Science at Saint Thomas Academy

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of biology including cellular biology, genetics, microbiology, animal and plant biology, and evolution. Introductory laboratory skills are developed with emphasis on collection, observation, and interpretation of data. 

Prerequisite: All of the following prerequisites must be met for registration in Honors Biology. 
Current 8th grade
Current 9th grade 
Current science instructor approval
Current science instructor approval 
First semester science grade of A-
1st semester Physical Science B+ or better 
Consistent demonstration of academic performance
Consistent demonstration of academic performance 
Minimum composite score of 125 on STA entrance exam
 
This course focuses on cellular biology, genetics, microbiology, zoology, evolution and ecology. College level pedagogy is stressed, as is development of analytical skills in a concentrated laboratory program. 

Prerequisite: Algebra and Geometry; Biology or Honors Biology. 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: Instructor approval; A in Biology 1st semester, B+ in Honors Biology 1st semester, B or better in Algebra II/Trigonometry or concurrent registration.

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: Instructor approval; Honors Chemistry and Honors Biology (B+ or better) B110/111 Botany & Zoology I/Lab (4 cr.). P.A.C.C. through Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. This course is comparable to an introductory, upper-level freshman college biology course. The course is intended for highly motivated students able to learn at a college level with a college text. It is under the supervision of the biology department of Saint Mary’s University from which four college credits may be earned. Students should expect 2-4 hours of homework a week, which will be including reading and taking notes on the textbook, independent research, lab reports and other group work. All AP students are expected to take the AP exam. 

Prerequisite: Instructor approval; Biology and Honors Chemistry or Chemistry. This course covers five areas of environmental concern: ecology principles, human population and resources, environmental quality and pollution, environment and society, and sustainability. In addition to text reading and assessments, students will perform lab work, water quality testing, and various larger projects. 

Prerequisite: Instructor approval; Biology or Honors Biology and Chemistry or Honors Chemistry (grade of B+ or better in both). Intended for: 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 lab work; water quality testing and present results to the Mendota Heights City Council. Students should expect a reading load of 2-4 hours per week throughout most of the year. All AP students are expected to take the AP exam. 

Prerequisite: Instructor approval; Chemistry or Honors Chemistry, Algebra II/Trigonometry (all with C+ or better). Physics expands upon the concepts introduced in Physical Science to help students understand the physical world around them. The course follows a traditional physics curriculum beginning with mechanics and kinematics with an emphasis on Newton’s Laws of Motion. Students then continue on to learn about energy, waves, sound, and optics. Throughout the course, students learn to apply the above concepts to the world around them through demonstrations, application problems and labs. 
Physics is a math-based science class that requires algebraic skills, such as solving equations. 

Prerequisite: Instructor approval; Chemistry or Honors Chemistry, Precalculus (all with C+ or better). Honors Physics covers the same concepts as Physics (see Physics course description) but at a faster pace and more complex level. Honors Physics requires students to think critically and problem solve based on their understanding of physical world. This course is for students who wish to look beyond the basic physical properties and further explore more complex applications of the concepts. 
The format and structure of Honors Physics is designed for students to gain experience as independent, self- motivated learners as they take the content from lessons and reinforce their understanding of the concepts through applications beyond what is demonstrated in class. 

This is a 1⁄2 credit, year long course that uses case studies, computer simulations, virtual labs, dissections and diagnostic equipment to teach the integration of form and function of human organ systems. Human diseases and disorders, their treatments will be examined through a variety of modeling activities. 

Prerequisite: Instructor approval. This is a 1⁄2 credit, year long course that uses case studies, computer simulations, virtual labs, dissections and diagnostic equipment to teach the integration of form and function of human organ systems. Human diseases and disorders, their treatments will be examined through a variety of modeling activities. 

This course will provide students the opportunity to use the Engineering Cycle to research, design, create and test a project of their choosing. Students will be paired with outside mentors as needed. The course will provide an overview of basic engineering skills, lab safety, use of equipment, and computer aided design software. Students will be evaluated by a mid-semester review and an end-of-semester presentation of their working prototype/project. This course is recommended for highly motivated students who can work independently.  Course is limited to 12 students/section. Students will be selected via an application and interview which must be scheduled with Mr. Westlake in the Innovation Center.