Life Science 7
Topics covered in this course are cellular structure, classification of living organisms, an overview of the five kingdoms, human anatomy, physiology, genetics, and ecology. All of this material is presented in an introductory manner, and emphasis is placed on developing learning, laboratory, and organizational skills.
Grade Level: 7
Earth & Space Science 8Topics covered in this class involve the earth and its place in the universe. Students continue to develop the laboratory and study skills begun in Life Science, with further emphasis on analytical skills. Specific areas covered include basic chemistry, the solar system, stars and constellations, rocks and minerals, and the processes that cause change on the dynamic earth.
Grade Level: 8
Physical Science
This course introduces the basic concepts of force, motion, energy, and the properties and particle nature of matter. Laboratory activities teach skills such as measuring, recording data, interpreting information, and using evidence to make conclusions.
Grade Level: 9
Biology
This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of biology including cellular biology, genetics, microbiology, animal and plant biology, evolution, and ecology. Introductory laboratory skills are developed with emphasis on collection, observation, and interpretation of data.
Grade Level: 10
Honors Biology
This course focuses on cellular biology, genetics, microbiology, zoology, plant biology, evolution and ecology. College level pedagogy is stressed, as is development of analytical skills in a concentrated laboratory program.
Prerequisite for 9th Grade: Selection based on entrance exam and/or performance on STA Physical Science exam and Middle School science grade of B+ or better; instructor's approval
Prerequisite for 10th Grade: B or better; instructor's approval
Grade Levels: 9, 10
Chemistry
This course focuses on scientific measurement, chemical nomenclature, atomic theory, molar relationships, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, gases, solutions, acids and bases, and properties of elements and compounds. Mathematical problem solving and a quantitative/qualitative laboratory program are stressed.
Prerequisite: Algebra and Geometry; Biology or Honors Biology
Grade Level: 11
Honors Chemistry
This course introduces students to scientific measurements, chemical nomenclature, atomic theory, molar relationships, stoichiometry, thermodynamics, theories of solutions, acids, bases, equilibriums, properties of elements and compounds and their structural deviations, a study of laws governing the behavior of matter, and organic chemistry. A mathematical approach to problem solving and a quantitative and qualitative approach toward laboratory investigation are stressed.
Prerequisite: Biology or Honors Biology, C or better in Algebra II/Trigonometry or concurrent registration in Honors AlgebraII/Trigonometry; instructor's approval
Grade Levels: 10, 11
Honors Physics 11
This course deals with matter and energy relationships through hands-on laboratory investigations. Topics include mechanics, thermodynamics, wave theory, optics, electricity, and modern physics. Enrollment in Honors Physics 11 is concurrent with enrollment in Advanced Placement Biology for the student’s senior year science.
Prerequisite: Honors Biology, Honors Chemistry, AlgebraII/Trigonometry (all with B+ or better); instructor's approval
Grade Level: 11
Physics/Honors Physics
This course deals with matter and energy relationships through hands-on laboratory investigations. Topics include mechanics, thermodynamics, wave theory, optics, electricity, and modern physics. Students are invited by the instructor, (based on first quarter performance), to do honors level work with emphasis added on laboratory work and out-of-class investigations.
Prerequisite: Chemistry or Honors Chemistry and Algebra II/Trigonometry (all with C or better); instructor's approval
Grade Level: 12
Environmental Science
This course covers four areas of environmental concern: water ecology, global ecology, naturalist methods, and water research. Water quality analysis and report generation are a focal point of this course. Community service and service learning are integral components of the course. Students will perform water quality assessments, land use surveys, assist in the eradication of buckthorn, and many other community based activities. This class has over twenty monitoring sites from which to assess and generate water quality reports that are shared with local agencies and landowner associations. This class is based on an internship model and students must be willing to work outdoors throughout the entire year.
Prerequisite: C or better in Biology and Honors Chemistry or Chemistry; instructor's approval
Grade Levels: 11, 12
Advanced Placement Environmental Science
Intended for: highly motivated students interested in a rigorous course which balances applied learning, community service, and incorporation of a college level text.
This course covers five areas of environmental concern: ecological principles, human population and resources, environmental quality and pollution, environment and society, and sustainability. In addition to text reading and assessments, students will perform water quality testing, present results to the Mendota Heights City Council, and perform community service.
Prerequisite: B+ or better in Biology or Honors Biology and Honors Chemistry; instructor's approval
Grade Levels: 11, 12
Advanced Placement Biology
This course is under the supervision of the biology department of St. Mary’s University from which four college credits may be earned. It is comparable to an introductory, upper-level freshman college biology course. A textbook costing $90.00 is required for this course.
Prerequisite: B or better in Chemistry or Honors Chemistry and Honors Biology; instructor's approval
Grade Levels: 11, 12
Updated January 28, 2010
