Science and Mathematics

Science

Greenwood science students have received thirteen Grand Prize and five First Alternate awards at the Ozarks Science and Engineering Fair over the past eleven years. These students have gone on to study at Duke, Princeton, Yale and other well-known research universities.

Biology I (1 unit)

(Prerequisites: Science 7 and 8) Biology is designed to provide students with basic knowledge and skills in core biological concepts, including the nature of life, ecology, cells, genetics, evolution, microorganisms, plants, animals, and the human body. This course is valuable for students who are interested in careers in medicine, nursing, physical education, forestry, and ecology. It will help students to think critically about concepts and relate them to the world in which we live. A variety of learning methods will be used, including cooperative learning groups, the use of technology, oral presentations, laboratory work, and scientific inquiry. Biology has been designated as an EOC course by the state of Missouri.

Advanced Biology (1 unit)

(Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry)(Available as Dual Credit) Advanced Biology is a college prep course that builds on basic biological concepts to provide students with a working knowledge of and appreciation for complex biological processes. Key topics include biochemistry, microbiology, comparative animal biology, cell structure and function, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, genetics, biotechnology and genomics, and human anatomy and physiology. This is an excellent course for students who are considering a career health fields. A variety of learning methods will be used, including cooperative group work, individual work, inquiry, and laboratory work. Dissections will be required

Chemistry I (1 unit)

(Prerequisite: Algebra I) This course is designed to provide students with a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts of chemistry, with a focus on laboratory work, communication, and problem solving. Topics include the properties and structure of matter, the periodic table, chemical bonding and chemical reactions, stoichiometry, energy and chemical changes, solutions, acids and bases, and nuclear chemistry. Students will have opportunities to work both cooperatively and independently, use technology, make presentations, and participate in one or more science competitions.

Advanced Chemistry (1 unit)

(Prerequisites: Chemistry I, Geometry) (Available as Dual Credit) This course is a second year chemistry course that provides additional depth and application of math skills to topics studied in Chemistry, with a focus on advanced topics such as thermodynamics, reaction rates, electrochemistry, chemical kinetics, and organic chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on analytical problem solving, communication skills, and laboratory work, with an independent research project to be entered in the Ozarks Science and Engineering Fair.

Physics (1 unit)

(Prerequisite: Algebra I) Physics is an introductory course that stresses a conceptual understanding of and appreciation for the fundamental concepts of physics, including motion, energy, waves, electricity and magnetism, optics, and nuclear science. The course emphasizes problem solving and critical thinking and employs an inquiry approach to clarify complex concepts. Students will have opportunities to use technology as they work cooperatively, work independently, do research, and participate in laboratory exercises. Student will also have the opportunity to participate in one or more science competitions. The principles and skills developed in this course are applicable to all of the sciences as well as technology and engineering.(Completion of or concurrent enrollment in geometry is strongly encouraged.)

Advanced Physics (1 unit)

(Prerequisites: Physics, Geometry and Algebra II) (Available as Dual Credit) Advanced Physics provides additional depth and application of math skills to topics studied in Physics, and includes advanced topics such as rotational motion, thermodynamics, equilibrium, and quantum mechanics. Emphasis is placed on describing, analyzing, and explaining as students solve problems, describe natural phenomena mathematically, perform controlled experiments, and participate in individual and group research and inquiry. An integral part of the course will be the development of a science fair project. This course is supported by concurrent enrollment in Physics Literacy. This course can be taken concurrently with Algebra II with teacher permission.

Anatomy and Physiology (1 unit)

(Available Dual Credit) studies the structure and function of the human body, as it pertains to how the body systems relate to one another in organization, adaptation, and homeostasis.

Topics in Biomedical Sciences (1 unit)

(Prerequisite: Algebra 1, Biology)Students apply their knowledge and skills to answer questions, complete projects and solve problems related to the biomedical sciences. Students will work through challenging open-ended problems, explore careers in the fields of their interest, work with equipment that is used in the medical/lab world, and have a chance to dissect for comparative anatomy. New medical terminology will be introduced to the students and used throughout their science careers. Patient scenarios will be used to help understand problems with human systems and explore common diseases.

Topics in Engineering (1 unit)

(Prerequisite: Algebra 1) Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of Engineering from a mathematical, scientific, and project-based perspective; students will become familiar with the fundamentals of Engineering and explore the many career possibilities in the field of Engineering. Topics covered include the Design Process, Engineering Systems, Material Testing, Dynamics/Kinematics, and other areas.

Forensics (1/2 unit)

(Prerequisite: Algebra I) The class is designed around authentic performance assessments with students working in teams to solve crimes using scientific knowledge and reasoning. It involves all areas of science including biology, anatomy, chemistry, physics, and earth science with an emphasis in complex reasoning and critical thinking. In addition, students must incorporate the use of technology, communication skills, language arts, art, family and consumer science, mathematics and social studies.

Mathematics

Algebraic Thinking (1 unit, grade 5-8)

Algebraic Thinking introduces a mixture of algebra, statistics, numbers and operations, measurement, and geometry. The sequence of skills taught illustrates the vertically–aligned development of the conceptual understanding and corresponding computational and procedural skills to build a strong algebraic foundation. The concepts covered should provide a smooth transition into the Introduction to Geometry and Algebra by providing data driven instruction, intervention options, and performance tracking, as well as remediation, acceleration, and enrichment tools throughout the course

Introduction to Geometry and Algebra (1 unit, grades 5-8)

This course incorporates a balanced approach to mathematics, Algebra and Geometry concepts by: investigating concepts and building conceptual understanding; developing, reinforcing, and mastering computational and procedural skills; and applying mathematics to problem-solving situations. They comprise related ideas, concepts, skills, and procedures that form the foundation for understanding and lasting learning. Curriculum Focal Points identify content for true mathematical understanding - being able to calculate and also how to explain and apply the calculation. The Focal Points are: Measurement and Geometry; Numbers and Operations; Data Analysis; and Probability.

Pre-Algebra (1 unit, grades 5- 8)

Pre-Algebra will introduce students to the tools of algebra, including symbology, numbers and variables, expressions and equations, emphasizing real-world examples and translating English into the language of algebra. Students will solve linear equations and inequalities in one or two variables, work with functions, and solve systems of equations, linking topics to graphing in the coordinate plane. Other topics studied include ratio, proportion, and percent; the real number system; basic geometric and trigonometric concepts; two and three-dimensional figures and their relationships; transformations; and statistics and probability with associated graphs and formulas. Students will be introduced to polynomials and nonlinear functions

Algebra I (1 unit, grades 5-9)

Students in Algebra I will study real numbers and their properties. Students will learn to solve and graph equalities and inequalities to show relations among numbers and their applications. Graphing will include first and second degree equations, absolute value and transformations of standard equations. Methods of solving second degree equations, matrices, and solving systems of a linear and non-linear equations will be introduced. Laws of exponents, simplifying radicals, completing the square, rational expressions and equations will be introduced. Algebra topics through the development of the quadratic formula will be covered. Terminology and structure will be emphasized. Optional topics may include irrational expressions and equations, exploration of matrices, and probability and statistics. The class includes a required service-learning component which is part of the Public Affairs Diploma. Required for graduation.

Geometry (1 unit, grades 6-10)

(Prerequisites: C- or better in Algebra I) Students who have successfully completed Algebra I should plan to take Geometry. Geometry will emphasize skills necessary for problem-solving and continued growth in mathematics. Students will apply concepts from the study of two- and three-dimensional figures. Strong emphasis is placed on using deductive reasoning in the analysis of topics such as: parallel lines, triangle congruence, similarity, area, and volume. Content will include both coordinate and transformational geometry. Students will practice reasoning through logic, learn to write proofs in a step-by-step logical process, define and apply right triangle trigonometry, explore and generalize relationships between polygons, and apply geometric concepts to real-world situations. Algebra I concepts will be applied throughout Geometry. Terminology, structure, problem-solving, and the integration of geometry and algebra will be emphasized. Required for graduation.

Algebra II (1 unit, grades 6-12)

(Prerequisites: Algebra I and Geometry) Students who have successfully completed Algebra I and Geometry should plan to take Algebra II. Algebra II starts with a review of topics studied in Algebra I. Topics involving properties of real numbers will be developed and studied in more detail. Topics such as complex numbers, conic sections, finite sequences and series (with an introduction to infinite series), graphing in space, rational and irrational equations, logarithms, and matrix algebra will be studied. Optional topics may include permutations, combinations and probability. Algebra II is a prerequisite for Pre-Calculus and is recommended as a prerequisite for or to be taken concurrently with Physics and/or Chemistry.

Math Analysis and Trigonometry (1 unit)

(Prerequisites: Successful completion (“C-“ or better) of Algebra II, and teacher recommendation) This course is designed for students who are planning to take Calculus and are interested in a mathematics- or science-related career. Students in this course will study linear relations and functions, systems of linear and nonlinear equations and inequalities, polynomial and rational functions, graph theory, trigonometric relationships, exponential and logarithmic functions, sequences and series, limits, analytic geometry, and other advanced topics. This course may also include an analysis of matrices, an introduction to parametric and polar equations, and an introduction to vectors. Algebraic and geometric concepts are applied throughout Math Analysis & Trigonometry. Upon successful completion of this course, students are encouraged to enroll in Calculus.

Calculus

(Prerequisites: Successful completion (C- or better) of Math Analysis and Trigonometry and teacher recommendation) Calculus is a course designed as a broad comprehensive overview of calculus. Contents of the course include the study of analytic geometry of the plane, limits, continuity, differentiation and its applications, introductory integration and its applications, and volumes of solids of revolution. Throughout the course, students will develop the differentiation, integration and graphing skills needed to solve certain calculus-based problems; understand the important definitions and theorems of elementary calculus including the ability to read, interpret, and write them correctly; read, interpret, and use appropriate models on applied problems; and write mathematically correct proofs on some elementary statements that require using definitions and theorems, especially proofs of limit properties. Algebraic concepts are applied throughout Calculus.

MTH 136 Pre-Calculus I-MSU

(Dual Credit available) Must have successfully completed Algebra II provides students with a mastery understanding of fundamental concepts of algebra and reasoning by studying analytic, graphical, and numerical representations of algebraic functions: polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions, along with higher algebraic reasoning in preparation for the study of Calculus. MTH 136 also introduces concepts involved for many mathematics and science related careers. NOTE: MTH 136 is offered for DUAL CREDIT. To take as dual credit, you must meet specific requirements: Receive an ACT Math score of 22 or greater OR make an approved score on a departmental placement examination; have a minimum grade-point average of 3.0 AND be recommended by GLS.

Professional Math

(Prerequisite: Geometry Concepts or Geometry or teacher recommendation) This course will help to develop mathematical curiosity and problem solving skills, Professional math will introduce the applications of mathematics in areas such as cryptography, history, music, weather, architecture, baseball and crime scene analysis. Students in this course are not expected to have especially strong math skills or scientific backgrounds; most calculations will be elementary although advanced material is taught as needed. Students will be exposed to number theory, trigonometry and calculus, group theory, geometry, probability, and mathematical modeling. Concepts will be applied immediately to the problems that motivated them.