Science

Biology is the study of life. Includes the study of the structure and function of living organisms, energy transformations, comparative survey of life processes, diversity of life, and the interdependence of organisms with their environment. Topics include characteristics and chemistry of organisms, cell processes, DNA, genetics, ecology, and evolution. Investigations emphasize skill development and safe manipulation of laboratory apparatus and materials in the laboratory.
Prerequisite: specific entrance test score required.

Presents a challenging molecular approach to biology; emphasizes critical issues in genetic engineering, cellular energy, evolution, human body systems, DNA structure and function, and applications to health, medicine and public policy. Offers labs for discovery and/or reinforcement of scientific concepts.
Prerequisite: specific entrance test score required.

Provides a college-level course at an accelerated pace. Includes the study of biochemical pathways, molecular and cellular biology, Mendelian genetics, biotechnology, and phylogeny of plants and of animals with evolution as the unifying thematic approach. Presentation of the material is a mix of lecture, case-studies, modeling, and laboratory activities. Students are required to take the AP Biology exam in the spring. Summer assignments are required.
Prerequisite: Chemistry (90%) or Chemistry H (80%).

Presents 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 or preventing them. Students will learn the material using a problem-solving approach involving case studies and laboratory activities. Students have the option of taking the AP Environmental Science Exam at the end of the year to receive college credit.
Prerequisites: Chemistry.

Study of the relationship of life to the physical Earth systems within which life exists. Students learn laboratory and data analysis techniques to understand the science of current environmental issues, then apply critical science thinking to design projects that address environmental challenges at the local level. Each semester, students learn the science behind 2-3 Earth resources/systems (water, atmosphere, energy, etc.), consider a local environmental problem related to one of the resources/systems, then design and implement a course of action to move towards more sustainable outcomes.
Prerequisites: Chemistry (80%) or Chemistry H (70%).

Biotechnology is a hands-on project-based course in which teamwork, cooperative learning, and 21st Century Learning Skills are used to explore the history, skill set, and the potential of biotechnology to answer critical questions and solve problems. This integrated laboratory course incorporates Next Generation Science Standards to model scientific inquiry to solve problems and promote critical thinking. Technical applications such as DNA/RNA isolation, DNA restriction enzyme analysis, polymerase chain reaction analysis, DNA gel electrophoresis, RNA/DNA hybridization will be used in conjunction with basic protein analysis techniques to perform a variety of tasks. Basic microbiology, virology and cell tissue culture technology will be studied and used, in conjunction with the other techniques, to allow students to explore the use of biotechnology. Bioinformatics, National Center for Biotechnology, and associated data bases will be utilized to compare results from investigations to current data. This class will encourage students to design and pursue their own projects as an extracurricular activity. Please Note: Students may pay an additional amount for University of Arizona tuition and fees to take this course for University credit.
Prerequisites: Chemistry (90%) or Chemistry H (80%).

This second-year course, Biotechnology II Honors, allows students to perfect biotechnology techniques, learn to read research papers and hear about cutting edge research from researchers in the field. It includes advanced biotechnological techniques, fundamentals of cell biology and genetics, applications of biotechnology, bioethics, and careers in biotechnology. Through laboratory activities and field-based research, students will conduct independent research in an active laboratory, and learn to communicate their research by presenting at the Regional Science Fair (SARSEF). Upon successful completion of the course, students can earn three units of university credit.
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry (90%) or Chemistry H (80%), and one other lab science.

This is a college-level dual-credit course. Students receive 3 credit hours of required UA engineering coursework. This award-winning course, developed
in conjunction with the U of A Engineering faculty, provides students with an introduction to mathematical modeling, the engineering design process Solidworks, 3D printing, C and CNC programming. Units of study include Manufacturing, Systems, Bio-Medical, Environmental, Software and Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. The course also provides students with a perspective on various engineering
disciplines and educational and career opportunities, through a lecture series, presenting
engineering experts in the field. The course demonstrates how engineers use skills in
mathematics and science to help people in a variety of global economic, environmental, and societal contexts through a semester-long service-based project. Students will receive science credit upon passing this course.
Please Note: Students pay an additional amount (approximately $495) for the University of Arizona tuition to take this course for University credit.
Prerequisites: Algebra II Honors (80% or higher) or Algebra II (90% or higher) and concurrent enrollment in or completion of Physics (80% or higher) and interview by the instructor.