This course addresses topics that were not discussed in Physics I and that are included by the AP Physics 1 curriculum. Students will do a thorough review of Physics I, with additional laboratory exercises, and then explore topics such as rotational motion, angular momentum, torque, statics (the study of equilibrium), waves and sound, and electricity. Time permitting, quantum physics and nuclear physics will be discussed. Activities include launching rockets, building a Rube Goldberg machine, constructing Newton scooters, and more. A strong working knowledge of algebra is required.
Prerequisite: Completion of Biology (or Honors) and Chemistry
Dual-Credit/PIE Biology 141 is a UW-Whitewater course offered at Whitewater High School that serves as a biology-for-majors elective course. Students participate in a Lecture/Lab format of class and gain a greater understanding of the living world through the following topics: biochemistry, cellular structure and function, cellular energy and metabolism, genetics and heredity, and the central dogma.This course is constructed to give the student the equivalent of a semester-long college-level experience for incoming freshmen. This course is content-heavy and carries a rigorous workload; students considering this course should also be prepared for summer homework and possible after-school labs during the year
DUAL CREDIT*
Prerequisite: Completion of UW-W Biology 141 (PIE)
Dual-Credit/PIE Biology 141 is a UW-Whitewater course offered at Whitewater High School that serves as a biology-for-majors elective course. Students participate in a Lecture/Lab format of class and gain a greater understanding of the living world through the following topics: heredity and genetics, evolution and natural selection, ecology, taxonomy, and phylogenetics. This course is constructed to give the student the equivalent of a semester-long college-level experience for incoming freshmen. This course is content-heavy and carries a rigorous workload; students considering this course should also be prepared for summer homework and possible after-school labs during the year.
DUAL CREDIT*
Prerequisite: Algebra and Intro to Engineering Design
This survey course of engineering exposes students to major concepts they’ll encounter in a post-secondary engineering course of study. Students employ engineering and scientific concepts in the solution of engineering design problems. They develop problem-solving skills and apply their knowledge of research and design to create solutions to various challenges, documenting their work and communicating solutions to peers and members of the professional community.
Students taking this course should have an interest in maintaining the quality of our environment including land, forests, streams, lakes, air etc. Land and other natural resources need to be managed in a sustainable manner. Balance and agreement need to occur among farmers, processors, manufacturers, scientists and other users of natural resources. Students, as citizens, must learn to make informed choices about their environment based on facts. This class helps students develop the knowledge and confidence to positively influence our environment. Students explore forestry, land, and water quality issues in this class.