Science Department

Explore the nature of science.
Empower students to investigate the physical and biological world around them.
Achieve the skills necessary to solve problems using the scientific method.

High school science offerings continue the program begun in earlier grades to develop scientifically literate students who understand how science, technology, and society interact and who are able to use this knowledge to solve problems every day. Courses emphasize acquiring facts, concepts, attitudes, and process skills which foster the development and practice of scientific thinking. The curriculum prepares students for advanced study in science and professional careers and for entry into technological schools and jobs.

FACULTY

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SCIENCE COURSE OFFERINGS

Full-year – 1 credit:
3000, 3010 Physical Science 9
3040, 3050, 3060 Biology 10
The following courses are recommended for grades 11-12. They are offered to students in grades 10-12 if prerequisites are met.
3240 AP Biology 10-12
3080, 3090 Chemistry 10-12
3120 Societal Issues in Chemistry 10-12
3140 AP Chemistry 10-12
3160 Physics 10-12
3180 AP Physics 10-12
3200 Conceptual Physics 10-12
3220 Anatomy and Physiology 10-12
3235 Biotechnology 10-12
3265 Marine Science 10-12
3275 Earth and Environmental Science 10-12
Semester – ½ credit
3270 Marine Science 10-12
3281 Selected Topics in Science I 10-12
3282 Selected Topics in Science II 10-12
3250 Geology 10-12
3320 Invertebrate Zoology 10-12
3325 Vertebrate Zoology 10-12
3230 The Human Body 10-12
3330 Forensic Science 12
3335 CSI East Haven (2nd semester only) 12 3340 CAPT Science—Spring 12
Engineering
Full-year – 1 credit
6880 Introduction to Engineering 9-12
6970 Principles of Engineering 9-12
6975 Civil and Architectural Engineering Design 10-12
6980 Digital Electronics 10-12

LABORATORY SAFETY
To prevent injury to students and staff, and to minimize damage to equipment and personal effects, each student will be required to read and sign a statement regarding conduct in the laboratory and general safety rules. Failure to comply with these lab safety rules could lead to students being removed from the lab and losing credit and a grade for the activity.
A major factor in laboratory safety is eye protection. State law* requires that eye goggles, face shields, or other devices MUST be worn during any activity which could cause damage to the eyes. The teacher will direct the use of goggles whenever there is a potential risk and students are expected to comply. *Connecticut State Statues—Appendix B, V-1, Section 10-214a-1

Full-Year Science Courses (1 credit)

PHYSICAL SCIENCE
Course No. 3000 Weight: H Credit: 1 (YR) Grade 9
Course No. 3010 Weight: L-1 Credit: 1 (YR) Grade 9
Prerequisites:
Honors: Credit in Algebra I or concurrent enrollment in Algebra I with teacher recommendation
Level 1: None
This laboratory course is a logical and comprehensive introduction to chemistry and physics. We explore the properties of matter, energy transfer and transformations, the changing Earth, and science and technology in society as we ask the questions:
• How does the structure of matter affect the properties and uses of materials?
• What is the role of energy in our world?
• How do materials cycle through the Earth’s systems?
• How do science and technology affect the quality of our lives?

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6, 5, 4

BIOLOGY
Course No. 3040 Weight : H Credit: 1 (YR) Grades: 10-12
Course No. 3050 Weight : 1 Credit: 1 (YR) Grades: 10-12
Course No. 3060 Weight: 2 Credit: 1 (YR) Grades: 10-12
Prerequisites:
Honors: Honors Physical Science with a minimum final grade of 80, 90 in Level 1 Physical Science, or recommendation of science teacher
Level 1: Recommendation of science teacher
Level 2: Recommendation of science teacher
This course explores the characteristics of living things, relationships in ecological systems, structures and functions of cells, patterns of genetics and evolution and issues in bioethics. Laboratory investigations create a hands-on inquiry approach to developing student understanding of these concepts.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6, 5, 4

AP BIOLOGY
Course No. 3240 Weight: AP Credit: 1 (YR) Grades: 10-12
Prerequisite: Departmental recommendation.
Grades 10-12
The curriculum approved by the College Board/UConn is completed with emphasis on cell biochemistry, heredity, genetics, plant and animal biology, ecology and evolution. Laboratory investigations dealing with topics studied are an integral part of the course. It is designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement exam in May. A college text is used.
UConn Credits: UConn Biology 107: 4 credits; UConn Biology 108: 4 credits.
*Students accepted into the ECE Cooperative Program can earn credit from UConn upon successful completion with a minimum grade of 75. Registration for UConn credit must be sent the spring previous to taking the course.

21st Century Learning Expectations:: 6, 4, 5

CHEMISTRY
Course No. 3080 Weight: H Credit: 1 (YR) Grades: 10-12
Course No. 3090 Weight: 1 Credit: 1 (YR) Grades: 10-12
Prerequisites:
Honors: Algebra I (minimum grade of 85) and teacher recommendation. Completion of or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2
Level 1: Algebra I (minimum grade of 75) or Algebra I part 2 (minimum grade of 85) Concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2 is beneficial.
This introductory laboratory-oriented course presents students with a survey of chemical principles, theories, applications, and laboratory techniques. Topics include atomic structure; the periodic table; chemical bonding; the quantitative relationships found in chemical reactions and the behavior of gases. Calculations and the factor-label method of problem solving are stressed throughout this course. Chemistry is strongly recommended for students planning to attend college, pursue a scientific or technical career, or for those who would like a better understanding of the physical world in which they live. Juniors and seniors may use this course to earn college credit through the College Careers Pathways Program.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6, 5

SOCIETAL ISSUES IN CHEMISTRY
Course No. 3120 Weight: 2 Credit: 1((YR) Grades: 10-12
Prerequisite: Credit in Algebra I or Algebra I Part 1 (minimum grade of 80)
This course ties the core concepts of chemistry with key societal issues. In a real-world setting, students learn facts and concepts as needed to understand the issues being addressed. As students explore these concepts through laboratory activities, they develop an understanding of how relevant chemistry is to their everyday lives. Students who successfully complete this course may take Chemistry Level 1.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6, 4, 5

AP CHEMISTRY
Course No. 3140 Weight: AP Credit: 1 (YR) Grades: 10-12
Prerequisites: Honors Chemistry with teacher recommendation; Honors Algebra II (minimum grade of 80) or Algebra II (minimum grade of 85)
AP Chemistry is recommended for students who plan to major in a science-oriented field in college. The curriculum suggested by the College Board is completed with emphasis on descriptive chemistry, chemistry of solutions, thermochemistry, kinetics, and electrochemistry. Laboratory investigations dealing with topics studied are an integral part of the course. It is designed to prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Exam in May. A college text is used.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6, 5

HONORS PHYSICS
Course No. 3160 Weight: H Credit: 1 (YR) Grades: 10-12
Prerequisite: Honors Algebra II (minimum grade 80) or Algebra II (minimum grade of 85)
This course covers in detail the quantitative and qualitative aspects of mechanics, properties of matter, heat, sound, light, electricity and magnetism, electronics, and atomic physics. The primary emphasis is the understanding and application of those general principles which underlie a broad range of natural phenomena. Extensive use is made of Algebra and Trigonometry to obtain quantitative results. Expect 45 minutes of homework as a daily average. Physics may be taken as a stand-alone course or as preparation for AP Physics.

21st Century Learning Expectation: 6

AP PHYSICS
Course No. 3180 Weight: AP Credit: 1 (FY) Grades: 10-12
Co-requisite: Trigonometry or Pre-calculus
In this rigorous, fast-paced course, you will seek to discover, understand and apply the known laws of the physical universe. This is a one-year course for students of above-average ability in mathematics. It incorporates a single textbook, lectures, use of computers, lab work and student-designed projects. A solid, working knowledge of Algebra II and Trigonometry is essential. This course is designed to help students:
• acquire an understanding of current concepts of matter and energy
• become aware of and practice using the methods by which scientific understandings evolve
• master many of the quantitative relationships that express these understandings and to acquire skill in using them
Expect 45 minutes of homework as a daily average. A major theme will be to prepare for the Advanced Placement Physics “B” Exam, given in May.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6

CONCEPTUAL PHYSICS
Course No. 3200 Weight: 1 Credit: 1 (FY) Grades: 10-12
Prerequisite: Algebra I (minimum grade of 75). Completion of or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2 is recommended.
This program will engage students with analogies and imagery from real-world situations that build a strong conceptual understanding of physical principles ranging from classical mechanics to modern physics. With this strong foundation, students are better equipped to understand the equations and formulas of physics, and motivated to explore the thought-provoking exercises and fun projects. Reasonably strong algebra skills are required. Expect 30 minutes of homework as a daily average. Conceptual physics may be taken as a stand-alone course or as preparation for AP Physics.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6, 4

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
Course No. 3220 Weight: 1 Credit: 1 (FY) Grades 10-12
Credit: 1 (FY)
Prerequisite: Two science credits, one in Biology L-1 with a minimum grade of 75 or Biology L-2 with a minimum grade of 85).
This course is intended for the student who has an interest in the anatomy (structure) and physiology (function) of the human body. It includes a survey of the body systems including integumentary, muscular, skeletal, nervous, circulatory, digestive, respiratory, reproductive, excretory and endocrine systems. Dissections will be offered to increase the understanding of anatomy. Other lab investigations will demonstrate the manner in which the body parts function. Juniors and seniors may use this course to earn college credit through the College Careers Pathway Program.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6, 5

BIOTECHNOLOGY
Course No. 3235 Weight: 1 Credit: 1 (FY) Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Two science credits, one in Biology L-1 with a minimum grade of 75 or Biology L-2 with a minimum grade of 85).
Interested in cutting-edge technology such as DNA fingerprinting, cloning, and gene therapy? Want to work as part of a team to build a website to educate others about a biotechnology based plan to solve a global biological issue? Students in this course will be involved in a lab-intensive science using state of the art equipment such as electrophoresis apparatus, vortex, digital pipettes, autoclave, Petri dishes to grow microbes used in laboratory experiments just to mention a few. The fundamental concepts of life science will be reviewed, microbiology concepts will be explored and the incorporation of current biotechnology skills and applications will be practiced. Techniques and knowledge explored in this course will empower students to venture into many different scientific fields of study such as medicine, genetics, microbiology, and virology.

21st Century Learning expectations: 6, 5,4

MARINE SCIENCE L-1
Course No. 3265 Weight: 1 Credit: 1 (FY) Grades: 10-12
Credit: 1 (YR)
Prerequisite: Two science credits, one in Biology L-1 with a minimum grade of 75 or Biology L-2 with a minimum grade of 85).
This course discusses the dynamic processes of the oceans and seas. First semester coursework in this class includes physical and chemical analysis of ocean water and an examination of the ocean floor and coastal features. Second semester coursework includes investigations of marine life and various ocean and coastal habitats. Students will compare organisms on sandy beaches, rocky beaches, and marshes while collecting data on a field trip. Students will make a collection of algae and plant species as well. A variety of laboratory activities will be offered to provide students with a hands-on study of oceans.

EARTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Course No. 3275 Weight: 1 Credit: 1 (FY) Grades: 10-12 (NCAA pending)
Prerequisite: Two science credits at L-1 level with a minimum grade of 75 or L-2 with minimum grade of 85
Care about our Earth and solving problems related to global change, pollution, energy resources and consumption, land and water use, and population growth and its impact? Be part of the solution to help save our planet! Explore topics in geology, mineralogy, soils, ecology, the atmosphere, ground/surface water with an emphasis on land use and planning, energy resources and use, global change, and pollution. The class will involve many hands-on activities, inquiry-based labs, research, and direct instruction.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6, 5, 4

½ Year Science Electives ( ½ credit)

.
SELECTED TOPICS IN SCIENCE I
Course No. 3281 Weight: 2 Credit: .5 (1/2 year) Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Credit in Physical Science or Biology
Offered during semester one, this very hands-on science class addresses mini-units in science. The physics of forces and motion are explored with egg-drop competitions, balloon racers, Rube Goldberg machines, simple machines, hot wheel ramps, and engineered mouse-trap cars. Experimental design will be explored through guided inquiry-based research projects and direct instruction.

21st Century Learning Expectation: 6, 4,

SELECTED TOPICS IN SCIENCE II
Course No. 3282 Weight: 2 Credit: .5 (1/2 year) Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Credit in Physical Science or Biology
During the second semester, the science of weather, climate, and astronomy are explored with computer models of atmospheric conditions, weather condition data collection, independent projects, solar system modeling, solar home models, solar cooker construction, and studying the constellations. Experimental design will be explored through guided inquiry-based research projects and direct instruction.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6, 4, 5

MARINE SCIENCE
Course No. 3270 Weight: 2 Credits: .5 (1/2 YR) Grades: 10-12
Prerequisite: Two credits in science
This course is an introduction to the study of the marine environments with a major focus on marine organisms and ecological relationships. Students will compare organisms on sandy beaches, rocky beaches and marshes while collecting data on a field trip. Students will make a collection of algae and plant species. A variety of laboratory activities will be offered to provide students with a hands-on study of oceans.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6, 4, 5

GEOLOGY
Course No. 3250 Weight: 2 Credit: .5 (1/2 year) Grades 10-12 (NCAA pending)
Prerequisite: Two credits in science
Grades: 10-12

Topics in mapping the Earth (GPS and GSI systems and topographic maps), formation of and identification of rocks and minerals, Earth dynamics (plate tectonics, volcanoes and earthquakes), and the Earth’s changing surface (weathering, surface waters, beaches and glaciers) will be explored through hands-on activities, inquiry based projects and labs, and direct instruction.

21st Century Learning Expectation: 6

INVERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY
Course No. 3320 Weight: 2 Credits: .5 (1/2 YR) Grades: 10-12
Prerequisite: Two credits in science
This course is an exploration of animals without backbones. Unicellular organisms, sponges, worms, starfish, mollusks (octopi, squids, clams, snails) and arthropods (insects, lobsters, spiders) will be studied. Dissections of a variety of organisms as well as other laboratory experiences are offered to enhance students’ understandings of comparative anatomy, physiology, evolution and ecology.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6, 5

VERTEBRATE ZOOLOGY
Course No. 3325 Weight: 2 Credit: .5 (1/2 YR) Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Two credits in science
This course is an exploration of animals with backbones. Lampreys, sharks, bony fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals will be studied. Dissections of a variety of organisms as well as other laboratory experiences are offered to enhance students’ understandings of comparative anatomy, physiology, evolution and ecology.

21st Century Learning Expectation: 6, 4, 5

THE HUMAN BODY
Course No. 3230 Weight: 2 Credit: .5 (1/2YR) Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Two credits in science
The goal of this course is to provide students with a basic knowledge of how their bodies are designed and function to enable them to make choices that will lead them to live healthier lives. This course offers an overview of the systems of the human body (integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive and reproductive systems), related diseases and their prevention.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6, 5

FORENSIC SCIENCE
Course No. 3330 Weight: 2 Credit: .5 (1/2 YR) Grade 12
Prerequisite: Two credits in science
Forensic science is the application of science to law. This course will focus on practices associated with physical evidence found at crime scenes. Students will be provided with background scientific content and perform experiments needed to evaluate crime scene evidence such as fingerprints, blood splatter, fiber, hair, DNA, chromatography, and handwriting analysis.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6, 4, 5

CSI EAST HAVEN
Course No. 3335 Weight: 2 Credit: .5 (1/2 year) Grade 12 only. (NCAA pending)
Prerequisite: Forensic Science with a minimum grade of 80.
Second semester only.
Apply the skills you learned in Forensic Science to realistic “crime scene investigations.” This course is designed for students interested in the field of forensic science and for those who want to gain further understanding of investigative forensic science techniques. Students will apply the skills learned in collecting and analyzing physical evidence in Forensic Science to solve and discuss realistic forensic science scenarios. Learning activities such as laboratory experiments, computer simulations, and media center research assignments are emphasized. As a culminating activity, students will be able to use physical evidence and its analysis to reconstruct and solve a crime.

21st Century Learning Expectation: 6

CAPT SCIENCE
Course No. 3340 Weight: P/F Credit: .25 (1 term) Grade: 12
Prerequisite: Students will be placed into this course based on CAPT score
This is a required course for any student who did not meet proficiency on the Science portion of the CAPT administered in the 10th grade. Students must pass this course to meet graduation requirements. If a student reaches proficiency on the junior year retake or through portfolio evaluation, they will be exempted from this course.

21st Century Learning Expectation: 6

INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING+
Course No. 6880 Weight: 1 Credit: 1(FY) Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: None
Students in Introduction to Engineering will be trained in the use of AutoCad Inventor software. Using a design-development process, models of product solutions are created, analyzed, and communicated using the engineering software. Students will use technical devices to measure common household products and draw them to scale. Students taking this course will gain an understanding of what engineers and designers do as well as gain a fundamental knowledge of the interpretation of technical drawings. Juniors and seniors may use this course to earn college credit through the College Career Pathways Program.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6,5,4

PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING DESIGN+
Course No. 6970 Weight: 1 Credit: 1 (FY) Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: None
Students in Principles of Engineering are introduced to different engineering careers, taught how to design and use a problem-solving process, and trained in the skills related to team work as a job skill. . Students are trained AutoCad Inventor software. They use the software, building materials, a variety of tools, and mathematical principles and formulas to design, model, build, test and engineer systems to solve problems. Juniors and seniors may use this course to earn college credit through the College Career Pathways Program.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6,5,4

CIVIL ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE+
Course No. 6975 Weight:1 Credit: 1 (FY) Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design or Principles of Engineering
This course is an introduction to civil engineering and architecture and will emphasize the use of REVIT(CAD) software to create architectural prints, the application of structural data (structural engineering), and creation of project documentation. In addition, the history, influence and impact of engineering and architecture on society will be explored. Juniors and seniors may use this course to earn college credit through the College Career Pathways Program.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6,5,4

DIGITAL ELECTRONICS+
Course No. 6980 Weight:1 Credit: 1 (FY) Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design or Principles of Engineering
Students use computer simulations to learn about the logic of electronics as they design, test, and construct real circuits and devices to control systems. Juniors and seniors may use this course to earn college credit through the College Career Pathways Program.

21st Century Learning Expectations: 6,5,4