Science Courses:

Why do stars twinkle? Is it possible to fall into a black hole? Will the sun ever stop shining? Since the first glimpse of the night sky, humans have been fascinated with the stars, planets, and universe that surrounds us. This course will introduce students to the study of astronomy, including its history and development, basic scientific laws of motion and gravity, the concepts of modern astronomy, and the methods used by astronomers to learn more about the universe. Additional topics include the solar system, the Milky Way and other galaxies, and the sun and stars. Using online tools, students will examine the life cycle of stars, the properties of planets, and the exploration of space.

When taken in conjunction with Paleontology, this course can count towards Science credit.

How much do we really know about our home, planet Earth? The Earth Science course will explore the dynamic systems of Earth and Space to help students understand how Earth’s systems have developed through time, how they are interrelated, and how humans impact them. In the first semester, students will investigate the universe and its stars, the planets of the Solar System, and the systems that make up Earth. Students will examine the role of water on our planet and sun-driven interactions affecting climate and weather. They will also model biogeochemical cycles and energy flow through Earth’s systems. Students will use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to learn through videos, readings, interactive activities, mini-projects, labs, and simulations based on real-world data. These course assignments are designed to explicitly engage students’ Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Performance Expectations (PEs). Also, students will apply Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) to construct an understanding of Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs) through the lens of Crosscutting Concepts (CCs) to explain a phenomenon. The discussion assignments focus on enabling students to use their science knowledge to make informed decisions about personal and societal issues. Students will be assessed through lesson quizzes and semester exams.

How much do we really know about our home, planet Earth? The Earth Science course will explore the dynamic systems of Earth and Space to help students understand how Earth’s systems have developed through time, how they are interrelated, and how humans impact them. In the first semester, students will investigate the universe and its stars, the planets of the Solar System, and the systems that make up Earth. Students will examine the role of water on our planet and sun-driven interactions affecting climate and weather. They will also model biogeochemical cycles and energy flow through Earth’s systems. Students will use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to learn through videos, readings, interactive activities, mini-projects, labs, and simulations based on real-world data. These course assignments are designed to explicitly engage students’ Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Performance Expectations (PEs). Also, students will apply Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) to construct an understanding of Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs) through the lens of Crosscutting Concepts (CCs) to explain a phenomenon. The discussion assignments focus on enabling students to use their science knowledge to make informed decisions about personal and societal issues. Students will be assessed through lesson quizzes and semester exams.

In the second semester, students will explore how Earth’s surface changes through plate tectonics and geological processes. Students will also take a step back in time to see how the Earth and life developed through its timescale. By the end of the course, students will be able to explain the different systems on Earth, how they affect each other, and how the Earth is changing due to human activity. This course will give students tools and information to examine their daily choices in response to ongoing natural hazards like climate change and find ways to protect the Earth and its natural resources. Students will use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to learn through videos, reading, interactive activities, mini-projects, labs, and simulations based on real-world data. The course assignments are designed to explicitly engage students in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Performance Expectations (PEs). In many cases, students will apply Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) to construct an understanding of Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs) through the lens of Crosscutting Concepts (CCs) to explain a phenomenon. The discussion assignments focus on enabling students to make informed decisions about personal and societal issues. Students will be assessed through lesson quizzes and semester exams.

In the second semester, students will explore how Earth’s surface changes through plate tectonics and geological processes. Students will also take a step back in time to see how the Earth and life developed through its timescale. By the end of the course, students will be able to explain the different systems on Earth, how they affect each other, and how the Earth is changing due to human activity. This course will give students tools and information to examine their daily choices in response to ongoing natural hazards like climate change and find ways to protect the Earth and its natural resources. Students will use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to learn through videos, reading, interactive activities, mini-projects, labs, and simulations based on real-world data. The course assignments are designed to explicitly engage students in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Performance Expectations (PEs). In many cases, students will apply Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs) to construct an understanding of Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs) through the lens of Crosscutting Concepts (CCs) to explain a phenomenon. The discussion assignments focus on enabling students to make informed decisions about personal and societal issues. Students will be assessed through lesson quizzes and semester exams.

Thriving forests are an essential part of the health of the planet, from our wildlife’s ecosystem to providing humans with clean air to lumber and paper products. But forests cannot protect themselves and depend greatly on humans for conservation. Learn more about this meaningful relationship and how environmental policy, land use, water resources, and wildlife management all factor into current forestry issues. Forestry offers diverse professional opportunities, and for those concerned about the environment, it is a great choice.

When taken in conjunction with Renewable Technologies, this course can count towards Science credit.

From Godzilla to Jurassic Park, dinosaurs continue to captivate us. In this course, students will learn about the fascinating creatures, both large and small, that roamed the earth before modern man. Watch interesting videos from experts at The Royal Tyrrell Museum, a leading paleontology research facility, and discover how the field of paleontology continues to provide amazing insight into early life on earth.

When taken in conjunction with Astronomy I A, this course can count towards Science credit.

Renewable Technologies are becoming increasingly important as concerns about climate change, the use of fossil fuels, and population growth become foremost in the public eye. So, how do we address the world’s growing concerns about energy sources? Uncover the development of new energy technologies and explore how recent approaches to renewable technologies unlock the solution needed for a safer, cleaner, and more enduring world.

When taken in conjunction with Forestry & Natural Resources, this course can count towards Science credit.

Biology A introduces students to the scientific method and the major concepts of biology from a historical and practical viewpoint. The three major themes of this course are the cell, the molecular basis of heredity, and the interdependence of organisms. Students who take this class will have a deeper appreciation for the complexities of living organisms. Life on this planet, unlike anywhere else in the observable universe, is complex and highly organized. Whether examining life on the molecular or the planetary level, it exhibits a highly organized structure that inspires awe by its genius and complexity. In the last 50 years, discoveries have launched new branches of biology that have transformed the daily routine, from conception to death. New challenges await, such as the current crisis in ecology, global warming, and the resurgence in viral disease. To make rational choices in the 21st century, the citizen must have a basic understanding of biological concepts and the reasoning behind them. Biology A is presented in a multimedia format using interactive modules, labs, narrated animation, text, and videos to present the study of life on this planet.

The science of biology must begin with cell theory, including the structure, function, and chemistry of the cell. Cells form the primary level of organization of all living things. The chemistry and function of each cell shapes the lifestyle of the organism, from feeding to reproductive patterns. This first course in biology focuses on the life of the cell, dealing with issues of structure, transport, genetics, protein synthesis, energy production, and usage. The tools of science are explained and then focused on the living systems in the cell. In the case of genetics, the molecular behavior of DNA is elaborated to show how it determines the visible traits of the organism and population. Thus, students are led on a tour of living systems from the tiniest to the broadest levels of organization. During this tour, students will employ text, computer simulations, and hands-on investigation to verify each concept and make them relevant to what they see each day. The aim of this course is to guide the student to see the world in biological terms and then to expand their vision to contemplate current topics in biological research and application.

Biology B is a continuation of the basic course in biology, Biology A. The major concepts covered are population dynamics and evolution. Students explore population dynamics through the study of mutualism, predation, parasitism, and competition. The theory of evolution is presented, along with the many evidences and details that make evolution the backbone of modern biology. From biochemistry to evolution, biology fascinates people. Biochemists first astounded the world by showing that life obeys the same chemical principles as all creation, but that life engineers chemistry to its own needs. Decades later, Darwin shocked the world by suggesting that life evolves according to the conditions of the environment it inhabits. Evolution, often debated and derided, has survived to become a key concept of biology. This second course in biology examines the wonder of life and its mechanisms.

Biology B is a continuation of the basic course in biology, Biology A. The major concepts covered are population dynamics and evolution. Students explore population dynamics through the study of mutualism, predation, parasitism, and competition. The theory of evolution is presented, along with the many evidences and details that make evolution the backbone of modern biology. From biochemistry to evolution, biology fascinates people. Biochemists first astounded the world by showing that life obeys the same chemical principles as all creation, but that life engineers chemistry to its own needs. Decades later, Darwin shocked the world by suggesting that life evolves according to the conditions of the environment it inhabits. Evolution, often debated and derided, has survived to become a key concept of biology. This second course in biology examines the wonder of life and its mechanisms.

Can we bring back extinct species? Will the cures for cancer, malaria, and other diseases come from the combination of natural materials and new technologies? How is science changing the foods we eat? Welcome to the world of biotechnology! In this course, you will explore the history of biotechnology, including early attempts at food preservation, the development of antibiotics, and changes to food crops around the world. You’ll also learn more about some of the challenges of biotechnology, such as the growth of antibiotic resistant bacteria and questions about the safety of commercially produced genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Finally, you’ll research new biotechnologies and how they are changing the world we live in.

When taken in conjunction with Biotechnology I B, this course can count towards Science credit.

Can we bring back extinct species? Will the cures for cancer, malaria, and other diseases come from the combination of natural materials and new technologies? How is science changing the foods we eat? Welcome to the world of biotechnology! In this course, you will explore the history of biotechnology, including early attempts at food preservation, the development of antibiotics, and changes to food crops around the world. You’ll also learn more about some of the challenges of biotechnology, such as the growth of antibiotic resistant bacteria and questions about the safety of commercially produced genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Finally, you’ll research new biotechnologies and how they are changing the world we live in.

When taken in conjunction with Biotechnology I A, this course can count towards Science credit.

Have you wondered about the secrets of the deep and how the creatures below the ocean’s surface live and thrive? Understand more about the aquatic cycles, structures, and processes that generate and sustain life in the sea. (Marine Science and Hydrosphere)

When taken in conjunction with Marine Science I B, this course can count towards Science credit.

Marine Science I B: Secrets of the Deep Blue Water is the flowing lifeline of the Earth, and it impacts the life of every living creature. But have you ever stopped to think about human’ impact on water? In this course, you will discover more about the role we play in both threatening and protecting water sources. You will explore climate change and other events that concern Earth’s water sources and expand your knowledge of marine science careers. You will also plan and execute a cumulative research project exploring an aquatic environment near you using the Scientific Method. Let’s dive in and continue your exploration of the World’s water! (Marine Science and Hydrosphere)

When taken in conjunction with Marine Science I A, this course can count towards Science credit.

Discover how technology has changed the world around us by pursuing technological solutions to everyday problems. While using scientific and engineering methods, learn how electricity, electronic systems, magnets, and circuits work. Understand the design process and bring your ideas to life. Explore how engineering advances your ideas and the world!

When taken in conjunction with Applied Engineering I B, this course can count towards Science credit.

Do you like to invite solutions to solve problems? Applied engineering has advanced areas such as energy, transportation, health and genetics, alternative energy, food packaging, etc. Explore various inventions and solutions that have solved problems across industries. Examine how artificial intelligence and technology are making an impact on breakthroughs. Evaluate the range of robotic and STEM-related career options available for you to make a difference in lives with your contributions and innovations.

When taken in conjunction with Applied Engineering A, this course can count towards Science credit.

Chemistry A introduces students to the science of chemistry beginning with exploring why scientists are interested in studying matter at a submicroscopic level. Students will continue to learn how scientific methods are used to understand the natural world and will continue to develop their skills in this area. Chemistry A covers topics in the characteristics of matter, atomic structure, chemical periodicity, chemical bonds and compounds, and chemical formula writing and naming. An algebra background is recommended because of the amount and type of math involved.

Chemistry A introduces students to the science of chemistry beginning with exploring why scientists are interested in studying matter at a submicroscopic level. Students will continue to learn how scientific methods are used to understand the natural world and will continue to develop their skills in this area. Chemistry A covers topics in the characteristics of matter, atomic structure, chemical periodicity, chemical bonds and compounds, and chemical formula writing and naming. An algebra background is recommended because of the amount and type of math involved.

Chemistry B builds on the concepts and skills learned in the first semester as students continue to explore the properties of matter and the changes it undergoes. Chemistry B covers topics in chemical reactions and stoichiometry, gases, thermochemistry, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, organic chemistry, and biochemistry. An algebra background is recommended because of the amount and type of math involved.

Chemistry B builds on the concepts and skills learned in the first semester as students continue to explore the properties of matter and the changes it undergoes. Chemistry B covers topics in chemical reactions and stoichiometry, gases, thermochemistry, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, organic chemistry, and biochemistry. An algebra background is recommended because of the amount and type of math involved.

This is an introduction to the physical sciences and scientific methodology. The objectives are to impart a basic knowledge of the physical properties and chemistry of matter. Skills are developed in the classroom and reinforced through homework reading and interesting labs that relate to everyday life.

This is an introduction to the physical sciences and scientific methodology. The objectives are to impart a basic knowledge of the physical properties and chemistry of matter. Skills are developed in the classroom and reinforced through homework reading and interesting labs that relate to everyday life.

Students begin their exploration of physics by reviewing the International System of Units (SI), scientific notation, and significant digits. They then learn to describe and analyze motion in one- and two-dimensions. Students learn about gravity and Newton’s laws of motion before concluding the course with an examination of circular motion, energy, and simple machines. Students apply mathematical concepts, such as graphing and trigonometry, in order to solve physics problems.

Students begin their exploration of physics by reviewing the International System of Units (SI), scientific notation, and significant digits. They then learn to describe and analyze motion in one- and two-dimensions. Students learn about gravity and Newton’s laws of motion before concluding the course with an examination of circular motion, energy, and simple machines. Students apply mathematical concepts, such as graphing and trigonometry, in order to solve physics problems.

Physics B continues the student’s exploration of mechanics while also guiding them through some other important topics of physics. Students begin by exploring simple harmonic motion, wave properties, and optics. Students then learn the basics of thermodynamics and fluids. Afterwards, the students explore the principles of electricity and magnetism. Finally, students explore the area of physics known as Modern Physics, which includes topics such as the photoelectric effect, nuclear science, and relativity. This is a trig-based course. It is assumed students know and can use trigonometry.

Physics B continues the student’s exploration of mechanics while also guiding them through some other important topics of physics. Students begin by exploring simple harmonic motion, wave properties, and optics. Students then learn the basics of thermodynamics and fluids. Afterwards, the students explore the principles of electricity and magnetism. Finally, students explore the area of physics known as Modern Physics, which includes topics such as the photoelectric effect, nuclear science, and relativity. This is a trig-based course. It is assumed students know and can use trigonometry.