shsscience Mr. Robert Siggins
Somerville High School Science Department Chairman
The science curriculum consists of courses and activities designed to allow individual students to interact with science as a discipline and to experience empirical inquiry as a method of investigation. In courses designed for all students, emphasis is placed on the process of science so that students can discover and interpret scientific knowledge and develop attitudes and interest that can be applied in making decisions in an age influenced by science, technology and the work place.

Science Course Criteria


1. AP Biology requires a final grade of  "B" or  better in Biology 1 to enroll. Successful completion of Algebra 2 and/or departmental approval is also required.
2. AP Chemistry requires a final grade of  "B" or better in Chemistry 1 to enroll. Successful completion of Algebra 2 and/or departmental approval is also required.
3. AP Physics requires a final grade of B" or better in Physics 1 to enroll. Successful completion of Algebra 2 and/or departmental approval is also required.


INTEGRATED SCIENCE
Standard (312) Grade 9

This course interrelates science, technology, and society. Topics include photosynthesis, genetics, energy, machines, meteorology, environmental cycles, space and the universe. Emphasis is on a thematic approach in order to allow students to understand important science concepts, processes and ideas. This course has particular value for students seeking an introductory knowledge of the physical and biological sciences.  During the third quarter students will receive instruction to prepare for the MCAS examination administered in the sophomore year.
5 periods 5 credits



BIOLOGY I
Honors (321) Standard (322)
Grades 9, 10

This course presents curriculum topics and laboratory activity approaches to the study of biology. Topics include cell biology, microorganisms, fungi, plants, animals, evolution, molecular biology and genetics. Emphasis is on the structural and biochemical adaptations of life on Earth. This course has particular value for students considering college admission. During the third quarter students will receive instruction to prepare for the MCAS exam administered in the sophomore year.
5 periods 5 credits


BIOLOGY ADVANCED PLACEMENT
(371) 
Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite:  Departmental approval

This course is the equivalent of a biology course offered to college freshmen. Topics include: molecular biology, cellular biology, developmental biology, molecular genetics, evolution, ecology and diversity of plants and animals. Research using current media and technology is the foundation of this laboratory based program.
10 periods     10 credits






CHEMISTRY 1
Honors (331)  Standard (332)
Grades 10,11, 12
Prerequisite: Algebra I


This course presents curriculum topics and practical approaches to the study of chemistry. Topics include: matter and the Kinetic Molecular Theory, fundamental and derived units, physical/chemical properties and changes, atomic structure, The Periodic Law, formula nomenclature and equations, the law of conservation of matter, and adds, bases and salts. This course has particular value for students seeking a general knowledge and application of the principles and topics of chemistry.
5 periods 5 credits


CHEMISTRY ADVANCED PLACEMENT
(361) Grades 11,12
Prerequisite:  Departmental Approval

The Advanced Placement Chemistry Course presents curriculum topics which are designed to be he equivalent of the first year of college Chemistry. Topics include:  enthalpy, entropy, chemical kinetics, ionic equilibria, acid-base reactions, electrochemistry, and organic chemistry and chemical calculations. Quantitative and qualitative laboratory investigations are integrated with course content. This course has particular value for students seeking a career in science, engineering or medicine.

10 periods 10 credits



PHYSICS  ADVANCED PLACEMENT
(381)  Grades 11,12
Prerequisite. Departmental Approval


The course provides a comprehensive introduction to the main principles of physics with special emphasis given to problem-solving techniques. Topics include mechanics, heat and temperature, thermodynamics, wave5, sound, light, electrostatics, electromagnetism, electric circuits and modem physics. The course is designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Physics Examination  administered by the College Board.

10 periods 10 credits



PHYSICS  STANDARD
(342)  Grades 11,12
Prerequisites:   Algebra 2, Geometry

This course is designed to help students understand the nature of the physical world. This is accomplished through demonstrations, problem solving and laboratory activities.   Areas of concentration include Newtonian Mechanics, waves and optics, and basic concepts of electricity and magnetism. This course is considered a prelude to college level physics.

5 periods     5 credits





PHYSICS  STANDARD  TECH/VOC
(343)  Grades 11,12

This course presents the practical approach to tile study of physics. Those aspects, which pertain to the principles of physics used in modern industries, are emphasized. The study of mechanics and electricity is stressed. This course has a particular value for young men and women who enter technical studies.

5 periods 5 credits


PHYSICS HONORS
(341)  Grades 11, 12
Prerequisite: Algebra 2, Geometry

This course is designed to show physics as a continuing process by which students seek to understand the nature of the physical world. This is accomplished through demonstrations, problem solving and laboratory activities. Topics include Newtonian mechanics, waves and optics, the nature light and sound, electricity and magnetism. The course is considered a prelude to either Advanced Placement Physics or any college level introductory physics course.

5  periods     5 credits


ECOLOGY  (ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES)
(338)  Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Successful completion of  biology,
Physics, Chemistry or Integrated Science.


Ecology is a course that studies the biosphere. It explores the interaction of the chemical and physical environment with the plant and animal kingdom. Major areas of concentration are energy cycles, food chains, ecosystems, biomes, population studies, the earth's pollution, and the survival of man. Projects and first hand observation of environmental problems highlight the course.

5 periods  2.5 credits



OCEANOGRAPHY
(339)  Grades 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology,
Physics, Chemistry or Integrated Science.

This course provides a basic understanding of the descriptive facets of the ocean. Areas discussed are chemical, physical, geological, and biological oceanography. The approach will also involve the social and cultural appreciation of the oceans and their effect upon mankind.

5 periods (one semester) 2.5 credits

HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY
(347, 348)  Grades 10, 11,12

An introduction to the functions of the human body, this course is offered at two levels of difficulty. One is designed primarily for students with little or no background in biology and chemistry (348). This course fulfills a requirement for Cosmetology students. The other (347) is recommended only to students whose preparation and interests are commensurate with a more detailed investigation of physiological principles. Laboratory experiments and audio-visual supplements are an integral part of the course.

5 periods 5 credits



EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE
(346) Grade 12

This course is designed for the general educational student who needs a course that is practical and interesting. The course is suitable for students who are interested in science but who may not be able to handle higher mathematical applications. It emphasizes astronomy, geology, meteorology and map reading. The scope of the course includes discussion, lectures, demonstrations, films and laboratory work.

5 periods 5 credits



SCIENCE SKILLS 1
(314) Grade 9, 10

This course presents basic scientific concepts related to the human body and its development. Topics include the human body systems, nutrition, genetics, evolution and ecology. Emphasis is placed on developing a rudimentary knowledge of the human body and its functions, which the students can utilize in their everyday experiences. During the third quarter students will receive instruction to prepare for the MCAS examination in the sophomore year.

5 periods 5 credit



SCIENCE SKILLS 2
(324) Grade 10, 11, 12

This course offers basic scientific concepts concerning the environment Topics include weather, oceans, pollution, energy and geology. Emphasis will be placed on rudimentary concepts that students can utilize in their everyday experiences. This course is developed for students who need a basic experience in science. During the third quarter students will receive instruction to prepare for the MCAS examination administered in the sophomore year.

5 periods 5 credit
Last updated  2008/09/28 10:24:47 PDTHits  699