Integrated Science (9) (1C, R)

Students will demonstrate laboratory skills, classification, and other research skills. This course is divided into the following sections: Biological, Chemical, Environmental, and Physical sciences. Audio-Visual aids, lab exercises, and class activities will be used to supplement the textbook.

Biology (10) (1C, R, P = Integrated Science 9)

Areas of content to be covered include, but are not limited to: momentum, scientific laws, and theories, functions of cells, environmental issues, health and energy concepts, stable systems, physical and biological indicators, a critique of experimental design, using data to make inferences, the use of technology to extend human abilities, use of models to explain scientific and technological concepts, stationary physical patterns, cellular processes, genetic makeup, the significance of diverse ecosystems and the relationship and structure of the properties of matter. Students will be expected to complete a number of projects and/or research papers to demonstrate critical and analytical thinking skills. This course is a survey of basic biological processes and practical laboratory experience. Research, writing, and laboratory analysis are requirements.

Chemistry (11) (1C, R, P = Algebra I & Algebra II)

Theoretical, mathematical, and practical concepts are all presented to give the student a strong background in chemical principles. Topics include matter and energy relationships, nomenclature, reactions and equations, molar relationships, stoichiometry, gases and gas laws, kinetic theory, atomic theory, Quantum theory, Periodicity, chemical bonding, solutions and solubility, acids and bases, and elementary thermodynamics.

Physics (12) (1C, E, P = Algebra 2/Trigonometry)

This course is designed to give the students a basic knowledge of the concepts in physics.  The topics covered include mechanics, energy, heat, light, and sound. Others can be covered as student interest dictates. Concepts will be further explored in the laboratory.

AP Biology – (11-12) (1C, E, P = B grade average in Biology) ALL STUDENTS MUST TAKE AP BIOLOGY EXAM

AP Biology is designed for students that have a strong interest in, or desire to pursue a career in, the sciences.  This course is designed to offer students topics that are covered in a freshman Biology course at the university level.  Students accepting the challenge of an Advanced Placement course will be required to actively participate in all lectures and laboratory activities that are conducted during the year.  To succeed in AP Biology students must be highly motivated to learn.  Reading requirements for the course are rigorous and require a daily commitment in order to stay caught up in the class.  Laboratory activities suggested by the College Board are conducted to give the student a fair representation of a university-level Biology course.

Environmental Science – (9-12) (1C, E) Environmental science is interdisciplinary and has a lot of real-world applications.  Unlike other core science classes, there is no standard curriculum, set of topics, or set of concepts that everyone has to learn.  Environmental science is a true elective. Unlike most other science classes, environmental science engages the students' affective domains.  As this is an interdisciplinary class, there is a highly political component, one which may run counter to the students' own beliefs and philosophies.  This course focuses on the facts, and the information is presented in an objective manner as possible.  Environmental science encourages critical thinking, analysis, and informed opinions based on science. Current events are an essential part of the environmental science course. Truly, the main objective of the class is to gain a better understanding of how we currently interact with the environment. 

Envirothon (9-12) (1C, E, M)

In this course, the students will study Wildlife, Aquatics, Forestry, and Soil. Students must also be able to apply their knowledge to the field. Examples include identifying bird songs, tracks, skulls, fish, macroinvertebrates, trees, tree volume, soil type, and use. The class will culminate in the Envirothon competition that tests our knowledge against other Greene county schools.

Mechatronics (10-12) (1C, E, P = Algebra II)                         

Topics include history, methods, functions, disciplines, and ethics of engineering. Students learn ways in which fundamental engineering principles are used to solve theoretical and practical problems. STEM concepts are strongly emphasized. Students may be expected to participate in a national Robotics competition, which may involve after school hours.

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11-12) (1C, E, P = Biology)

Students will study the structure and function of the human body. The study begins at the cellular level and continues through the body’s organ systems. Dissections for comparisons are a part of the course. Students interested in a basic knowledge of the human body and students pursuing college degrees in science will benefit from the class. The course is highly recommended for students interested in working in the medical field.

Aquaponics (10-12) (1C, E, P = Integrated Science {have some Biology and Chemistry})
A hands-on, STEM-based course that not only instructs students about aquaculture and hydroponic but also incorporates all aspects of STEM.  Students will study biology and interactions among fish, plants, bacteria, and redworms.   Students will also conduct experiments and report data.  Additionally, students will maintain the system and provide presentations and instruction for other groups in the school.

Scientific Research (11-12) (1C, E)

Scientific Research is a class designed to provide students an opportunity to conduct research projects in the areas of biology, botany, zoology, microbiology, physics, chemistry, or other science fields.  The students will learn proper experimental design and techniques.  The scientific method will be studied and utilized.  Students will present their research at a scientific meeting.  The goal is to provide students the opportunity to complete their own scientific studies and have an opportunity to share with others.

Meteorology/Geology (10-12, 9th grade with teacher approval) (1C, E)

Meteorology is a one-semester course designed for the student who enjoys investigating natural atmospheric phenomena such as thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, atmospheric energy, seasons, light, color and optics, humidity, condensation, air pressure, clouds, wind, air masses, and fronts. Weather forecasting will be an integral part of this course.  Geology (one semester) is the study of rocks, minerals, and the Earth’s structure.  It concerns all of the earth; its natural hazards, earthquakes, volcanoes and floods, glaciers, natural resources such as crystals, gems, minerals, fossil fuels, and rocks. The history of earth will be reached through fossil collection and investigation.

SEM Lab (10-12) (E, P = GPA 3.0, Chemistry, & Teacher Approval)

This course introduces students to the emerging field of nanoscience by utilizing the scanning electron microscope for a variety of purposes. Theory, applications, and limitations of scanning electron microscopy will be emphasized.  Students will be required to design and complete a project utilizing the SEM.  The representation of nanoscience in popular culture will be contrasted with the present and near-future realities in the field. The course also aims to help students by emphasizing skills and values such as academic integrity and problem solving and by actively connecting their science courses to the field of nanoscience.  

Principles of Earth History (9-12)

Students will discover how fundamental concepts of geology have shaped the Earth and changed the North American content over the last 500 million years. Specifically learning about the tectonic and natural forces that were responsible for mountain building and sea-level rise and fall. A focus on how life here responded to those events is an underlying part of this course.

Introduction to Nanotechnology (9-12)

Students are presented with three big questions throughout this course. What is nanotechnology and how can we describe the size of a nanoparticle?  How do behaviors of materials change as they become nano-sized and what tools are used to help observe these unique properties?  What are some biological nanomachines and how are some properties of nature being utilized in nanoscale biological applications and materials?   Each big question is explored in depth by making observations, collecting data, analyzing data, collaborating with their peers, and completing research.  By exploring several different scenarios, students are able to draw conclusions about each big question and gain an understanding of the world of Nano.  

Microscopy (9-12)

During this course students will explore the different types of microscopy.  The main focus of this course will be on West Greene’s very own Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).  After establishing a thorough understanding of the SEM’s technology students will be able to obtain high resolution images of biological and non-biological specimens.  Students will research how this astonishing form of technology has opened new avenues in biomedical research.