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Ms. Barkema, Ms. Beek, Ms. Diggins, Mr. Frese, Ms. Hipsley, Mr. Pietig, Mr. G. Schafer, Ms. J. Schafer, Ms. K. Schafer, Ms. Smith, Mr. Spies, Ms. Swann

Physical Science

Code:  6519-6520 (RAI Approved)

Credit:  1 credit

Elective/Required:  Required  9

Prerequisite:  None

Course Description: Physical Science is designed to explore the wonders and ways of our planet Earth.  The first semester covers units on motion, forces, sound, and plate tectonics.  The second semester includes units in astronomy, physics, weather and climate.  This course prepares students for the future science class work and daily life providing experiences in problem solving, use of science equipment, safety, and measuring skills.  

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

The students must be able to work independently, complete work on time, and cooperate with other students in lab groups.  They should have good oral and written communication skills.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Manipulate science equipment to develop measuring skills.

2. Interpret and apply concepts within earth science.

3. Utilize knowledge and skills from prior middle school Science classes.

4. Apply problem-solving skills to life experiences.

5. Select and utilize appropriate sources to collect information about the natural world.

Careers Related to Content

Geology, astronomy, meteorology, oceanography, chemistry, soil sciences, aerospace, physical sciences, environmental sciences, lab technology, and engineering

Biology

Code:  6521-6522  (RAI Approved) 

Credit:  1 credit

Elective/Required:  Required 10

Prerequisite:  None.  Students who have successfully passed Advanced Biology are not eligible for this course.  

Course Description: Biology is the study of living organisms.  Area of study includes lab skills, life processes, structure and function of cells, cell reproduction and genetics, and ecological relationships.

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

The student needs to be able to follow verbal and written instructions, read, take notes, express opinions and knowledge orally and in writing, and work in groups as well as independently.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Properly use a microscope and other lab equipment and techniques.

2. Recognize the characteristics of living things and understand the functions, growth, and reproduction of cells.

3. Explain how traits are passed on from generation to generation.

4. Understand the components of a food chain and food web, and the roles organisms play in nature.

Careers Related to Content

Life sciences, conservation, health occupations, agriculture, clinical lab services, landscaping, and garden/yard maintenance

Advanced Biology

Code:  6513-6514  (RAI Approved)

Credit:  1 credit

Elective/Required:  Required 10

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Physical Science or having scored in the Advanced Proficient level on the Iowa Assessments.  May not take if credit for Biology has already been received.

Course Description: Biology provides the study of life and the components which make it up, and control its functions.  Major areas of study will include: life characteristics, cells, DNA, genetics, photosynthesis, and ecology.  Students will have the opportunity to participate in many lab activities.  They will develop skills in listening, note taking, and organization of materials.  

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

Students should be able to read, listen, write, take notes, follow verbal and written instructions, work in groups as well as independently.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Properly use lab equipment.

2. Know the parts of a cell and their function.

3. Explain how traits are passed from parents to offspring and how diversity of organisms is important.

4. Understand ecological relationships.

5. Identify major characteristics of living things (animal, plants, fungi, protists, bacterial).

Careers Related to Content

Education, agriculture, lawn and garden service, health services/occupations, medical and clinical laboratory services, homemaker.  Required by most colleges and universities.

Applied Bio-Chemistry

Code:  6560-6561

Credit:  1 credit

Elective/Required:  Elective 11-12 (Satisfies 3rd year science graduation requirement)

Prerequisite:  None

Course Description: This one-year introductory course is designed to give a general overview of the study of molecules and their interactions. Introduction to Chemistry is an inquiry- based course that examines matter and the changes it undergoes.  Topics covered will give students a firm foundation for classes you may take later and for the chemistry you experience in everyday life. The course will attempt to give a deeper understanding of the scientific processes that go on around you and the interconnections among the sciences, technology, society, and the environment. This class will also aim to give reading and studying strategies to help students become a more effective reader, learner and thinker. 

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

Students should be prepared to participate in small groups, read chemistry text, work problems involving calculations, use safe laboratory techniques, express ideas in writing, and work effectively with a partner.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Understand the basic concepts of chemistry such as atoms, molecules, conservation, moles, and periodicity.

2. Understand the community and global nature of resources.

3. Use scientific knowledge and decision-making skills to discuss solutions to community and world resource problems.

4. Apply math skills and metric systems to solving of chemical, social, and environmental problems.

5. Develop responsibility, skill, and respect for the safe handling of chemicals.

6. Develop skills for collecting, analyzing, organizing, and interpreting information.

Careers Related to Content

Any vocation, education, para-medical, nursing, clinical and lab tech, environmental science

High School Chemistry

Code:  6529-6530  (RAI Approved)

Credit:  1 credit

Elective/Required:  Elective 11-12 (Satisfies 3rd year science graduation requirement)

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Algebra (Either Algebra 1 or Algebra 1A and 1B)

Course Description: High School Chemistry is an introductory course designed to explain the make-up of the world.  This course uses a blend of words with pictures to teach concepts.  The text is interesting and readable with many applications of chemistry to daily lives.  Students are asked to think about what they are learning and take responsibility for their learning.  Topics covered could include:  Matter and Energy, Structure of the Atom, Elements, Bonding, Chemical Equations, Gases, Solutions, the Mole, and Molarity.  NOTE: High School Science is designed to be a basic course and is adequate preparation for a general college chemistry class, but not strong college prep compared to General Chemistry I.  Students may enroll in General Chemistry I upon successful completion of this course.  State approved goggles are required.   

Course level changes will require the student receiving a D grade or lower in the semester prior AND a parent, teacher, student, counselor conference AND approval from science instructor.

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

Students should be able to read and understand text, solve problems in math terms, do safe laboratory work, work effectively with a partner or team, and use higher level thinking skills.

Learning Goals:  The student should be able to:

1. Understand the basic principles of chemistry.

2. Develop skill, responsibility, and respect for safe handling of chemicals.

3. Apply math skills and metric system to chemical problems.

4. Develop scientific and chemical literacy.

5. Develop skills for collecting, analyzing, organizing and interpreting information.

Careers Related to Content

Medical, engineering, nursing, clinical and lab tech, education, law, science

Pre-General Chemistry I

Code:  6533 (RAI Approved)

Credit:  ½ credit

Elective/Required:  Elective 11-12 (Satisfies 3rd year science graduation requirement)

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Algebra 1, Geometry, Physical Science, and a Biology course (Advanced Biology or Biology). Preferred grades in these courses of a C- or higher. Preferred if students are proficient according to Iowa Assessments. 

Course Description: General Chemistry I is an introductory, collegiate-level, course designed to explain the make-up of the world and applications of chemistry to daily lives. The material covered this semester will provide most of the basic tools that you will need to study both the qualitative and quantitative relationships involved in chemical changes. This course is a systematic study of the principles of inorganic chemistry with emphasis on scientific measurement, atomic structure, chemical bonding, nomenclature, stoichiometry, chemical reactions, and energy changes in chemical reactions. Primarily for students interested in STEM fields in college, such as chemistry, biology, engineering, pre-medicine, pre-veterinarian, pre-dental and others who need science-related background. 

• We will look at the atomic structure of matter and study the chemical (electrical) forces that hold the components of all matter together. 

• We will describe what qualitative and quantitative changes occur during chemical reactions. In other words, you will be able to predict what chemical transformations will occur when substances are mixed together, and you will be able to work out how much of these substances are involved in the reaction. 

• You will be able to predict the properties of elements and compounds through an understanding of the periodicity inherent in the physical and chemical properties of the elements. 

• This course is taken typically by people pursuing science-related majors in areas such as biology, chemistry, engineering, pre-veterinarian, pre-agriculture and pre-health 

NOTE: General Chemistry I is designed to be a strong college class requiring high cognitive thought processes in abstract concepts. State approved goggles are required. Course level changes will require the student receiving a D grade or lower in the semester prior AND a parent, teacher, student, counselor conference AND approval from science instructor. 

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

Students should be able to read and understand text, solve problems in math terms, do safe laboratory work, and use higher level thinking skills.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Understand the basic principles of chemistry.

2. Understand that theories are always changing.

3. Use correct word definitions, spelling, written expression, and mathematics.

4. Recognize the role of science and technology in the possible solution and creation of societal problems.

5. Participate in classroom activities which challenge the imagination.

6. Develop skills for collecting, analyzing, organizing, and interpreting data.

Careers Related to Content

Medical, engineering, nursing, clinical and lab tech, education, law, science (any field which is highly competitive)

General Chemistry I (Concurrent Course)      

Code:  6534 (RAI Approved)

Credit:  ½ credit MHS  

Elective/Required:  Elective 11-12 (Satisfies 3rd year science graduation requirement)

Prerequisite:  Proficiency in Iowa Assessments; Successful completion of Algebra 1, Geometry, Physical Science, and a Biology course (Advanced Biology or Biology). Preferred grades in these courses of a C- or higher.

Course Description: General Chemistry I is an introductory, collegiate-level, course designed to explain the make-up of the world and applications of chemistry to daily lives. The material covered this semester will provide most of the basic tools that you will need to study both the qualitative and quantitative relationships involved in chemical changes. This course is a systematic study of the principles of inorganic chemistry with emphasis on scientific measurement, atomic structure, chemical bonding, nomenclature, stoichiometry, chemical reactions, and energy changes in chemical reactions. Primarily for students interested in stem fields in college, such as chemistry, biology, engineering, pre-medicine, pre-veterinarian, pre-dental and others who need science-related background. 

• We will look at the atomic structure of matter and study the chemical (electrical) forces that hold the components of all matter together. 

• We will describe what qualitative and quantitative changes occur during chemical reactions. In other words, you will be able to predict what chemical transformations will occur when substances are mixed together, and you will be able to work out how much of these substances are involved in the reaction. 

• You will be able to predict the properties of elements and compounds through an understanding of the periodicity inherent in the physical and chemical properties of the elements. 

• This course is taken typically by people pursuing science-related majors in areas such as biology, chemistry, engineering, pre-veterinarian, pre-agriculture and pre-health 

NOTE: General Chemistry I is designed to be a strong college class requiring high cognitive thought processes in abstract concepts. State approved goggles are required. Course level changes will require the student receiving a D grade or lower in the semester prior AND a parent, teacher, student, counselor conference AND approval from science instructor.

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

Students should be able to read and understand text, solve problems in math terms, do safe laboratory work, and use higher level thinking skills.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Understand the basic principles of chemistry.

2. Understand that theories are always changing.

3. Use correct word definitions, spelling, written expression, and mathematics.

4. Recognize the role of science and technology in the possible solution and creation of societal problems.

5. Participate in classroom activities which challenge the imagination.

6. Develop skills for collecting, analyzing, organizing, and interpreting data.

Careers Related to Content

Medical, engineering, nursing, clinical and lab tech, education, law, science (any field which is highly competitive)

Astronomy

Code:   6570

Credit: 1/2 credit

Elective/Required:  Elective 10-12  (This course DOES NOT satisfy 3rd year science graduation requirement)

Prerequisite:  Completion of Physical Science and Algebra IA

Course Description: This class is designed to provide a non-technical overview of basic astronomy topics.  The emphasis is on exploration and creativity.    The topics addressed are:  the size and scale of our solar system, galaxy, and universe; our Sun and our Moon;  the constellations in our sky; both ancient and modern astronomers; how stars burn fuel; the methods scientists use to study distant stars; the birth, life, and death of stars;  the planets within our own solar system; space exploration missions and the search for extraterrestrial life.

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

Students are expected to express ideas in written, visual and oral form, to have appropriate skills for group interaction and good listening skills.   The math used is on a level with Algebra I.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Learn the history of astronomy and impact on our measure of time.

2.  Examine the solar system and objects in the Milky Way Galaxy.

3. Explore stellar life cycles.

Careers Related to Content

aerospace engineer, analyst, astronomer, astrophysicist, climatologist, chemical engineer, computer systems analyst, data analyst, design engineer, educator outside the classroom (such as museum education)

Unified Science-Forensic Science (Crime Scene Investigations)

Code:  6553-6554

Credit: 1 credit

Elective/Required:  Elective 11-12  (This course DOES NOT satisfy 3rd year science graduation requirement)

Prerequisite:  Any MHS Chemistry course 

Course Description: A course designed to allow students to explore the basic concepts of physical science through the exploration of Forensic Science (Crime Scene Investigation). Students will be introduced to the history and nature of science.  The course includes an introduction to the fundamental concepts of physics, chemistry, and earth science.  Students will be encouraged to explore the relationship between science and problem solving by applying the forensic science.

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

The student needs to be able to follow verbal and written instructions, read, take notes, and work in groups as well as independently.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Understand some basic concepts of chemistry.

2. Understand some basic concepts of physics.

3. Apply some concepts of earth science to solve problems from activities.

4. Apply math skills and metric system to problem solving.

5. Collect, evaluate, apply and communicate information from activities.

Careers Related to Content

Many careers in science, medical, chemistry, clinical and lab technician, and criminal justice

General Chemistry II (Concurrent Course)

Code:  6549 (RAI Approved)

Credit:  ½ credit 

Elective/Required:  Elective 12 (Satisfies 3rd year science graduation requirement)

Prerequisite:  Proficiency in Iowa Assessments; Successful completion of General Chemistry I

Course Description: General Chemistry II provides in-depth mathematical treatment of some of the concepts from their introductory chemistry course such as acid-base, physical chemistry, oxidation-reduction, nuclear, analytical, quantitative, and descriptive chemistry.  Students who expect to take engineering-type chemistry courses or major in chemistry in their post secondary work should consider electing General Chemistry II.  A student completing General Chemistry II is awarded 4 college credits. General Chemistry II is offered first semester only.  State approved goggles are required. 

Course level changes are only allowed if the student receiving a D grade or lower in the semester prior has a parent, teacher, student, counselor conference AND approval from science instructor.

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

Students should confer with teacher of his/her General Chemistry I class.  Students should be able to handle complex math calculations and detailed and accurate lab work.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Reinforce basic concepts from the introductory chemistry course.

2. Develop superior lab technique with both accuracy and precision.

3. Apply advanced math principles and skills to the solution of chemical problems.

4. Develop confidence in future study of any complex professional field.

5. Appreciate the application of chemistry to environmental problems.

Careers Related to Content

Chemistry, engineering, medicine, research, professional careers that are highly competitive, science

Geology

Code:   6574

Credit: 1/2 credit

Elective/Required:  Elective 10-12  (This course DOES NOT satisfy 3rd year science graduation requirement)

Prerequisite: Completion of Physical Science  

Course Description: Students will use their prior knowledge of plate tectonics to examine some of North America’s geological features and places. Topics to be included are the Rocky Mountains, North America’s volcanoes, the Mississippi river, Glacier National Park, Appalachian Mountains, the Great Lakes. There will also be a unit devoted to Iowa’s geological past.  Students will be able to explain how plate tectonics has played a role in the development and the shaping of these places in North America.

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Use prior knowledge of the rock cycle as evidence of the geologic past of North America.

2. Understand real practices and studies in geology. 

3. Create interest Earth’s (North America specifically) geologic past.

4. Build interest in these natural places in North America so that students can make informed decisions about their value in our society. 

Careers Related to Content

Engineering geologist, Geochemist,  Geophysicist, Geoscientist, Hydrogeologist, Mudlogger,  Wellsite geologist

Organic Chemistry

Code:  6550 (RAI Approved)

Credit:  ½ credit

Elective/Required:  Elective 12

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of General Chemistry II

Course Description: Organic chemistry is a study of the structure of matter which is usually found in living things.  The course work will be mostly traditional including tests, labs with write-up, and class lecture-discussions including current topics.

Goggles are mandatory.

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

Students should be able to read and understand reaction mechanisms, imagine three dimensional molecules on a singular plane and during a reaction, use safe laboratory practices, and use higher level thinking skills. 

Course level changes are only allowed if the student receiving a D grade or lower in the semester prior has a parent, teacher, student, counselor conference AND approval from science instructor.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Identify by name, structure, and characteristic the different families of organic compounds and organic functional groups.

2. Recognize general trends in organic chemistry.

3. Acquire a general understanding of such concepts as stereo-chemistry, Lewis acids and bases, rate and equilibrium, reaction mechanism, etc.

4. Experience the synthesis of several organic compounds, recognize possibilities of side reactions, and the processes of purification of the desired product.

5. Develop a healthy respect for and need of laboratory safety.

Careers Related to Content

Human medicine, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, life sciences, dentistry, nursing, agriculture, home economics

Physics

Code:  6545-6546 (RAI Approved)

Credit: 1 credit

Elective/Required:  Elective 12 

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Earth Science, Biology, and 3rd year science course.  Successful completion of Algebra II

Course Description: As a year long course, Physics is for the individual who is interested in advanced problem solving in the areas of mechanics, optics, relativity, electricity, light, sound, astronomy, quantum mechanics, and aeronautics.  Engineering projects related to life skills are spread throughout the year.  

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

Students must have a strong science and math background and be able to apply this to challenging problem solving.  Students should be able to communicate and work effectively with others.  Advance interpretation and higher thinking skills will also help ensure success in Physics.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Describe motion and apply the laws which explain and govern it.

2. Graphically analyze motion including the use of vectors.

3. Describe the relationships between matter and energy and their conservation.

4. Solve advanced problems in electricity, light, sound, optics, quantum mechanics, relativity, astronomy, and aeronautics.

5. Collect, evaluate, apply, and effectively communicate information from experiments and activities.

Careers Related to Content

Computer related fields, engineers of all types, medical, telecommunications, musicians, air traffic controllers, radar and aviation, surveyors and any career which requires problem solving

Advanced Placement (AP) Physics

Code:  6547-6548 (RAI Approved)

Credit: 1 credit

Elective/Required:  Elective 12 (Satisfies 3rd year science graduation requirement)

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Pre-calculus, Calculus, Earth Science, Biology, and co-enrolled or completed 3rd year science course.  

Course Description: Advanced Placement Physics is an online course designed to prepare students to take the AP Physics Exam.  Students are asked to think about what they are learning and take responsibility for their learning and develop an appreciation of the physics world and the discipline of physics through curiosity, creativity, and reasoned skepticism. The course promotes a broad physics knowledge base, problem solving, and making connections of physics to other disciplines and societal issues.  

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

Students should be able to read and understand text, solve problems in math terms, do safe laboratory work, use higher level thinking skills, exhibit good time management skills, and work independently in an on-line environment.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Read, understand, and interpret physical information – verbal, mathematical, and graphical.

2. Describe and explain the sequence of steps in the analysis of a particular physical phenomenon or problem.

3. Use basic mathematical reasoning – arithmetic, algebraic, geometric, trigonometric where appropriate in a physical situation or problem.

4. Perform experiments and interpret the results of observations, including making an assessment of experimental uncertainties.

Careers Related to Content

Medical, engineering, clinical and lab tech, education, law, science (any field which is highly competitive)

Pre-college Physics 

Code: 6564

Credit: 1/2 credit 

Elective/Required: Elective 11/12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Physics and Calculus or instructor approval

Course Description: Pre-college physics is a preparation course for College Physics.  

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

Students should be able to read and understand text, solve problems in math terms, do safe laboratory work, use higher level thinking skills, exhibit good time management skills, and work independently in an on-line environment.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Read, understand, and interpret physical information – verbal, mathematical, and graphical.

2. Describe and explain the sequence of steps in the analysis of a particular physical phenomenon or problem.

3. Use basic mathematical reasoning – arithmetic, algebraic, geometric, trigonometric where appropriate in a physical situation or problem.

College Physics (concurrent course)

Code: 6565

Credit: 1/2 credit 

Elective/Required: Elective 11/12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Pre-College Physics

Course Description: This course is for students planning to major in science.  A background in Calculus (or concurrent enrollment in Calculus) is required for these studies in Newtonian mechanics, properties of matter, and waves.  

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

Students should be able to read and understand text, solve problems in math terms, do safe laboratory work, use higher level thinking skills, exhibit good time management skills, and work independently in an on-line environment.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Read, understand, and interpret physical information – verbal, mathematical, and graphical.

2. Describe and explain the sequence of steps in the analysis of a particular physical phenomenon or problem.

3. Use basic mathematical reasoning – arithmetic, algebraic, geometric, trigonometric where appropriate in a physical situation or problem.

4. Perform experiments and interpret the results of observations, including making an assessment of experimental uncertainties.

Anatomy (Human)

Code:  6517  (RAI Approved)

Credit:  ½ credit

Elective/Required:  Elective 11-12

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Biology or instructor’s approval

Course Description: Anatomy is a course for the individual interested in learning the anatomy and physiology of the human. 

Skills Needed to be Successful in the Class

The student should be able to read, take notes, express opinions and knowledge in writing and orally, work in small and large groups as well as independently.

Learning Goals:  The student will be able to:

1. Describe the structure and function of the major systems of the body.

2. Understand how to maintain a healthy body.

Careers Related to Content

Life sciences, medicine, clinical laboratory services, and health occupation services