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SCIENCES

PHILOSOPHY

     The study of science reveals the secrets of the natural world, which in turn reveal the magnificence of

Creation.

     Through our course offerings the students will gain critical knowledge in the areas of biology, chemistry, environmental science, and physics.  They should develop analytical and critical thinking skills required for success in scientific endeavors.  Students should think clearly and critically about major issues relating to science. They should understand the culture of science--its context in the world at large; recognize the connections and interdependence among the traditional branches of science, and among science and other fields; perceive the relevance of science to everyday life.

     The students will use technology to perform computer-assisted labs, prepare data charts and graphs, present Power Point presentations and research topics judiciously using the Internet.

     The AC-ND Science Department provides a comprehensive program for students regardless of their goals. The Department is highly committed to providing a program to meet the needs of all students. This is evident by our range of courses and electives offered at various levels.

LEVELS OF CLASSES

GRADING POLICY

     Grades will be determined by performance on quizzes, tests, lab reports, projects, presentations, homework, research papers, participation, mid-term and final exams.  Each individual teacher has the freedom to assign the weight for each category best suited for his or her class.

Courses:

BIOLOGY

     The purpose of this course is to provide fundamentals in exploratory experience, laboratory exercises, and real-life applications in biological sciences.  This course has also been designed to provide students with a basic and balanced approach to the diverse world of biology.  The emphasis in this program is the study of science and the development of thinking and decision-making skills.  Our goal is to provide students with the science background they need to analyze for themselves many of the issues concerning our environment.

     By taking this course, students will add significant depth to their understanding of basic biology.  It is expected that this initial understanding of biology will lead to an increased level of appreciation of the world.

Major Topics

• the nature of science

• matter, energy, and chemical processes of life

• cells: biology, reproduction, and communication

• genetics: principles, molecular basis, diversity, and biotechnologies

• levels of organization, classification, and taxonomy

• structure, function, and reproduction of plants, animals, and microorganisms

• behavior of organisms

• interdependence of organisms, humans, and the environment

• biological selection, adaptations, and changes through time

• agricultural, food, and medical technologies and careers

• laboratory investigations include the use of scientific research, measurement,

• laboratory technologies, and safety procedures

Major Skills and Objectives

• Apply knowledge of the nature of science and scientific habits of mind to solve problems, and employ safe and effective use of laboratory technologies.

• Demonstrate understanding of the roles of matter, energy, and the chemical processes of life.

• Demonstrate understanding of the structure and processes of cells with emphasis on reproduction and communication.

• Demonstrate understanding of the principles of genetics with emphasis on the molecular basis of heredity, genetic diversity, and related biotechnologies.

• Demonstrate understanding of the importance of levels of organization, classification, and taxonomy to the study of biology (e.g., ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny).

• Demonstrate understanding of the relationships of structure, function, and reproduction of selected plants, animals, and microorganisms.

• Demonstrate understanding of factors that affect the behavior of organisms.

• Demonstrate understanding of the interdependence of all living things and the environment.

• Demonstrate understanding of types of selection, variations, and adaptations, and how they lead to biological changes through time.

• Demonstrate understanding of the impact of agricultural, food, and medical technologies on the quality of our lives and career opportunities.

HONORS BIOLOGY

     The purpose of this course is to provide exploratory experience, laboratory exercises, and real-life applications in biological sciences.  This course has also been designed to provide the students with a balanced approach to the diverse world of biology.  The emphasis in this program is the study of science and the development of thinking and decision-making skills.  Our goal is to provide students with the science background they need to analyze for themselves many of the issues concerning our environment.

     By taking this course, students will add significant depth to their understanding of basic biology.  It is expected that this initial understanding of biology will lead to an increased level of appreciation of the world.

Major Topics

• the nature of science

• matter, energy, and chemical processes of life

• cells: biology, reproduction, and communication

• genetics: principles, molecular basis, diversity, and biotechnologies

• levels of organization, classification, and taxonomy

• structure, function, and reproduction of plants, animals, and microorganisms

• behavior of organisms

• interdependence of organisms, humans, and the environment

• biological selection, adaptations, and changes through time

• agricultural, food, and medical technologies and careers

• Laboratory investigations, which include the use of scientific research, measurement, laboratory technologies, and safety procedures, are an integral part of this course.

Major Skills and Objectives

§  Apply knowledge of the nature of science and scientific habits of mind to solve problems, and employ safe and effective use of laboratory technologies.

• Demonstrate understanding of the roles of matter, energy, and the chemical processes of life.

• Demonstrate understanding of the structure and processes of cells with emphasis on reproduction and communication.

• Demonstrate understanding of the principles of genetics with emphasis on the molecular basis of heredity, genetic diversity, and related biotechnologies.

• Demonstrate understanding of the importance of levels of organization,

• classification, and taxonomy to the study of biology (e.g., ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny).

• Demonstrate understanding of the relationships of structure, function, and reproduction of selected plants, animals, and microorganisms.

• Demonstrate understanding of factors that affect the behavior of organisms.

• Demonstrate understanding of the interdependence of all living things and the environment.

• Demonstrate understanding of types of selection, variations, and adaptations, and how they lead to biological changes through time.

• Demonstrate understanding of the impact of agricultural, food, and medical technologies on the quality of our lives and career opportunities.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT BIOLOGY

     This course is designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester college course in biology.  This is a rigorous science course that stresses scientific principles and analysis, and includes a laboratory component. 

     The goal of the AP Biology course is to provide students with a study of the facts, principles, and processes of biology and the collection, interpretation, and formulation of hypotheses from available data. Scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies are also used and required to understand the interrelationships of the biological world.

Prerequisites

     The AP Biology course is an excellent option for an interested student who has completed two years of high school laboratory science – biology and chemistry.  Students must have a GPA of at least 3.0 as this indicates that they will be able keep up with this rigorous course, as well as, a teacher’s recommendation.

Laboratory Topics

• Diffusion and Osmosis

• Enzyme Catalyst

• Mitosis and Meiosis

• Plant Pigments and Photosynthesis

• Cell Respiration

• Molecular Biology

• Genetics of Organisms

• Population Genetics and Evolution

• Transpiration

• Physiology of the Circulatory System

• Animal Behavior

• Dissolved Oxygen and Aquatic Productivity

Major Themes

• Science as a Process

• Evolution

• Energy Transfer

• Continuity and Change

• Relationship of structure to function

• Regulation

• Interdependence in Nature

• Science, Technology, and Society

Skills and Objectives

• Use the scientific method to solve problems, employ metric measurements, and demonstrate safe and effective use of laboratory instruments.

• Analyze the chemical composition of organisms.

• Describe in detail cell infrastructure and function of cellular organelles.

• Assess the role of enzymes in life processes.

• Trace the biochemical pathways involved in respiration and photosynthesis.

• Describe the processes of cell division.

• Describe the principles of genetics.

• Apply knowledge of structure and the function in plants and animals to their reproduction and development.

• Identify the experimental evidence for the modern theories of the origin of life.

• Describe the changes in organisms through time.

• Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of ecology and the role of energy flow, biogeochemical cycles, population growth and regulation, communities, habitats, and niches.

• Distinguish between stereotyped and learned behavior and list the factors of social behavior.

• Describe the implications of man's social biology on his environment and quality of life.

• Analyze how biology interacts with technology and society.

CHEMISTRY

     The course is intended to introduce and give the student an overall understanding to fundamental concepts of modern chemistry, and the ability to solve problems. This course wills emphasis on the National Science Education Standard for Physical Science content. It includes studies of structure of atoms, structure and properties of matter, chemical reaction, motions and forces, conservation of energy and the increase in disorder, and interactions of energy and matter. This course will be presented by using technology, books, research, articles, handouts, lecture, laboratory experiences, and independent activities. 

Prerequisites: Algebra I

Major Concepts

• Graphing analysis

• Introduction to chemistry and matter

• Measurements and calculations

• Atomic theory

• Chemical formulas and chemical compounds

• Chemical equations and reactions

• Stoichiometry

• Solutions

• Acids and Bases

• Physical characteristics of   gases

• Thermochemistry

• Arrangement of electrons in atoms

• The periodic table

• Chemical bonding

• Equilibrium

• Acid-base titration and pH

• Oxidation and Reduction reaction

Major Skills

• Apply knowledge of the nature of science and scientific habits of mind to solve problems, and employ safe and effective use of laboratory technologies.

• Demonstrate understanding of matter, its classification, structure, and changes.

• Demonstrate understanding of atomic theory.

• Demonstrate understanding of the application of the periodic table.

• Demonstrate understanding of covalent and ionic bonding.

• Use of chemical formulas to write balanced equations and predict reaction products.

• Explain the behavior of gases in terms of gas laws and kinetics molecular theory.

• Demonstrate understanding of reaction rates and equilibrium.

• Demonstrate understanding of the dynamics of energy.

HONORS CHEMISTRY

     This course is designed for those students who are in the honors program and have high academic achievement. This course will develop high expectations for those students who are considering a career in biology, chemistry, nursing, engineering, geology, botany, environmental science, and any other health professions. The students will explore the nature of the physical and chemical changes, atomic theory, the mole concept, stoichiometry, solutions, chemical equilibrium, acid-base theories, and the gas laws. This course will be presented by using technology, books, research, articles, handouts, lecture, laboratory experiences, and independent activities. Prerequisites: Algebra I with a grade of “A”.

Major Concepts

• Graphing analysis

• Introduction to chemistry and matter

• Measurements and calculations

• Atomic theory

• Chemical formulas and chemical compounds

• Chemical equations and reactions

• Stoichiometry

• Solutions

• Acids and Bases

• Physical characteristics of gases

• Thermochemistry

• Arrangement of electrons in atoms

• The periodic table

• Chemical bonding

• Equilibrium

• Acid-base titration and pH

• Oxidation and Reductions

Major Skills and Objectives

• Apply knowledge of the nature of science and scientific habits of mind to solve problems, and employ safe and effective use of laboratory technologies.

• Demonstrate understanding of matter, its classification, structure, and changes.

• Demonstrate understanding of atomic theory.

• Demonstrate understanding of the application of the periodic table.

• Demonstrate understanding of covalent and ionic bonding.

• Use of chemical formulas to write balanced equations and predict reaction products.

• Explain the behavior of gases in terms of gas laws and kinetics molecular theory.

• Demonstrate understanding of reaction rates and equilibrium.

• Demonstrate understanding of the dynamics of energy.

• Demonstrate understanding of the interactions of chemistry with technology and society.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY

     The Advanced Placement Chemistry course is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first college year. For some freshmen, this course enables them to undertake second-year work in the chemistry sequence at their institution or to register in courses in other fields where general chemistry is a prerequisite. For other students, the AP Chemistry course fulfills the laboratory science requirement and frees time for other courses.

     The AP Chemistry should the objectives of a good general chemistry course. Students in such a course should attain a depth of understanding of fundamentals and a reasonable competence in dealing with chemical problems. The course should contribute to the development of the students’ abilities to think clearly and to express their ideas, orally and in writing, with clarity and logic. 

Topics & Prerequisites

     The AP Chemistry course is designed to be taken only after the successful completion of a first course in high school chemistry. The students will explore qualitative and quantitative aspects of the behavior of gases, liquids and solids, and examine the major topics of modern chemical theory such as atomic and molecular structure, redox reaction, bonding properties of solutions, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, kinetics, equilibrium, acid-base theory, coordination compounds and organic compounds. Prerequisites: Algebra II and an average of A or B in Biology and Chemistry with a 3.00 GPA. Teacher recommendation is required for this course.

Laboratory Emphasis

     The difference between college chemistry and the usual chemistry course is especially evident in the laboratory work. The AP Chemistry Exam includes questions based on experiences and skills students acquire in the laboratory.  For example, making observations of chemical substances and reactions; recording data; and calculating and interpreting results based on the quantitative data obtained.

Major Concepts

I.                    Structure of Matter

a.       Atomic theory and atomic structure

b.      Chemical bonding

c.       Nuclear chemistry

II.                 States of Matter

a.       Gases

b.      Liquids and solids

c.       Solutions

III.               Reactions

a.       Reactions types

b.      Stoichiometry

c.       Equilibrium

d.      Kinetics

e.       Thermodynamics

IV.              Descriptive Chemistry

a.       Chemical reactivity and products of chemical reactions

b.      Relationships in the periodic table

c.       Introduction to organic chemistry

V.                 Laboratory

Major Skills and Objectives

• Use the scientific method to solve problems, employ metric measurements, and demonstrate safe and effective use of laboratory instruments.

• Discuss atomic theory and structure.

• Compare the types of binding forces in chemical bonding, the geometry of molecules, and the molecular model theory.

• Describe the various states of matter.

• Discuss numerous types of chemical reactions.

• Demonstrate knowledge of equations and advanced stoichiometry.

• Describe chemical equilibrium qualitatively and quantitatively.

• Investigate reaction rates.

• Analyze thermodynamics processes.

• Develop an understanding of systematic nomenclature.

• Illustrate the principles of descriptive chemistry.

• Analyze the interactions of chemistry, technology, and society.

PHYSICS

     The Physics course will introduce students to an algebra based study of classical physics. This course covers the five major areas of physics: mechanics, electricity and magnetism, wave motion, sound and light.  Laboratory experiences are strongly emphasized.  Students are expected to develop competence in laboratory techniques and to work for extended periods of time with minimum direction.  The course is taught through a combination of lecture, activities, laboratories, problem sessions and student projects.

     The purpose of this course is to provide opportunities to study the concepts, theories, and laws governing the interaction of matter, energy, and forces, and their applications through exploratory investigations and activities.

Major Concepts

• unifying concepts and processes of science

• energy

• force and motion

• dynamics

• wave characteristics

• conservation of energy and momentum

• heat and thermodynamics

• electricity

• magnetism

• interactions among science, technology, and society

Major Skills and Objectives

• Develop a theoretical understanding of the properties and interactions of matter and    energy

§         Define those properties and interactions by means of mathematical models

§         Understand the relationships between theoretical concepts and practical application.

• Apply measurement and mathematical skills appropriate to problem solving situations for each of the topics listed in the course outline

§         Construct and interpret graphs of displacement, velocity and acceleration vs. time, and to solve related problems

§         Explain and apply Newton’s three laws of motion in relation to circular motion and the reference circle

§         Apply conservation laws of momentum and energy to predict outcomes of interactions

§         Apply the concepts of work, energy, and power to theoretical and practical situations

§         Relate thermal energy to the concepts of temperature and heat

MARINE SCIENCE

     This course will provide the study of the characteristics, physiology, and classification of animal and plant life found in various bodies of water.  This course provides students with an overview of the marine environment.  Marine Science is about the scientific investigation of the largest domain on the planet.  Special emphasis is given to the ways in which marine organisms interact with each other and with their physical environment, and also the interrelationship between man and the ocean.  Laboratory investigations of selected topics in the content, which include the use of the scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus and safety procedures, are an integral part of the course. 

Major Concepts

• The nature of science

• The origins of the oceans

• The chemical, physical, and geological aspects of the marine environment

• Ecology of various sea zones

• Marine communities

• The diversity of marine organisms

• Characteristics of major marine ecosystems

• Characteristics of major marine phyla/divisions

• The interrelationship between man and the ocean

Major Skills and Objectives

§         Global awareness

§         Historical awareness

§         Literacy and critical inquiry

§         To compare the biology of marine mammals from an evolutionary perspective

§         To assess the uniqueness of marine mammals, compared with other mammals 

§         To consider the appropriate treatment, management use and conservation of marine mammals

§         To familiarize students with the physical concepts and terms used in modern marine biology to gain an understanding of the nature of various species, habitats and phenomena

§         To expose students to the practices, methodology, and the conceptual basis of marine biology

§         To develop and defend points of view on a variety of controversial issues

§         Discuss the physical properties of sea water (salinity, density, pressure, etc.) and the forces that create waves, tides, and surface and subsurface water movements and the geology of the ocean floor

§         Describe adaptations that organisms have made to life in the sea and be able to summarize the general nature of marine life and the basics of scientific ecology

§         Discuss the major groups of phytoplankton, seaweeds, and rooted plants and the process of primary production in the world's oceans.

§         Discuss the major groups of zooplankton and the factors that determine their abundance and distribution.

§         Describe in detail the living conditions found in marine ecosystems (inter-tidal, estuarine, coral reefs, continental shelves, open sea, and the ocean deep) and discuss the major communities in which inhabit them.

§         List and discuss the ecology and biology of the major phyla of marine invertebrates and vertebrates.

§         List the most important marine food species and discuss the problems created by the over exploitation of marine resources, and the effects of sewage, toxic pollutants, oil, and marine debris (fishing gear, plastics, etc.) on marine organisms.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

     This course has been designed to provide the students with a balanced approach to the diverse study of our environment.  The emphasis in this program is the study of science and the development of thinking and decision-making skills.  Our goal is to provide students with the science background they need to analyze for themselves many of the issues concerning our environment.

     The field of environmental science also offers a rare occasion to apply many different sciences to extend our knowledge of both our world and its inhabitants.  Perhaps it is in this diverse context and its clear application that makes environmental science inherently interesting to students. 

     By taking this course, students will add significant depth to their understanding of the environment.  It is hoped that this understanding will lead to an increased level of appreciation and that students will treat the environment accordingly.

Major Concepts

§         Scientific analysis

§         Fundamental principles and concepts about the interdependence of Earth’s systems

§         Population dynamics

§         Distribution, ownership, and use degradation of renewable and nonrenewable resources

§         Environmental quality

§         Global changes and their consequences

§         Environment and society: trade-offs and decision making

§         Choices for the future

Major Skills and Objectives

§         Demonstrate understanding of the interrelationships of the natural world Identify and analyze environmental problems, both natural and human-generated

§         Evaluate the relative risks associated with natural and human-generated environmental problems

§         Analyze alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing environmental problems

§         Use the scientific method to solve problems, employ metric measurements, and demonstrate safe and effective use of laboratory instruments

§         Identify the effects of technology on air, water, and land quality and identify possible solutions for negative impacts

§         Develop understanding of how human population growth and human development affect local human, vegetative, and wildlife communities, and impact other natural resources

§         Describe methods which individuals and industries can employ to conserve natural resources and energy

§         Compare the effects of different methods of conservation in various parts of the world

§         Identify examples of environmental planning and waste management that have been used in the local community and explain their impact

§         Analyze the present and future effects of carious preservation or conservation efforts on the local community