BHS Science Course Listing

Science Courses at Berlin High School

2008-2009

[General Sciences | Biology | Chemistry | Physics | Electives]

General & Earth Sciences

0040 General Science, Grade 9 Grade 9 1.0 credit. .
This course is a basic introduction to the three main branches of science: earth science, physical science and life science. In the earth science segment, students study the earth’s features, weather and climate as well as astronomy. The physical science segment of the course focuses on the properties of matter, heat, light, sound, and energy resources. Cells, the kingdoms of life, genetics and evolution are examined in the life science portion of the course.

500 Earth Science. Grade 9 Grade 9 1 credit.
Earth Science is a one year science course that covers the study of the physical and chemical components of the Earth. Units of study include the Chemistry and Composition of the Earth, the Atmosphere and Weather, Surface Processes and Plate Tectonics, Energy and Earth Resources and Oceanography. Throughout the year, the scientific method and problem solving is stressed in class demonstrations and laboratory activities. Students develop an understanding of interactions and interdependence within and between Earth systems and changes in Earth Systems over time. Earth Science also addresses environmental concerns and CAPT lab preparation.

504 *Earth Science Grade 9 Grade 9 1 credit.
Prerequisite: successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in Algebra I*, Accelerated Algebra, and science teacher recommendation.
This course is intended for students with an interest and ability in science and a strong math, reading, and writing background. Detailed study of concepts, theories, and laws in geology, chemistry, oceanography, and meteorology are covered. Emphasis is placed on extending student learning through the integration of higher order thinking strategies. Earth Science also addresses environmental concerns and CAPT lab preparation.

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Chemistry

574 Chemistry. Grades 10 , 11 and 12. 1 credit.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I
An introductory course in chemistry for the college-bound student who does not intend to enter a science-oriented field. The course utilizes as much mathematics as is necessary for the basic material and offers the application of chemistry to everyday life. Laboratory report writing will be required. Concepts include water, metals, petroleum, radioactivity, gases, and food. This course may have one double lab per week depending upon the schedule. CAPT labs and practice activities will be included.

578 *Chemistry. Grades 10, 11 and 12. 1 credit.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I and teacher recommendation.
This is a full year lab course in the principles of modern chemistry for college preparatory students with strong math backgrounds. Units include reactions, molecules, gases, electron structure, and reactivity. Problem solving and critical laboratory report writing will be required. The course may include one double lab per week depending upon the schedule. CAPT labs and practice activities will be included.

578 **APChemistry. Grade 12. 1 credit.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry*, current enrollement in Physics* and teacher recommendation.
This is a full year lab course in the principles of modern chemistry equal to that taught in a college setting. Students are encouraged to participate in the AP examination to receive college credit or placement.

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Biology

530 General Biology Grade 10, 1 credit. .
Prerequisite: Recommendation of science teacher.
A general biology course emphasizing biology in everyday life. Topics include cell structure and function, genetics, DNA and related technology, evolution, plant anatomy and photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and ecology. The Scientific Method will be reviewed and stressed throughout the course along with CAPT Science preparation skills.

534 Biology. Grade 11. 1 credit. .
Prerequisite: Chemistry and recommendation of science teacher.
A general biology course with an emphasis on observation and the application of the scientific method. Topics include cell structure and function, genetics, DNA and related technology, evolution, plant anatomy and photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and ecology. This course may have one double lab per week depending upon the schedule.

538 *Biology. Grade 11, 1 credit. .
Prerequisite: Chemistry* or recommendation of science teacher. .
This course is for the student with a sincere interest in biology and above average reading and writing ability. Topics will include in depth discussions of the following: cell structure and function, genetics, DNA and related technology, evolution, plant anatomy and photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and ecology. Critical thinking and applications will be emphasized along with formal laboratory reports and long term projects. This course may have one double lab per week depending upon the schedule.

542 **Advanced Placement/ UCONN Biology Grades 11 and 12, 1.50 credits. .
Prerequisite: Successful completion of *Chemistry, with a recommended average of 88 or higher and a teacher recommendation. .
Students enrolling in this class must be aware that this is a college level course and will be taught as such. Topics covered are consistent with UCONN Bio 107 & 108 at the UConn Early College Experience Program and with the AP Biology Development Committee. Topics covered include biomolecules and cells, genetics and evolution, evolutionary history of biological diversity, plant and animal form and function, and ecology. Students use the college level text, Biology (AP) 7^th ed., Campbell, 2005. Students electing to enroll in this course must participate in field trips, fetal pig dissection, and complete a research assignment. Students are expected to take the AP Exam in May. There are two double lab periods scheduled per week.

526*Anatomy and Physiology Grade 12, 1 credit. .
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry and science teacher recommendation.
A detailed study of human anatomy and physiology for the student with a sincere interest in the biological/medical field. The course is designed to introduce the students to the structures and functions of the human body. Each student will be required to dissect a domestic cat, perform other dissections, and become involved in various physiological experimentation.

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Physics

590 *Physics * Grade 12, 1 credit.
Prerequisite: Geometry and Algebra II, concurrent enrollment in Advanced Math, Pre-calculus, Discrete Mathematics or Elementary Statistics along with a science teacher recommendation.
A full year lab course in the principles of physics and problem solving for college preparatory students with strong math backgrounds. Topics include measurement, mechanics, hydrostatics, hydrodynamics, wave motion, optics, sound and an introduction to modern physics. This course meets during normal class periods only. (no extra lab periods)

594 **Advanced Placement / UConn ECE Physics Grade 12, 1 credit.

Prerequisite: Science teacher recommendation. Must be concurrently enrolled in Calculus or have successfully completed Pre-Calculus Honors.
A full-year lab course in the principles and applications of physics, requiring extensive use of mathematics. Topics include mechanics, waves, hydrostatics, hydrodynamics, heat and thermodynamics, optics, sound, electricity, magnetism, and an introduction to modern physics. The course includes two double class periods per week. Students admitted to the University of Connecticut Early College Experience may earn UConn credit in Physics 121Q and 122 Q (non-calculus physics ) with a grade of "C" or better. Students are encouraged to take the AP test in the spring for more college credit options.

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Electives

516 Horticulture Grade 12. 0.50 credits. .
Prerequisite: Successful completion of either Biology or Chemistry.
Horticulture involves both outdoor and indoor study of plants and plant care. Students will become involved in seed germination of plants as well as learning other methods of plant propagation. Plant form and function will be introduced as part of the information necessary to perform laboratory experiments. Students will learn basic landscape techniques as they work in one of the two school courtyards. Students will learn through a combination of field, classroom, and laboratory activities. Hands-on activities will be emphasized and participation in the activities is required to successfully complete the course.

520 Meteorology. Grades 11 and 12. 0.50 credits. .
Prerequisite: Earth Science.
An exploratory course in meteorology covering the fundamentals of weather and climate, weather prediction, severe weather phenomenon, and climatology. Units include: Sun and Earth, Heat Balance of the Atmosphere, Distribution of Temperature, Observation and Station Measurements, Air Masses and their Structure, Weather and Climate Prediction and Applications.

564 Marine Biology I. Grades 11 and 12. 0.50 credits. Semester 1 or 2. .
Prerequisite: Successful completion of any Biology or Chemistry course.
Students will study the physical and chemical aspects of the marine environment. Heavy emphasis will be on the chemistry of sea water and the ecology of estuaries. An introduction to the ecology of coral reefs and deep sea hydrothermal vent communities will also be provided. Marine aquariums will be maintained and science field investigations in Long Island Sound, using Project Oceanology, will be done.

568 Marine Biology II Grades 11 and 12. ½ Year 0.50 credits.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Marine Biology I.
Students will study the anatomy and physiology of representative animals.
Emphasis will be placed upon the structure of the organisms and how they are adapted to their particular habitat. Dissections are included. Field trips are planned in association with Project Oceanology.

Marine Ecology Grades 11 and 12. ½ Year 0.50 credits.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Marine Biology I.
Students will study the ecology of marine systems.
Field trips are planned in association with Project Oceanology.

558 Science, Technology, and Society Grade 12 ½ Year 0.5 credits. .
Prerequisite: Successful Completion of Biology & Chemistry. .
This course emphasizes the interaction of the use of technology and the needs of society. Through discussions, readings, laboratory activities, and research projects, the course will address technology’s influence on society. Units in the fields of transportation, sports, and medicine will be explored.

548 Biotechnology Grade 11 and 12 ½ year, 0.50 Credits. .
Prerequisite: Chemistry, Biology or current biology enrollment, and science teacher recommendation.
The themes of this single semester course are fermentation, microorganisms and DNA manipulation. Using up to date laboratory methods and technology, students will explore our ability to engineer DNA to enable harmless forms of microbes to produce useful products. This inquiry-based course includes the history of biotechnology, techniques in DNA science, microbiology, fermentation, genetics, forensics and related societal issues. This course is highly recommended for serious juniors and seniors who plan to major in the biological or medical fields in college.