Course Description

This course is designed for the mature student with a strong interest in science. Students will be expected to read text material before class and attain a basic understanding of the material. In class they will be expected to participate in class discussions, and laboratory exercises. The class time will be spent reinforcing and supplementing material in the text rather than presenting the material to the student for the first time. Students will be required to do additional reading, writing, and case studies..

Topics covered will include: Body organization, cellular structure and function, body tissues, the integumentary and skeletal systems, skeletal histology and movement, muscle histology and physiology, the skeletal muscle system, neurons and neuroglia, the central nervous system, the peripheral nervous system, the endocrine system, the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system, the digestive system, the respiratory system, the urinary system, the reproductive system. Dissections of an eye, brain, heart, and fetal pig will be performed. In addition to mastering the information in the text, major objectives are to learn to use observational skills, the scientific method, good lab report writing skills, and proper handling of the microscope. Lab reports will be assigned for the experiments done in class. These will be collected and graded for feedback. Students will complete the material in the textbook in its entirety. The first module of the book will be completed over the summer in preparation for the class.

To be successful in this class:

Students will need to manage three to five hours of reading and study time, including coloring book exercises, be able to learn and communicate their knowledge of material on tests, turn in assignments on time, and follow directions during lab activities.

Parents will be asked to: Monitor their child’s progress. Help them at home if they need help with organization, motivation, studying, and clarification of assignments. Encourage them to interact with other students and teachers respectfully and in a self-advocating way. Check the student’s study guide answers with the answers in the solutions manual and proctor tests to ensure they are taken fairly.

Grades: 11th Grade, 12th Grade

Fees: $425 plus $40 lab fee

Prerequisites:

Completed Biology, Chemistry strongly recommended

Course Credit: 1 lab science