Science
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To earn a STEM Endorsement, a student must earn a total of 5 credits in science by successfully completing biology, chemistry, physics, and 2 additional science courses.
* All courses are subject to minimum and maximum enrollment numbers
Possible Careers: Biology Technician, Microbiologist, Physician, Pediatrician, Agricultural Technician, Surgeon
Courses
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Course Key: 60050D/E
Course Name: Advanced Animal Science
Credit: 1
Grade: 11-12Required Prerequisite(s): �Biology and Chemistry or Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC); Algebra I and Geometry; and either Small Animal Management, Equine Science, or Livestock Production
Recommended Prerequisite(s): Veterinary Medical Applications
This course is designed to prepare students for careers in the field of animal science, students need to attain academic skills and knowledge, acquire knowledge and skills related to animal systems, and develop knowledge and skills regarding career opportunities, entry requirements, and industry standards. To prepare for success, students need opportunities to learn, reinforce, apply, and transfer their knowledge and skills in a variety of settings. This course examines the interrelatedness of human, scientific, and technological dimensions of livestock production. Instruction is designed to allow for the application of scientific and technological aspects of animal science through field and laboratory experiences.
Course Key: 24300D/E
Course Name: Anatomy and Physiology
Credit: 1
Grade: 10-12Required Prerequisite(s): Biology and a second science credit
Recommended Prerequisite(s): a course from the Health Science Career Cluster
This course is designed as an introduction to anatomy and physiology through general exploratory activities in the structure and function of the components of the human body. Students will practice methods and techniques of a science laboratory, build a mature understanding of the relationship between structure and function of the human body and acquire a realization of the interrelationship of the body systems. This course is particularly recommended for students who expect to work in the health fields. Lab activities are required (including all dissections: pig eye, knee, heart, lungs and culminating in a cat dissection at the end of the school year).
Course Key: 24001D/E
Course Name: AP Biology
Credit: 1
Grade: 10-12Required Prerequisite(s): Biology, Chemistry (can be enrolled concurrently)
Recommended Prerequisite(s): previous Advanced classes recommended
The Biology Advanced Placement course will follow the Advanced Placement recommended scope and sequence for Biology AP. This class aims to provide students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing science of biology. Due to the fact that this is a college level course, 5 to 6 hours of outside work is required each week and will include written essays. Upon completion of the course, the student will be expected to take the College Board exam.
Course Key: 24101D/E
Course Name: AP Chemistry
Credit: 1
Grade: 10-12Required Prerequisite(s): Biology, Chemistry, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II (can be taken concurrently)
Recommended Prerequisite(s): previous Advanced classes recommended
This course follows the standards set forth by the Advanced Placement Board. AP Chemistry is equivalent to a first year college chemistry course and is an in depth study of topics such as thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibrium, electrochemistry, qualitative analysis and chemical reactions. Lab experiments are required and will require students to work before and after school in order to complete the lab topics set forth by the College Board. Students should expect 4-5 hours of outside work per week. Upon completion of the course, the student will be expected to take the College Board exam.
Course Key: 24401D/E
Course Name: AP Environmental Science
Credit: 1
Grade: 11-12Required Prerequisite(s): Algebra I, Biology, Chemistry
Recommended Prerequisite(s): previous Advanced classes recommended
The Environmental Science AP course will provide students with scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. Students analyze environmental problems to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Environmental Science AP is interdisciplinary; it embraces a wide variety of topics from different areas of study. Upon completion of the course, the student will be expected to take the College Board Advanced Placement exam.
Course Key: 23011D/E
Course Name: AP Physics 1
Credit: 1
Grade: 11-12Required Prerequisite(s): Biology, Chemistry, Algebra II (can be taken concurrently)
Recommended Prerequisite(s): n/a
This course is the equivalent to a first-semester college course in algebra-based physics. The course covers Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum); work, energy, and power; and mechanical waves and sound. It will also introduce electric circuits. Upon completion of the course, the student will be expected to take the College Board exam.
Course Key: 24201D/E
Course Name: AP Physics 2
Credit: 1
Grade: 12Required Prerequisite(s): AP Physics 1
Recommended Prerequisite(s): n/a
This course is the equivalent to a second-semester college course in algebra-based physics. The course covers fluid mechanics; thermodynamics; electricity and magnetism; optics; and atomic and nuclear physics. Upon completion of the course, the student will be expected to take the College Board exam.
Course Key: 24211D/E
Course Name: AP Physics C
Credit: 1
Grade: 12Required Prerequisite(s): Biology, Chemistry, PreCalculus Advanced
Recommended Prerequisite(s): AP Calculus AB or BC (recommended Co-Requisite)
This is a calculus-based, second year course in physics. AP Physics C covers topics in the area of mechanics and includes kinematics, Newton's Laws, friction, circular motion, momentum, energy and work, torque, rotation, gravitation, and simple harmonic motion. The use of calculus in problem solving is introduced. The second semester is devoted to a study of electricity and magnetism, and calculus is used freely. Upon completion of the course, the student will be expected to take the College Board Advanced Placement exam. Either or both parts (Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism) of the Advanced Placement C exam may be taken.
Course Key: 24700D/E
Course Name: Astronomy
Credit: 1
Grade: 11-12Required Prerequisite(s): n/a
Recommended Prerequisite(s): One unit of high school science
In Astronomy, students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific methods, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students study the following topics: astronomy in civilization, patterns and objects in the sky, our place in space, the moon, reasons for the seasons, planets, the sun, stars, galaxies, cosmology, and space exploration. Students who successfully complete Astronomy will acquire knowledge within a conceptual framework, conduct observations of the sky, work collaboratively, and develop critical-thinking skills.
Course Key: 21000A/B
Course Name: Biology
Credit: 1
Grade: 9Required Prerequisite(s): n/a
Recommended Prerequisite(s): Completion of 8th Grade Science
Biology provides instruction in the study of life. Students investigate various biological, chemical, and mathematical processes affecting organisms and environments. Study of biology begins with the microscopic composition of cells and gradually builds to a macroscopic understanding of populations in the biosphere. Throughout the course, students learn to make informed decisions outside the classroom by researching the contributions of biologists, practicing evidence-based writing, and developing critical thinking skills.
Course Key: 21001A/B
Course Name: Biology Advanced
Credit: 1
Grade: 9Required Prerequisite(s): Pass 8th Grade Science STAAR
Recommended Prerequisite(s): Completion of 8th Grade Science Advanced
Biology Advanced is a more challenging study of life science that includes concepts and processes beyond those outlined in the TEKS. This class follow the same sequence as regular biology, but students are responsible for mastering additional content in each unit. Students are prepared and encouraged to take AP Biology II upon completing this class.
Course Key: 22000A/B
Course Name: Chemistry
Credit: 1
Grade: 10-12Required Prerequisite(s): one unit of high school science and Algebra I
Recommended Prerequisite(s): completion of or concurrent enrollment in a second year of mathematics
Chemisty is the study of matter and the changes it undergoes. Students complete lab experiments and analyze data to understand chemical principles. Topic of study include physical and chemical properties, bonding, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, gases, solutions, thermochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. Algebraic problem-solving skills will be utilized throughout the course.
Course Key: 22001A/B
Course Name: Chemistry Advanced
Credit: 1
Grade: 10-12Required Prerequisite(s): one unit of high school science and Algebra I
Recommended Prerequisite(s): previous Advanced classes recommended
Chemistry Advanced is a yearlong study of matter and change that prepares students for college-level chemistry courses. This course follows a different sequence than regular chemistry and includes additional units studying chemical equilibrium and electrochemistry. Students are required to apply advanced principles of algebra and use mental math skills during exams. Students will be encouraged to take AP Chemistry as a junior or senior.
Course Key: 24004D/E
Course Name: Dual Credit Biology
Credit: 1
Grade: 10-12Required Prerequisite(s): Biology, Chemistry (can be enrolled concurrently), Pass TSI, pay own fees and tuition, accepted to Collin College
Recommended Prerequisite(s): previous Advanced classes recommended
Students enrolled in Dual Credit will study biology at a college level. This class is a concurrent enrollment with Collin College. Students completing the year-long course will receive 1 high school credit and credit for Collin College - BIOL 1408 Biology for Non-Science Majors I (4 hours) and Collin College - BIOL 1409 Biology for Non-Science Majors II (4 hours).
Course Key: 24600D/E
Course Name: Earth and Space Science
Credit: 1
Grade: 11-12Required Prerequisite(s): 3 Science Credits, 1 of which can be concurrent, and 3 Math credits, 1 of which can be concurrent
Recommended Prerequisite(s): n/a
This course studies the long, complex, and dynamic history of Earth. Advances in technologies continue to further our understanding of the origin, evolution, and properties of Earth and planetary systems within a chronological framework. Topics studied are divided into the Earth's position in space and time, the solid features of the planet, and the fluid Earth.
Course Key: 74200D/E
Course Name: Engineering Design and Problem Solving
Credit: 1
Grade: 11-12Required Prerequisite(s): Algebra and Geometry
Recommended Prerequisite(s): Engineering Science
Students enrolled in this course will demonstrate knowledge and skills of the process of design as it applies to engineering fields using multiple software applications and tools necessary to produce and present working drawings, solid model renderings, and prototypes. Students will use a variety of computer hardware and software applications to complete assignments and projects. Through implementation of the design process, students will transfer advanced academic skills to component designs. Additionally, students explore career opportunities in engineering, technology, and drafting and what is required to gain and maintain employment in these areas.
Course Key: 24400D/E
Course Name: Environmental Systems
Credit: 1
Grade: 11-12Required Prerequisite(s): n/a
Recommended Prerequisite(s): one unit high school life science and one unit of high school physical science
In Environmental Systems, students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students study a variety of topics that include: biotic and abiotic factors in habitats, ecosystems and biomes, interrelationships among resources and an environmental system, sources and flow of energy through an environmental system, relationship between carrying capacity and changes in populations and ecosystems, and changes in environments.
Course Key: 71050D/E
Course Name: Forensic Science
Credit: 1
Grade: 11-12Required Prerequisite(s): Biology and Chemistry
Recommended Prerequisite(s): Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security Career Cluster course
Students in Forensic science use a structured and scientific approach to the investigation of crimes. Students will learn terminology and investigative procedures. Using scientific methods students will collect and analyze evidence through case studies and simulated crime scenes. Students will learn the history, legal aspects, and career options for forensic science.
Course Key: 22100A/B
Course Name: Integrated Physics and Chemistry
Credit: 1
Grade: 9-10Required Prerequisite(s): n/a
Recommended Prerequisite(s): n/a
This course focuses on understanding basic chemistry and physics concepts with minimal application of algebra. The first semester covers chemistry topics, and the second semester covers physics. The purpose of the course is to prepare students for success in later, yearlong courses in chemistry and/or physics. This course may not be taken after completing chemistry.
Course Key: 23000A/B
Course Name: Physics
Credit: 1
Grade: 11-12Required Prerequisite(s): Algebra I, Geometry, Biology, and either Chemistry or IPC
Recommended Prerequisite(s): n/a
Physics is a yearlong study of motion, forces, waves, energy, and thermodynamics. The year concludes with a brief review of developments in modern physics and quantum theory. Students analyze data to discover physical laws and apply principles of algebra throughout the course.
Course Key: 24804D/E
Course Name: Scientific Research and Design Dual Credit
Credit: 1
Grade: 12Required Prerequisite(s): Biology, Chemistry, Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC), or Physics, Pass TSI, pay own fees and tuition, accepted to Collin College
Recommended Prerequisite(s): n/a
This course is an advanced practicum for the construction of individual student projects and research. Students will have a focused study of material science. Laboratory work will include the design and preparation of lab materials. Students will be involved in the construction of models, the study of systems, analysis of research, and development of investigative design. Students will collect, organize and evaluate qualitative data, and synthesize valid conclusions from qualitative and quantitative data. This course will involve all areas of science including biology, chemistry, and with an emphasis on complex reasoning and critical thinking. In addition, students must do an independent scientific research project.
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