
Science, Health & Physical Education Department![]() In today's society, science and scientific understanding are considered a priority in any education system. Ursuline High School offers a variety of courses to complement the student's own objectives while achieving the school's requirements. We understand that not all students have the same proficiency in science, nor the same career goals. We do, however, feel that an understanding of general science, a necessity in today’s society. Included in such an understanding are: scientific method, problem solving, mathematical analysis, laboratory manipulations, ethical considerations, social considerations, historical perspectives, and current topics. The school’s mission and Catholic values are reflected in course work. The Ursuline High School Science Department will provide a great opportunity for students to develop: critical thinking skills, a basic understanding of three major scientific fields, and practical real life situations in the laboratories, over the next for years. All freshmen are required to take Biology I or Honors Biology I. The department offers advanced placement The department is also responsible for the Health and Physical Educations courses, which are an essential part of the total educational process and contribute to the overall growth and development of our students. Physical Education courses are also offered during Ursuline’s summer school program. Faculty![]() Mr. Wilfred J. Sanders, ‘61 - Chairperson ![]() Mrs. Jennifer DePizzo, ‘94
Course DescriptionsScience
Health & Physical EducationSCIENCEBIOLOGY IGRADE 9 REQUIRED 1 credit Biology I is a lab course designed to give students an in-depth introduction into the life sciences. The areas of molecular and cellular biology are studied in detail with special attention given to the history of biology, RNA/DNA, the principles of heredity, evolution and scientific classification. The structure and function of representative members of the six kingdoms are studied with laboratory sessions that include dissection and microscope work. Biology I is a college prep course designed to give students the skills and information necessary for college Biology. Students will use and reinforce technological skills that are necessary in the study of a Biological Science. Students whose scores on the Science section of the Ursuline Placement Test are at the 95th percentile or better will be invited into HONORS BIOLOGY I. Honors Biology I is a specialized, accelerated course of in-depth biological study for advanced students who exhibit strong academic ability and an interest in and an aptitude for the sciences. This course will provide students with experience in microscope work, dissection and other laboratory techniques. Students will be expected to do outside reading, independent study, and complete all lab work. PREREQUISITE: 95th PERCENTILE OR BETTER ON THE SCIENCE SECTION OF THE NINTH GRADE PLACEMENT TEST; OPEN ONLY TO FRESHMEN
GENERAL SCIENCEGRADES 10-12 ELECTIVE 1 credit General Science provides an overview of the major disciplines in science. Subject areas include scientific measurement, the nature of matter, the atom and chemical changes, force and motion, energy, and earth-space science. Since this course provides a review of the major concepts contained in the state standards for science covered on the Ohio Graduation Test, it is recommended for sophomores who require a strong review of these concepts prior to taking the OGT or for juniors and seniors who have not passed the science section of the OGT. Classroom presentations are reinforced by lab work, demonstrations, and projects.
BIOLOGY IIGRADES 10-12 ELECTIVE 1 credit BIOLOGY II is a lab course designed to complement and extend the material covered in Biology I. It includes a more in-depth study of life with an emphasis on Botany in the first semester and Zoology in the second semester. Students will study the characteristics and systems of a variety of organisms using microscope work and dissection techniques. Lab work is an essential element of this course. PREREQUISITE: BIOLOGY I
ANATOMYGRADES 11-12 ELECTIVE 1 credit Anatomy/Physiology is designed to provide an in-depth study of human physiology and morphology. Detailed investigations of the integumental, muscular, skeletal, digestive, circulatory, respiratory and nervous, endocrine, urinary and reproductive systems are covered. PREREQUISITE: "C" OR BETTER IN BIOLOGY I
CHEMISTRY IGRADES 10-12 ELECTIVE 1 credit In Chemistry I, principles of atomic structure, kinetic theory and chemical reaction are studied. Also included is the basic study of solubility, Le Chatilierian systems, ionization, properties of elements, oxidation-reduction reactions and an introduction to organic chemistry. Historical aspects of, trends in, and uses of chemistry are also included. This course is designed to give a basic introduction to chemistry while using technology to enhance laboratory skills. PREREQUISITE: JUNIORS: "C" OR BETTER IN GEOMETRY; ALGEBRA II TAKEN CONCURRENT WITH CHEMISTRY SOPHOMORES:"B" OR BETTER IN HONORS BIOLOGY I or WILL BE TAKING HONORS GEOMETRY OR ALGEBRA II
INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICAL SCIENCEGRADES 11-12 ELECTIVE 1 credit Introduction to Physical Science is a course designed for junior or senior college bound students interested in a non-science related field or students wishing additional study in the physical sciences without the mathematic requirements needed for physics. Through classroom demonstrations and lab work the areas of earth science (atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere); magnetism; electricity; heat; light and sound will be covered.
AP BIOLOGY IIGRADE 11 ELECTIVE 1 credit Advanced Placement Biology II is designed for juniors and seniors as an in-depth preparation for the Advanced Placement Exam that may enable students to earn college credit in Biology. Students will be expected to do extensive outside study, research and lab work. PREREQUISITE: "B" OR BETTER IN HONORS BIOLOGY I AND "A" IN CHEMISTRY I.
PHYSICSGRADE 12 ELECTIVE 1 credit Physics will enable students to investigate the interactions and relationships between matter and energy. Various laws and theories will be covered as well as magnetism, thermodynamics, electrostatics, sound and light. Physics is a lab course that is helpful in developing logical thought processes by applying scientific concepts to solve problems and develop practical solutions. This course is designed for those college bound students interested in a science-oriented course of study leading to a career in science. PREREQUISITE: Minimal prerequisites are a "C" OR BETTER IN CHEMISTRY I AND A "C" OR BETTER IN ALGEBRA II; strong recommendation that students be currently taking Pre-Calculus.
AP CHEMISTRY IIGRADE 12 ELECTIVE 1 credit Advanced Placement Chemistry II is a continuation of Chemistry I in preparation for the Advanced Placement test. Students will be introduced both quantitatively and qualitatively to the following topics: chemical equilibrium, electrolytes (pH titration) and Redox reactions. Emphasis will be placed on structure, nomenclature, physical properties, reactions and applications for each major class of organic compounds while continuing the development of technological skills. The course follows the recommendations of the College Board regarding content, laboratory work, textbook selection, and critical thinking.
HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATIONHEALTHGRADE 9 REQUIRED 1/2 credit Students will learn a variety of important life skills to help them develop and maintain healthy lifestyles. Students will analyze their behaviors and learn new ways to create healthy choices in their daily living. The emphasis in this course is on the physical, mental and social aspects of well being that are important to over-all health. Students will reflect on the quality of life, not just the prevention of disease.
PHYSICAL EDUCATIONGRADES 9-10 REQUIRED 1/4 credit |
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