Science

Earth/Space Science, Level 1

5010    Grade 9    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.2

Prerequisite:   MMS Algebra I completion with 85% or higher OR an advanced score on the algebra keystone average AND eighth grade teacher recommendation.

This course is designed to exceed the Pennsylvania state standards for Science & Technology (3.3 – Earth & Space Sciences) and several of the standards for Environment & Ecology (4.2 and 4.3). Units have been produced for these standards and are organized into four major areas: astronomy, meteorology/climatology, hydrology, and geology. This course includes a math pre-requisite due to the application of algebraic skills and physics-based calculations throughout the course. Due to the rapid pace and rigor of the level 1 class, students will be expected to apply their algebraic skills without re-teaching or remediation.  Successful completion of this course prepares students for advanced courses in geosciences, other math-drive Physics courses and/or college level Astronomy, Geology and Meteorology; additionally, an understanding of course content is essential for success in Biology (Level 1). This course moves at a rigorous pace; therefore, successful students will devote a significant amount of time outside of class to the completion of this curriculum. Students are expected to take a high degree of responsibility toward completion of curricular objectives. 

Earth/Space Science, Level 2

5020    Grade 9    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.1

This course is designed around the Pennsylvania state standards for Science & Technology (3.3 – Earth & Space Sciences) and several of the standards for Environment & Ecology (4.2 and 4.3). Units have been produced for these standards and are organized into four major areas: astronomy, meteorology/climatology, hydrology, and geology. Successful completion of this course prepares students for college level science requirements. Students will work both in and out of class on the requirements of this curriculum. Students are expected to take responsibility toward completion of curricular objectives.

Earth/Space Science, Level 3

5025    Grade 9    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.0

Prerequisite:   This course will only be scheduled by teacher recommendation.

This course is designed around the Pennsylvania state standards for Science & Technology (3.3 – Earth & Space Sciences) and several of the standards for Environment & Ecology (4.2 and 4.3). Units have been produced for these standards and are organized into four major areas: astronomy, meteorology/climatology, hydrology, and geology. Students will work both in and out of class on the requirements of this curriculum. This course is designed for students who receive learning support and who require a deliberate pace of instruction. Curricular support materials will be provided for this class. This course will provide a basic foundation in each of the standards areas. Students are expected to take responsibility, with support, toward completion of curricular objectives. This course is not designed for students intending to pursue a four-year college degree. A co-teaching and/or learning support environment may be present in this course.

General Biology, Level 1

5030    Grade 10    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.2

Prerequisite:   A “C+” average or better in Earth/Space, level 1 or an “A” average in Earth & Space Level 2.

This course is designed to exceed the Pennsylvania state standards for Science & Technology (3.3 – Biological Sciences) and several of the standards for Environment & Ecology (4.3, 4.6 and 4.7). Units have been produced for these standards and are organized into four major areas: cellular biology and biochemistry, genetic material and heredity, evolution of the six kingdoms of life, and ecology and the environment. Successful completion of this course prepares a student for her/his biology keystone exam and for AP Biology and/or college level General Biology. This course moves at a rigorous pace; therefore, successful students will devote a significant amount of time outside of class to the completion of this curriculum.

General Biology, Level 2

5040    Grade 10    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.1

Prerequisite:   Completion of an Earth & Space Course

This course is designed around the Pennsylvania state standards for Science & Technology (3.3 – Biological Sciences) and several of the standards for Environment & Ecology (4.3, 4.6 and 4.7). Units have been produced for these standards and are organized into four major areas: cellular biology and biochemistry, genetic material and heredity, evolution of the six kingdoms of life, and ecology and the environment. Successful completion of this course prepares a student for her/his biology keystone exam and college level general biology. Students will work both in and out of class on the requirements of this curriculum. This course is not designed for potential biology majors.

General Biology, Level 3

5050    Grade 10    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.0

Prerequisite:   Completion of an Earth/Space course. This course will only be scheduled by teacher recommendation.

This course is designed around the Pennsylvania state standards for Science & Technology (3.3 – Biological Sciences) and several of the standards for Environment & Ecology (4.3, 4.6 and 4.7). Units have been produced for these standards and are organized into four major areas: cell biology and biochemistry, genetic material and heredity, evolution of the six kingdoms of life, and ecology and the environment. This course is designed for students who have difficulty reading, comprehending, and grasping concepts. The pacing of this course is deliberate and includes additional supports to assist students. Activities will include oral reading of materials, group and individual work, and the organization and completion of a biology notebook. Material is arranged in short sections to allow frequent formative and summative evaluation of learning. This course will provide a basic foundation in the areas of study and will prepare a student for her/his keystone exam.

Advanced Geoscience

5065    Grades 11-12    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.3

Prerequisite:   An 85% or higher in Earth/Space Level 1 and Biology Level 1 or teacher approval.

Advanced Geoscience will provide students with hands-on field experience as well as applied skills and content in the areas of physical geology, historical geology, paleontology and environmental science. We will study and investigate the 4.54-billion-year history of Earth, the dynamic processes that have changed the planet over time and the evolution of life in response to these changes. We will visit several important geologic sites and re-create the paleo-environment based on collected fossil and rock evidence.

This is a year-long course that will give students an experience similar to that of an undergraduate geology and environmental science course. For each major area of study students will be required to complete scientific journal readings outside of class, complete research projects, write reports, participate in discussions and seminars on these topics. Students will then be required to apply their understanding through laboratory investigations, case studies and actual field data analysis. Out of class work will include visits to the state museum and local areas of geoscience interest. Projects will be completed using information and data from local sites.



This course is intended for students entering the sciences as a college major and career path. This course is a blended course with online traditional classroom components. Part of the class will take place online where content will be delivered electronically while the application and lab studies will be completed in the regular classroom and field sites. This course requires that a student be cogent, self-driven and organized. Students will need to be effective communicators of scientific ideas, analyses and data representation. They should be prepared to complete a significant amount of work outside of the class. 

Advanced Placement Environmental Science

5068    Grades 11-12    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.3

Prerequisite:   Successful completion of Earth & Space and Biology

This course is designed to be a one-semester, introductory college course in environmental science. Students will engage in applying scientific practices, methodologies, and cross-cutting concepts to explore and understand the natural world and its interrelated systems. This course requires that students  identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the risks associated with  these problems, and examine potential solutions for resolving or preventing them. Environmental science is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from geology, biology, environmental justice, chemistry, and geography.

Anatomy & Physiology

5070    Grades 11-12    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.3

Prerequisite:   A "B+" average or better in Biology Level 1 or through application process which includes recommendation from your Biology teacher.

This course is similar in content and rigor to a college Anatomy and Physiology course. It is designed to prepare students for a major in a medical health field, i.e., Doctor, Nurse, Physician’s Assistant, Radiologist. The course is intended to cover all systems of the human body, from an anatomical and physiological approach and with tremendous detail. The majority of the class time spent in this course will be devoted to increasing the student’s understanding of the mammalian body through experiences in dissection technique and by examination of both models and their own bodies. Additionally, students will participate in lectures/discussions and complete detailed study guide worksheets to enhance the knowledge they gain in the lab. Dissection of a fetal pig is a necessary component of this course.

Student success in this course will be largely determined by the responsibility taken by the student for her/his knowledge and understanding. Due to the depth of coverage of the concepts and anatomy discussed in this course, significant hours outside of class will need to be devoted in preparation for discussions and assessments. Prospective students should be aware that 70% of their marking period grade will be determined by test performance.

It is preferred that the student have a “B+” or higher average in Level 1 Biology. However, success in this class is not solely determined by previous performance in Biology class. A student who has a strong interest and motivation to study anatomy and physiology and who has a strong record of attending and participating in class may be successful in the class. Interested students must complete an application and give the teacher recommendation form to their Biology teacher. Applicants who are not recommended for the class will be notified prior to the end of the school year.

Advanced Placement Biology

5075    Grades 11-12    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.3

Prerequisite:   A “B+” average or better in General Biology Level 1 AND Chemistry Level 1 or recommendation by your Biology or Chemistry instructor.

This is similar in content to a college-level Biology class. It is designed to prepare the student for the Advanced Placement examination. The course content follows that outlined by colleges who participate in the Advanced Placement program. AP Biology emphasizes 4 Big Ideas as they pertain to the topics of evolution, cellular processes—energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology, and interactions. Laboratory experiences accompany the discussion of these topics, and students are expected to keep a comprehensive lab notebook.

Chemistry, Level 1

5080    Grades 10-12    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.2

Prerequisite:   A “C” average or better in Biology Level 1 or an “A” average in Biology Level 2, a “C” average or better in Algebra I. Please note- students who have taken Level 2 Algebra I may need additional instruction on the mathematical principals used in this course. 

This course introduces requisite material for further college level study in chemistry or other fields of science. Students explore and develop important chemical processes and theories through laboratory and lecture material. Students should have prerequisite skills in general algebra. Situational problem-solving is also emphasized. This course cannot be taken for science credit if credit has been earned in the Chemistry Level 2 course. Laboratory experimentation is an important component of the course designed to develop laboratory skills and strengthen conceptual understanding. All students are responsible for the material covered in the laboratory experience.

Chemistry, Level 2

5090    Grades 10-12    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.1

Prerequisite:   A “C” average or better in Algebra I.

This course is designed for the college-bound student and/or students with diverse academic interests. Students should be comfortable with fundamental math skills, including basic arithmetic, solving one-variable algebra problems, ratios, fractions and scientific notation. The course covers topics including atomic history and structure, bonding, reactions, stoichiometry, quantum mechanics, behavior of gases and thermochemistry among others. A lab component is incorporated into the curricular objectives as well. Successful students are not necessarily those with advanced math backgrounds, but instead those students willing to work conscientiously on the problem sets provided by the instructor and seek help when needed.

Advanced Placement Chemistry

5100    Grades 11-12    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.3

Prerequisite:   "B" or better in Algebra II and Chemistry Level 1 along with Chemistry instructor recommendation.

This course is a college-level Chemistry class. It is designed to give a comprehensive investigation of the theoretical and mathematical concepts in chemistry. The course content follows that outlined by colleges who participate in the Advanced Placement program. College credit may be earned by successfully passing the Advanced Placement examination given each year in May. It is not mandatory to take the Advanced Placement examination. The following topics are studied in the course: atomic theory and structure, chemical bonding, nuclear chemistry, gas theory, solids and liquids, solutions, reaction types, oxidation and reduction, stoichiometry, equilibrium, kinetics, and chemical thermodynamics. Chemistry lab is an important component of this course. All students are responsible to make up missed lab work due to absence or class conflicts. Students will be required to do long-term projects.

Physics, Level 1

5110    Grades 10-12    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.3

Prerequisite:   Algebra II (B or better) and Trigonometry (may be taken concurrently).

This is a very challenging course designed for those students planning to continue their education in the fields of mathematics, science, engineering and/or medicine. The course is structured to be a mathematical analysis of the physical laws that govern our universe and represents the subject matter equivalent of AP Physics C-Mechanics. This course is trigonometry based as compared to the calculus base of the AP Physics C course, although much of the explanations involve rates of change. Teacher demonstrations and laboratory experiments are used to reinforce and verify basic principles and concepts. It is expected that students are fluent in algebra and trigonometry. Students unable to work equations with letters will struggle; values are substituted as the last step; Unit analysis is critical. General concepts will be presented with the expectation of application of the concepts to a variety of situations. A course long project will be a part of this course. Topics covered include mechanics, heat, and thermal energy.

Advanced Placement Physics

5115    Grades 11-12    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.3

Prerequisite:   “B+” or better in Physics Level 1.

This course is designed for those students who desire to continue the study of physics. The course will be a mathematical analysis of the laws of physics with emphasis on laboratory experiments and classroom demonstrations and discussions. There is considerable independent work. A strong work ethic and desire to learn is critical to be successful in this class. Yearlong projects will be involved in this course. Topics to be covered in detail include optics, electricity, magnetism, relativity and radiation.

Physics, Level 2

5120    Grades 11-12    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.2

Prerequisite:   “B” or better in Algebra I and “C” or better in Geometry.

This course is designed for the college-bound (non-science major) student and/or the student with diverse academic interests. The course is structured to provide a conceptual view of the physical laws that govern our universe with mathematical applications, including basic algebra, geometry, and some trigonometry. The material taught is cumulative through the year. Good note taking skills and retention of material is critical to be successful. Teacher demonstrations and laboratory experiments are used to reinforce and verify basic principles and concepts. Topics covered include mechanics, heat, and thermal energy. Students will be expected to solve equations for a variable. This course is weighted on-par with Level 1 in other content areas.

Physical Science

5125    Grades 11-12    1 Credit    1 Semester    Weight of 1.0

Note:   This course is NOT to be taken by students who have successfully completed a Chemistry or Physics class. This course will only be scheduled by teacher recommendation.

This course combines the chemistry and physics material relevant to the state standards into one course. Topics covered in the course focus on a broad understanding of basic concepts in physics and chemistry. We attempt to take a conceptual and mathematics limited approach to the physical sciences. However, by nature of the physical sciences like chemistry and physics, some mathematical ability is necessary. The course is designed to give students an understanding of the scientific phenomena that surround them every day. Upon completing the course, students will have a basic understanding of the way science works in our culture and why it works that way. Not only will students gain skill in scientific methodology, but they will learn to think critically and analytically as they approach problem solving. In addition, students will engage science in a hands-on, experiential atmosphere. A key component of Physical Science is an emphasis on responsibility and organization. Students must possess the ability to remain on task while working independently and in groups. 

Introduction to Hydroponics

5200    Grades 9-12    .25 Credit    1 Semester (1X Per Cycle, Day 6 - Period 5 or 6)

This course will cover hydroponic farming and sustainability topics found in the STEELS standards and supplemented with foundational skills for successful plant production. The course will include units on Hydroponic principles and practices, environmental sustainability/equity and historical contexts, plant nutrition and growing environment needs, Freight Farm/vertical farming components and technology, nursery/seeding techniques and protocol, cultivation/harvesting techniques and protocol, hydro-farm maintenance and upkeep, farm logistics.

Astronomy

5205    Grades 9-12    .25 Credit    1 Semester (1X Per Cycle, Day 6 - Period 5 or 6)

Prerequisite:   Successful completion of Algebra 1 recommended.

This course will cover astronomy and cosmology topics in the STEELS standards and will be supplemented with core astronomy topics not found in the 9th-grade Earth & Space course. The course will include units on night sky observation, astro-dynamics, solar system, stellar evolution, cosmology, and astro-biology.

Forensics, Online

OL509    Grades 9-12    .25 Credit    1 Semester 

Prerequisite:   High school Chemistry with 85% or higher average and online learning approval.

This is an asynchronous course that does not meet during the regular school day. The online course is to be completed during the student’s free time. 

Students will be introduced to the field of forensics, through a comprehensive and engaging look at related careers, laboratories, crime scene processing, evidence, and the impact of media on criminal investigations and trials. Students will learn about specific techniques used in crime scene investigation, including autopsy, fingerprint analysis, DNA fingerprinting, and other types of evidence and analysis important to solving crimes. Finally, students will be introduced to a variety of specialized forensic sciences, analyze specific case studies, and learn about the Innocence Project and Freedom Project. At the completion of this course, students will have gained both knowledge of and appreciation for the field of forensics and its application.

Mechanical Engineering, Online

OL510    Grades 9-12    .25 Credit    1 Semester 

Prerequisite:   High school Algebra II with 85% or higher average and online learning approval.

This is an asynchronous course that does not meet during the regular school day. The online course is to be completed during the student’s free time. 

This course will introduce students to the field of mechanical engineering and its many applications in the world today. Students will learn the basic concepts used in mechanical engineering, including systems of units, vectors, forces, moments, force systems, couples, and equilibrium problems. Students will learn about the methods of joints and sections, define centroids, explain distributed loads, explain center of mass and axes, and state the Pappus-Guldinus theorems. Finally, students will learn about dry friction, beams, cables, load distribution, pressure, and potential energy. At the completion of this course, students will have gained both knowledge of and appreciation for the field of mechanical engineering and its importance.