Sciences
EARTH SCIENCE
This course is intended for students taking Pre-Algebra, but may be taken by students in Algebra I who have already taken the equivalent of Introductory Physical Science. This course provides an integrated study of the Earth’s history, composition and structure, its waters, and an introduction to weather, climate, and environmental science. In addition to expanding their knowledge by studying natural phenomena such as floods, volcanoes, and earthquakes, students develop problem-solving skills by exploring issues such as climate change, water supply, and the greenhouse effect. Students are introduced to the basic scientific method of collecting data, generating hypotheses, performing experiments, and drawing conclusions.
INTRODUCTORY PHYSICAL SCIENCE- Kirk Wahtera
This course is specifically designed for students taking Algebra I. Students spend a great deal of time using various scientific methods to explore the properties of matter. In doing this students will become familiar with basic laboratory skills as well become comfortable writing up such experiments in a formal lab report format. Throughout the year they will also explore motion, forces, energy, waves, light, electricity, magnetism, and nuclear reactions. The emphasis on conceptual understanding of fundamental principles governing the universe as well as practice in basic “lab etiquette” and design provides students with a strong foundation for more advanced science courses.
BIOLOGY- Joyce Hammel
This course enables students to explore principles and applications in genetics, biochemistry, cell and microbiology, botany, zoology, human physiology and ecology. Methods include indoor and outdoor laboratory experiments, dissection, microscope use, textbook and additional readings, lectures and discussions. Small group and individual activities encourage students to pursue special interests through research projects in biology topics.
CHEMISTRY Kirk Wahtera
This full year course is designed to teach the fundamental concepts of chemistry: atomic structure, bonding, electron configurations, the periodic table, kinetic theory, the mole, reaction rates, pH and redox reactions. The class involves active discussion, problem solving and research projects, basic laboratory skills and techniques, and the submission of formal laboratory reports; there is also a large quantitative component to many topics covered throughout the year.
PHYSIOLOGY NUTRITION & ENERGY - Sarah Despres
This course covers nutrition and energy: macronutrients and micronutrients, optimum nutrition for exercise. It also covers energy transfer: the fundamentals, during exercise, measuring and evaluating energy capacities.
PHYSIOLOGY- PHYSICAL ADAPTATIONS (1/2 year)
This course reviews the principles and applications of physiological support systems and biomechanics, emphasizing the structures and functions of the circulatory and respiratory systems. It also covers exercise training and its adaptations in reference to the anaerobic and aerobic energy systems.
PHYSICS- Grace Emelett
Pre-Requisite: Algebra 2 or 2B
This class provides an understanding of the basic physical laws which govern the world around us, emphasizing the practical applications of physics. Through labs, discussion and directed problem solving, this course investigates fundamental Newtonian physics, including the concepts of kinematics, dynamics, energy, waves, sound, light, gravity, electricity, magnetism and atomic physics.
ADVANCED TOPICS IN BIOLOGY (1/2 year- not offered every year) Kirk Wahtera
Pre-Requisite: Algebra 2 or 2B and Biology
This is a rigorous course for seniors with a strong science background. Students will re-examine some of the fundamental topics in biology such as the function and structure of the cell, the essential macromolecules, and various topics in genetics with a more advanced and analytical eye. They will also be exposed and introduced to new material in molecular biology, microbiology, and biochemistry. Laboratory work and data analysis/interpretation will be integral parts of the course.
APPLICATIONS OF BIOLOGY (1/2 year- not offered every year)
Pre-Requisite: Algebra 2 or 2B and Biology
Students examine biological concepts as they are applied to understanding evolution, ecology, and human interactions with the environment. Students are expected to perform basic field work/research. Emphasis is placed on experimental design and critical thinking pertaining to everyday matters that affect us as citizens on a local and global scale.