Science Curriculum

Department Chair: Mrs. Vicki Gillespie

Biology

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 9

Length: Full Year

 

This freshman course is a general study of man and the environment.  Topics include the physical basis for life, cell structure, function and organization, human anatomy and physiology, DNA, genetics, and the interrelationships of living things and their environment.

 

Special Materials:  $6.00 fee for Goggles, Disposable Gloves, 1” Three-ring Binder

 

Biology (H)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 9

Length: Full Year

 

Building on the chemical basis of life, this honors course includes in-depth discussion of cell structure, function and organization, human anatomy and physiology, DNA, genetics, and the interrelationships of living things and their environment.  Daily scientific writing is required along with semester research presentations and book reports.  Honors Biology is recommended for those freshman students that have shown an interest and ability in science and may be considering college course work and/or a career in a science field.

 

Special Materials:  $6.00 fee for Goggles, Disposable Gloves, 1” Three-ring Binder

 

Chemistry

Prerequisites: Biology

Grade: 10

Length: Full Year

 

Chemistry is one of the physical sciences that explores the physical and chemical changes that occur in our world.  Chemistry core concepts are tied to key societal issues.  This approach will allow students without advanced math and critical thinking skills to better comprehend and appreciate chemistry.

 

Special Materials: Goggles

 

College Prep Chemistry (H)

Prerequisites: Algebra 1, Biology

Grade: 10

Length: Full Year

 

Chemistry is one of the physical sciences that explores the physical and chemical changes that occur in our world.  It is a body of systematized knowledge gained from observation, study and experimentation.  Chemistry deals with the structure and composition of matter.  Furthermore, it deals with changes in matter, the mechanisms by which these changes occur, the products formed and the energy changes involved.  Honors Chemistry is recommended for all college bound students. The lecture material presented in this class will be supplemented by demonstrations and laboratory experiments.

 

Special Materials:  TI-83+ Graphing Calculator, Goggles

 

Earth and Space Science

Prerequisites: Geometry, Chemistry

Grades: 11-12

Length: Full Year

 

This upper level course is designed to introduce the student to basic concepts in Earth Science including geology, geography, astronomy, oceanography, and meteorology.  Topics to be studied include the scientific method, plate tectonics, agents of movement and erosion, weather, climate, and rock and mineral identification.  There will be an emphasis on environmental issues throughout the course.

 

Special Materials:  None

 

Anatomy and Physiology (H)

Prerequisites: “C” or Better in Biology, College Prep Chemistry

Grades: 11-12

Length: Semester

 

This honors semester course is designed for juniors and seniors who have a strong interest in biology and have shown the ability to be successful in meeting the course requirements.  It is recommended for those students who are planning a career in biological or biomedical fields.  Fetal pigs are dissected systematically as the human systems are studied.

 

Special Materials:  Goggles

 

Biotechnology and Microbiology (H)

Prerequisites: “C” or Better in Biology, College Prep Chemistry

Grades: 11-12

Length: Semester

 

This semester course is designed for juniors and seniors who have a strong interest in Biology and have shown the ability to be successful in meeting course requirements.  It is recommended for those students who are planning a career in a biological field.  Students are introduced to biotechnology techniques through lecture and labs.  The ethics of their uses is discussed and debated.  Students are also introduced to the field of microbiology with an emphasis on lab techniques.

 

Special Materials:  Goggles

 

Advanced Biology – Special Topics

Prerequisites: Department Approval

Grade: 12

Length: Semester

 

This independent study class is available to the student who is planning a career in the biology field and is seeking additional studies during their high school years.  The student will select two areas of biology for in-depth study, with teacher approval.  Each topic will be studied for one quarter.  The student will meet weekly with the teacher.  An oral presentation is required and will be done in all biology classes.

 

Special Materials: As Needed

 

Inorganic Chemistry (H)

Prerequisites: “C” or Better in Chemistry

Grades: 11-12

Length: Semester

 

Advanced Chemistry is the study of complex general chemistry topics.  Material learned in Chemistry is further explored in this advanced class.  Areas of study include atomic structure, electrostatic bonding, chemical reactions, periodicity, and electrochemistry.    

 

Special Materials:  TI-83+ Graphing Calculator, Goggles

 

Organic Chemistry (H)

Prerequisites: “C” or Better in Chemistry

Grades: 11-12

Length: Semester

 

Organic Chemistry is a survey course that combines Chemistry and Biology.  Students study the structural composition of covalent molecules containing carbon.  The classification, nomenclature and physical properties of organic molecules are explained.  Some reactions are catalogued and planned synthesis is introduced.

 

Physics 1 (H)

Prerequisites: Pre-Calculus (May be taken at same time)

Grades: 11-12

Length: Full Year

 

Physics is one of the physical sciences.  It is a study of matter, energy and how matter and energy are interrelated.  Topics examined include:  mechanics, sound, light, and electricity.

 

Special Materials:  TI-83+ Graphing Calculator

 

Physics  2 (Honors)

Prerequisites: Physics

Grades: 12

Length: Full Year

 

Advanced Physics is a special studies course that extends the principles and concepts learned in Physics.  Topics for the first semester include statics and dynamics with calculus.  The second semester examines diffraction gratings, the interaction of magnetism and electricity, and an introduction to graphic engineering.  This course is designed to be taken concurrent with Calculus.

 

Special Materials:  TI-83+ Graphing Calculator

Rounded Rectangle: M

METRO-EAST LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL

Home of the Knights

“The Lord has done great things for us and we are filled with joy! - Psalm 126:3