Science
Overview: The Science Department of AOA believes that all students should develop an understanding of basic science principles and a working knowledge of the scientific method of problem-solving. A scientifically literate citizenry is crucial in today’s highly technological society, and the AOA science curriculum is designed to develop this scientific literacy. Recognizing that students may have unique learning styles in regard to scientific concepts, the department emphasizes learning strategies and techniques that maximize learning. By offering a variety of courses in both the life and physical sciences, the department strives to provide a background in the sciences that will enable the students to see the importance of scientific principles and processes in their lives.
Biology (9-10)
Full year - 1 credit
This general biology course studies basic cell structures and functions, how cells get and use energy, heredity, evolution, classification, and the diversity of living things. Laboratory work includes classroom activities and projects.
Biology Honors (9)
Full year - 1 credit - Prerequisite: Departmental Approval
This course examines the various aspects of life: the chemistry of living things, cellular structures and their functions, energy use, molecular biology (DNA), genetics, evolutionary history, and ecology. Emphasis is placed on the diversity and continuity of living things. Laboratory work is an integral part of the course.
Marine Biology (10-12)
1 semester - 1/2 credit
This course will give a basic introduction to the science of marine biology. It will include history of the field, basic geological features, and the physical and chemical features of seawater. The organisms of the ocean will be investigated, including microscopic, seaweeds and plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates. The different ecosystems will also be studies, including tidal zones, estuaries, the continental shelf, coral reefs, the surface areas, and deep ocean habitats. The final portion will cover ocean resources, human impact on the marine environment, and the impact of the ocean on human life.
Biology AP (11-12)
Full year - 1 credit - Prerequisites: Honors Biology, Honors Chemistry, Departmental Approval
This course follows the Advanced Placement Biology syllabus, and students take the national AP Biology exam in May. Emphasis is on the major themes of biology: molecules and cells, heredity and evolution, and organisms and populations. Laboratory investigations and problem solving skills are used to approach science as a process.
Chemistry (11-12)
Full year - 1 credit - Prerequisite: Algebra I
This course emphasizes the systematic development of the relationship between experiments in chemistry and chemical theory. Descriptive chemistry introduces the principles followed by an application of the principles in solving chemical problems. Chemistry is not represented as a collection of facts but is gradually and logically explored as a developing science. Laboratory investigations and computer use are integrated into the course.
Chemistry Honors (10-12)
Full year - 1 credit - Prerequisite: Departmental Approval
This course is designed for the student who is strong in math and science. The emphasis is on problem solving, which is explored through experimentation and observation and deals with the properties and reactions of material. Its is concerned with the identification, characterization, and transformations of matter and with the energy changes involved in these transformations. Computers are used to collect and analyze data, and laboratory exercises are investigative in nature.
Chemistry AP
Full year - 1 credit - Prerequisite: Departmental Approval
This course is a college-level chemistry course with a major laboratory component. Topics covered include stoichiometry, atomic theory, chemical bonding, solutions, thermochemistry, thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium, kinetics, electrochemistry, and organic chemistry. The laboratory investigations support each of the topics covered. Students are expected to take the AP Chemistry examination in May.
Physics (11-12)
Full year - 1 credit - Prerequisite: Algebra II Honors, Departmental Approval
This course investigates the laws and principles that govern the behavior of the physical world. Topics include mechanics, gravity, heat, electricity, and the structure of matter. Experimental procedure and physical reasoning are emphasized. This course includes laboratory work.
Astronomy (11-12)
1 semester - 1/2 credit
This course is descriptive astronomy, which examines the composition and formation of the Universe in a non-mathematical format. The student moves outward from a study of the Eat-Moon system through the solar system to stars and galaxies emphasizing the dynamic nature of the cosmos. Students will have access to a telescope located in the campus observatory, and some evening observing sessions will be required.
Environmental Science (10-12)
Full year - 1 credit
The general characteristics of Earth as a planet, Earth history and changes to its surface, and the resources of the Earth are studied. Earth ecosystems, interrelationships between organisms, the Earth cycles, and the flow of matter and energy through the biomes are also studied, with an emphasis on the effects that humans have on the Earth. Field and lab activities are a part of this course.
Genomics (9-12)
1 semester - 1/2 credit or Full year - 1 credit - Prerequisite: Honors or AP Biology, and Honors or AP Chemistry or Departmental Approval
Genomics is a combined study of molecular biology (DNA), genetics, microbiology, and bioinformatics. This course is offered with the cooperation of Hiram College to analyze the genome of soil bacteria, Azotobacter vinelandii. This bacterium is unique because it is able to use atmospheric nitrogen to produce usable nutrients. The gene for this trait would be of particular interest to the agricultural community. Various laboratory techniques will be employed using restriction enzymes and gel electrophoresis to construct a genetic map of the bacteria's genome. This is a research project, with data being sent to Hiram College for future publication. Students are expected to carry out the proper experiments, collect and store data in a usable format, analyze the data, and draw conclusions. Since this is an on-going project with Hiram, students are permitted to take this course for multiple years.