Science

Faculty: Mrs. Lauren Lester, Mrs. Donna Scott, Mrs. Jan Thomas, Mrs. Karen Daues

Courses: Freshman-Integrated Chemistry and Physics, Sophomore-Biology, Junior-Chemistry, Biology 2 AP, Senior-Physics, Anatomy ACC, Biology 2 AP

Through the science department, students will learn to gather and critically analyze scientific data both quantitatively and qualitatively. Students will learn to describe how the components of the environment function on a scientific level, analyze how the human body works, apply scientific principles to natural phenomena, and identify the impact of science, technology and human activity on resources in the environment. Lastly, students will use the scientific method to solve problems.

The Science department offers several options in addition to the three science credits required for graduation. It is possible to take two science courses during the junior and senior years if time and talents allow.

SCIENCE COURSES

411 Integrated Chemistry and Physics

required for freshmen
1 credit
Prerequisites: none

The material covered in this course includes the basics of both chemistry and physics. The course will emphasize the composition of the world on an atomic level and the way in which molecules react with one another. The physics portion of the course will enable students to gain a better understanding of the mechanics of everyday phenomena. Lab assignments will complement the material covered in lecture.

421 Biology 1

Required for sophomores; available to freshmen with special placement
1 credit
Prerequisites: For freshmen, placement test

This course is designed to show students how cellular components work together to allow organisms to function and to pass traits from one generation to another. Lab activities, group work, and research projects reinforce the material covered in class.

431 Chemistry

Required for juniors; available to sophomores with special placement
1 credit
Prerequisites: Biology 1, sophomore placement test

This course is a continuation of major chemical concepts and is designed to prepare students for further courses in science. It is a study of chemical principles reinforced by lab experience. Algebra is a good foundation for this course.

433 Physics

Elective for seniors
1 credit
Prerequisites: completion of Algebra 2/Trigonometry and Chemistry with no semester grade lower than a B.

Students learn how the physical world works by investigating basic physics principles such as linear and rotational motion, forces, energy and momentum. Other topics such as waves, light, electricity or modern physics will be covered as time permits. Lab and class work will stress careful observation and reporting, critical thinking and analytical reasoning.

434 AP Physics B

Elective for seniors
Prerequisites: Algebra 2/Trig or higher and Chemistry; no math or science semester grade lower than a B; recommendation of the student's current math and science teachers

This course covers the standard topics found in two semesters of college-level algebra-based introductory physics course: mechanics; fluid mechanics; thermal physics; electricity and magnetism; waves and optics; and atomic and nuclear physics. Emphasis will be placed on experimental procedures and scientific inquiry. Students are expected to do extra reading and practice to prepare for the AP exam and daily class.

438 Human Anatomy and Physiology

Elective for Seniors
1 credit
Prerequisites: completion of Biology and Chemistry with no semester grade lower than a C. Any student who does not qualify must obtain the Anatomy teacher's signature and complete independent work in biology and chemistry over the summer to be eligible to take this course. Students with a cumulative B average at R-K (3.0/4.0) can apply to UMSL and earn 4 semester hours credit while taking this course at R-K. UMSL course (Bio 1131)

This course is the study of the human body and how it functions. After an overview of the basic principles of the cell, students study tissues and then human systems. Emphasis is placed on the function of each system and how it is designed to complete its function. Lab exercises, including dissections, complement class instruction.

439 AP Biology 2

Elective for juniors and seniors
1 credit
Prerequisites: completion of Biology 1 with an A for all completed quarters/semesters.
This course is limited to 24 students. The students with the top 24 GPAs in Biology will be selected. Priority will be given to seniors. Conduct grades may be considered to determine enrollment.

This course is a continuation of Biology 1. It is designed to introduce students to some of the theories of the origin of life on Earth and evolution. Students will study about the similarities and many differences of organisms in the Kingdoms of living things, and the interaction of living and non-living components of the biosphere. Students will learn about the human systems and compare them to the systems of other organisms. Lab exercises and research will complement class instruction. Students are strongly encouraged to take the AP test at the completion of this course.

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