NATURAL SCIENCE

Ninth grade physical science is the first unit counting toward graduation requirements. The recommended sequence of science courses is biology in the 10th grade, chemistry in the 11th grade, and physics and/or anatomy–physiology in the 12th grade. Three credits of science are required for graduation. North Dakota University System requires three credits of science to meet admission requirements.

PHYSICAL SCIENCE - Required 9 - 1 credit

Physical science is the study of basic Chemistry and Physics. The first semester of the course covers mostly Chemistry topics. Topics will include: the study of atomic structure, study of the periodic table, chemical bonds, chemical formulas, chemical reactions, solutions, acids, bases and salts and nuclear decay. The second semester covers mostly Physics topics. Topics will include: forces, motion, energy, waves, optics of lenses and mirrors, sound and electricity. Physical Science is a laboratory centered program which introduces the use of proper lab techniques and safety. The course will include about 30-35 different lab experiments and computer simulations. Emphasis is placed on building a strong background in science vocabulary and lab procedures.

BIOLOGY - Elective 10–12 - 1 credit

Biology is the study of life. The course of study begins at the molecular level and proceeds through cell tissues, organisms, the origin of life, populations and ecosystems. Approximately forty percent of class time is spent in the laboratory. Students are required to complete a laboratory project each of the first three nine weeks, such as a twenty–five specimen plant collection.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE- Elective 11-12-1 credit

Prerequisite: Physical Science, Biology, or authorization
Environmental science is an interdisciplinary study of natural systems, environmental issues, risks associated with these problems and alternative solutions. Students will study science as a process, energy in ecosystems, Earth systems, human impacts, societal context and designing solutions. The course is designed for students of all ability levels and interests.

CHEMISTRY STUDY - Elective 11–12 - 1 credit

Prerequisite: Algebra 1 "C" grade or better or authorization.
The purpose of the course is to help students gain some understanding of the facts and principles of chemistry so that they can better deal with their world. This course places emphasis on college preparation. Students interested in career outlook clusters such as: natural resources, engineering/industrial technologies, and health and human services should consider this course. Chemistry is the study of: matter, its structure, properties, composition, and the changes that matter undergoes. Students will: attend lectures, do problem solving, and participate in laboratory activities.

PHYSICS - Elective 11–12 - 1 credit

Prerequisite: Algebra 2, Geometry and Pre-Calculus or authorization
The purpose of this course is to help students gain some understanding of this ever-evolving body of information and how it applies to them. Emphasis is placed on college preparation. Students interested in career outlook clusters such as: natural resources, engineering/industrial technologies, and health and human services should consider this course. The course covers the branch of science concerned with matter and energy, especially as these relate to mechanics, heat, electricity, magnetism, and atomic phenomena. Students will attend lecture, participate in problem solving sessions, and do laboratory investigations.

ANATOMY/PHYSIOLOGY - Elective 11–12 - 1 credit

Prerequisite: Biology
Anatomy/Physiology is the study of structure and function of the human body. It provides an above average high school vocabulary which will help students in basic and advanced college science courses. The class consists of hands on dissection of the cat as well as other labs pertaining to human anatomy. A strong biology background is recommended. This course has a dual credit option through NDSCS in Wahpeton.