Science

2 terms, solid, 2 credits, B, Approved as Natural/Physical Science course by NCAA

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Pre-Algebra

How do things move and why do they move that way? If energy is conserved, why do we have to conserve energy?   How is the world different at its extremes? How do we know what we know?  These four questions guide the course, which emphasizes a conceptual understanding of physics while studying the causes and effects of motion, conservation of energy and momentum, the nature of matter, and the origin and nature of waves. Hands-on activities such as measuring the strength of nuclear radiation of different sources or exploring the relationship between the temperature of an object and the rate at which it cools play a significant role in our learning process. 

2 terms, solid, 2 credits, B, Approved as Natural/Physical Science course by NCAA

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra I and Physics.

Understanding fundamental chemistry concepts to improve your scientific literacy is the core of Chemistry. In this course, students will explore various types of chemical reactions and what is happening with them at the nanoscale. There are many exciting and rigorous lab activities that include applications to the real world and cooperative team work. The course introduces topics and examines relationships in the following areas: atomic structure, periodicity, bonding, formula writing and nomenclature, chemical reactions and equation writing, mole concept, stoichiometry, energy, states of matter, and solutions.

1 term, solid, 1 credit, C, Approved as Natural/Physical Science course by NCAA

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Chemistry.

This lab-centered introductory course clarifies and broadens biological concepts and stresses unifying science principles. Major themes include biochemistry, cellular structure and function, genetics, evolution, ecology, and kingdom diversity. Content is strengthened with guided or independent experiments, and multimedia computers are used both as learning aids and as the medium for creative projects. Local field trips strengthen the lessons centered on ecological and environmental applications. Students should leave with a greater understanding and appreciation for life, a solid understanding of scientific methodology, and the ability to apply what they have learned to global issues.  

1 term, solid, 1 credit, B, Approved as Natural/Physical Science course by NCAA

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry and Biology.

"For the record… I didn't die on Sol 6.  Certainly the rest of the crew thought I did, and I can't blame them." - Astronaut Mark Watney 

In Andy Weir's The Martian, astronaut Mark Watney is left alone on Mars for 560 days.  As a scientist, he uses his knowledge, skills, and creativity to survive.  Could you?  In this project-based course, students will build their understanding of biology, chemistry and engineering concepts and apply their knowledge, skills and creativity to meet similar challenges to those faced by Astronaut Watney. Students will be given an inventory of supplies with which to address 3 challenges:  How will they get food?  How will they get water?  How will they call for help?  In this lab intensive course, the content students will explore is approximately 50% biology and 50% chemistry. 

1 term, solid, 1 credit, Approved as Natural/Physical Science course by NCAA

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry and Biology.

Fron·tier:  /frənˈtir/ noun : the farthermost limits of knowledge or achievement in a particular subject

Have you ever looked up at the night sky and wondered, "What's out there?"  Have you ever swam in the ocean and wondered, "What's down there?"   How do we answer these questions when we cannot visit frontiers such as black holes and hydrothermal vents?   Arriving at answers takes imagination, creativity, and a fundamental understanding of physics, chemistry and biology.  Students will learn about the physical environments of deep space and the deep sea and explore the tools available to investigate these remote frontiers.  Through experimentation and observation, students will gain an understanding of the underlying models and science of the big questions that guide cutting-edge research.  In this lab intensive course, the content students will explore is approximately 45% biology, 45% physics and 10% chemistry. 

1 term, solid, 1 credit, B, Approved as Natural/Physical Science course by NCAA

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry and Biology.

Molecular biology is one of the fastest growing fields in biology.  This course will introduce students to molecular biology concepts, and have them apply molecular biology laboratory skills to achieve a variety of results.  The course will begin with an introduction to DNA's chemical structure and the central role it plays in protein production.  Students will then participate in a series of laboratory activities where they will learn to transfer genetic material from eukaryotic organisms to prokaryotic organisms, and make sure that the transferred genes are fully functional.  Student will use RNAi (interference RNA) to manipulate the expression of genes in C. elegans worms and use more recent techniques of gene manipulation, such as CRISPR.  Finally, students will end the course with an exploration of ethical questions and issues related to the development and utilization of molecular biology techniques.

In addition to performing numerous laboratory activities, students will explore the conceptual framework about what is happening at a molecular level and how various molecular biology techniques are used to manipulate genomes. 

1 term, solid, 1 credit, B, Approved as Natural/Physical Science course by NCAA

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry and Biology.

This introductory course emphasizes nomenclature and location of body structures and the physiological functions of body parts. Students discover the scientific process through a study of body systems whose primary responsibility is support and protection. Units covered include basic chemistry, genetics, cell structure and metabolism, tissues, integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, and nervous system. 

1 term, solid, 1 credit, Approved as Natural/Physical Science course by NCAA

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry and Biology.

Students will practice and expand upon core understandings and skills learned in an introductory chemistry course that would appear in an introductory college chemistry course. The material will be in the context of the visual arts working towards a gallery exhibition of the students’ art work and understanding of both advanced chemical principles and basic visual arts. Students will learn how to create various materials used in art forms such as paints, dyes, and clays and deeply understand the chemistry behind them. The culminating experience will include students using the materials they created to make art for a gallery exhibition.

2 terms, solid, 2 credits

Admission Advanced Biology with Research requires a minimum PSAT Score of 1100 plus earn a GPA 3.85 or higher in Chemistry

Advanced Biology will explore the evolutionary transition of ancestral wolves into modern wolves and modern domestic dogs. Students must be able to perform self-directed research with adult guidance and be responsible for their learning. The course would be divided into 5 units with unique, but interwoven topics.

• Unit 1: Understanding modern wolves and dogs – This unit will introduce students to modern wolves and dogs, the focus animals for this course.  Students will explore and compare anatomy, physiology, behavior, social structure, and conservation status.
• Unit 2: Why are they different? – While wolves and dogs share many characteristics, they are distinct species and students will explore how individual differences are the result of interplay between genetics, molecular biology, gene expression, and external environment.
• Unit 3: How did these differences come about? – Students will explore the processes of speciation and evolution with a focus on how evolutionary forces have resulted in the divergence of both wolves and dogs from their shared common ancestor.
• Unit 4: The story of wolves to dogs – Now that the framework is set, what do scientists know about the evolution of dogs?  Students will be introduced to several competing hypothesis related to wolf and dog evolution and consider the strengths and weaknesses of each point of view.
• Unit 5: Communicating what you know – Scientists have a responsibility to share what they know with others, especially non-scientists.  How can this be done and what techniques are most effective?  Students will explore different approaches to science communication and consider how different approaches can be tailored to individual situations.

Students will explore these topics in both the classroom and laboratory settings, engaging with biological concepts, exploratory labs, case studies, and other interactive activities related to wolf and dog evolution. This course does not replace the graduation requirement of Biology. Students are still required to complete a Biology course at Culver.

Unique Features of the Course:

• Students will assume the role of “museum curator” to apply data analysis and laboratory techniques to analyze a collection of archeological/paleontological artifacts related to evidence of wolf and dog evolution.  Once analyzed, they will create a report summarizing their findings.  They will then work in teams to design three museum exhibits showcasing wolf/dog evolution.  At least one of these exhibits will need to incorporate an interactive component.  To accomplish this project, students will need to combine their understanding of evolutionary biology, data analysis, laboratory techniques, and elements of successful scientific communication.
• Students are required to attend two field trips as part of the course: Field Museum in Chicago (to explore how a world class museum approaches science communication) and Wolf Park near Purdue University (to experience a live wolf pack and to see how a zoological park approaches science communication). 

3 terms, solid, 3 credits, D, Approved as Natural/Physical Science course by NCAA

Admission to AP Biology requires a minimum PSAT Score of 1100 plus earn a GPA 3.85 or higher in Chemistry.  

Advanced Placement Biology engages students in the rigorous study of biological concepts in preparation for the AP Exam and possible advanced standing in their freshman year at college. Accompanied by in-depth laboratory experiments, this course provides a thorough background in methods used by biologists in solving research problems and biological principles including ecology, biochemistry, Mendelian genetics, evolution, genetic biotechnology, cellular structure and physiology, animal/plant structure and physiology, and animal behavior. Emphasis is placed on the integration of biological principles and other science disciplines. Students enrolled in the course are required to take the Advanced Placement Biology Exam in May.

3 terms, solid, 3 credits, C, Approved as Natural/Physical Science course by NCAA

Admission to AP Environmental Science requires a minimum PSAT Score of 1070 plus earn a GPA 3.70 or higher in Chemistry. 

The goal of the AP Environmental Science course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Using our environment as a living laboratory, students in AP Environmental Science will discover the interconnectedness of the Earth, nature, and society. Students will build upon understandings from previous science courses to examine the natural environment and explore the complexities behind the global and local decisions we make as humans and how these decisions impact the environment and the life it supports. Connections will be made to economics, politics, and sociology as students address environmental issues involving sustainability, resource management, and global changes. Students will participate in a class research project which will require excursions outside the normal class day. Students enrolled in the course are required to take the Advanced Placement Exam in Environmental Science in May.

3 terms, solid, 3 credits, B, Approved as Natural/Physical Science course by NCAA

Admission to AP Chemistry requires a minimum PSAT Score of 1160 plus earn a GPA 3.85 or higher in Chemistry. 

Advanced Placement Chemistry is the equivalent of a rigorous freshmen college course in general chemistry. Emphasis is placed on the theoretical aspects of chemistry and how these principles apply to the real world. Quantum theory of atomic structure is dealt with, as are modern theories of chemical bonding. In addition, the elements of physical chemistry, including stoichiometry, thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium, chemical kinetics, and electrochemistry are studied. Much effort is made to follow the Recommended Laboratory Program for Advanced Placement Chemistry from the College Board. Additional topics include some basics of inorganic and organic chemistry, as well of biochemistry. Students enrolled in the course are required to take the Advanced Placement Chemistry Exam in May.

2 terms, solid, 2 credits, C, Approved as Natural/Physical Science course by NCAA

Admission to AP Physics C: Mechanics requires a minimum PSAT Score of 1140 plus earn a GPA 3.85 in Chemistry or 3.0 in AP Chemistry.  AP Physics C also requires completion of AP Calculus AB (taken in the prior year) with grades of A- or higher or concurrent enrollment in AP Calculus BC.

Advanced Placement Physics C provides a systematic introduction to the principles of classical mechanics and emphasizes problem-solving. Topics are limited to those covered during a first semester physics course taken by science majors in college. Mathematics is used to understand the physics of the topics, and calculus will be used to derive equations and solve problems. Computers are used extensively to analyze and graph data, present simulations, and provide content. If the student has not yet completed Calculus, enrollment in a Calculus course in Terms 1 and 2 is required.  Advanced Placement Physics C: Mechanics is only offered in Term 3 and 4.  Students enrolled in the course are required to take the Mechanics section of the Advanced Placement Physics C test in May. 

2 terms, solid, 2 credits, C, Approved as Natural/Physical Science course by NCAA

Prerequisites: Physics, Chemistry, Biology and 2 Science Electives. Students will be required to fill out Honors in Science application. 

This laboratory science course provides the competency to plan and execute a self-directed scientific research project to fulfill requirements for graduating with Honors in Science. Research projects that qualify for local, state, national, or international competitions will be submitted. It is anticipated that as a student proceeds through and reflects upon the research phase of this course, the student will increase his/her appreciation for science and developed a working awareness of the interrelationship of science, technology, and society.

Honors Project

Candidates will engage in an original, laboratory-based, high school-appropriate scientific research project, produce a scientific research poster to be displayed in the Roberts Hall of Science, and present their research to the Science Department faculty. Candidates are awarded HONORS based on the determination of the Science Department faculty leadership team