Staples High School--Info--Course Descriptions--

SCIENCE

Typical Science Sequence:

9^th Grade 10^th Grade 11^th Grade 12^th Grade

Earth Science Biology or Chemistry or Physics or

Biology Honors or Chemistry Honors or Chemistry or

Life Science Physical Science ½ Electives

Biology Chemistry Physics A.P. Science

or or or or

Biology Honors Chemistry Honors Electives Electives

Science Research Science Research Science Research

Semester Electives Full Year Electives

Aerospace (2003-04) Anatomy & Physiology

Biotechnology Astronomy (2004-05)

Environmental Studies A.P. Biology

Horticulture A.P. Chemistry

Marine Biology A.P. Physics B or C

A.P. Environmental Science (2004-05)

BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

LIFE SCIENCE (152) 1 credit

Prerequisite: Earth Science Full year

An alternative to Biology, Life Science includes such topics as genetics and human heredity, laws of probability, microscopy and measurement, cell structure and function, nucleic acids and the genetic code, organic compounds, taxonomy, genetic engineering, evolution and natural selection, human evolution, diet and activities studies, human anatomy and physiology (including the digestive, respiratory, circulatory and excretory systems) and botany. The class also incorporates C.A.P.T. preparation activities. From an examination of microscopic life to recent developments in genetic engineering, this course presents concepts in ways relevant to the student’s everyday life and includes an extended lab period. Evaluation is based on work, tests, quizzes, lab reports, class participation, special projects, homework, and a variety of activities.

BIOLOGY (154) 1 credit

Prerequisite: Earth Science or teacher recommendation Full year

This introductory course in Biology is more demanding than Life Science. Regular lab experimentation uses the scientific method and incorporates C.A.P.T. preparation. The focus is on such topics as biochemistry (organic molecules, photosynthesis, respiration, DNA and protein synthesis), cellular biology, evolution, genetics, ecology, the 5 kingdoms of living organisms (with major emphasis placed on the structure and function of both plant and animal systems), human body systems, and bioethics. Evaluation is based on laboratory experimentation and reports, tests and quizzes, homework, library and/or Internet research, other computer-related work, and class participation.

BIOLOGY HONORS (156) 1 credit

Prerequisite: Earth Science, teacher recommendation Full year

Concepts studied in Biology will be approached in greater depth, and in a manner that necessitates more student independence. Regular lab experimentation uses the scientific method and incorporates C.A.P.T. and SAT II achievement test preparation. This course will focus on such topics as biochemistry (organic molecules, photosynthesis, respiration, DNA and protein synthesis), cellular biology, evolution, genetics, ecology, the 5 kingdoms of living organisms (with major emphasis placed on the structure and function of both plant and animal systems), human body systems, and bioethics. Evaluation is based on laboratory experimentation and reports, tests and quizzes, homework, projects, library and/or Internet research, other computer-related work, and class participation.

ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES (157,158) 1/2 credit

Open to Juniors and Seniors Either semester

This course is designed for students with an interest in environmental issues. Utilizing field experiences that will focus on both scientific and social issues, students will study local habitats such as estuaries, marshlands, fields, woodlands, wetlands, and seashores. A journal will be kept for the collection of data. Using class and field experiences, students will explore past, present and future use of a particular habitat. Political and environmental factors regarding land use are explored as well as anticipated impact on the environment. Participation in the mandatory field experiences requires that students carry the school insurance. The course will run for two consecutive periods, being team taught by a Science and a Social Studies teacher.

HORTICULTURE (159,160) 1/2 credit

Prerequisite: One full year of Biological Science Either semester

This course is designed for students with an interest in the care and management of a greenhouse as well as home gardening. The Staples greenhouse will be used as an active laboratory to help students discover the many variables that affect plant growth (soil, light, temperature, fertilizer, etc.). Students will grow a variety of annuals (impatiens, petunias, marigolds, and geraniums) for use on the school grounds. Techniques such as pruning, preparing cuttings, transplanting and sowing of seeds will also be taught.

BIOTECHNOLOGY (161,162) 1/2 credit

Prerequisite: One full year of Biological Science and Chemistry Either semester

This course is designed for students interested in molecular genetics and biotechnology. Using the biochemistry of DNA, RNA, and proteins, students will learn the basic tools and technique of biotechnology. DNA Restriction analysis, Bacterial Transformation and Plasmid Purification, Protein Electrophoresis and Polymerase Chain Reaction will be the basis of laboratory experiments. Students will study human genetics as well as applications of biotechnology and the ethical issues relating to this science.

ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY (164) 1 credit

Prerequisite: One full year of Biological Science Full year

Anatomy and Physiology is a hands-on elective laboratory course which continues where Biology left off; it is designed for students who wish to delve further into the structure and function of human cells, tissues, and organ systems. In addition, such topics as human fetal development, human and mammalian evolution, and disease will also be heavily explored; special emphasis will be placed on such medical topics as diagnosis, treatment, surgical techniques, holistic medicine, forensic medicine, bioethics, and ethnobotany. Detailed dissection of both cats and fetal pigs is a required part of this course. Student evaluation will be based on both traditional and lab-practicum examinations, laboratory investigations, homework, participation, research papers, Internet research and other computer projects, oral presentations, dramatizations, drawing, and other forms of model making.

MARINE BIOLOGY (165,166) 1/2 credit

Prerequisite: One full year of Biological Science and Chemistry Either semester

This elective includes the study of the kinds and distributions of marine organisms. Emphasis is placed on the biological features of the oceans, organism-habitat relationships, and general ecological concepts influencing marine populations and communities. Topics will include learning the ecological relationship between flora and fauna, realizing the chemical influences which affect marine organisms, identification of popular species of plants and animals, monitoring water conditions in the field and in the lab, and using examination and dissection tools and techniques. A dog fish shark dissection is a required part of this course. Evaluation will be based on lab reports, field journals and reports, written quizzes and tests, research presentations, oral reports, and participation.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT BIOLOGY (168) 1 credit

Prerequisite: Completion of Chemistry and Biology Full year

Guideline: Completion of Bio. with at least an A- or Biology Honors with at least a B- and teacher recommendation

This course is designed for academically talented students wishing to acquire a high level of understanding and skill development in a university level biology class. It is expected that students taking this course will take the Advanced Placement examination given in mid-May by the College Board. Students will be responsible for the content of extensive study guides and reading material. Class time shall be devoted to illustrating major principles and concepts in content areas. Topics studied will highlight cell energetics, photosynthesis, genetics, evolution, ecology, plant biology, the prokaryotes, protista, fungi, the invertebrates and vertebrates. Evaluation will be based on tests, research, essays and labs. Students entering are expected to have completed a summer assignment.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE (Not offered 2003-04) 1 credit

Prerequisite: Completion of Chemistry and Biology Full year

Guideline: Completion of Bio. with at least an A- or Bio. Hnrs. with at least a B- and teacher recommendation

The goal of the AP Environmental Science course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or \

preventing them. It is expected that students taking this course will take the Advanced Placement examination given in mid-May by the College Board. To be offered in 2004-05.

AUTHENTIC SCIENCE RESEARCH (172) 1 credit

Prerequisite: One year high school science and teacher recommendation Full year

This elective involves a three-year commitment to an independent science research program. In the first year, students are introduced to research and the use of the scientific method, statistics, types of investigations, and basic laboratory techniques. Students begin to research a topic of their own choosing and conduct an exhaustive review of the literature available on the topic. Students communicate with authors of scientific journal articles and propose a research hypothesis and experimental design. In the second year of the program, students will conduct their own research, gather and statistically analyze their data and report their findings to the scientific community. Students will enter local, state and national science competitions during their third year in the program and seek publication in a refereed journal. Students will be assessed on and will self-assess their oral presentations, portfolios and written reports.

CHEMISTRY

PHYSICAL SCIENCE 1 (173) 1/2 credit

Prerequisite: Earth Science, Life Science First semester

This semester course provides an introduction to basic chemistry. The focus is on the relationship between energy and its “frozen” counter-part, matter. First semester topics include density, matter, atomic structure, chemical bonding, the Periodic Table, radioactivity and nuclear energy, among others. The course includes an extended lab period. Evaluation is based on lab experiments, tests and quizzes, projects, class participation, homework and a variety of activities.

CHEMISTRY (176) 1 credit

Prerequisite: One full year of Biological Science and enrollment in Geometry Full year

This course describes the nature of matter in terms of molecular behavior. Students will find mathematics and language arts skills useful for this course. Major topics include atomic structure, periodic table, chemical bonding and reactions, chemical calculations including stoichiometry, thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibrium, gas laws, solids, liquids, solutions, acids and bases, electrochemistry, and some organic and nuclear chemistry. Three periods a week are spent in the classroom and one extended period in the laboratory. Evaluation is based on written tests, quizzes, laboratory reports, special projects, and homework.

CHEMISTRY HONORS (178) 1 credit

Prerequisite: One full year of Biological Science, enrollment in Geometry, Full year

teacher recommendation

This course is for those students who excelled in Biology and Honors Biology. Concepts studied in Chemistry will be approached in greater depth, and in a manner that necessitates more student independence. Students will find mathematics and language arts skills useful for this course. Major topics include atomic structure, periodic table, chemical bonding and reactions, chemical calculations including stoichiometry, thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibrium, gas laws, solids, liquids, solutions, acids and bases, electrochemistry, and some organic and nuclear chemistry. Three periods a week are spent in the classroom and one extended period in the laboratory. Evaluation is based on written tests, quizzes, laboratory reports, research projects, and homework.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY (180) 1 credit

Prerequisite: Completion of Chemistry or Chemistry Honors and enrollment in both Physics and Pre-Calculus Full year

Guideline: Completion of Chem. with at least an A- or Chem. Hnrs. with at least a B- and

teacher recommendation

This course is designed (1) to prepare students for the AP examination (given in mid-May) that entitles those who do well on it to a semester or year credit in most colleges, and (2) for science majors such as pre-engineering, pre-medicine, or chemistry. This course expands on first year Chemistry concepts with emphasis on modern bonding theories, various equilibria, electrochemistry, chemical thermodynamics, kinetics, and some organic and nuclear chemistry. Students must have demonstrated a high degree of competency in mathematics, and must have the self-discipline to put in many hours each week for studies outside of class. It is expected that students taking this course will take the Advanced Placement examination given in mid-May by the College Board.

EARTH SCIENCES

EARTH SCIENCE (182) 1 credit

Full year

Earth science provides the base for the other major sciences. Students study Earth in the framework of the entire universe, including, most specifically, Earth’s relationships between the Sun and the Moon, as well as asteroids and comets. Students study how activity in Earth’s interior produces movement in its crust, causing volcanoes, earthquakes, and the building of mountains. Students study the importance of water, its sources, and its vulnerability to pollution. Students study how the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere interrelate, producing, for example, climate changes and extinctions of organisms. Specific attention is paid to Connecticut’s geological history and its present commercial use of mineral resources, as well as Connecticut’s water use and problems. Evaluation is based on class participation, lab work, computer projects, homework and tests.

ASTRONOMY ( Not Offered 2003-2004) 1 credit

Prerequisite: Completion or current enrollment in Algebra 2 and Chemistry Full year

This is a survey course of astronomy. Students visit the Rolnick Observatory several times each semester. Observations include constellations, prominent stars, planets and Messier objects. (Students arrange their own transportation.) Also studied throughout the year are current astronomical events and research using NASA memos, Sky and Telescope magazine, Astronomy magazine, The New York Times, and the Internet.

In addition, there is an in-depth study of space measurements, celestial navigation, star systems, and the life cycles of stars from nebulae to black holes. Students study the physics of the solar system, as well as the study of individual planets, their moons, asteroids and comets. The course concludes with research on galaxies and the origin and evolution of the universe.

PHYSICS/TECHNOLOGY

PHYSICAL SCIENCE 2 (186) 1/2 credit

Prerequisite: Earth Science, Life Science Second semester

This semester course provides an introduction to physics. Although labeled as “2”, Physical Science 1 is not a pre-requisite to this class. Semester topics include thermal energy, motion, forces, work, power, machines, energy conversions, static and current electricity, magnetism, sound and light, among others. The course includes an extended lab period. Evaluation is based on lab experiments, tests and quizzes, projects, class participation, homework and a variety of activities.

AEROSPACE SCIENCE (187,188) 1/2 credit

Prerequisite: One year high school science Either semester

Aerospace combines aspects of aviation history, technology, procedures, careers and the space program. It includes aerodynamics, airplane systems and instruments, weight and balance, regulations, air navigation and air traffic control. Required reading includes The Right Stuff, followed by a short paper. Students build a model airplane. Evaluation is based on quizzes, tests, activities, and individual projects. This course will not be offered in 2004-05.

PHYSICS (190) 1 credit

Prerequisite: Algebra 2 and enrollment in Pre-calculus Full year

The student discovers and applies fundamental principles and laws of the physical world through investigation and problem solving techniques. Topics studied are kinematics, dynamics, work and energy, momentum, circular motion, simple harmonic motion, thermodynamics, wave motion, electricity, electromagnetism, light, and some modern topics (photoelectric effect, quantum theory). Learning activities include reading, problem solving, films, lecture with discussion, demonstrations and experiments that take place both in class and in the extended laboratory period. Evaluation includes tests and quizzes, problem work, and laboratory reports.

PHYSICS COLLABORATIVE (192) 1 credit

Prerequisite: Co-enrollment in Pre-Calculus Honors Full year

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS B (194) 1 credit

Prerequisite: Completion of Physics and enrollment in Pre-Calculus Full year

Guideline: Completion of Phys. with at least an A- and teacher recommendation

College freshman-level physics is offered to students interested in science as a possible field. Emphasis is placed on classical topics in mechanics (including rotational topics), fluids, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, some work in modern atomic physics, light, relativity and quantum concepts. At the successful completion of this course, students will be well prepared for the AP Physics B exam offered each May. This course has lectures, demonstrations, lab work, and problem-solving discussions. Evaluation is based on the performance and interpretations of individual students’ laboratory work as well as performance in answering questions and solving problems similar to those on the AP Physics exam. It is expected that students taking this course will take the Advanced Placement examination given in mid-May by the College Board.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS C (196) 1 credit

Prerequisite: Completion of Physics and enrollment in Calculus Full year

Guideline: Completion of Phys. with at least an A- and teacher recommendation

This course is similar to AP Physics B in content, work requirements, activities and evaluation. It is expected that students taking this course will take the Advanced Placement examination in both Mechanics and Electromagnetism given in mid-May by the College Board.