Science Department Course Listing
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15001 HONORS FRESHMAN SCIENCE This is a standards–based, integrated course which incorporates the Massachusetts Science Curriculum Frameworks. Coursework in this honors level class is rigorous and moves at an accelerated pace. Units in the class cover Physics, Biology, Chemistry, and Earth Science topics. The class work is student-oriented and will stress the practical applications of science. Inquiry-based laboratory investigations form a major portion of this course.
15002 ACADEMIC FRESHMAN SCIENCE This is a standards–based, integrated course which incorporates the Massachusetts Science Curriculum Frameworks. Coursework in this college prep level class moves at a challenging pace. Units in this class cover Physics, Biology, Chemistry, and Earth Science topics. The class work is student-oriented and will stress the practical applications of science. Inquiry-based laboratory investigations form a major portion of this course.
This is a standards–based course, which incorporates the Massachusetts Science Curriculum Frameworks. Coursework in this honors level class is rigorous and moves at an accelerated pace. Topics include: structure and composition of organic molecules, structure and function of cells, hydrolysis, dehydration synthesis, protein synthesis, genetics, human anatomy and physiology, evolution and biodiversity, taxonomy; and ecology. The class work is student-oriented and will stress the practical applications of science. Inquiry-based laboratory investigations form a major portion of the course.
This course is a standards–based course, which incorporates the Massachusetts Science Curriculum Frameworks. Coursework in this college prep level class moves at a challenging pace. Topics include: structure and composition of organic molecules, structure and function of cells, hydrolysis, dehydration synthesis, protein synthesis, genetics, human anatomy and physiology, evolution and biodiversity, taxonomy; and ecology. The class work is student-oriented, and inquiry based laboratory investigations form a major portion of the courses.
This is a standards based course, which incorporates the national Advanced Placement physics curriculum. Coursework in this advanced placement level class is rigorous and moves at an accelerated pace. It presents wave motion, geometric optics, electromagnetism, and nuclear physics. Emphasis is on solving open-ended questions. Laboratory activities reinforce lecture material. Students in this course are required to take the Advanced Placement Physics Exam.
15221 ADVANCED PLACEMENT BIOLOGY This is a standards based course which incorporates the National Advanced Placement biology curriculum. This course meets for the entire school year. Content of the course will vary but will be based on advanced placement topics and laboratory exercises. Such topics include evolution, chemical structure of DNA and RNA, protein synthesis, population genetics, tissue and organ structure, and mammalian and human physiology. Students should expect a broader emphasis on independent work than they might find in a typical honors course. Advanced Biology is required in the fall semester as a preparation for this course. Students in this course are strongly encouraged to take the Advanced Placement Biology Exam.
This course is a standards–based course, which incorporates the Massachusetts Science Curriculum Frameworks. Coursework in this college prep level class moves at a challenging pace. Topics include: structure and composition of organic molecules, structure and function of cells, hydrolysis, dehydration synthesis, protein synthesis, genetics, human anatomy and physiology, evolution and biodiversity, taxonomy; and ecology. This course will stress the practical applications of science in much greater depth than Freshman Biology. The class work is student-oriented, and inquiry based laboratory investigations form a major portion of the courses.
This is a standards–based course, which incorporates the Massachusetts Science Curriculum Frameworks. Coursework in this honors level class is rigorous and moves at an accelerated pace. Topics include: structure and composition of organic molecules, structure and function of cells, genetics and the structure and function of DNA, evolution and biodiversity, taxonomy; and ecology. The class work is student-oriented and will stress the practical applications of science. Inquiry-based laboratory investigations form a major portion of the course.
This is a course based on the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for Biology 9-10. It exposes the student to a variety of marine life. This course will address the chemistry of water and the marine life within, as well as cell biology, and genetics. The ecology of the ocean coastline and its complex food web will also be explored. Instruction will include lecture, labs, fieldwork and various media. Students with proper laboratory etiquette are recommended.
This is a course based on the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for Biology 9-10. This is an in-depth study in the Marine Biology of various marine organisms. Emphasis will be placed on our local Marine environments and the interactions taking place within them. Content will review chemistry, structure, genetics, diversity, behavior and ecology. Participation will require laboratory studies, research projects, and data analysis. Students with proper laboratory etiquette are recommended.
This full year honors course qualifies the student to take the national AP Chemistry Exam. The curriculum followed is set by the national AP course standards and includes the topics of thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, acid/base equilibrium, electronchemistry and nuclear chemistry. Students should expect a broader emphasis on the independent work that they will be challenged to do in both theory and experimentation.
Honors chemistry is a standards based course which incorporates the Massachusetts Curriculum for chemistry. It is arigorous course in which the students are challenged. The course affords students extensive opportunities to study the properties of matter, atomic structure and periodicity, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, the gas laws, solutions, acids and bases, equilibrium and kinetics, and electro- and thermochemistry. Students should have the mathematical skills necessary to deal with the quantitative measurements made in lab. This course is laboratory-oriented, so that the student can experience the theories and concepts that are presented in lecture and reinforced via experimentation. Success in this course will qualify the student for collegiate level courses in chemistry.
College chemistry is a standards based course which incorporates the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for chemistry. This is a systematic overview of chemistry that includes the properties of matter, atomic structure and periodicity, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, the gas laws, solutions, acids and bases, and equilibrium, and thermochemistry. This is a laboratory-oriented course that will require the exercise of moderate mathematical skills. Coursework in this college prep level class moves at a challenging pace. Success in this course will qualify the student for collegiate level courses in chemistry.
This standards based course is designed for those students who have successfully completed the AP Chemistry program and are planning to pursue a health or medical related major in college. It is designed to give an honors student an elective in the senior year that is challenging and relevant. A non-mathematical approach to the content of this course will place emphasis on the different classifications of organic compounds, their nomenclature, preparation, and physical and chemical properties. The continuation of good, sound manipulative laboratory skills and techniques will also be a major component of this lab-oriented lab.
College physics is a standards based course which incorporates the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for physics. Coursework in this college prep level class moves at a challenging pace. It is an algebra-based-course covering linear motion, dynamics, work-energy-momentum, heat, wave motion, and electromagnetism. In addition to problem solving, students will work in groups in the laboratory and in preparation of multimedia presentations.
Honors physics is a standards based course which incorporates the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for physics. Coursework in this honors level class moves at an accelerated pace. It is an algebra-based-course covering linear motion, dynamics, work-energy-momentum, heat, wave motion, and electromagnetism. In addition to problem solving, students will work in groups in the laboratory and in preparation of multimedia presentations.
15501 HONORS ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE This standards based elective is designed to give an honors student an elective in the sophomore, junior, or senior year that is challenging and relevant. Topics covered include earth's systems, ecosystem function and energy flow, land and water use, pollution, energy resources, and g lobal change.
This standards based elective is designed to give college prep and work readiness students an elective in the sophomore, junior, or senior year that is challenging and relevant. Topics covered include earth's systems, ecosystem function and energy flow, land and water use, pollution, energy resources, and global change. Honors chemistry is a standards based course which incorporates the Massachusetts Curriculum for chemistry. It is a rigorous course in which the students are challenged. The course affords students extensive opportunities to study the properties of matter, atomic structure and periodicity, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, the gas laws, solutions, acids and bases, equilibrium and kinetics, and electro- and thermochemistry. Students should have the mathematical skills necessary to deal with the quantitative measurements made in lab. This course is laboratory-oriented, so that the student can experience the theories and concepts that are presented in lecture and reinforced via experimentation. Success in this course will qualify the student for collegiate level courses in chemistry.
College chemistry is a standards based course which incorporates the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for chemistry. This is a systematic overview of chemistry that includes the properties of matter, atomic structure and periodicity, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, the gas laws, solutions, acids and bases, and equilibrium, and thermochemistry. This is a laboratory-oriented course that will require the exercise of moderate mathematical skills. Coursework in this college prep level class moves at a challenging pace. Success in this course will qualify the student for collegiate level courses in chemistry. 57101 HUMAN ANATOMY AND SPORTS MEDICINEThis course is designed to instruct students in human and functional anatomy, as well as in the basic concepts of sports medicine. The intent of the program is to prepare students for the future course work necessary in the following academic areas: physical therapy, athletic training and sports medicine, physical education, and related health and science careers.
This course is designed for the science student who has successfully completed freshman science and is interested in expanding his knowledge of plants. Topics covered will include an in-depth examination of the structure of plant parts as well as unique adaptations that allow plants to survive in a wide range of changing environments. Coordinated laboratory exercises - using a variety of living materials and Internet activities will complement the lecture material.
15644 MARINE SCIENCE & AQUACULTURE This is a standards based course which includes the study of seawater chemistry, plankton, echinoderms, mollusks, crustaceans, fish, including sharks, and marine mammals. Students will be introduced to the extensive, re-circulating saltwater systems presently on line, as well as to the specimens currently being researched. Students will be expected to participate in proper maintenance of these systems as well as to maintain the assortment of vertebrate and invertebrate populations. An emphasis will be directed toward the emerging aquaculture industry and its career opportunities. The nature of the curriculum dictates the need for exemplary laboratory behavior.
This standard based course will examine the dynamics of the planet earth, including but not limited to composition, activities and geologic theories and laws of the earth. It will cover rock types, formation of rocks, and volcanic activity as well as topics in oceanography including, coastal processes marine chemistry, marine sediments, and the effects on oceans and ocean currents.
This standards based course will challenge students in a program based on visiting area elementary schools and giving presentations relating to the knowledge attained through course content from Marine Science and Aquaculture. Live marine animals are reared in the Aquaculture Labs and transported to the Fall River elementary schools where Durfee students interact with the elementary students. Students will be also be required to maintain the freshwater and saltwater systems in the labs at Durfee on a daily basis.
This computer-based course explores different careers related to bioengineering, its processes for industrial applications, and product development. Students will develop a product through hands-on activities, using computers and the engineering design process. Medical and pharmaceutical applications of biotechnology will be explored. The environment, ecology, health, and fitness will be discussed.
40044 INTRODUCTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING This standards based elective course is open to all students at Durfee High School . Topics covered include: study of ecosystems, water quality, hydrology, topography, groundwater, and hazardous materials. This introduction course may be taken alone or in preparation for environmental engineering. This course introduces students to the basic fundamentals and concepts of engineering and ecology.
40144 ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING This standards based elective course is open to all students at Durfee High School . This course introduces students to the basic fundamentals and concepts of engineering and ecology. Topics covered include study of ecosystems, water quality, hydrology, topography, groundwater, wetlands delineation, and vernal pond certification.
This survey course deals with the fundamentals of astronomy and is designed to lead the student through a general consideration of the theories pertaining to the origin, design, and extent of the universe.
15734 STUDENT LAB AIDE PROGRAM This program is an opportunity for those students who have an interest in working in a science laboratory. Students will act as lab assistants to faculty members, assisting in the set-up, functioning, and dismantling of science laboratory experiments. Students enrolled in the course will receive a PASS/FAIL grade. Admittance to the course will be limited. An application form must be submitted to the Department Head for approval.
15512 HUMAN BIOLOGY (BIOLOGICAL/ANTHROPOLOGY) This standards based elective course will examine human biological topics including evolution, reproduction, growth and development, human systems, adaptations, diseases and disorders, aging and death, and forensics. These topics will be addressed in an applied and connected manner.
Students will be introduced to AutoCAD 2002, the premier Computer-Assisted Design (CAD) software for personal computers. Lectures, tutorials, and exercises will walk them through all aspects of 2-D drafting and design as these relate to architectural, mechanical, and electrical design. Orthographic Isometric, section, and pictorial views related to mechanical drafting will be explored as well as site plans and elevations for architectural drawings. Full-scale drawings will also be constructed where applicable.
This 3D course explores the development and use of computers in the design industry. The students will use computers to solve drafting and engineering problems and develop skills in new areas of computer drafting to include 3D design problems or architectural design.
The students will use computers to solve complex drafting and engineering problems, development skills in new areas of computer drafting to include advanced technical projects in mechanical and architectural design.
40024 COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN I This course is a basic introduction to computer concepts. Students will be exposed to PC compatible computers. Topics to be introduced include hardware structure, software, operating systems, computer careers, applications, computer development, and troubleshooting strategies. Students will learn to use the Windows 95 operating system and will have a basic introduction to the word processing, database, and spreadsheet applications in Microsoft Office Professional 97.
40124 COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY & DESIGN II This course will cover the A+ Certification Core, DOS 6.x commands, installing DOS, Windows 95 and 98, plus Office 97. Also, students will explore PC troubleshooting and/or repair, dismantling and rebuilding a PC, and upgrading a PC.
Students will be working with CISCO system's OSI's seven-layer-model (network protocols), Local Area Networks, Electronics and Signals, Structured cabling and Electricity, Network Topologies, IP Addressing, TCP/IP, and definitions of the Router on the network and what its function is, along with other types of network media (i.e. bridges, hubs, and Ethernet switches). Students will learn how to create their own RJ-45 jack connections and will be taught how to set up wiring on a patch panel.
This CISCO-based course will expand on prior CISCO knowledge. It will extend a student's knowledge and practical experience with the design, configuration, and maintenance of switches, Local Area Networks (LANs), Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), Internet Packet Exchange (IPX), Routing, Interior Gateway Routing (IGRP), Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP), and Frame Relay Design.
40004 PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING This computer-based course will allow students to explore mechanical engineering and related careers. Students will investigate tools, materials, and manufacturing processes through hands-on activities and the application of the engineering design process. Students will explore energy and power, mechanisms and their use in systems.
40264 INTRODUCTION to ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN This course provides resources for an introduction to architectural design. The course will help students to learn the fundamental skill and concepts necessary for architectural planning, designing, and drawing. This computer based course will use AutoCAD 2004 software to create the plan and elevation drawings. Math formulas and calculations are presented as necessary.
40274 INTRODUCTION to SURVEYING and MAPPING The course will introduce students to land surveying and mapping. Students will learn to utilize transit equipment in the classroom and in the field. Measurements will be mapped using AutoCAD 2004 land desktop and AutoCAD survey. The course will introduce the student to the fields of Land Planning, Surveying, Civil Engineering, and Drafting. A knowledge of AutoCAD is helpful but not required. Student Expectations: |