Science Curriculum Grades 9-12
Background Information
The high school science department recommended that the Instructional Materials Committee approve BSCS Science: An Inquiry Approach, Book 2 by Kendall/Hunt for the sophomore class beginning in the fall of 2007. The text is an integrated approach to the science concepts necessary for mastery at this level, and utilizes principles of sound instructional practice already preferred in the district, i.e., inquiry models, supporting reading comprehension strategies and enduring understandings and essential questions.
BSCS Science is well aligned with the state grade level expectations, and is also articulated with the book adopted last year for the ninth grade, BSCS Science: An Inquiry Approach, Book 1.
UPDATE: The class of 2010 was to be the first class required to pass the science WASL in order to graduate; however, the 2007 Legislature has postponed the science requirement. In 2013, all high school graduates will be required to earn a diploma with a Certificate of Academic Achievement/Certificate of Individual Achievement by passing the reading, writing, math and science High School WASL, a Certificate of Academic Achievement Option (a state-approved alternative to the WASL) or an assessment for students in special education.
At least two years of science are required for graduation. This graduation requirement is generally met by taking one year of Integrated Science and one year of Biology. If a student plans to attend a four-year college, he/she will likely need at least one additional year of a lab science such as chemistry, physics, or advanced biology. Some colleges specifically require physics or chemistry. It is recommended that college-bound students take science each year.
Coursework Descriptions
Integrated Science 9, Grade 9; 2 semesters
This is the first year of a two year program to introduce students to the core concepts in inquiry, the physical sciences, the life sciences, and the earth-space sciences in preparation for the Science WASL. Year one, for all freshmen, uses an inquiry approach to develop understandings in properties of matter, structure of atoms, cell biology, body systems, origin of the universe and origin of the earth system.
Integrated Science 10, Grades 10, 11, 12; 2 semesters
This is year two of a two year program to introduce students to the core concepts in inquiry, the physical sciences, the life sciences, and the earth-space sciences in preparation for the science WASL. Year two, for all sophomores, uses an inquiry approach to develop understandings in motions and forces, chemical reactions, biological evolution, molecular basis of heredity, and geothermal cycles.
Biology, Grades 11, 12; 2 semesters
The first semester focuses on cell activity, genetics, DNA, and biochemistry. The second semester focuses on classification and evolution, human anatomy/physiology, and ecology. As a lab-centered class, a full year of biology meets college entrance requirements for a lab science.
Advanced Placement Biology, Grades 11, 12; 2 semesters
This year-long course is taught at the college level and can award college credits to students who choose to take the Advanced Placement Exam in May. It is designed for the student who is highly motivated and interested in biology or planning to enter a science-related career. Amazing labs include DNA isolation and gel electrophoresis, amino acid chromatography, spectrophotometry, recombinant DNA of E Coli, and sequencing human DNA in conjunction with UW for the Human Genome Project. Dissection of several animal phyla is a mandatory part of this course. Prerequisite: B or better in Biology; C or better in Chemistry, and teacher permission. $15 lab fee required.
Environmental Studies; Grades 11-12; 1 semester - fall semester only
The focus of this class is the environment of the North Olympic Peninsula and how humans impact that environment. Five main topics will be investigated: 1) stream ecology, water testing and watersheds; 2) soil ecology and soil testing; 3) forest ecology and forest management; 4) wildlife ecology; and 5) environmental issues.
Marine Science, Grade 11-12; 1 semester - spring semester only
This course deals with the diversity and interaction of marine organisms in the physical and biological marine environment. It covers marine geology, physical and chemical oceanography, tides, current, and marine biology. Its focus is both worldwide and local, and also covers humanity’s impacts upon marine ecosystems.
Astronomy, Grades 11-12; 1 semester - fall semester only
An overview of basic astronomy will include planetary geology, constellation identification, and life cycle of stars. Modern cosmological theories such as origins and fate of the universe will be studied.
Geology, Grade 11-12; 1 semester - spring semester only
This semester course is an overview of the geological processes related to the Pacific Northwest and the Olympic Peninsula. Students will study the geological processes that shape our earth, such as plate tectonics, volcanoes, and earthquakes.
Chemistry, Grades 11, 12; 2 semesters
This course is an introductory course to the science of chemistry. It is recommended for any student who is planning to take more science in college or who plans on a career in nursing. Fundamental concepts concerning the nature of matter will be studied: structure, chemical bonding, energy effects, acids and bases, chemical reactions and organic chemistry. Prerequisite: Algebra 2/Trigonometry or concurrent enrollment.
Honors Chemistry, Grades 11, 12; 2 semesters
Honors chemistry is the chemistry class that should be considered by students planning to pursue a college major in science or engineering. This course will cover the basic chemical relationships and calculations at a rapid pace to include most topics covered in the first two semesters of general chemistry at four-year institutions. A heavy emphasis will also be placed on detection and quantitative analytical laboratory techniques. Prerequisites: Algebra 2/Trigonometry.
Physics, Grades 11, 12; 2 semesters
This course is designed both for those preparing to enter a science-related field, as well as for those who are just curious about the world around them. Topics studied include kinematics (motion), gravity, vectors, projectiles, dynamics (forces, Newton’s laws), energy, momentum, and electricity. Instruction is not book-based, but focuses instead on a constructivist approach where knowledge is “constructed” through our shared experiences. A solid background in algebra is needed and students should be taking or have completed second year algebra. Sophomores may take physics by permission only, and only if they are concurrently enrolled in biology. Prerequisite: Algebra 2/Trigonometry or concurrent enrollment.
Science Department Assistant, Grade 12 by application; 2 semesters
Students will be assisting both teacher and students with labs by helping to set up the equipment, mixing solutions, growing or caring for cultures, and doing computer data entry. Students will be taught how to mix solutions and care for the equipment.
Curriculum Guides
Curriculum Materials
- BSCS Science: An Inquiry Approach, BSCS, Center for Curriculum Development, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
BSCS (Biological Sciences Curriculum Study) is a nonprofit corporation that that develops science curricula for all grade levels. Click here to review information about BSCS, including program correlations for alignment to the Washington Science Essential Academic Learning Requirements (EALS).
© Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
Updated 11/13/07.