Students must take three full credits of science during their high school career. A half credit of Health is required by state regulations. Honors level will include additional reading assignments, projects, test questions, and required participation on the Towle Science Olympiad team or Science Fair (part-time students are not allowed to be on our Science Olympiad team).
Chemistry – one credit
Prerequisite: Physical Science and C or higher in Algebra I or Integrated Math I
Text: CK-12Chemistry – Intermediate, (online text)
Chemistry is a mathematically-oriented class designed for those students who would like to take chemistry in preparation for science classes at the college level. This course includes nomenclature, theoretical topics of atomic and molecular structure as well as bonding, solutions equilibrium, oxidation-reduction. The laboratory is an integral part of every topic. Students are expected to conduct experiments using lab equipment and submit regular lab reports. Scientific calculator required. Course may be taken at College Prep or Honors level.
Biology – one credit
Text: Science Shepherd Biology, Scott Hardin
This course provides a general understanding of life processes. Basics of the classification system; overview of each of the six kingdoms and some specifics of various phylum, classes and orders; simple chemistry; cell biology including cellular reproduction and genetics; evolution vs. creation; botany; and zoology will be covered. Additional topics include an introduction to various systems of the human body such as the digestive, respiratory, circulatory, skeletal, and muscular systems. This course requires a great deal of vocabulary memorization. Monthly labs and occasional field trips are also required. This course may be taken at College Prep or Honors level.
Anatomy and Physiology – one credit
Prerequisite: C or higher in Chemistry and Biology
Text: The Human Body, Fearfully and Wonderfully Made!, Dr. Jay Wile and Marilyn M. Shannon, M.A.
Coloring Book: Kaplan Medical’s Anatomy Coloring Book , Stephanie McCann, Eric Wise (consumable)
This course provides a general understanding of the various systems of the human body. The basic human anatomy, histology, and physiology of the following systems are covered: Integumentary and Skeletal, Muscular, Nervous, Endocrine, Circulatory, Lymphatic, Digestive, Respiratory, Urinary, and Excretory Systems. Weekly homework will include coloring book pages (which are part of the student’s lab grade). Monthly labs and occasional field trips will be required. Labs consist mostly of microscope work and dissections (sheep’s eye, cow’s heart, and a fetal pig). (When Health lab is offered during even numbered graduating years, CPR lab is offered.)
Physics – one credit
Prerequisite: C or higher in College Prep Physical Science and C or higher in College Prep Chemistry, or Department Head approval. Completion of Algebra II with C or higher.
Text: Conceptual Physics, Paul G. Hewitt, Addison-Wesley
Physics is the search for understanding the relationships between energy and matter. The student is equipped with the fundamental knowledge, philosophy and skills needed to accurately explore and describe these relationships. Although lengthy excursions into engineering are avoided, the student should develop the habit of searching out applications of physical law. Laboratory experience is geared toward developing inquiry and problem-solving skills. Topics of study include: kinetics, dynamics, waves, heat, sound, light and electricity. Course may be taken at College Prep or Honors level.
