The Discovery School

Prerequisite: None

Length: 2 Semesters/ year long

Credit: .5 per semester

This is a lab science that covers fundamental principles of chemistry including atomic structure, energy transfer and matter transformation - and the applications of these topics in other fields of study. In addition, this course will cover the fundamental principles in physics. This course meets one of two core requirements, designed to prepare students for the science WASL. Learning will be assessed in a variety of methods: comparisons to scoring rubrics and models, traditional tests, demonstrations of ability to apply knowledge, lab exercises, computer simulations, projects, teacher observations/evaluations, peer evaluations, and observation journals.

Biology (SCI201/202)

Prerequisite: None

Supplies: Laboratory notebook required

Length:2 semesters/year long

Credits: .5 per semester

Biology is a lab science and covers the following topics: the study of living organisms, their interrelatedness with their environments, the similarities involved in their life processes, the process of science, unity and diversity among living things, heredity, evolution, and ecology, and earth science as it relates to the history of life. Laboratory notebooks are required.

Students will demonstrate learning through a variety of methods. Students will primarily complete written tests and quizzes and keep a detailed lab journal complete with labs, in class demonstrations, homework and classroom assignments. Students will also be required to complete a self designed and implemented laboratory investigation task.

Zoology (SCI375 )

Prerequisite: Successful students will have passed 9/10 Science and math courses.

Length: Semester

Credit: .5

This course will study the biological effects and physical traits of animals within our natural world, emphasizing structure and function and adaptation to their environment. Invertebrates and vertebrates will be studies through inquiry-based labs and dissections intent on understanding animal behavior and populations. Learning will be demonstrated through group activities, labs, quizzes, and in-class discussions.

Astronomy (SCI370)

Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra with a B grade or higher and all required 9-10 science classes

Length: Semester

Credit: .5

Study the history of astronomy and how we developed our current knowledge of the universe. This course includes the following topics: history of astronomy, space explorations, the solar system, starts and other celestial objects, and the Big Bang. This is an advanced hands-on lab oriented course that requires a good understanding of algebra. There will be several night labs designed to teach students about objects in our own night sky and universe. Learning will be assessed in a variety of methods: comparisons to scoring rubrics and models, traditional tests, demonstrations of ability to apply knowledge, lab exercises, computer simulations, projects, teacher observations/evaluations, peer evaluations, and astronomy observation journals.

Genetics (SCI374)

Prerequisite: 9/10 Core

Length: Semester

Credit: .5

This course will cover the topics of heredity, cellular division and reproduction. This will lead to understanding of simple genetic traits up to complex genetic interactions. Learning will be assessed in a variety of methods: comparisons to scoring rubrics and models, traditional tests, demonstrations of ability to apply knowledge, projects, teacher observations/evaluations, lab exercises, homework, and journals.

Chemistry (SCI301/302)

Prerequisite: Physical Science and passing grade in Geometry

Length: 2 semesters/year long

Credits: .5 per semester

This is a first-year lab course devoted to understanding the concepts and principles, which underlie all chemical phenomena. Using an inquiry approach, the primary focus is to understand these concepts in context; connections between the scientific principles and their application will be developed. This course covers the following topics: the particulate theory of matter, states of matter, chemical and physical properties, solutions, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, oxidation-reduction, chemical bonding, atomic structure, periodicity, nuclear process, and atmospheric chemistry.

Students will be evaluated on quizzes and tests as well as lab journals documenting labs and in class exercises. Students will also perform one or two investigations outside of class dealing with the predominance of chemistry in their own daily lives.

Cell Physiology (SCI373)

Prerequisite: 9/10 Core

Length: Semester

Credit: .5

The cell is the structural unit of all living organisms - well, almost all - we'll study viruses too! In this course, students will study the intricate structure of cells, how cells function, cell differentiation, and cell reproduction. Come, spend a semester investigating and understanding the building blocks of life! Learning will be assessed in a variety of methods: comparisons to scoring rubrics and models, traditional tests, demonstrations of ability to apply knowledge, projects, teacher observations/evaluations, lab exercises, homework, and journals.