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MCPS Science

Science
Science Department Staff Members

Telephone: 301-649-8298

Staff Member
Position
Courses
Resource Teacher
HSA Prep Workshop, Matter and Engergy
Teacher
AP Biology, Biology
Teacher
Biology, Marine Biology
Teacher
AVID 9, Honors Biology
Teacher
Chemistry, Honors Chemistry
Teacher
Honors Chemistry, Honors Matter and Energy, Matter and Energy
Teacher
AP Environmental Science, Earth/Space Systems, Horticulture, Matter and Energy
Teacher
Honors Matter and Energy, Honors Physics
Teacher
Forensic Science, Matter and Energy
Teacher
Biology, Honors Biology, Honors Matter and Energy
Vision Statement
As a community of science educators at Northwood, we aim to support a science education that teaches students to inquire, research, and gather knowledge from our surrounding environment while gaining tools and skills to become successful science learners and thinkers.
Mission Statement

To encourage a motivating learning environment that develops and strengthens our scientific thinking in order to achieve "individual, community, and global success.”

Science Department News

Literacy, rigor, and building critical thinking skills will remain our focus in all science classes this school year. Students will be asked to read more outside of the classroom and produce projects that include science, engineering, math, and technology (STEM).

Once again, Biology HSA scores rose significantly. Our biology teachers and students worked very hard last year and we are excited and proud of our success. We are looking forward to even greater success this year as the class of 2012 rotates into Biology.

We continue to strengthen our commitment to the standard that every student learns. We will be working even closer with parents this year, especially with our incoming freshman class, to help them develop good study habits and organizational skills. We will be encouraging every parent to check regularly on Edline to keep abreast of how their student is performing, and we ask for parents to assist their students by double-checking notebook organization and reviewing graded assignments.

There will not be any lab fees for any science course this year.

Course Descriptions

Anatomy and Physiology

This course is a study of the major systems of the human body. Career opportunities in medical-related fields are examined. The course is intended for advanced-level students. Anatomy and Physiology A topics include cells, tissues, and systems (skeletal, muscular, integumentary, and nervous). Anatomy and Physiology B topics include digestive, respiratory, circulatory, excretory, endocrine, and reproductive systems. Dissection is required.

AP Biology (Double Period)

These are double-credit courses that meet two periods each day. The courses have the same objectives as Biology AP A and AP B, with the provision that the content, materials, and activities of Biology AP (double period) follow the Biology Advanced Placement curriculum. Students may not earn credit for both single and double-period AP Biology A and B. Dissections may occur in this course.

AP Chemistry (Double Period)

These are double-credit courses that meet for two class periods each day. The courses have the same objectives as Chemistry AP A and AP B, with the provision that the content, materials, and activities of Chemistry AP (double period) follow the AP curriculum. Students may not earn credit for both single- and double-period AP Chemistry A and B.

AP Environmental Science

Environmental Science AP A and B are for highly motivated students with interest in interdisciplinary science. Environmental Science AP builds on concepts covered in Environmental Science, with greater detail in content and laboratory investigations. Students are prepared to take the Advanced Placement environmental science examination at the end of the course. Topics in Environmental Science AP include the interrelationships of the natural world and environmental problems, issues, and solutions.

AP Physics

This course is for highly motivated students with interest in the physical sciences. Students use calculus in problem solving and in derivations as they study Newtonian mechanics, electricity, and magnetism. Students are prepared to take the Advanced Placement Physics C examination at the end of this course.

Biology

These courses emphasize the study of living things through laboratory experiences. Topics include ecology, chemistry of life, cells in living things, cell energy, nucleic acids and protein synthesis, energy, inheritance, applied genetics, evolution, and systems and living things. Ecology and evolution are unifying themes throughout the course. Attention is given to social issues and career opportunities. Dissections may occur.

Earth/Space Systems

These courses emphasize the dynamic processes of systems on and inside the Earth and its surrounding space environment. Topics include the interrelated systems, hydrosphere, cryosphere, geosphere, biosphere, and atmosphere.

Environmental Science

These courses explore ecological interactions through the systematic study of global realms, atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere. Environmental Science A is an overview of ecosystems, energy flow, geology, chemical cycles, population studies, community dynamics, and pollution. Environmental Science B includes topics in land and water use, energy, food and natural resources, and populations.

Horticultural Science

Horticultural Science A and B are designed for students interested in mastering fundamental techniques in the care and culture of plants in the home, business, and community. Topics include plant anatomy and physiology; growth conditions; plant propagation; control of disease, weeds, and pests; greenhouse management; plant identification; soils; lawns; and landscaping. Either semester can precede the other.

Marine Biology

Students study basic marine ecological principles and develop an understanding of both the complexity and delicate balance of ocean ecosystems. Relevant science, technology, and societal issues are integrated into the curriculum. Laboratory exercises, field trips, classroom presentations, and literature research are an integral part of the course.

Matter and Energy

These courses emphasize the development of observation, experimentation, and analytic skills applicable to succeeding in laboratory courses in high school science. Matter and Energy A includes scientific skills and processes, mechanics (forces and motion), energy, electricity, and magnetism. Matter and Energy B includes properties of matter, heat, and atomic and nuclear structure.

Wildlife Biology

This introductory course for students interested in wildlife management or zoology includes field study techniques and information about careers in areas of animal science. Topics include statistical tests, wildlife management habitat usage, foraging preference, behaviors, and body morphology to identify organisms. Soil chemical properties and water quality are used to determine the viability of vertebrates and aquatic macroinvertebrates.

Last updated November 13, 2009 | Webmaster


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