Science Classes at SPHS

Ask your science teacher for recommendations for next

year’s science classes!!

SCIENCE CLASSES• Chemistry• Physics• Aviation and

Space• Genetics/Biotech• Forensic Science• Physiology• Human Anatomy• Weather and

Climate

• Kinetics: Science in Motion

• Environmental Science• Natural Science

(Wisconsin Ecology)• AP Biology• AP Chemistry• AP Environmental

Science• AP Physics C:

Mechanics

CHEMISTRY1.0 physical science credit

• In Chemistry, students study the composition of matter and the changes matter undergoes. Major units stressed in this course are: quantitative and qualitative measurement, the mole concept, atomic structure, equation writing, bonding, gas laws, and solutions.

• Labs are a MUST!!

Physics1.0 physical science credit

• In physics we study the natural phenomena of the universe– Motion– Gravity and planets– Projectiles– Electricity and magnetism

• Be ready for– Hands on and online labs

about once each week– College prep skills including

an emphasis on problem solving strategies!

• Taking physics is highly recommended for all students thinking of going to a four-year college!

Kinetics – Science of Motion• Things as simple as an apple falling from a

tree to the graceful motion of a dancer all show interactions with physics in our daily lives. In this course, we will study the interaction of physics with the body to show how and why athletes move the way they do, why a dancer has to have lower leg strength, what makes a good punch, how a lineman delivers that bone crunching impact.

• A semester long course in physics

• Project based learning– You control the pace!

• Why would I take this course?– If you don’t have room in your

schedule for a full year of physics but want to learn it

– If you have a spare semester that you could use to prepare yourself for AP Physics

– If you are thinking of getting a degree in medical science and can’t fit physics in your schedule

Weather and ClimateA semester long half credit course for 11th and 12th grade students

Weather and climate is the scientific study of atmospheric processes and patterns. This introductory meteorology course examines the collection and analysis of meteorological data at local, regional, and global scales. Additionally the study of climate and climate change will enhance the impact of human activities on the atmosphere. This course involves a moderate amount of supplemental reading and a field exercise. Use of on-line information and resources is encouraged, so basic knowledge of web research is assumed.

AVIATION AND SPACE

Semester Course

Join this class to experience:

•Challenges that go into designing and flying your own plane

•How pilots Communicate

•Deciphering Aviation Charts and Airport symbols

•Art of navigation in the air

•To be a Pilot and fly to your desired destination

•The History of Aviation – starting with building and flying kites

•The journey of pioneer aviators on “Flight Simulator”

•The basics of Astronomy and the journey to the SPACE

The spirit of Aviation has led human imagination and innovations for centuries.

Forensic ScienceA semester long .5 credit course for 11th and 12th grade students

• The purpose of this course is to apply science to law.

• The class will emphasize science as inquiry. The emphasis of this course is to understand how science can be used to analyze physical evidence to solve crimes.

• The key topics focused on during this course include document analysis, fingerprinting, serology, hair analysis, fiber analysis and others.

Natural Science(Wisconsin Ecology) ½ Credit

Fall Semester Life Science Elective

Natural Science offers students the chance to:

Take a canoe trip down the Kickapoo River!

Learn about the local plants and animals of Wisconsin.

Build your own mini-ecosystem.

Get outside and explore the surrounding environment.

Learn how you can make a difference helping your local environment.

And much more!!!

Environmental Science ½ Credit Spring Semester Life Science elective

Environmental Science offers students a chance to:

Take field trips to explore WI state parks!

Learn about how to live sustainably and make choices that help your planet.

Fulfill the service-learning requirement for graduation.

Study alternative energy sources.

Maintain a compost using red worms.

Genetics• Study the heredity of

individuals and populations

• Study DNA and Chromosomes

• Research, debate and discuss current bioethical issues in genetics such as: cloning, stem cell research, genetic engineering,

• Go on a fieldtrip to Biotechnology Lab

Cross Fruit Flies and Cross Plants

PhysiologySemester Course

• Emphasis is placed on a biochemical approach to life. Topics including a survey in organic chemistry, the cell, living chemistry, life processes, digestion and metabolism.

• Designed for students who are pursuing a career in: nursing, medical technology, medicine, pharmacy, microbiology, dentistry, biology, biochemistry and other science-related fields.

AnatomySemester Course

• Emphasis on the study of human systems: human reproduction, integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and cardiovascular.

AP BiologyGoals of AP Biology

are to help students • learn advanced

modern biology • Use lab to gain an

appreciation of science as a process

• Did you enjoy Bio and do you see yourself in a Biology related field some day?

• Topics: – Molecules & Cells,

– Heredity & Evolution

– Organisms & Populations

• Lab: - 12 major and others

• Fieldtrip to Biotech. Lab

• Dissect a Fetal Pig and Shark

AP Environmental Science• Seeks to understand

humans’ impact on our world• College level class and is

taught that way• Very little math• Laboratories are conducted

outdoors, indoors or in the new greenhouse

• Field trips to Token Creek and Devil’s Lake

• Past students have been VERY successful and have earned college credit

• Average pass rate of 79%!

AP Chemistry• 2nd year class for students with

an A in regular Chemistry• Covers many of the same

topics in more depth, plus more advanced topics

• One of the most challenging (yet rewarding) classes you can take at SPHS

• If you love chemistry and have an A, this is the class for you!

• In AP Chem you will…– Keep a lab notebook– Engage in problem-

solving– Practice for the AP exam– Work very hard!

AP Physics C: Mechanics• In this course we study the

nature of motion using calculus.

• Why would I take this?!– You plan to be an engineer or

study physics in college– You want a serious challenge

in math and science• This class prepares you for the

mechanics portion of physics C exam

• Physics C and AP Calculus go very well together, if you are taking calc and need another science course, take AP Physics!