PTHS Curriculum Guide 2016-2017

CHEMISTRY (630, 631) Class Level: 10, 11, 12

Credit: 1

Prerequisite: Algebra or Consent of Instructor; Biology recommended

This introductory course deals with descriptive and theoretical chemistry involving topics such as matter, atomic structure, solids, liquids, crystals, gases, chemical formulas, acids, bases, salts, equilibrium, chemical kinetics, oxidation-reduction, an introduction to organic chemistry, and problem solving using factor label method and electronic calculators.

CHEMISTRY (AP) (636, 637) Class Level: 11, 12

Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Chemistry This course covers major topics of chemistry involving structure of matter, states of matter, reaction types, and descriptive chemistry including a heavy emphasis on laboratory exploration. Students will have studied all topics necessary to take the Advanced Placement Chemistry exam given by the College Board in May which may result in college credit. After the 2013-2014 school year, AP Chemistry will be offered every other year. It will then be offered 2015-2016, 2017-2018, 2019-2020, etc. EARTH SCIENCE (640, 641) Class Level: 10, 11, 12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Previous Science course recommended This course includes the study of geology and geological principles, oceanography, meteorology, astronomy, and the earth’s dynamic processes. Some very basic chemical and physical principles are covered. Labs are not technically oriented. Topographic maps, star charts, and weather instruments are utilized in the lab exercises. Some prior science is recommended but not required. ANATOMY/PHYSIOLOGY (642, 643) Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Chemistry This course will emphasize the anatomy (structures) and physiology (functions) of the human body. The eleven body systems will be studied with an emphasis on five systems (digestive, cardiovascular, nervous, skeletal, and muscular). This course will also emphasize histology, metabolism, and overall biological organization. In addition to developing a basic knowledge of the eleven systems, students will become familiar with the various tissues in the human body and understand how each system is related to the others, in both structure and function. Students will become acquainted with various diseases and disorders involving each system. Lab exercises emphasize anatomical aspects of the human, using the cat as a comparative dissection specimen, along with other preserved materials, microscope slides, charts, and models. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE (HCC DC) (644, 645) Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 1 Prerequisite: Chemistry This dual credit course (for non-science majors) is intended for students who desire a physical science understanding of environmental concerns. Topics may include: ground water, air quality, land management, nuclear energy, and solid waste disposal. Credit: 1 Prerequisite: None This is a survey course of U.S. History from its European background to the present. The first semester reviews the colonial, early national, and Civil War periods. Attention is given during the second semester to the nation’s emergence as a world power, early twentieth century developments, and events up to the present. It is designed to give an understanding of our political, social, and economic institutions. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Prerequisite: Departmental Placement The objective of this course is to increase the student’s understanding of United States history from discovery to the present with the goal of having each student pass the AP examination. The course is divided into nine units of study arranged chronologically corresponding to major periods in American history. The areas of concentration include historical, political, and economic history coupled with an intense study of cultural and intellectual institutions and their development. This course is taught at the college level and revolves around student-initiated research and discussion. UNITED STATES HISTORY (AP) (716, 717) Class Level: 11 (10 – Rhet II Students) Credit: 1 SOCIAL STUDIES UNITED STATES HISTORY (700, 701) Class Level: 11

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