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| Grade 9 | Grade
10 | ELECTIVES | Table
of Contents | PRINT Science Program of Studies
Most
Nauset students take science all four of their years in high school.
As the State continues to restructure its MCAS assessment program in
Science, they are moving toward end-of-course exams in grades 9 and
10. Eventually, all students will be expected to take one
of these subject specific exams. At Nauset, all students may take
either the Engineering/Technology MCAS exam in May of their freshmen
year or the Biology MCAS at the end of their sophomore year.
For
their junior and senior years, students may choose from a variety of
electives which include the traditional college-preparatory courses
and a number of pre-vocational and personal interest subjects.
Note:
To insure appropriate placement in science courses, all students must
have course selections approved and initialed by their current or previous
science teacher.
All courses qualify as laboratory science courses for
college admissions.
9th
GRADE
All freshmen must take one of the following: |
| FRESHMEN
SCIENCE - HONORS
SC11 |
1
CREDIT |
|
This
is an accelerated, and in-depth college preparatory course
which integrates the study of lithosphere, the hydrosphere,
and the biosphere. Topics include surface geology, field
studies, experimental design, ecology, taxonomy bio-chemistry.
This course uses a lab-oriented approach with advanced math
skills appropriate to the level of the student. Honor students
must be able to work independently and will be expected
to be able to problem solve, apply concepts, and to integrate
multiple ideas and information at an advanced level. Honor
students will be required to complete unit projects independently.
.
FRESHMEN
SCIENCE
SC12
|
1
CREDIT |
This
is a college preparatory science course that integrates
the study of the lithosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere.
Topics include surface geology, field studies, experimental
design, ecology, taxonomy and chemistry. This course uses
a lab-oriented approach with math skills appropriate to
the level of the student.
ENGINEERING
/ TECHNOLOGY
SC12E
|
1
CREDIT |
This
course is a problem solving based program with units in
design, construction, fluid systems, thermal systems, electrical
systems, communication technology, and manufacturing technology.
This course will use traditional instruction, research and
individual projects.. This course is designed to prepare
students for the Engineering/Technology End of Course MCAS
exam. This course will be open to all incoming freshmen.
ENVIRONMENTAL
SCIENCE
N18
|
1
CREDIT |
This
course is a project based introduction to Environmental
Science that incorporates content from Ecology and Earth
Science. Environmental issues, political policies
and their impacts upon human health are examined from
a global and local perspective. Students will use
a variety of tools and techniques to increase their understanding
of the consequential nature of human interaction with
the environment.
Enrollment is based on special education TEAM
recommendation and the student’s Individualized
Educational Plan.
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BIOLOGY
HONORS
SC21
|
1CREDIT |
An
introduction to the molecular study of living things,
their structure, functions and relationships to the biotic
and abiotic environment. Each concept is supported by
multiple lab experiences to re-enforce material presented.
Students are expected to be responsible, interactive,
and motivated learners. A student must have a B+ in
Freshmen science to be eligible.
MODERN
BIOLOGY
SC22 |
1
CREDIT |
A
basic introduction to the molecular study of living things,
their structure, function and ability to maintain homeostasis
in a changing environment. Lab experiences will
be used to re-inforce abstract concepts in a concrete
format. The course includes units on biochemistry,
plant and animal cell biology, genetics, evolution, flow
of energy through the living world and survey of human
systems.
GENERAL
BIOLOGY
N65
|
1
CREDIT |
An
introduction to the study of living things, their structure,
and how they are related to each other and their environment.
This class involves hands-on activities and more emphasis
is placed on relating biology to environmental issues.
Enrollment is based upon special education Team recommendation
and the student's Individualized Educational Plan.
| GRADES
9 THRU 10 |
|
STUDY
SKILLS AND TEST PREP
SC99 SPRING
|
1/2
CREDIT |
This
is a one-semester course that includes topics in Chemistry
of Life, Structure and Functions of Cells, Genetics, Human
Anatomy & Physiology, Evolution and Biodiversity,
and Ecology. Students will be expected to complete all
assigned exercises and projects for this course. A final
grade for the course will be determined using participation,
class work, tests, projects and final exam. This course
is designed for students who have been identified by previous
assessment as needing reinforcement for success in MCAS
testing and other standardized tests. This course is an
elective and does not replace a science course and is
NOT used to satisfy the credit requirements for science
at Nauset Regional High
| CHEMISTRY
IS EVERYWHERE...and do I really need to know all
this stuff?
SC92F
SC92S |
1/2
CREDIT
1/2
CREDIT |
This course will enhance your science literacy by
emphasixing the impact that chemistry has on society
and everyday life. Throughout the course you
will begin to understand how chemistry affects all
of us. Does Hydrogen peroxide really make
Mountain Dew glow? Can you really cause an
explosion while cleaning the bathroom?
Topics:
- Household
chemistry: cooking, cleaners, making soap,
gllue, super balls, caffeine, and/or aspirin.
- Chemistry
of Fire
- "Green
Chemistry": oil spill cleanup, biofuels
- Chemistry
of Biotechnology: transgenic crops and animals,
new drugs.
- Chemistry
of Food: Does chocolate really make a person
happy?
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GRADES 9 THRU 12 |
|
CAPE
COD NATURAL HISTORY
SC91F
SC91S |
1/2
CREDIT |
From
the beaches and nature trails to its rich culture
and history, Cape Cod has fascinated scientists
and artists for generations. This course offers
a general introduction to the different Cape ecosystems
with an emphasis on field skills and interpretation
of landscape and cultural history. Using class
work, field studies and guest speakers, we will
discover the true nature of Cape Cod and its global
importance. Students must be willing to walk
and work outside.
|
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SCIENCE
SEMINAR-Grades 10-12
SC62 SPRING
|
1/2
CREDIT |
Open
to all students, this spring semester course provides
a great opportunity to explore various science topics
of interest. In a project-based learning environment,
students will experience the engaging challenge of scientific
research as they participate firsthand in the exciting
struggle to understand key concepts of a personally-designed
project. Students may work alone or in small groups to,
among other things:
-
Do their own myth-busting!
- Design
and construct a rocket capable of taking pictures of
the Nauset campus from several feet high!
- Design
and build an air hockey table
- Learn
and apply new lab skill in
- Biology,
Chemistry and Physics (e.g., working with bacteria
to compare different brands of antiseptic, growing
huge crystals, or soldering electronic components
to make a strobe light).
- Using
a computer, analyze digital
video of a student performing a sports technique
to study the physics of motion and improve the technique
- Develop
effective ways to prepare and photograph specimens
under the microscope, or discover effective techniques
for photographing the moon or other celestial bodies
through the telescope.
- Grading
will be based primarily on the following factors:
- Research
and design
- Data
gathering techniques, analysis, and significance
- Communication
of the project and results to fellow students in
a seminar format
|
MODERN
CHEMISTRY HONORS
SC31 |
1CREDIT |
An
accelerated laboratory course in pre-college chemistry
for the high ability science student. While the course
content centers on the Atomic Theory as an explanation
for the changes in matter, special emphasis is placed
on development of critical thinking skills in applying
the scientific method. Enrollment is based on recommendation
of previous science teacher.
| MODERN
CHEMISTRY
SC32 |
1CREDIT |
A
traditional laboratory course in general chemistry, emphasizing
the study of matter and its changes as understood within
the framework of the Atomic Theory. Full block laboratory
exercises are problem solving in nature and require student
participation in experimental design, data reduction,
and report preparation. Juniors should note that this
course is a pre-requisite for some senior electives.
| A.P.
CHEMISTRY
SC30 |
1½
CREDIT |
Prerequisite:
A grade of B or better in Modern Chemistry and Algebra II
and teacher permission.
Advanced Placement Chemistry is designed
to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually
taken during the first year of college. Students will
attain a depth of understanding of fundamentals and a
reasonable competence in dealing with chemical problems.
The course will emphasize the ability to think clearly
and express ideas with clarity and logic. Topics such
as the structure of matter, kinetic theory of gases, chemical
equilibria, kinetics, and thermodynamics are presented
in considerable depth.
All participants are required to take the A.P. Chemistry
Test in May. A fee is required for this test.
| A.P.
PHYSICS
SC51 |
1½
CREDIT |
- This
algebra-based, college level course will challenge and
fascinate juniors and seniors. (It may be taken instead
of or after another physics course.) The universal nature
of physics is emphasized as the following topics are
studied:
- Mechanics
- Thermodynamics
- Electricity
& Magnetism
- Optics
- Electromagnetic
Radiation
- A
strong quantitative approach facilitates understanding
and helps to relate multiple concepts in preparation
for the A.P. Physics B exam in May for which there is
a nominal fee. In addition to traditional labs, students
will have an opportunity to:
- Construct
a steam engine capable of
lifting a heavy object
- Use
professional engineering software to facilitate
data analysis
- Generate
a strong magnetic field along metal rails with electric
current to launch a metal rod
- Build
a strobe light after learning how to solder electronic
components on a circuit board
|
A.P.
BIOLOGY
SC 41 |
1½
CREDIT |
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry and teacher
recommendation
Advanced Placement Biology is a college-level course open
to students who have successfully completed high school
biology and chemistry. It is designed to be the equivalent
of an introductory college biology course requiring commitment
of time and effort on the part of the student. The course
is or student interested in pursuing a field in the sciences
and/or those students who wish to elect a course that is
informative and challenging. The curriculum follows a National
standard and students are expected to take the Advanced
Placement Biology Examination in May for which there is
a nominal fee.
MODERN
PHYSICS
SC52 |
1
CREDIT |
This
course is designed to provide college-bound students with
an insight into the wide range of physical phenomena that
guide our universe and influence our existence.
The fundamentals of mechanics and the study of motion
are explored and serve as the base from which the other
areas of physics are investigated. Among the other
areas studied are the properties of matter, the laws of
thermal energy, the principles of sound and light, the
concepts of electricity and magnetism. Problem-solving
strategies are developed and utilized in the classroom
and the laboratory. |
|
OCEANOGRAPHY
SC56
|
1
CREDIT |
Students will
study ocean characteristics and processes and how they relate
to global and local issues. Class work will be supplemented with
field work at local aquatic sites. Students will participate in
on going research and study in cooperation with other agencies
like the Cape Cod National Seashore and the Eastham Department
of Natural Resources. Students will learn various lab techniques
including beach profiling and GPS. This course is open to juniors
and seniors who have successfully completed both Biology and Chemistry.
HUMAN
PHYSIOLOGY
SC42
|
1
CREDIT |
This college
prep course comprises a detailed study of major organ systems
of the human body with an emphasis on their structure(anatomy)
and function. Topics include the skeletal, muscular, nervous,
integumentary, digestive, circulatory, respiratory, and excretory
systems. Related units include the eye and vision, the ear and
hearing/equilibrium, food and nutrition, as well as a review of
cellular structure, function, and organization. Laboratory experiences
will culminate in an opportunity to participate in dissection
of mammalian systems. Previous courses in biology and chemistry
are essential.
ENVIRONMENTAL
STUDIES
SC55
|
1CREDIT |
Prerequisite:
Students must have taken Biology and have taken or are taking Chemistry
Students
will study basic ecology and environmental technology. Students
will be involved in field experiences as well as traditional in
class labs. Students will participate in an on-going study of
local salamander populations. This is a Tech-Prep course which
means that students who earn a B- or better will receive 3 college
credits in the department of Environmental Technology at Cape
Cod Community College.
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to Top
|
FORENSIC
SCIENCE
SC60 SPRING
SC60 FALL
|
½
CREDIT
½ CREDIT |
Prerequisite:
Students must have completed biology and are taking or have taken
chemistry.
This class is designed
to introduce students to the scientific aspect of criminal justice.
Students will learn about the many careers in Forensic Science
including first responding officers, crime scene technicians and
forensic scientists. Warrants, searches, seizures and
the fourth amendment will be covered. Along with crime scene
processing, evidence collection and preservation, and the procesing
of collected evidence. Evidence topics include: Fingerprints,
Hair and Fibers, Blood Typing and Splatter, DNA, Entomology, Document
Analysis, Psychological Profiling, Tool Mark Impressions and Arson.
SALTWATER
ECOSYSTEMS
SC70 FALL
|
½ CREDIT
|
Students will
study local marine ecosystems such as the Nauset Marsh, Cape Cod
Bay and the outer beach Students will be involved in field experiences
as well as traditional in class labs. Students will work with
the Eastham Department of Natural Resources in learning about
local shellfish aquaculture. Some other topics covered are tides,
waves and shoreline change. Students will study both the physical
and biological aspects of our local marine habitats. Students
will also learn how people affect the marine environment from
water pollution to over fishing.
FRESHWATER
ECOSYSTEMS
SC75 SPRING |
½
CREDIT |
Students will
study freshwater on Cape Cod. Students will be involved in field
experiences as well as traditional in-class labs. Topics include
groundwater, Kettle ponds, Vernal pools and rivers, and waste
water disposal. Students will study both the physical and biological
aspects of these ecosystems. Students will also learn about how
people are affecting our freshwater resources on Cape Cod.
SUSTAINABILITY
SC90F
SC90S |
1/2
CREDIT
1/2 CREDIT |
|
Grades
10-12
This
science course is an investigative, hands-on exploration
of alternative methods of energy production for a sustainable
future. Student projects and presentations will provide
valuable insights into today's cutting-edge alternative
energy strategies for a beter and cleaner tomorrow.
Topics:
- Photovoltaic,
Solar Thermal, Wind Energy
- Waves
and ocean currents, Passive solar
- Hydropower
- Job
opportunities associated with this industry
|
BOTANY
SC63 |
½
CREDIT |
Grades
10-12
This course provides a basic overview of the seed plants.
Students will study aspects of plant growth and behavior.
Students will also learn basic horticulture techniques and
hydroponics by growing and maintaining plants in the classroom
and in the school greenhouse. Students will also study
local plant communities including rare heath-land habitat.
This course is open to sophomores, juniors and seniors.
|
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INTRODUCTION
TO ASTRONOMY
SWS 45 Fall
SWS 55 Spring |
1/2
CREDIT
1/2
CREDIT |
|
Seen through an SWS model curricular approach, this course
will examine the heavens and the relationship of humans
to them. Major constellations and heavenly bodies
will be identified, a basic overview of celestial navigation
will be provided as well as a discussion of cosmology and
the implications of quantum physics. We will look
at space programs of the past, present and future, track
satellites and study the building and operation of light
telescopes. The course will conclude with an examination
of the promise and problems inherent in extra-terrestrial
colonization.
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©2004-2008 Nauset Regional High School. All Rights Reserved.
NRHS
website modified and maintained by:Roberta
Endich, M.Ed., LMS
Updated:
March 19,
2008
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