Physical Science – 7th-8th grades
This course lays a foundation for HS physics and provides beginning lab experience and procedures. Mastery of basic math conversion skills and pre-algebra skills are required. Students will analyze and interpret the results of experiments, learn how to write lab reports, and use basic laboratory equipment. The scope of study includes: the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and weather, structure of the earth, the environment, motion, Newton’s laws, gravity, light, and sound. A combination of experiments in the text as well as additional experiments selected by the teacher will promote scientific inquiry skills, critical thinking, and creative communication.
Textbook: Exploring Creation with Physical Science, 2nd Edition (ISBN 978-1-932012-77-4) by Dr. Jay Wile, Apologia
Biology – 9th-10th grades
Students complete an overview of living organisms and life processes in this course. Beginning at the microscopic level and ending with a study of larger plants and animal life, students gain an understanding of the complexity, unity, and diversity of life. Students complete reading, basic notes, and answer questions at home, as well as other assignments. In class, labs and activities will be completed and more in depth notes will be given as needed. In the second semester a series of dissections are completed as a part of an in-depth study of the kingdoms. Students are assessed with quizzes, labs reports, and tests for each module. Each quarter there will be a notebook check as well as additional in-depth assignments related to specific topics. One module is completed approximately every 3 weeks. Study and learning skills are emphasized throughout the course as students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning.
Textbook: Exploring Creation with Biology, 2nd ed. by J. Wile & Durnell (ISBN 978-1-932012-54-5)
Forensics – 10th-12th grades –
Students learn many aspects of forensic science including fingerprinting, securing a crime scene, hair analysis, blood spatter analysis and more throughout the year. Students read and take notes on their own. In-depth labs and activities will be completed in class. More in-depth notes will be given in class and students will participate in discussions as well. Students are assessed by quizzes, lab completion and procedures, related activities, chapter reviews, and tests.
Students earn a high school lab science credit for this course. Biology is a pre-requisite.
Textbook: Forensic Science Fundamentals & Investigation by Anthony J. Bertino (ISBN-13: 978-0-538-49403-8)