Course #500     Credits: 1
Physical Science
This is an introductory course for chemistry and physics.  All topics will be covered in less detail and with less applied math than they would be in chemistry or physics courses.  Emphasis will be placed on learning scientific concepts.  Students will focus on problem solving using the scientific method and on the connection between theory and experiment.  The format will be lecture, problems, laboratory work and notebook work.  Participation in the science fair is a requirement of this class.
 

Course # 510     Credits: 1 REQUIRED 
Biology     Prerequisite:  Sophomore standing or permission of instructor
This course provides students with an intensive introduction to the many topics of interest in the field of biology.  Students will become familiar with basic chemistry, cell structure, genetics, evolution, ecology, plant biology and animal biology.  They are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills and to become more comfortable with science.  They will develop the ability to make logical decisions and to formulate opinions in questions concerning science in their everyday lives.

Course # 520     Credits: 1
Chemistry     Prerequisite: # 510
This course is designed for students planning to pursue a college education and specifically those who have an interest in engineering, mathematics or the physical sciences.  Major topics in chemistry are addressed rather than the specific chemistry of individual elements or compounds.  Among the major topics discussed are atomic theory, gases, bonding, acids and bases.  Students will use knowledge they gain to predict the individual behaviors of specific chemicals.  The class format will be lecture, reading, problems and lab work.  Students are required to explain microscopic behavior based on macroscopic observations.  They must also apply mathematics to real problems.

Course # 530     Credits: 1
Biology II    Prerequisite – 'C' or higher in #510
This is a second year biology course, which will deal with similar topics as in biology.  The emphasis will be placed on the further exploration of these topics, as well as an exploration of more controversial topics, such as genetic research and cloning.  Lab activities are more extensive and require more scientific thought and conclusions.  Cooperative learning in groups will be emphasized, with group research projects and lab activities.
 

Course # 540     Credits: 1
Physics     Prerequisite:  #520 and #370 
      OR #520 and #340 with instructor permission 
This course is designed for students planning to pursue a college education, especially those who have an interest in engineering, mathematics or the physical sciences. Topics studied include motion, heat, electricity, magnetism, matter and energy.  The format includes lecture, research and lab work.  The lab work is straightforward enough that students can manipulate the procedure until they understand the questions they are addressing.