Science Department

Students at Weymouth High School need scientific skills that will allow them to analyze and understand the natural phenomenon and man-made systems that apply to the STEM careers of the 21st century.  Pairing scientific practices with content will lay the foundation for successful application of this learning to analyze the systems of the universe.  Our students will ask questions, develop and use models, plan and carry out investigations, analyze and interpret data, use mathematics and computational thinking, construct explanations, argue from evidence, and obtain, evaluate and communicate information.

Note: All students must pass three science courses with a laboratory for admission to the Massachusetts State Colleges and Universities.  These courses are designated in their descriptions as “Laboratory Science.”

 

Matter & Energy is an introductory science course for freshmen.  This course is similar to the college prep Integrated Science course, but it moves at an accelerated pace and involves more in-depth study.The common thread of energy throughout many systems will be used to introduce students to the scientific skills needed in order to be successful in all scientific studies throughout high school.  Students will learn skills by recording and analyzing authentic observations and data in order to create models of behavior and predict outcomes.  Topics include atomic theory, laws of motion, chemical reactions and interactions, biological processes at micro and macro scales, and global energy cycles.  This course is designed to satisfy the requirements of the physics subject specific MCAS test.

Prerequisite: Grade of 90% (A-) or better in eighth grade science or teacher recommendation and department approval. (Full year course, open to grade 9)

 

Matter & Energy is an introductory science course for freshman.  The common thread of energy throughout many systems will be used to introduce students to the scientific skills needed in order to be successful in all scientific studies throughout high school.  Students will learn skills by recording and analyzing authentic observations and data in order to create models of behavior and predict outcomes.  Topics include atomic theory, laws of motion, chemical reactions and interactions, biological processes at micro and macro scales, and global energy cycles. This course is designed to satisfy the requirements of the physics subject specific MCAS test.  (Full year course, open to grade 9)

 

Biology is the study of living organisms, their origins, how they survive, reproduce, change over time, and interact with each other and their environment.  The primary objective of this course is to provide students with a fundamental understanding of modern biology and scientific processes, building foundations for success in the college level AP courses to follow.  This course is recommended for students that have a particular interest in biology and the natural sciences.  Students will be ultimately responsible for their learning; therefore, they should be organized, prepared, and motivated to learn every day.  The curriculum examines topics with more depth and includes more advanced resource material in addition to the adopted text Laboratory investigations play an important role in the course.  Labs are more rigorous than in the regular curriculum and students are expected to design and carry out experiments using appropriate methods and resources.  This course serves as the foundation for an accelerated science program that culminates with the potential to enroll in AP Science courses in grades 11 and 12. These students will be taking the MCAS test in biology at the end of the course.  Passing this MCAS test will fulfill the high school science graduation requirement.

Prerequisite: Grade of A (90% or higher) in eighth grade science, and concurrently enrolled in Honors Geometry.   (Full year course, open to grade 9-10)

 

College Prep Biology will cover the same topics as Biology 17200 honors: organic chemistry, cell structure, cell function, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, DNA, genetics, biodiversity, evolution, ecosystems, and classification of organisms from the simplest form to humans.  Students will investigate the interrelationship among the human body systems while maintaining homeostasis at the cellular level.  Laboratory experiences include dissections of preserved specimens, investigation design and analysis and interpretation of data. The topics are covered in less depth and less independent work is expected than in an honors level class. This course is designed to satisfy the requirements of the Biology subject specific MCAS test.   (Full year course, open to grades 10, 11, 12)

 

This course is a detailed study of living things from biochemical compounds to complex vertebrates. Topics include organic chemistry, cell structure, cell function, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, DNA, genetics, biodiversity, evolution, ecosystems, and classification of organisms from the simplest form to humans.  Students will investigate the interrelationship among the human body systems while maintaining homeostasis at the cellular level. Laboratory experiences include dissection of preserved specimens, investigation, design and analysis and interpretation of data. This course is accelerated and assumes students have already grasped skills in the foundation of life science, lab procedures, and scientific reasoning. Students must have excellent reading skills and be able to study independently. Essays and critical thinking will be a part of exams. Team problem solving and modeling are also used. This course is designed to satisfy the requirements of the biology  subject specific MCAS test.

Prerequisite:  For Honors Credit - Students must have a grade of 85% or higher in Matter & Energy, 75% or higher in Matter & Energy, or teacher recommendation and department approval.

 

Laboratory Science 

This course is designed for talented students who are planning to major in one of the sciences in college, although not necessarily biology.  AP Biology is designed to be a college level survey of biology encompassing a detailed study of living things from biochemical compounds to complex vertebrates. Topics include organic chemistry, cell structure, cell function, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, DNA sciences, genetics, heredity, ecosystems and animal phyla from the simplest form to human.  Laboratory is an important element of this course.  In order to earn AP credit in this course the student must take the AP exam.  

Prerequisite: Students must have a grade of 90% or higher in Biology and Chemistry CP, 80% or higher in Biology and Chemistry Honors and , or teacher recommendation and department approval.  This course may require summer work.  In order to earn AP credit in this course, the student must take the AP Exam.  (Full year course, open to grades 11, 12)

 

Chemistry is the study of relationships between the chemical makeup of a substance (composition), the types of bonds it has (structure), and its characteristics, behavior and reactions (properties). Chemistry uses problem solving and reasoning strategies, conceptual and mathematical modeling, and laboratory methods and data analysis to explain observed behaviors. Specific mathematical operations used in Chemistry include: algebraic manipulation of equations, proportional reasoning (including direct and inverse proportions), use of exponents, logarithms and scientific notation, and graphing of data.

Prerequisite: Students must have a grade of 60% or higher in Algebra I, or teacher recommendation and department approval.  (Full year course, open to grades 10, 11, 12)

 

Laboratory Science 

Chemistry is the study of the composition of substances and the changes that substances undergo. This course is intended to provide an intense background for those students planning to attend highly competitive four-year colleges. Topics include atomic structure, naming compounds, moles, stoichiometry, types of chemical reactions, states of matter, gas laws, electron configurations, chemical periodicity, solutions, reaction rates, acids and bases, chemical bonding, oxidation-reduction reactions, and nuclear chemistry. This course is faster paced and covers topics in greater depth than the college prep class. Mathematical concepts, especially multi-step word problems that require students to use inventive approaches, are emphasized. Because of the quantity of material covered, much of the work must be completed outside of the classroom.

Prerequisite: Students must have a grade of 85% or higher in Algebra I CP, 75% or higher in Algebra I Honors, or teacher recommendation and department approval.  (Full year course, open to grades 10, 11, 12)

 

Chemistry includes the investigation of the properties, composition, and structure of matter, the changes that occur in matter, and the energy absorbed or released during these changes. Chemistry provides opportunities for the development of skills in analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. Class activities and laboratory experiments are designed to enhance learning about topics such as atomic structure, chemical formulas and equations, and properties of elements. The curriculum examines topics with more depth and includes more advanced resource material in addition to the adopted text  Laboratory investigations play an important role in the course.  Labs are more rigorous than in the regular curriculum and students are expected to design and carry out experiments using appropriate methods and resources.  This course serves as the foundation for an accelerated science program that culminates with the potential to enroll in AP Science courses in grades 11 and 12. 

Prerequisite:  Students must have a grade of 80% or higher in Algebra I, or teacher recommendation and department approval.  (Full year course, open to grade 10-11)

 

This course is designed to be the equivalent of a general chemistry class taken during the first year of college.  Students will attain a depth of understanding of fundamentals and a reasonable competence in dealing with chemical problems. This rigorous course will contribute to the development of the students’ abilities to think clearly and to express their ideas, orally and in writing, with clarity and logic.  Particular emphasis will be placed on chemical calculations, the mathematical formulation of principles, and laboratory procedures.  Topics include atomic theory and atomic structure, chemical bonding, nuclear chemistry, states of matter, solutions, types of reactions, stoichiometry, equilibrium, reaction kinetics, and thermodynamics. In order to earn AP credit in this course the student must take the AP exam.

Prerequisite:  Students must have a grade of 90% or higher in  Algebra II CP, and an 80% or higher in Chemistry Honors, or teacher recommendation and department approval.  This course may require summer work.  In order to earn AP credit in this course, the student must take the AP Exam.  (Full year course open to grades 11 and 12)

 

Introductory College Physics is a first year physics course designed for students who intend to pursue a four-year degree in a STEM-related field at a competitive college or university.  Students will focus on critical-thinking, reasoning, and mathematical skills necessary to describe the actions and behavior of the physical world.  Students will be expected to use higher-order algebra and trigonometry to describe and predict the relationships between physical quantities and derive their physical measurements.  Topics will include kinematics, dynamics, energy, rotation, waves, and direct-current circuits.  An emphasis will be placed on scientific and mathematical methods of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting experimental data in a laboratory setting, as well as conceptual understanding of topics.

Prerequisite: Concurrently enrolled or successful completion of Trigonometry/Calculus* or Pre-Calculus (*Recommended).  (Full year course, open to grades 11, 12)

 

Introductory Physics is a first year physics course designed for students who intend to pursue a post-secondary education at an institute of higher learning.  Students will focus on critical-thinking, reasoning, and conceptual descriptions to qualitatively describe the actions and behavior of the physical world.  Students will be expected to use some basic algebraic mathematics to qualitatively describe and predict the relationships between physical quantities.  Topics will include kinematics, dynamics, energy, rotation, waves, and direct-current circuits.  An emphasis will be placed on scientific and mathematical methods of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting experimental data in a laboratory setting.

Prerequisites: Students must have a grade of 60% or higher in Algebra II, or teacher recommendation and department approval.

 

The AP® Physics 1 course focuses on the big ideas typically included in the first semester of an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics sequence and provides students with enduring understanding to support future advanced coursework in the sciences.  Through inquiry-based learning, students will develop critical thinking and reasoning skills, as defined by the AP Science Practices.  Topics covered will include kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum, circular motion, gravitation, rotation, electrostatics, and direct-current circuits. 

Prerequisites: Students be enrolled in Trigonometry/Calculus or must have a grade of 90% or higher in CP, 80% or higher in Honors, or teacher recommendation and department approval.  This course may require summer work.  In order to earn AP credit in this course, the student must take the AP Exam. (Full-year course, open to grades 11 and 12)

 

AP Physics 2 is a full year, algebra-based, second semester college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through inquiry-based investigations as they explore these topics: fluids; thermodynamics; electrical force, field, and potential; electric circuits; magnetism and electromagnetic induction; geometric and physical optics; and quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics.

 

This course requires that twenty-five percent of instructional time will be spent in hands-on laboratory work, with an emphasis on inquiry-based investigations that provide students with opportunities to demonstrate foundational physics principles and apply the science practices. Inquiry-based laboratory experiences support the AP Physics 2 course and AP Course Audit curricular requirements by providing opportunities for students to engage in the seven science practices as they design plans for experiments, make predictions, collect and analyze data, apply mathematical routines, develop explanations, and communicate about their work. Colleges may require students to present their laboratory materials from AP science courses before granting college credit for laboratory work, so students should be encouraged to retain their laboratory notebooks, reports, and other materials.

Prerequisites: Students must have a grade of 75% or higher in AP Physics I and either be concurrently taking Pre-Calculus or have a grade of 90% or higher in Pre-Calc CP, 80% or higher in Pre-Calc Honors, or teacher recommendation and department approval. This course may require summer work.  In order to earn AP credit in this course, the student must take the AP Exam.

 

Laboratory Science 

The AP® Physics C: Mechanics course focuses on problem-solving techniques and conceptual understanding of topics typically presented in an introductory college-level course designed for science and engineering majors.  Students will use advanced critical thinking, inquiry-driven laboratory skills, and mathematical approaches, including limited applications of calculus, to analyze and characterize physical systems.  Topics covered will include kinematics, dynamics, energy, rotational motion, gravity, oscillations, electric fields and potential, capacitance, RC/RL circuits, and magnetism. Students are expected to take BOTH the AP Physics C: Mechanics and AP Physics: Electricity & Magnetism exams in the spring.  Note that students will be expected to have consistent access to the internet to complete assignments.  In order to earn AP credit in this course, the student must take the AP exam. 

Prerequisite:  Students must be concurrently enrolled or have a grade of 75% or higher in AP Calculus and a grade of 90% or higher in Intro Physics CP, 80% or higher in Intro Physics Honors, or teacher recommendation and department approval.  This course may require summer work.  In order to earn AP credit in this course, the student must take the AP Exam.  (Full year course, open to grade 11 or 12)

 

Students will learn the key features of ecology by studying energy flow and chemical cycling through the ecosystem, ecosystem succession, predator-prey relationships, natural selection, population dynamics and invasive and endangered species. Students will analyze current local and global environmental issues such as pollution, global climate change, and environmental public health issues, and utilize problem solving and critical thinking skills to propose solutions for these problems. Students will develop at least one major project that connects human society to environmental processes. Students will learn about the vast number of career opportunities within the environmental science discipline and explore these career opportunities through projects, being exposed to speakers or having hands-on experience.

Prerequisite: Students must have a grade of 60% or higher in Biology, or teacher recommendation and department approval.  (Full year course open to grades 10, 11, 12)

 

Environmental science is the study of how humans interact with the environment and how these interactions may be improved. This course covers the same basic topics as the college prep level but is faster paced, goes into greater depth, and emphasizes field studies and research projects. Due to the amount of material covered and the resources available, students are responsible for more independent work. Students will also work closely with local and state environmental agencies to learn about current environmental issues and help work towards solving them.

Prerequisite: Students must have a grade of 85% or higher in Biology CP, 75% or higher in Biology Honors, or teacher recommendation and department approval.  (Full year course open to grades 10, 11, 12)

This course will provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the relationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. The AP Environmental Science course includes a strong laboratory and field investigation component. The goal of this component is to complement the classroom portion of the course by allowing students to learn about the environment through firsthand observation. Experiences both in the laboratory and in the field provide students with important opportunities to test concepts and principles that are introduced in the classroom, explore specific problems with a depth not easily achieved otherwise, and gain an awareness of the importance of confounding variables that exist in the “real world.” In these experiences students can employ alternative learning styles to reinforce fundamental concepts and principles. Students will acquire skills in specific techniques and procedures, conduct a long-term study of some local system or environmental problem and visit local public facilities that support the curriculum. Because all students have a stake in the future of their environment, such activities can motivate students to study environmental science in greater depth.  Summer work is required.  In order to earn AP credit in this course, the student must take the AP exam.

Prerequisite:  Students must have a grade of 90% or higher in Biology and Chemistry CP, 80% or higher in Chemistry or Environmental Science Honors, or teacher recommendation and department approval.  This course may require summer work.  In order to earn AP credit in this course, the student must take the AP Exam.  (Full year course open to grades 11 and 12)

 

This course will take a comprehensive look at human anatomy and physiology with an emphasis on the human organ systems. This course will be aimed at the student wishing to take a fourth year of science, especially those thinking of entering the health care professions. As the systems are covered, attention will be given to the relationship between form and function, health and balance between organ systems. Students will gain an appreciation for the systems of the body and their role in maintaining health and wellness.

Prerequisite:  Students must have a grade of 60% or higher in Biology, or teacher recommendation and department approval.  (Full year course open to grade 11, 12)

 

This course will provide a detailed and comprehensive look at human anatomy and physiology by emphasizing the important concepts, terminology and interrelationships of human structure and function.  Students will gain an appreciation for the systems of the body and their role in maintaining health and wellness. This course will be aimed at the student wishing to take a fourth year of science, especially those thinking of entering the health care professions. This course provides an in depth foundation for those interested in entering a Pre-Med program in college.  This course is available for optional Dual Enrollment credit, please see page 21.

Prerequisite:   Students must have a grade of 85% or higher in Biology CP, 75% or higher in Biology Honors, or teacher recommendation and department approval.  (Full year course open to grades 11, 12)

 

This is a one-semester course that will study and explore the celestial sphere, constellations, apparent motion of celestial objects, eclipses, astronomical observations, the Earth as a planet, the Moon, planets and their satellites, comets, meteors, theories of the origin of the solar system, study and detection of exoplanets, development of physical space exploration, and the search for extra-terrestrial life.  Additionally, a historical approach will be taken to better understand the role that discoveries in science have made in advancing our quality of life and the prosperity of our society.  Honors students will be expected to complete additional projects and assignments outside of class and attend two night-time observation sessions at Riley Field.

Prerequisite: Honors Credit - Students must have a grade of 85% or higher in a prior Science CP course, 75% or higher in a prior Science Honors course or teacher recommendation and department approval.

 

This is a one-semester course that will present the astronomical phenomena of the universe in the context of physical science.  Topics include: Newton’s laws governing force and motion, the laws of thermodynamics governing temperature and energy, the role of electromagnetism in nature, and the atomic structure of matter, all in the context of current issues in space sciences.  Students will explore the Sun, structure and evolution of stars, neutron stars and black holes, the Milky Way galaxy, normal galaxies, active galaxies, quasars, and cosmology.  Additionally, a historical approach will be taken to better understand the role that discoveries in science have made in advancing our quality of life and the prosperity of our society.  Honors students will be expected to complete additional projects and assignments outside of class and attend two night-time observation sessions at Riley Field.

Prerequisite:  Honors Credit - Students must have a grade of 85% or higher in Astronomy I CP, 75% or higher in Astronomy I Honors, or teacher recommendation and department approval.  CP Credit - Students must have a grade of 60% or higher in Astronomy I, or teacher recommendation and department approval.

 

This course includes the study of the historical astronomical theory, constellations, telescopes and the electromagnetic spectrum. Students will investigate stars, star evolution, and our own star, the sun. The Solar System, including the planets, moons, asteroids, comets and meteors is a focus. The study of galaxies, quasars, and the origin of the universe will be investigated.  (Semester course, open to grades 10, 11, 12)

 

This course takes a philosophical and scientific approach to understanding current ethical issues surrounding life science today. The goals of this course include increasing scientific literacy concerning the biological concepts discussed, understanding and appreciating the complex nature of different viewpoints in a democratic society, and going beyond emotional responses to these issues by following a rigorous, systematic approach. Students will learn and apply several philosophical and ethical theories in order to complete a reasoned analysis of well-known case studies. Students will be exposed to various dilemmas related to advancements in technology, ecology, molecular biology, biochemistry, public health, and medicine. Activities will consist of, but are not limited to, independent research, discussion (in class and online), debate, role-playing, and student presentations. (Semester course, open to grades 10, 11, 12)

 

Biotechnology students learn a wide variety of techniques that are used in biological, medical and pharmaceutical research, as well as the theory behind those techniques. Topics include: general laboratory skills, microbiology and cell culture, DNA analysis, bacterial transformation, polymerase chain reaction, protein analysis, and immunological assays. Biotechnology will prepare students interested in pursuing STEM careers.

Prerequisite: Students must have a grade of 60% or higher in Biology and Chemistry, or teacher recommendation and department approval.  (Semester course, open to grades 11, 12)

 

This course will investigate the world’s vast variety of plant life. Students will be engaged in hands-on learning through planting, transplanting, germinating and caring for various species of plants both within the greenhouse and through the development and maintenance of an urban garden on the high school campus. Students will learn about plant anatomy, complex biochemical processes that occur within the plant system, and various plant technologies including genetic modification. Students will also learn about the cultural connections and career opportunities within the field. Students will utilize critical thinking and employ problem solving skills to enable them to develop projects based on their learning. 

Prerequisite: Students must have a grade of 60% or higher in Biology or teacher recommendation and department approval. (Semester course, open to grades 10, 11, 12)

 

This course is designed specifically for those students who have not yet met their MCAS science competency.  This course will focus on content standards found in the six strands of the Biology Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks: chemistry of life, cell biology, genetics, anatomy and physiology, evolution and biodiversity, ecology, as well as, the four scientific inquiry skill standards.  Emphasis will be placed on analyzing and responding to open response questions and multiple choice questions that require interpretation of charts and graphs. Spiraled diagnostic testing will be used regularly to identify student weaknesses and allow for adjustments in curriculum.  (First semester course, open to grades 11, 12)

 

Students in this course will utilize prior math, science and technology skills to solve real world engineering problems. Students will work in groups for most of the course.   Engineering Design I will focus first on the structural and geotechnical mechanical engineering disciplines, then switch to electrical engineering.  They will build and test structures both in computer simulations and with real world models.  Students will need to learn how to calculate stresses, strains, voltage, current, and power in circuits.  Students may enroll in Engineering Design I independently of Engineering Design II 

Prerequisite: Honors Credit - Students must have a grade of 85% or higher in a prior Science CP course, 75% or higher in a prior Science Honors course or teacher recommendation and department approval.  (Semester course, open to grades 10, 11, 12)

 

Similarly to Engineering Design I, this course will utilize math, science and technology skills to solve real world engineering problems.  Students will work in groups for most of the course. Engineering Design II will focus first on materials engineering, then look at some areas of Mechanical geotechnical engineering, and fluid dynamics. They will build and test structures both in computer simulations and with real world models.  Students will need to learn how to apply Hooke’s law of elasticity, and to calculate the efficiency of motors and other energy conversion systems including heat engines.  Students may enroll in Engineering Design II independently of Engineering Design I.

Prerequisite:  Honors Credit - Students must have a grade of 85% or higher in a prior Science CP course, 75% or higher in a prior Science Honors course or teacher recommendation and department approval.  (Semester course, open to grades 10, 11, 12)

 

This course will introduce students to the basic concepts of crime scene investigation and forensic science. Students will learn how to investigate and document a crime scene and the proper procedures for evidence collection. Additional topics include the analysis of fingerprints, impression evidence, hair and fibers, handwriting, blood spatter patterns and DNA.  Inquiry-based activities will require strong skills in problem solving, data collection and analysis, critical thinking, and collaboration. 

Prerequisite: Students must have a grade of 60% or higher in Biology, or teacher recommendation and department approval.  (Semester course, open to grades 11,12)

 

This course introduces the study of the Earth, its layers, minerals and rocks. Students will learn about weathering at the Earth’s surface and erosion by water, wind and glaciers. Students study plate tectonics and the relation to earthquakes, volcanoes and mountain formation. This course offers an in-depth understanding of geologic history and the process of determining the age of rocks, fossils and the universe. (Semester course, open to grades 10, 11, 12)

 

This course will use an ecological perspective to cover the wide range of life forms found in the world’s oceans.  After an introduction to oceanography, marine life will be studied from the simplest microscopic life forms to complex fish and marine mammals.  Classification, anatomy, physiology, and behavior will be covered through PowerPoint based discussions, laboratory activities (including dissections), as well as, independent internet research. Assessment will consist of weekly alternating quizzes and tests, research/writing assignments and will include an in depth research project toward the end of the course. Successful completion of general biology is recommended for Marine Biology in that it builds upon general biology knowledge.

Prerequisite: For honors credit, students must have a grade of 85% or higher in Biology CP, 75% or higher in Biology Honors, or teacher recommendation and department approval. For CP Credit, Students must have a grade of 60% or higher in Biology or teacher recommendation and department approval.(Semester course, open to grades 10, 11, 12)

 

Meteorology is the study of Earth’s atmosphere, climate patterns, and weather.  This course looks at both general trends in the Earth’s climate, and how our weather is formed. Topics include: structure of the atmosphere, basic behavior of gases, global temperature and pressure trends, humidity and precipitation, polar cyclone formation, hurricanes, tornadoes, thunderstorms, and forecasting methods. The course includes activities and experiments including a project on extreme weather.  (Semester course open to grades 10, 11, 12)

 

This course will provide an introduction to Physical Oceanography by focusing on topics such as: ocean water chemistry, tides, waves, currents, atmospheric interactions, and ocean floor dynamics. Students will also explore contemporary issues in oceanography, careers in oceanography, and the human impact on the ocean environment.  (Semester course, open to grades 10, 11, 12)

 

This course is designed for students interested in learning more about the science involved in many sporting events.  Since science plays a role in every aspect of sport, from equipment design to the actual human body itself, this class will allow students to obtain a better understanding of the scientific principles that apply. Major units include:  development of modern sports, measuring and analyzing motion, the human body in sports, air resistance, and performance and design of sports equipment. The course includes independent research, student presentations, lab work and use of computer models to analyze motion. (Semester course, open to grades 10, 11, 12)

 

VEX Robotics is divided into twelve units.  In a flexible format, students learn about engineering and engineering problem solving.  Students will be introduced to VEX Robotics Design System and Autodesk Inventor while learning key STEM principles through a process that captures the excitement and engagement of robotics competition.  The curriculum is heavily focused on mechatronic principles; as such, programming is not required. 

Prerequisite:  Honors Credit - Students must have a grade of 85% or higher in a prior Science CP course, 75% or higher in a prior Science Honors course or teacher recommendation and department approval. (Semester course open to grades 10, 11, 12) 

 

This course provides students with an appreciation of the impact of biological sciences on everyday issues as well as an understanding of many of the implications and ethics involved with these decisions. The themes of the course include: how humans fit into the natural world; science as knowledge and a process; sources of scientific information; being a critical thinker; and the role science plays in society.  Current issues in biology including environmental science, the use of animals, medicine, and genetics are examined.  Students explore these themes through reading assignments, documentaries, lectures, papers, debates, and field trips.  (Grades 11-12, offered on an as needed basis)