Science Courses

Biology is a course to better understand the concepts concerning the processes necessary for life, as well as the development of organisms and their relationships with their environment. This course in basic biological principles will explore the nature of science, biochemistry, the structure and function of cells, classification of living things, genetics, ecology, and human body systems.

Topics will be explored in a hands-on, guided inquiry approach using problem solving skills and technology. Laboratory activities emphasize and investigate the topics covered in the course. All freshmen participate in the Kansas City Invention Convention (KCIC) is a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Invention competition. Teams will propose a solution to a real problem in your community and compete for State, Regional and National Awards. This course (unless placed in Advanced Biology) is required for all incoming freshmen.

Prerequisites: Placement based on grades and assessments
Grade: 9
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

An in-depth approach is taken in studying concepts of biology on a cellular and molecular level. Topics of study will include but not be limited to: energy, classification, cell structure, heredity, photosynthesis, respiration, and reproduction. Topics will be explored using the “Flipped Classroom”, a hands-on approach emphasizing the scientific method. In addition to strong technology skills, students are expected to demonstrate self-motivated learning skills. All freshmen participate in the Kansas City Invention Convention (KCIC) is a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Invention competition. Teams will propose a solution to a real problem in your community and compete for State, Regional and National Awards.

In this course students will investigate the properties and relationships of materials to learn about their bonding, and explore the relationships between structure and properties in all classes of solids including: metals, ceramics, polymers and composites. Students will also explore the connection of these materials and how they are used in everyday structures, objects and technologies. Topics of study will include but not be limited to: measurement, atomic structure, chemical and physical composition, crystal structures and properties of the classes of solids. Topics will be explored in a hands-on, lab based approach. Learning will involve working in small groups, writing as a means of learning, participating in activities, and using a large variety of written resources including current event articles. Projects vary in depth and scope.

This course will explore the science of forensics. Students will be introduced to vocabulary through the “Flipped Classroom” approach and laboratory procedures used in crime scene analysis. Students will perform a variety of modified forensic techniques. The focus of this course will be investigating trace evidence from simulated crime scenes as students learn to develop their observation skills and use deductive reasoning in order to draw evidence-based conclusions. Topics which may be included in the crime scene investigations are fiber comparison, hair analysis, blood type analysis (serology), latent fingerprints, and powder chromatography. Once students have completed the hands-on, clue-developed units, they will work collaboratively using the techniques learned to write and produce a CSI video.

Prerequisites: None
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Course Length: One semester
Credit: One-half science credit

This course will explore the science of forensics. Students will be introduced to vocabulary through the “Flipped Classroom” approach and laboratory procedures used in crime scene analysis. Students will perform a variety of modified forensic techniques. The focus of this course will be investigating trace evidence from simulated crime scenes. Topics may include glass analysis, environmental forensics (soil & water contamination), bite marks, document analysis, electrophoresis (DNA analysis), entomology, and toxicology. In addition to the labs, students will research possible careers in the field of forensic science. The final project for the course entails students researching and presenting a True Crime.

Note: Forensic Biology I is not required for this course.

Prerequisites: None
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Course Length: One semester
Credit: One-half science credit

This course deals with basic concepts of atomic structure, periodic table, formula writing, balancing equations, bonding, mole concept, solutions and gas laws. Laboratory techniques and quantitative analysis will be introduced and practiced throughout the course.

Prerequisites: 85% in Algebra I or completion of Geometry
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

This course deals with more in depth concepts of atomic structure, periodic table, formula writing, balancing equations, bonding, mole concept, solutions and gas laws. Laboratory work will emphasize techniques of qualitative and quantitative analysis.

Prerequisites: 90% in Algebra I or 85% in Advanced Algebra I
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

Students in Physics study motion, Newton’s Laws, vectors, conservation of energy and momentum, waves, sound, light and electricity using both a mathematical and a laboratory approach. Students will incorporate scientific methods, problem solving skills and technology to conduct experiments, collect and interpret data and write laboratory reports. A summer math review assignment will be due the first day of school.

Prerequisites: Completion of or concurrently enrolled in Algebra II or higher level math course.
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

This course includes embedded scientific and engineering practices. Engaging in the practices of science and engineering helps students understand how scientific knowledge develops. The engineering design practices are an application of the science content while trying to solve a problem or design an object, tool, process, or system. These scientific and engineering practices are critical to physics instruction.

Prerequisites: 90% cumulative GPA and completion of or concurrently enrolled in Algebra II
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

In this course, students will explore the inner workings of the human body. Students will use an online learning platform to perform digital dissections using augmented reality as they study the structure and function of organ systems in humans and will complete a series of projects to cover: Histology of the Body, the Integumentary System, Skeletal System, Muscular System, and the Nervous System.

Prerequisites: Biology or Advanced Biology
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One semester
Credit: One-half credit

Anatomy and Physiology II is a semester-long course that will build on topics learned in A&P I. Students will continue to explore the inner workings of the human body as they explore organ systems including: Cardiovascular, Digestive, Respiratory, Endocrine, and Reproductive.

Prerequisites: Anatomy & Physiology I
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One semester
Credit: One-half credit

AP Biology is an introductory college-level biology course. This course prepares students for advanced work in STEM majors. Students cultivate their understanding of biology through inquiry-based investigations as they explore topics like evolution, energetics, information storage and transfer, and system interactions. In addition to learning concepts in biology, students practice critical thinking and problem-solving. Students will propose and test hypotheses, collect and analyze data, represent data visually, and practice written and oral scientific communication skills.

Prerequisites: 92% cumulative GPA
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit
Option: AP Exam (additional fee) or Dual Enrollment (87% cumulative GPA and additional fee)

AP Chemistry is course designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first two semesters in college. The goal is that students will take the AP Exam and receive college credit or placement at the student’s college of choice. Students are then prepared to undertake second-year work in the chemistry sequence at their institution, or simply take other course for which general chemistry is a prerequisite. The course is structured around the big ideas and science practices outlined in the AP Chemistry framework provided by the College Board. There will also be an emphasis on essential lab skills and critical thinking as it applies to scientific issues in the world. AP Chemistry is open to all students that have completed a year of chemistry and want to take part in a rigorous and academically challenging course.

Prerequisites: 92% cumulative GPA
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

In this course, students will explore scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. Students will identify, analyze, and evaluate environmental problems, and will examine alternative solutions for resolving and preventing these problems. Topics covered include: Earth Systems and Resources, Ecosystems, Energy Flow, Population Biology, Land Use, Energy Consumption and Conservation, and Pollution. All topics covered will be supported with various laboratory experiments, case studies, and project based learning. It is highly encouraged that students take the AP Exam in May.

Prerequisites: 92% cumulative GPA
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit