Center Course Descriptions School Year 2008-09
All students are required to complete the following advanced honors courses. All science courses are laboratory based. Courses are listed on the transcript as Advanced Honors (AH) or Advanced Placement (AP). Some students may be accelerated in the mathematics sequence and have the option of taking university mathematics courses after completing AP Calculus.
Grade 9 Courses
Integrated Geometry
This project-oriented course provides a rich, rigorous foundation in geometry, uniquely blended with set theory, probability and statistics, and further work in algebra. Problem solving and technology, including computers and graphing calculators, are integrated into each of these topics.
Research Biology
Topics include cell biology, genetics, structure and function of plant and animal kingdoms, comparative anatomy and physiology, and ecology/environmental studies. Hands-on time with sophisticated instrumentation and procedural techniques culminate in a research project.
Computer Science I
This course introduces the student to the computer as a tool for writing, studying, and publication. Basic knowledge of how computers work and of common computer terminology, including the understanding of the various applications of computers are included. Students become immersed in multi-media applications.
Grade 10 Courses
Integrated Algebra
The major component of this course is advanced topics in algebra. The students continue the study of probability/statistics, including probability distribution and linear regression. The course integrates geometry, algebra, statistics, discrete mathematics, polynomial functions, and problem solving with the use of graphing calculators and computers.
Analytical Chemistry
This course is the study of the composition of substances. The course includes a broad range of chemical
concepts producing a well-balanced preparation for college classes. Classroom instruction is integrated with meaningful laboratory experiences in order to develop each student’s knowledge of analytical chemistry itself.
AP Computer Science
This course emphasizes computer problem solving using structured design and programming. Students learn to approach problems systematically and approach solutions using well-known techniques of proven effectiveness. Students create modular programs using current programming languages.
Grade 11 Courses
Pre-Calculus
Course topic includes college algebra, advanced trigonometry, and analytic geometry of two and three dimension. Students experience a thorough analysis of all elementary functions and curve-sketching. Selected discrete mathematics topics including normal probability distributions and testing hypotheses are explored. Practice with proofs, such as mathematics induction, are included. Experiences with computer software and graphing calculators are incorporated.
AP Physics
This course emphasizes the fundamental laws of physics and the many applications to the physical world. Students study classical mechanics, thermal physics, relativity, electricity, and magnetism, nuclear physics, light, waves, and quantum physics. Demonstrations and laboratory experiences are important components of the course with much of the experimental data obtained by computer-controlled data acquisition and graphical analysis.
Grade 12 Courses
AP Calculus
The Advanced Placement Calculus AB course follows the Advanced Placement syllabus and students may take the AP test in May. Advanced students may follow the BC course. Course study will include properties of functions, limits, differential calculus, and integral calculus.
Advanced Interdisciplinary Science (Biology/Chemistry)
A one-semester course designed to introduce the student to the field of biotechnology with emphasis on laboratory investigations and scientific writing. Lecture material covered includes DNA structure and function, genetic engineering, DNA sequencing, cloning, and stem cell research. Lab investigations include DNA isolation and quantification, restriction enzyme digestion, agarose gel electrophoresis, random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD), cloning, and transformation. Students are expected to write lab reports and research paper based on the lab investigations.
Grade 12 bioorganic chemistry is an accelerated college preparatory course. Bioorganic chemistry is a mixture of organic chemistry and biochemistry. Organic chemistry is the study of carbon compounds. Biochemistry is the study of biological molecules—the chemistry of living things. Classroom instruction will be integrated with meaningful laboratory experience in order to develop each student’s knowledge of chemistry itself as well as a broad range of chemical concepts. Since chemistry is an experimental science that involves human activity, each student will be an active participant in learning about this subject.
Students in grades 11 and 12 may choose an elective in addition to core courses. The Center offers two options for electives:
Center Internship
This is an elective course designed to acquaint students with applications of science and technology, career opportunities in the sciences, and to allow students to continue to develop science research and writing skills. Students are placed with practicing business and science mentors for 20-30 hours per semester of on-site project development time.
University Courses
Students may choose an elective from a number of approved undergraduate university courses in mathematics, science, technology, and foreign languages.
