Page 50 - POS SPHS Keeper 2019-20

Course #
Credits
Course Name
Grade
515 AP Research - Bioinformatics 11-12 5

Prerequisite: Successful completion of AP Seminar, teacher recommendation, and departmental approval.
Previous or concurrent enrollment in AP Biology is also highly recommended.
This course is the culmination of the two-year AP Capstone in Science Research and Laboratory-Based Inquiry.
Through this exploration, students design, plan, and conduct a yearlong investigation to address a research
question. In the AP Research course, students further develop the skills acquired in the AP Seminar course by
learning research methodology, employing ethical research practices, and accessing, analyzing, and
synthesizing information. In the classroom and independently (while possibly consulting with an expert adviser
in the field), students learn and employ research and inquiry methods to develop, manage, and conduct an in-
depth investigation of an area of personal interest. The course culminates in an academic paper of 4,000 to
5,000 words (accompanied by a performance, exhibit, or product where applicable) and a presentation with an
oral defense.

Science Electives:

Course #
Credits
Course Name
Grade
545 Forensic Science 11-12 5

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology, teacher recommendation and department approval.
Forensic Science is designed to give students an opportunity to experience investigative laboratory science.
Students will gather and/or analyze “evidence” in the areas of fingerprints, blood spatter patterns, shoe/tire prints,
hair and fiber identifications, handwriting and other aspects of a crime investigation scene. This course will
stress the importance of individual and group projects, time management, organization of evidence and lab/crime
scene reports, which will demonstrate the responsibilities and partnerships between scientists and law officials.

Course #
Credits
Course Name
Grade
525 Intro to Anatomy & Physiology 11-12 5

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology, teacher recommendation and department approval.
This elective course provides a comprehensive study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body. Topics
include body organization; homeostasis; cytology; histology; as well as an in-depth study of the skeletal,
muscular, nervous, digestive, and cardiovascular systems. Upon completion, students should be able to
demonstrate an in-depth understanding of principles of anatomy and physiology and their interrelationships.
Laboratory work includes dissection of preserved specimens, microscopic study, computer simulations, and
multimedia presentations.

Credits
Course #
Grade
Course Name
548 Food Ecology and Nutrition 11-12 2.5

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology, teacher recommendation and department approval.
This one semester elective course provides students with an overview of good nutrition principles that are
necessary for physical and mental wellness and a long, healthy life. Instructional materials include discussions
of digestion, basic nutrients, weight management, sports and fitness, and nutrition over the life-span. This course
emphasizes an understanding of today’s food and eating trends and gives students the capacity to intelligently
evaluate all available sources of nutrition information to make informed decisions. Unit topics include a course
introduction, wellness and food choices in today’s world, digestion and major nutrients, and body size and weight

-46-