Course Catalog 2018_w_ CTE draft

EARTH SCIENCE

4200(1 credit) Grade Level: 9 Prerequisite: None EOC Test: Standard of Accreditation requires an End of Course Test upon completion of this course.

The main emphasis of this course is earth-space science and will use the Earth Science Standards of Learning. These standards specifically require the study of certain mathematics, chemistry, and physics concepts as well as several biological principles. Earth Science students will use computer technology and sensors and probes as tools to collect data from classroom and field experience. At least fifty percent of instructional time should be devoted to laboratory investigations. Emphasis is on problem-solving techniques and data collection in order to draw conclusions related to the physical environment.

METEOROLOGY

4255(1 credit) Grade Level: 11 and 12 Prerequisite: Successful completion of previous classes, including Chemistry

This is a survey course that looks in detail at the science dealing with the lower atmosphere. Special emphasis is placed on computer technology in making weather observations, data collection, and forecasting. Students will utilize a computerized weather station as well as resources on the Internet to analyze present weather conditions and formulate forecasts. Course content will include topics strongly tied to forecasting, such as instrumentation, large-scale weather systems, winds, and precipitation. Special emphasis will be placed on severe weather and students will track the events as they unfold both locally and across the U.S.

PHYSICS

4510(1 credit) Grade Level: 11 and 12 Prerequisite: Trigonometry or Pre-Calculus

Physics is based upon the use of mathematical statements to interpret physical data. Students will be expected to use current technology (computers, sensors, probes, graphs, spreadsheets, and simulations) to fulfill the new Standards of Learning that include the ability to use instruments to collect and report physical data. Physics is the study of the universal laws of nature. Motion, force, heat, light, sound, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics will be studied. Students will develop skills in problem solving, creative thinking, critical analysis, and hypothesis evaluation through mental and physical activities that include hands-on experiences at least 50% of the instructional time.

SOCIAL STUDIES ELECTIVES

INTRODUCTION TO PHILOSOPHY

2850(1 credit) Grade Level: 11 and 12 Prerequisite: None

Considering a variety of sources, this course is an introduction to the ideas and issues growing out of the history of philosophical inquiry in such areas as metaphysics (the nature of reality), epistemology (the nature of knowledge), ethics (the nature of moral values and principles), philosophy of religion (the nature of religious belief), and aesthetics (the nature of beauty).

PSYCHOLOGY

2900(1 credit) Grade Level: 11 and 12 Prerequisite: None

Psychology is an introduction to the study of the mind and observed behaviors. It is a course designed to help students understand themselves and others. One of the primary goals of this course is to aid individuals in the quest to understand what constitutes healthy