Mocha

Secondary School Science Course Descriptions

8^th Grade Science integrates biological and physical science.  The first semester reinforces topics such as scientific method, heredity and ecology. During the second semester, students begin their study of chemistry and conduct experiments to teach them proper lab techniques and safety.

Biology covers cell processes in plants and animals and photosynthesis in plants. Topics in ecology are discussed as well as our responsibility in making our world a better place. Genetics is taught so that the students will understand how marvelously God made both us and the world around us. In this class students will learn to use laboratory equipment and design experiments wherein the controls and controls are identified. Emphasis is also given to understanding charts and graphs and applying knowledge. Biology is normally a 9^th grade class encompassing the entire school year.

Physical Science is an integrated chemistry and physics course where students learn physical science, with emphasis on the characteristics of matter, the periodic table, force, motion, and energy. Throughout this course, students will be taught scientific principles, safe laboratory practices, critical thinking skills, problem solving skills, communications skills, and how to work in a team environment.  Physical Science is normally a 10^th grade class encompassing the entire school year.

Health focuses on teaching students how to properly care for their bodies.  They are presented with ways to maintain physical fitness, nutrition and overall wellness.  Topics discussed include exercise techniques, popular diets, substance abuse and infectious diseases.

Environmental Science builds on biological concepts such as biomes and ecology. After the importance of these concepts is established, students use the knowledge to discuss how fossil fuels, alternative forms of energy and pollution influence natural cycles.  Both sides of environmental arguments are presented to the students so that they may perfect their own discernment technique.

Chemistry I teaches students that chemistry is the “central science” and necessary for all other areas of science.  Throughout this course, students will be taught scientific principles, safe laboratory practices, critical thinking skills, problem solving skills, communications skills, and how to work in a team environment.  This course involves extensive hands on lab work.  Chemistry I normally a 10^th or 11^th grade  class encompassing the entire school year. 

Physics teaches students that physics is a science built on vast amounts of physical, mathematical, and behavior models.  The study of physics is a way of learning about the natural world.  Throughout this course, students will be taught scientific principles, safe laboratory practices, critical thinking skills, problem solving skills, communications skills, and how to work in a team environment.  Physics is normally an 11^th or 12^th grade class encompassing the entire school year.