Science

Grade	Honors	Level 2
9	Honors Biology	Biology Earth Science Conceptual Chemistry Conceptual Physics
10	Honors Chemistry Honors Physics	Chemistry Physics Earth Science Conceptual Chemistry Conceptual Physics Anatomy and Physiology Infectious Disease Agricultural Science Marine Science (Science/CTE Interdisciplinary)
11	Honors Chemistry Honors Physics AP Biology AP/ECE Chemistry AP/ECE Physics 1 AP/ECE Physics C Biotechnology	Chemistry Physics Anatomy and Physiology Infectious Disease Agricultural Science Marine Science (Science/CTE Interdisciplinary) Biotechnology Environmental Science Chemistry for Health Science Physics and Engineering
12	Honors Chemistry Honors Physics AP Biology AP/ECE Chemistry AP/ECE Physics 1 AP/ECE Physics C	Chemistry Physics Anatomy and Physiology Infectious Disease Agricultural Science Marine Science (Science/CTE Interdisciplinary) Biotechnology Environmental Science Chemistry for Health Science Physics and Engineering

DHHS requires 3.0 credits of Science for graduation.

The placement of courses in this chart is what is typical. Please carefully read the course descriptions for detailed information and prerequisites. The chart at the end of the science section provides another view of the sequence of these courses.

In the Science Department, Levels 1 and 2 are defined as follows:

Level 1: Suggested for students who have demonstrated exceptional skills in math and science and reading and have a strong interest in science.
Level 2: Suggested for students who have demonstrated adequate skills in math, science, and reading and are interested in pursuing a college preparatory program.

Note:

Students should be guided by the prerequisite list in each course description.
Students should not sacrifice breadth of coverage for concentration in any area.
The Madison Board of Education requires three credits of science as a graduation requirement.
All science courses are considered to be lab based courses.
All courses, with the exception of AP and ECE, are aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards and Practices.

Biology

Biology (formerly Biological Systems) 1 Credit Course No. 312
Level 2
Trimesters: 2

This course focuses on the ecological processes of life. Through scientific inquiry, students will implement thoughtful and coordinated approaches to search out, describe, explain, and predict natural phenomena. Students will explore major units that include; Energy and Matter in Ecosystems, Population Dynamics, Cellular Transport, Cell Growth and Division, Heredity and Evolution. To support concepts explored and assess learning, students will plan and conduct experiments, generate and analyze data, draw conclusions, engage in scientific argumentation, complete performance-based assessments, and develop scientific models.

Students in this course have the opportunity to select a second science course in order to have three trimesters of science. These courses are: Conceptual Chemistry, Conceptual Physics, and Earth Science.

Honors Biology

Honors Biology 1.5 Credits Course No. 301
Level 1
Trimesters: 3

This full-year course focuses on the molecular processes of life and its integration with the biosphere. Beginning with a study of biochemistry, students will learn about how life functions from the smallest units of life through the evolution of populations. A great deal of independent learning will take place in this fast-paced course as students uncover the mechanisms that drive biological phenomenon.

Critical thinking and strong reading comprehension skills are necessary for success in this course. Students will employ these skills to independently plan and conduct experiments, generate and analyze data, draw conclusions, engage in scientific argumentation, and develop scientific models.
Homework: Homework assignments vary in length, but average approximately 40 minutes per night.

Science Course Options: Grades Nine and Ten

Conceptual Chemistry

Conceptual Chemistry 0.5 Credit Course No. 348
Level 2
Trimesters: 1

This course is designed to support students in developing science skills in experimental design and laboratory investigations. Students will grapple with scientific phenomenon as they engage in learning experiences that will provide them with practice in the inquiry skills necessary for success in future science courses. Students will focus on chemistry in the world around them, including environmental chemistry, polymers, and consumer chemistry. To support concepts explored and assess learning, students will participate in lab experiments, performance based assessments, scientific modeling, and exploration of scientific phenomenon.

This course can be taken as a stand-alone course, or as a precursor to another chemistry course, or in conjunction with any other science course during a student’s freshman or sophomore year as an opportunity to explore another discipline in the sciences.

Conceptual Physics

Conceptual Physics 0.5 credits Course No. 356
Level 2
Trimesters: 1

This course is designed to support students in developing science skills in experimental design and laboratory investigations. Students will grapple with scientific phenomenon as they engage in learning experiences that will provide them with practice in the inquiry skills necessary for success in future science courses. Conceptual Physics will introduce students to key aspects of physics including motion, forces, work, power, machines, energy conversions, sound and light, among others. The course includes lab and project work. To support concepts explored and assess learning, students will participate in lab experiments, performance based assessments, scientific modeling, and exploration of scientific phenomenon.

This course can be taken as a stand-alone course, or as a precursor to another physics course, or in conjunction with any other science course during a student’s freshman or sophomore year as an opportunity to explore another discipline in the sciences.

Earth Science

Earth Science 0.5 Credit Course No. 300
Level 2
Trimesters: 1

Earth Science will focus on exploration of Earth’s place in the universe and fundamental systems that sculpt the planet. Through scientific inquiry, students will implement thoughtful and coordinated approaches to search out, describe, and explain concepts in astronomy, planetary science, and geologic and environmental systems. To support concepts explored and assess learning, students will participate in lab experiments, performance based assessments, scientific modeling, and exploration of scientific phenomenon.

This course can be taken as a stand-alone course or in conjunction with any other science course during a student’s freshman or sophomore year as an opportunity to explore another discipline in the sciences.

Science Course Options: Grades Ten, Eleven, And Twelve

Chemistry

Chemistry 1 Credit Course No. 342
Level 2
Trimesters: 2
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology or Honors Biology with a grade average of C+ or better, as well as Algebra I Level 2 with a grade average of C+ or better.

This course reflects Next Generation Science Standards and practices. The disciplinary core ideas are presented with phenomena that lead to understanding of real life occurrences. Topics include atomic theory, chemical periodicity, molecular theory of the states of matter, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, and energy conservation and transfer. The student will solve mathematical word problems as well as apply chemical principles to laboratory experiments and summative assessments.

Honors Chemistry

Honors Chemistry 1.5 Credits Course No. 341
Level 1
Trimesters: 3
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Biology with a B- or better or Biology with an A- or better, as well as completion of 8th Grade Algebra with a B+ or better, or Algebra I Level 2 with an A- or better. Concurrent enrollment in Algebra II is strongly recommended.

This course reflects Next Generation Science Standards and practices. Disciplinary core ideas, such as stoichiometry, energy, atomic theory, chemical periodicity, and properties of gases, liquids, solids, and solutions will be presented with phenomenon-based lessons. The student will maintain a laboratory journal and will use their data and observations from these journals to complete summative assessments. This course requires strong problem solving skills, independent study skills, and critical thinking.
Homework: The typical homework assignment in this course will take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Physics

Physics 1.0 Credits Course No. 362
Level 2
Trimesters: 2
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in or successful completion of Algebra II

This course provides the student with an introduction to the fundamental concepts of Newtonian physics and energy. The ideas presented are developed in a progression from simpler to more complex. The principles studied in this course are motion, force, momentum, energy and work, and electricity and magnetism, wave motion, light and sound. Students are expected to learn the fundamental concepts of physics, to place physics in historical and societal context, and to further develop their understanding and application of both mathematics and the scientific process. There is a strong laboratory component to this course.

Honors Physics

Honors Physics 1.5 Credits Course No. 358
Level 1
Trimesters: 3
Prerequisite: A- or better in Algebra II Level 2; B- or better in Honors Algebra II

Concepts studied in Physics will be presented at an accelerated pace and in significant depth. Students will find strong algebra and problem solving skills advantageous for success in this course. The ability to work independently outside of class is also a key to success in this course. 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, lectures, discussion, demonstrations and experiments that take place in class. Evaluation includes summative assessments, problem solving and conceptual homework, laboratory reports and performance-based assessments.
Homework: The typical homework assignment in this course will take approximately 60 minutes to complete.

Infectious Disease

Infectious Disease 0.5 Credit Course No. 302
Level 2
Trimesters: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Biology or Biology

Students will explore the microscopic world of infectious agents through a combination of inquiry and research investigations. As students analyze the spread of pathogens through actual and hypothetical scenarios, they will identify not only the scientific basis of disease transmission, but also the roles that environment, socioeconomic status, and government policy play in the spread of disease. Students will explore the field of microbiology as they gain a deeper understanding of molecular and cellular factors that lead to disease symptoms, transmission, and resistance.
Note: The final assessment is a cumulative research project that will not be eligible for senior exemption.

Anatomy and Physiology

Anatomy and Physiology 0.5 Credit Course No. 372
Level 2
Trimesters: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Biology or Biology

Students will begin the course with an overview of how the human body is organized. Students will then choose at least two body systems to explore via student-directed independent study. They will be able to choose from the nervous, endocrine, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, and immune systems. Particular emphasis will be placed on understanding how these systems function in a healthy state, so as to better understand illness and disease. Students will showcase what they have learned over the course of their research through the development of conceptual models and a website portfolio. They will be taught research skills, self-reliance, time management, and responsibility. Dissection of a fetal pig is included in this course in order to give students first-hand experience with the various organs associated with the body system covered (alternative assignments will be available).

Agricultural Science

Agricultural Science 0.5 Credit Course No. 304
Level 2
Trimesters: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Biology or Biology

This course is designed to introduce students to gardening and horticulture techniques as a means to feed the ever growing human population. Time will be spent in the greenhouse, where students will conduct plant experiments and care for individual plant projects. In addition, students will spend time outdoors working in the class garden. Students will also explore the principles, concepts, and techniques of sustainable production of crops, covering biological, social, and economic components of sustainable farming systems; including soil and water management, cultural practices, pest control, and harvest. Studies of human activities that affect the condition of the atmosphere and how sustainable agriculture can be used to undo damage caused to the earth's systems will be explored. The students will learn to use reference sources in planning and implementing their projects.

Marine Science & Technology

Marine Science & Technology 1 Credit (0.5 Credits CTE/0.5 Credits Science) Course No. 379
Level 2
Trimesters: 2
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Biology or Biology

Marine Science and Technology explores the marine environment through “hands-on” projects. Studies related to oceanography, marine ecology and environmental testing are supported with activities such as fishing rod building, boat maintenance, and net making. Mandatory field trips will support the curriculum and provide school to career practical experience. A student centered project will give an opportunity to carry out a hands-on marine based study. As a part of the project, students will design an engineering solution based on a specific problem that applies to our local waters. Course work will include the State of Connecticut Safe Boaters curriculum which will allow students the opportunity to apply for their CT Safe Boaters/Personal Watercraft Certificate.

Science Course Options: Grades Eleven And Twelve

Students must pass either Biology or Honors Biology and additional science courses totaling at least two (2) credits.

Biotechnology

Biotechnology 0.5 Credit Course No. 306
Level 1
Trimesters: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of 2 credits of science, including B- in Honors Biology or and A- in Biology.

The theme of this course is DNA, the master molecule of life. Students will study and evaluate the ability to engineer DNA in ways that make it possible to alter the genetic makeup of organisms in order to solve problems and develop beneficial products. This requires the use of current laboratory methods and technology, microbiology, genetics, molecular biology, and the exploration of the ethical implication of advances such as GMSs and the controversy surrounding the potential to genetically engineer humans. There will also be a focus on learning and using the tools and techniques of DNA science. Student’s eyes will be opened to a work of employment opportunities they may never have imaged were available to them.
Homework: The typical homework assignment in this course will take over 60 minutes to complete.
Note: The final assessment is a cumulative research project that will not be eligible for senior exemption.

Environmental Science

Environmental Science 0.5 Credit Course No. 308
Level 2
Trimesters: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of a course in Biology and Chemistry or Physics with a C or better.

An introduction to basic concepts and areas of environmental concern and how these problems can be effectively addressed. The course requires that students identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Environmental science is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from earth science, biology, chemistry, and physics.

Chemistry for Health Science

Chemistry for Health Science 0.5 Credits Course No. 347
Level 2
Trimesters: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry with a B- or better.

This course presents case studies that will require students to apply concepts to real-world situations. Students will explore disciplinary core ideas, such as aqueous solutions, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and metabolism. This course is intended for students interested in considering careers in the medical field. Students will perform several laboratory experiments and complete project-based assessments to demonstrate their understanding.

Physics and Engineering

Physics and Engineering 0.5 Credits Course No. 359
Level 2
Trimesters: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Physics and Algebra II with a B- or better.

This project-based course marries real problems in physics with creative approaches and computer simulations that allow for testing and visualization of solutions that impact every aspect of our lives. From topics such as hurricane predictions to aerospace to renewable energy to cyber security, students will use techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for the engineering field. They will learn how to use a software platform to code, analyze, and interpret data which provides an advantage for embarking in a college engineering program.

Science AP And/Or ECE Courses: Grades Eleven And Twelve

Students must pass either Biology or Honors Biology and additional science courses totaling at least two (2) credits.

Advanced Placement Biology

Advanced Placement Biology 1.5 Credits         Course No. 370
Level 1
Trimesters: 3
Prerequisite: B in Biology-Honors or an A in Biological Systems AND a B in
Chemistry-Honors or an A in Chemistry Level 2.

This course is designed to be the equivalent of a full year, introductory biology course in college, usually taken by biology majors during their first year. It will prepare students to take the National Advanced Placement Biology Exam. The curriculum suggested by Educational Testing Service and the College Board will be completed with an emphasis on molecular biology. First trimester will include a detailed look at cell biochemistry, cell division, and the mechanisms of photosynthesis and cellular respiration. Second trimester will focus on genetics (Mendelian, molecular, and biotechnology applications of DNA) and evolution. Studies will end in the third trimester with a look at organism classification and phylogeny. Students will do an independent study of ecology. A significant portion of the course will include sophisticated laboratory investigations recommended by the College Board. These labs will require students to apply effective strategies for inquiry-based problem solving as well as analysis and interpretation of data. A summer assignment will be given as review of biology and chemistry prerequisites. All students are encouraged to take the National AP Examination.
Homework: The typical homework assignment in this course will take over 60 minutes to complete.

Advanced Placement Chemistry

Advanced Placement Chemistry 1.5 DHHS Credits Course No. 351
Level 1
Trimesters: 3
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry Honors with a B- or better.

This course is designed to provide a foundation for more advanced courses in chemistry. Topics include atomic theory, physical and chemical behavior of gases, liquids, solids, and solutions, as well as thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibrium systems, electrochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. First semester labs focus on quantitative measurements illustrating the laws of chemical combination. Second semester labs focus on equilibrium in solutions and qualitative reactions of the common cations and anions. Daily classes are “lecture based” and students are treated as they will be treated when attending college. All students are encouraged to take the AP Examination.

Only students who are registered in the UConn/ECE program for this course and earn a passing grade will receive UConn/ECE credit.
Homework: The typical homework assignment in this course will take over 60 minutes to complete.

Note: There is an additional fee to register for UConn’s ALEKS online homework system, which is part of the course.
Note: Students will start laboratory experiments at 7 AM.

Advanced Placement Physics 1

Advanced Placement Physics 1 1.5 DHHS Credits Course No. 361
Level 1
Trimesters:3
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II Honors with a B- or better or Algebra II Level 2 with an A- or better. Successful completion of Chemistry-Honors with a B- or better or successful completion of Chemistry Level 2 with an A- or better or successful completion of UConn ECE Chemistry with a C+ or better.

This course covers basic principles of physics using algebra and trigonometry. Topics covered are Newtonian mechanics (including rotation and oscillation), fluid mechanics, thermal physics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, and some topics of modern physics. The level and content of the course is typical of what the student would experience in a first year general physics college course. The course will allow students the opportunity to prepare for the Advanced Placement Physics 1 Examination. All students are encouraged to take the AP Examination.

Advanced Placement Physics (C)

Advanced Placement Physics (C) 1.5 DHHS Credits Course No. 363
Level 1
Trimesters: 3
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Pre-Calculus with a C+ or better or Level 2 Pre-Calculus with a B+ or better. Successful completion of Chemistry-Honors with a B- or better or successful completion of Chemistry Level 2 with an A- or better or successful completion of UConn/ECE Chemistry with a C+ or better. Successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in AP Calculus (BC) or AP Calculus (AB).

AP Physics C is offered to students who have successfully completed or are concurrently enrolled in AP Calculus (BC) or AP Calculus (AB) and who are planning to study physical science or engineering in college. This course will prepare the student for the Mechanics portion of the AP Physics C exam. Electricity and magnetism will also be covered. The use of calculus in problem solving and derivations will increase as the course progresses and will be used freely in formulating principles and in solving problems during the second half of the course when electricity and magnetism are covered. All students are encouraged to take the AP Examination.