SCIENCE

Graduation Requirement = 20 Credit Hours

 

Course Offerings:

 

Physical Science 9

Advanced Physical Science 9

Physical Science 10

Biology

Honors Biology

Advanced Biology

Chemistry

Honors Chemistry

Physics

 



Course Descriptions:

 

Course Title:                Physical Science                     Recommended for:  Grade 9

Course Length:           Year

Credits:                       10

Prerequisite:                None

College Prep:               Yes

 

The first semester will examine the essential aspects of chemistry.  Students will explore the following topics:  metric measurements, matter, atoms, elements, compounds, the Periodic Table, chemical reactions, acids and bases, and radioactivity.

During the second semester, students will be exposed to the fundamental concepts of physics.  The primary areas of study will focus on motion, forces, and energy.  Specific topics may include velocity, momentum, and Newton’s Laws (motion, work, power, simple machines, and various forms of energy including electricity, light, and sound.)

In addition, students will be expected to maintain an awareness of current science events in the news.  Student performance will be assessed formally by evaluating daily work, tests, reports, and projects.  Informal assessment will also occur in which behavior, organizational skills, communication skills, etc. will be evaluated.

 



Course Title:                Advanced Physical Science              Recommended for:  Grade 9

Course Length:           Year

Credits:                       10

Prerequisite:                8th grade science

College Prep:               Yes

 

The purpose of this class is to challenge those students who have an aptitude for science.  It is strongly recommended that students enroll in Advanced English concurrently due to planned efforts to team teach and have both classes work together whenever possible.  The curriculum for APS is designed to meet the current academic standards for Nebraska schools.  Students enrolled in this class must be highly motivated and willing to participate.

 



Course Title:                Physical Science 10                Recommended for:  Grade 10, 11

Course Length:           Year

Credits:                       10

Prerequisite:                None

College Prep:               Yes

 

This is an introductory course to chemistry, biology, and physics concepts.  Chemistry concepts include measurement, atomic theory, chemical reactions, acid/base  reactions, and nuclear energy.  The physics concepts include motion and energy concepts, as well as optics, electricity, and magnetism.

 



Course Title:                Biology                                   Recommended for:  Grade 10, 11, 12

Course Length:           Year

Credits:                       10

Prerequisite:                Physical Science

College Prep:               Yes

 

This course is a general overview of the life sciences.  It covers the fundamental concepts and theories that govern biology.  Classroom activities involve lecture, discussion, and laboratories (including dissection of various invertebrates and vertebrates).

 



Course Title:                Honors Biology                      Recommended for: Grade 10, 11, 12

Course Length:           Year

Credits:                       10

Prerequisite:                Physical Science grade of 90% +, or teacher approval

College Prep:               Yes

 

This course is a general overview of the life sciences It covers the fundamental concepts and theories that govern biology.  Classroom activities involve lecture, discussion, and laboratories (including dissection of various invertebrates and vertebrates).  This course is more in depth than Biology.  It is intended for students that are self-motivated and have a love for learning.

 



Course Title:                Advanced Biology                 Recommended for:  Grades 11, 12

Course Length:           Year

Credits:                       10

Prerequisite:                Biology grade of 80% +, or teacher approval

College Prep:               Yes

 

This course if a college preparatory class for students wishing to take a higher level of science.  The course goes into further detail of the biological sciences using the human body as a model.  Students considering a career in science or health-related occupations are encouraged to take this class.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Course Title:                Chemistry                  Recommended for:  Grades 11, 12

Course Length:           Year

Credits:                       10

Prerequisite:                Algebra I and Biology with grades of 80% +, or teacher approval

College Prep:               Yes

 

This class provides students with the necessary background in modern chemistry for their specialized studies and explores how chemistry provides the basis for much of what goes on in our world.  Students will also be introduced to many types of laboratory experiments.

 



Course Title:                Honors Chemistry     Recommended for:  Grades 11, 12

Course Length:           Year

Credits:                       10

Prerequisite:                Biology grade of 90% +, or teacher approval

College Prep:               Yes

 

This class provides students with the necessary background in modern chemistry for their specialized studies and explores how chemistry provides the basis for much of what goes on in our world.  Students will also be introduced to many types of laboratory experiments.

 



Course Title:                Physics            Recommended for:  Grades 11, 12

Course Length:           Year

Credits:                       10

Prerequisite:                Algebra II/Trigonometry and Pre-Calculus (or currently enrolled)

College Prep:               Yes

 

This course will introduce students to some of the elementary concepts in physics.  The course will include classical mechanics, energy concepts, electricity, optics (light and sound) and magnetism.  The students will perform fundamental lab operations.  The physical world is mathematical in nature; hence the mathematical requirements above are encouraged.  Chemistry is also highly recommended.