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Course Name: Physics
Prerequisite: Geometry and Algebra 2 (previously or concurrently)
Course Description: Conceptual physics is an approach to physics that will stimulate higher-
level cognitive skills and encourage students to see science everywhere. The three-step
learning cycle in conceptual physics first builds understanding through exploration, develops
comprehension through demonstrations and thought-provoking questioning, and finally has
students apply what they have learned through a variety of inquiry-based activities. Conceptual
physics is designed to prepare students for advanced studies in science at the university level,
and it provides a systematic introduction to the main principles of physics and emphasizes
the development of conceptual understanding and problem-solving using algebra and
trigonometry.
Course Name: Science Applications
Prerequisite: None
Course Description: Science Applications is a course that uses Next Generation Science
Standards (NGSS) as a foundation and provides students the opportunity to explore and apply
scientific and engineering principles with a variety of hands-on approaches. Essential unit topics
include the role of senses in perception, time-keeping devices, ecological applications, bridge
building, measurement systems, simple machines, and flight. Selective units allow students
to pursue areas of interest, including forensic science, pinhole photography, mineralogy, and
engineering design.
Course Name: Environmental Science
Prerequisite: Physical Science
Course Description: Environmental Science is intended to serve as an introduction to the basic
environmental issues that face humankind today and to present an opportunity to explore these
issues and formulate opinions. Environmental Science serves as an alternative for students
wanting more application within a QSI science course. The subject matter includes the complex
interactions of earth’s living and nonliving resources found in units covering air, water, soil, and
energy as well as biomes, biodiversity, and ecology. Also explored is our impact on the planet
with units on populations, cities, and waste, and finally, our attempts to deal with this impact with
units on policy, economics, and urban planning.
Course Name: Microbiology
Prerequisite: Physical Science
Course Description: The Microbiology course was designed to provide students with a
comprehensive introduction to the microbial world, emphasizing both foundational knowledge
and real-world applications. The course explores the diversity, structure, and function of
microorganisms—including bacteria, archaea, fungi, algae, and viruses. Throughout the course,
students engage in laboratory investigations, collaborative projects, and data interpretation
activities that promote scientific inquiry. The course emphasizes both the curiosity-driven nature
of microbiology and its practical significance in public health, ecology, and biotechnology.