• SCIENCE
    Biology A & B (9 – 12) (2 trimesters)
     
    Biology is a core science course required for graduation.  The class covers all of the major topics of Biology including plants, animals, microorganisms, biochemistry, ecology, DNA, genetics, genetic engineering, evolution, and ecology.  There will be many demonstrations, dissections, labs and projects including fieldwork and collecting, term papers and model construction.  Homework is required. 
     
    Course Content
     
    • From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
    • Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics
    • Heredity: Inheritance and Variation of Traits
    • Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity
     

    UB – Biology A & B (9 – 12) (2 trimesters)

     
    Prerequisite:  Teacher Recommendation Only
     
    Biology is a core science course required for graduation.  The class covers all of the major topics of Biology including plants, animals, microorganisms, biochemistry, ecology, DNA, genetics, genetic engineering, evolution, and ecology.  There will be many demonstrations, dissections, labs and projects including fieldwork and collecting, term papers, and model construction.  Homework is required. 
     
    Course Content
     
    • From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
    • Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics
    • Heredity: Inheritance and Variation of Traits
    • Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity
     
     

    Chemistry A & B (10 – 12) (2 Trimesters)

     
    Prerequisites:  Biology A & B and Geometry. 
                               (Biology can be taken concurrently with teacher permission)
     
    This course focuses on changes in matter and energy, atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical bonds, nomenclature, basic reactions, chemical changes, solutions, acids and bases, gases and carbon chemistry.  Students need a solid math background.  
     
    Course Content
     
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
    • Chemical Reactions
    • Nuclear Processes
    • Definitions of Energy
    • Conservation of Energy and Energy Transfer
    • Energy in Chemical Processes and Everyday Life
     

    Conceptual Chemistry A & B (10 – 12) (2 Trimesters)

     
    Prerequisite:    Biology A & B and 9th grade math credit
     
    This course provides a conceptual overview of the following topics (see course content) needed for a basic understanding of Chemistry. Students will gain skills in problem-solving as they explore theory and a hands-on approach including laboratory and classroom activities, projects and independent study. Technology is integrated into daily course work where necessary and appropriate to help students master the skills needed for a basic understanding of chemical principles.
     
    Course Content
     
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
    • Chemical Reactions
    • Nuclear Processes
    • Definitions of Energy
    • Conservation of Energy and Energy Transfer
    • Energy in Chemical Processes and Everyday Life
     
     

    Contagion-A (11, 12) (1 Trimester)
     
    Prerequisite:  Biology A & B
     
    Students will be taught to use their knowledge to better understand the etiology of health and disease, appreciate how humans adapt to a wide range of environmental challenges, and evaluate the myths and facts associated with the disease treatment and prevention strategies that guide 21st century medicine.  Topics include conditions such as, cancer, sickle cell anemia, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, as well as HIV.  The study of the brain and neurological diseases will also be part of the curriculum.  Students will also learn beginning medical terminology using Greek and Latin suffixes, prefixes, and roots.
     
    Students will be participating in simulated laboratory experiments, role-plays, and research.  They will be taking on the role of a medical student, review medical records of four patients and begin to diagnose them using simulated lab work.  They will look at and analyze the Hippocratic Oath, among other medical documents and journal articles.  Students will also be viewing videos that relate to the study of disease, including, but not limited to: Brain Games, House, Lorenzo’s Oil, and more (time permitting).

     
    Contagion B (11, 12) (1 Trimester)
     
    Prerequisite:  Biology A&B and Chemistry A&B
     
    This class will have a 5-week unit on cancer.  Lessons will revolve around five questions: 
     
    What is cancer and why should we care?  What does it mean to be a ‘normal’ cell? 
    How does a normal cell become cancerous?  How does cancer make us sick? 
    How is cancer treated?
     
    From these questions, we will develop an understanding of what cancer is, and the factors that predispose us towards developing it; go in depth into how cancer develops at the cellular level; look at the biology of cancer from the lens of the entire body; and examine how cancer is diagnosed and treated.  Students will also have a research project to complete.  Units on illnesses, treatments, and immunity will also be a focus.
    Forensic Science A (10 – 12) (1 Trimester)
     
    Prerequisite:  Biology A and B
     
    This course focuses on the skills and concepts behind crime scene investigation and forensic science. Whether you desire to be crime scene investigator, forensic pathologist, or some other medical scientist, this course will help you hone your investigative skills and review a wide range of science concepts. You will review physics, chemistry, anatomy, cell biology, environmental science, math, and computer science in the process of learning about forensic science. You will engage in lectures, labs, case studies, and on-line activities. This course should help you see how science is used to answer questions rather than just learning science concepts.
     

    Course Content
     
    • History of Forensic Science
    • Crime Scene Processing
    • Physical Evidence
    • Fingerprinting
    • Forensic Entomology (determining time of death)
    • Glass Comparison
    • Serology
    • DNA
    • Hair & Fiber Trace Evidence
    • Digital Forensics
    • Careers in Forensics
     

    Forensic Science B (10 – 12) (1 Trimester)

     
    Prerequisite:  Biology A & B and Forensic Science A
     
    Forensic Science B will be a continuation of Forensic Science A.  You will engage in lectures, labs, case studies, and on-line activities.  The course will focus on the following topics:
     
    Course Content
     
    • Forensic Anthropology & Archeology
    • Drugs & Toxicology
    • Soil Comparison
    • Firearm Comparison
    • Tool marks & Impression
    • Document Examination
     
    Human Anatomy & Physiology (11, 12) (3 Trimesters)  
    Prerequisite:    Biology A & B and Chemistry A & B
                               (or Biology and concurrent enrollment in Chemistry)
     
    This is a very challenging premedical course for all students planning a career in health, nursing or medicine.  It emphasizes the structure and function of the systems of the human body in great depth.  Memorization of many difficult Latin medical terms and the names of bones, muscles, and organs are required, with extensive dissection of the cat or the mink.  Those preparing for medical/health careers should take all three trimesters to be adequately prepared for their college course work. 
     
    Human Physiology Structure and Function (1st Trimester)
     
    • Introduction to the Body
    • The Muscular System
    • Tissues and Membranes
    • The Integumentary System
     
    Human Physiology A (2nd Trimester)
     
    • The Blood
    • The Senses
    • Nervous System
    • The Endocrine System
     
    Human Physiology B (3rd Trimester)
     
    • The Heart
    • Blood Vessels and Circulation
    • Digestive System
    • Respiratory System
    • Reproductive System
     
    Intro to Robotics 1 (9-12) (1 Trimester)
     
    Students will engage in hands-on activities in building robot designs with Pitsco’s TETRIX PRIME set and learn how to design, construct, and operate remote control vehicles.  Lessons will reinforce concepts in basic mathematics, physics, electronics, sensor feedback, geometry, simple machines, basic science, programming, mechanics, ratios and proportions, engineering, computer science, and measurement while students apply their skills to solving real-world based problems and challenges.  Advanced assignments may include an introduction to RobotC programming language, programming with Arduino for autonomous vehicle design, and a possible trip to Asama (or other robotics based industry) as resources allow.
     
    Intro to Robotics 2 (9-12) (1 Trimester)
     
    Prerequisite:  Introduction to Robotics 1
     
    Students will engage in a continuation of our hands-on activities in building robot designs through Autonomous Programming.  This will require working with Arduino (Open Source) programming and constructing the processing unit on-board our robots.  This will, in turn, allow students to practice basic “drop and play” programming then design robot builds to work through challenges in programming for specific tasks.  Lessons will reinforce concepts in basic mathematics, physics, electronics, sensor feedback, geometry, simple machines, basic science, programming, mechanics, ratios and proportions, engineering, computer science, and measurement while students apply their skills to solving real-world based problems with the TETRIX PRIME sets and possibly the mBot from Maker Shed (Radio Shack).  Advanced assignments may include an introduction to RobotC programming language and a possible trip to Asama (or other robotics based industry) as resources allow.
     
    Investigative Science (9-12) (1 Trimester)
     
    Investigative Science challenges students to design and carry out cutting edge observational and experimental scientific studies related to the basic sciences of: biology, chemistry, geology, and physics.  Students will participate in actual scientific research that will be published in the Mountie Science Journal.  Student driven research will be designed, conducted, analyzed, and presented in individual and group settings.
     
     Physics A (10 – 12) (1 Trimester)
     
    Prerequisite:     Biology A & B and Geometry (C+)
     
    This course provides a conceptual and mathematical overview of Newtonian Mechanics (Kinematics, Dynamics, Energy). Through theory and laboratory work, students address classic and modern applications of physical science. Students develop problem-solving skills by hands-on learning, independent study and projects. Technology is integrated into the course work. 
     
    Course Content
     
    • Kinematics
      • Acceleration in 1-D
      • Projectile Motion
    • Dynamics
    • Circular Motion
    • Gravitational Force
     
     Physics B (10 – 12) (1 Trimester) 
    Prerequisite:     Biology A & B and Geometry (C+)
     
    This course provides a conceptual and mathematical overview of electricity and magnetism, heat, waves, and light. Through theory and laboratory work, students address classic and modern applications of physical science. Students develop problem-solving skills by hands-on learning, independent study and projects. Technology is integrated into the course work.
     
     
    Course Content
     
    • Electrostatics
    • Magnetism
    • Simple Circuits
    • Mechanical Waves
    • Electromagnetic Waves
     
    Conceptual Physics A (10 – 12) (1 Trimester) 
    Prerequisite:     Biology A/B and 9th grade math credit
     
    This course provides a conceptual overview of Newtonian Mechanics (motion, forces, energy, and momentum). Through theory and laboratory work, students address classic and modern applications of physical science. Students develop problem-solving skills by hands-on learning, independent study and projects. Technology is integrated into the course work.  
     
    Course Content
     
    • Motion
    • Force
    • Energy
    • Momentum

     

    Conceptual Physics B (10 – 12) (1 Trimester) 
    Prerequisite:     Biology A/B and 9th grade math credit
     
    This course provides a conceptual overview of electricity and magnetism, waves, and light. Through theory and laboratory work, students address classic and modern applications of physical science.  Students develop problem-solving skills by hands-on learning, independent study and projects.  Technology is integrated into the course work.  
     
    Course Content
     
    • Electromagnetic Force (Static Electricity and Magnetism)
    • Current Electricity (Circuits)
    • Mechanical Waves
    • Electromagnetic Waves
     
     

    Advanced Placement (AP) Physics 1 (11,12) (3 Trimesters)

    Prerequisites:    Physics A & B (B-) and Concurrent enrollment of pre-calculus or higher
    This course provides the opportunity for college credit in physics.  Students who are highly motivated in the physical sciences and plan to pursue medicine, engineering, or general science at the college level are encouraged to take this course.  Students will be preparing for the AP Physics 1 exam which is administered in the spring. 
     
    Course Content
     
    • Kinematics
    • Dynamics
    • Work, Energy, Power
    • Impulse & Momentum
    • Circular Motion & Rotation
    • Gravitation & Oscillation
    • Electrostatics
    • Circuits
    • Mechanical Waves
     

    Advanced Placement (AP) Physics 2 (11, 12)

    (3 Trimesters)

     
    Prerequisite:     Physics A & B (B-) and Concurrent enrollment of pre-calculus or higher
     
    This course provides the opportunity for college credit in physics. Students who are highly motivated in the physical sciences and plan to pursue medicine, engineering, or general science at the college level are encouraged to take this course. Students will be preparing for the AP Physics 2 exam which is administered in the spring.

    Course Content
     
    • Fluid statics & dynamics
    • Thermodynamics
    • PV diagrams & probability
    • Electrostatics
    • Circuits with capacitors
    • Magnetic fields
    • Electromagnetism
    • Optics
    • Nuclear Physics
     
     Introduction to Engineering Design A & B (9 - 12)

    (2 Trimesters)

     
    Introduction to Engineering Design is an introductory engineering course that develops student problem solving skills, with emphasis placed upon the concept of developing a 3-D model or solid rendering of an object. Students focus on the application of visualization processes and tools provided by modern, state-of-the-art computer hardware and software. The course emphasizes the design development process of a product and how a model of that product is produced, analyzed and evaluated, using a Computer Aided Design System (CAD). Using design briefs or abstracts, students create models and documentation to solve problems.
     
    Activities may include, but are not limited to: designing and fabricating a puzzle cube, designing a desktop organizer and reverse engineering projects. This is the first course in a four year sequence of courses which, when combined with traditional mathematics and science courses in high school, introduces students to the scope, rigor and discipline of engineering prior to entering college.
     Energy Industry Fundamentals A & B (11,12) (2 Trimesters)
     
    Prerequisites:    None
    Energy Industry Fundamentals (EIF) provides a broad understanding of the electric and natural gas utility industry and the energy generation, transmission, and distribution infrastructure, commonly called the "largest machine in the world," which forms the backbone for the industry. The course includes business models, regulations, types of energy and their conversion to useable energy such as electric power, how generated power is transmitted and distributed to the point of use, emerging technologies, and the connection to careers in the energy industry.  Students participating in this course have the opportunity to earn an EIF certificate which goes toward ‘Electric Utility Lineman’ coursework at local community college programs.  Field trips/activities may include, but are not limited to, Consumers Energy Lineman Training Facility in Marshall, Trail Street Laboratory, Natural Gas Power Generation Plant, Fire Safety/Slippery Surface Training, and First Aid Training.
     High School Natural Disasters (9-12) (1 Trimester)
     
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation only
     
    The focus of the elective class Natural Disasters will be to take a look at all of the natural disasters that Mother Nature causes to happen, not only in the US, but all over the world and what happens to the world wide weather, along with the long range changes that are caused. This class will study hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, snowstorms, avalanches, and mudslides, among other disasters that happen to this planet. We will look at video, articles, work in journals recording our thoughts and impressions, and engage in class discussions concerning these disasters. There will be no exam, however, there will be a major project that the students will work on and will prepare a presentation on one natural disaster of their choosing using posters, PowerPoint or any other visual aide they may wish to use. Each student will be given a rubric of the expectations for this project, which will count as an exam grade for the class. The projects will be presented either in the classroom or the media center to administrators, teachers and other students in attendance. Students will work together to investigate, explore, gather information, read, write and observe. Actively participating in the learning process using the Scientific Method, students will be able to discover the power of Nature and how destructive it can be to modern man. 
     High School Biology A & B (9 – 12) (2 Trimesters)
     
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation only
     
    The focus of High School Biology A and B will be lab safety, the scientific method, controls and variables.  We will follow the general education Biology classes.  Topics will include; plants, animals, microorganisms, biochemistry, ecology, DNA, genetics, and evolution.  Following the state benchmarks, we will discuss, do projects, labs, write in journals to record findings after our labs and projects.  Dissection will be either in the form on online or when schedules permit, we will join the general education Biology classes to participate in the hands on dissection experience.  This class is required for graduation.
     
    High School Chemistry (9 – 12) (1 Trimester)
     
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation only
     
    The focus of High School Chemistry will be the periodic table of elements. This is a one term class. We will also study valance electrons, what the numbers mean that are associated with the elements. We will study matter, lab safety, ions, compounds and solutions. We will have a few labs, but mostly, there will be demonstrations for us to observe and record. There will be a project with the periodic table of elements.

     

    High School Marine Biology (9 – 12) (1 Trimester)

     
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation only
     
    The focus of High School Marine Biology will be the oceans of the world. This is a one term class. We will study hurricanes, climate change and its affects worldwide, North and South Poles and the Ice Caps, Coral Reefs, Ocean Animals and Plate Tectonics, along with Wind and Wave action.
     High School Physics A & B (9 – 12) (2 Trimesters)
     
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation only
     
    The focus of High School Physics A and B will be on lab safety, the scientific method, controls and variables.  We will study motion, force, energy, momentum, static electricity, current electricity, mechanical waves, and electromagnetic waves.  We will follow the Conceptual Physics courses in the science department.  Working in teams, we will actively engage in the learning process by reading, gathering information, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing.  Science objectives for these topics follow the general education physics classes and will give students in this class exposure to the requirements of high school physics and the state benchmarks for physics.