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James Hillhouse High School 
480 Sherman Parkway
New Haven ,  CT  06511
(203) 946-8484
Dr. Lonnie Garris, Jr., Principal

 

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SCIENCE

                                                       

The Hillhouse Science Department believes that every student needs and deserves a rich and challenging education in science.  Such an education will promote essential understandings of the natural world and nurture students’ abilities to apply scientific knowledge to make informed and logical judgments about personal and societal issues.

The Science Department also believes that learning science is important for all students in order to prepare them to be informed individuals and citizens and to participate in a wide range of scientific and technological careers.  Understanding the interconnections between science and technology, and their shared impact on environmental and societal issues, is essential in order to preserve and improve life on earth.  

                                                                                                                                            

Macy Honors Integrated Science            Grades 9                                             1 Credit

Level:  1                                     Length of Course:  full Year

Prerequisite:  None

                        Description:   This course is required of all freshmen Macy Program Students at Hillhouse. Students will be introduced to the Science process by developing a conceptual understanding and application of the following:  a)  description-the use of scientific knowledge to provide accurate names for natural phenomena and for classification;  b) explanation-the use of scientific knowledge to explain natural phenomena; c) prediction-use of scientific knowledge to generate predictions about future events; d) applying scientific knowledge and reasoning to solve daily life problems; 3) applying scientific reasoning and knowledge to solve technological problems; f) recognizing the potentials and limits of science and technology; g) communicating in science (words, graphs, charts).  Furthermore students will be introduced to scientific experimentation by being able to:  a) define a problem; b) formulating a hypothesis; c) testing the hypothesis; d) making and interpreting observations; e) drawing a conclusion.  The areas of content that students will use the science processes are:  1) Chemical Structures and Properties; 2) Global Interdependence; 3) Energy Transformation.

Assessment Methods: Assessment tools will include, hands-on, open ended activities in experiments in all modules; vocabulary building, journal recording and writing, teacher-made tests, and quizzes.  City –wide exams.

                                                                                                                                            

Honors Integrated Science                       Grades 9                                             1 Credit

Level:  1                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

Prerequisite: None

                        Description:   Students will be introduced to the Science process by developing a conceptual understand and application of the following: a) description-the use of scientific knowledge to provide accurate names for natural phenomena and for classification; b) explanation-the use of scientific knowledge to explain natural phenomena; c) prediction-use of scientific knowledge to generate predictions about future events; d) applying scientific knowledge and reasoning to solve daily life problems; 3) applying scientific reasoning and knowledge to solve technological problems; f) recognizing the potentials and limits of science and technology; g) communicating in science (words, graphs, charts).  Furthermore students will be introduced to scientific experimentation by  being able to: a) define a problem; b) formulating an hypothesis; c) testing the hypothesis; d) making and interpreting observations; 3) drawing a conclusion.  The areas of content that students will use the science processes are:  Matter, Motion, Earth, the Atmosphere, and Ecology.

Assessment Methods: Assessment includes hands-on, open-ended activities in experiments in all modules; vocabulary building, journal recording and writing, teacher-made tests, and quizzes.  It constitutes an honors level because of the extent of the labs and work expected of the student

                                                                                                                                            

 

Macy College Integrated Science            Grades 9                                             1 Credit

Level: 2                                      Length of Course:  Full Year

Prerequisite:  Students must be enrolled in the Macy Program.

                        Description:   Students will be introduced to the science process by developing a conceptual understanding and application of the following: a) description-the use of scientific knowledge to provide accurate names for natural phenomena and for classification; b) explanation-the use of scientific knowledge to explain natural phenomena; c) prediction-use of scientific knowledge to generate predictions about future events; d) applying scientific knowledge and reasoning to solve daily life problems; e) applying scientific reasoning and knowledge to solve technological problems; f) recognizing the potentials and limits of science and technology; g) communicating in science (words, graphs, charts).  Furthermore students will be introduced to scientific experimentation by being able to:  a) define a problem; b) formulating a hypothesis; c) testing the hypothesis; d) making and interpreting observations; e) drawing a conclusion.  The areas of content that students will use the science processes are: Matter, Motion, Earth, the Atmosphere and Ecology

Assessment Methods: Assessment includes hands-on, open-ended activities in experiments in all modules; vocabulary building, journal recording and writing, teacher-made tests, and quizzes.

                                                                                                                                            

 

College Integrated Science                       Grades 9                                             1 Credit           

Level:  2                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

Prerequisite:  None

                        Description:   Students will be introduced to the Science process by developing a conceptual  understanding and application of the following:  a) description-the use of scientific knowledge to provide accurate names for natural phenomena and for classification; b) explanation-the use of scientific knowledge to explain natural phenomena; c) prediction-use of scientific knowledge to generate predictions about future events; d) applying scientific knowledge and reasoning to solve daily life problems; e) applying scientific reasoning and knowledge to solve technological problems; f) recognizing the potentials and limits of science and technology; g) communicating in science (works, graphs, charts).  Furthermore students will be introduced to scientific experimentation by being able to:  a) define a problem; b) formulating a hypothesis; c) testing the hypothesis; d) making and interpreting observations; e) drawing a conclusion.  The areas of content that students will use the science processes are:  Matter, Motion, Earth, the Atmosphere, and Ecology.

 

Assessment Methods: Assessment and Performance Criteria:  includes hands-on, open-ended activities in experiments in all modules; vocabulary building, journal recording and writing, teacher-made tests, and quizzes.

                                                                                                                                            

Basic Integrated Science                          Grades 9                                             1 Credit           

Level:  3                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

Prerequisite:  None

                        Description:   Students are placed in this level of Integrated Science based on reading scores, grades and attendance.  It is an introductory course to the Integrated Science. Students will be introduced to scientific experimentation by being able to : 1) define a problem; b) formulating a hypothesis; c) testing the hypothesis; d) making and interpreting observations; e) drawing a conclusion.  The areas of content that students will use the science processes are: 1) Chemical Structures and Properties; 2) Global Interdependence; 3) Energy transformation.

 

Assessment Methods: Assessment tools will include hands-on, open ended activities in experiments in all modules; vocabulary building, journal recording and writing; teacher-made tests and quizzes, city-wide exams. 

                                                                                                                                            

 

AP Biology                                             Grades 11/12                                         1 Credit

Level:  1                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

                        Prerequisite:  The student should have an excellent overall academic record.  He/she should have completed College Biology, College Chemistry and Chemistry II, the student must be willing to commit to enrichment tutoring sessions two or three times a week and some Saturday sessions.

                        Description:   This is a comprehensive university level biology course open only to seniors who have been chosen through a highly selective process.  The program will prepare students for intermediate and advanced college courses by making demands on them equivalent to full-year introductory college courses.  Students are required to take an AP placement examination in May which will give them college credit and qualify them for advanced placement in college.

 

Assessment Methods: Highly competitive and extensive assignments outside of class; research papers, outside reading and studying; teacher made tests./quizzes to prepare for standardized placement examination.

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Advanced Biology                                 Grades 11, 12                                         1 Credit

Level:  1                                      Length of Course Full Year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of a College Biology and College Chemistry course as well as teacher recommendation.

                        Description:   Students will be exposed to extensive biological laboratory work including chemical foundations for cells; carbon compounds in cells; cell structure and function; tissue, organ systems and homeostatic; photosynthesis; respiration; cell division: mitosis and meiosis; chromosomes and human genetics; DNA and proteins; recombinant DNA and genetic engineering; digestion and human nutrition; respiration; reproduction and circulation.

 

Assessment Methods: Students are expected to keep a lab journal/notebook; vocabulary development included in notebook; homework and papers will be assigned; perform hands-on experiments; teacher made tests and quizzes; attendance and participation.

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Macy Honors Biology                               Grade 10                                             1 Credit

Level:  1                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

Prerequisite:  No less than B average in Macy Integrated Science

                        Description:   Macy College Biology and Macy Honors Biology is the study of life.  The courses cover the following topics:  Fundamental life processes; physical structure and chemical activities of the cell; photosynthesis, cellular respiration, mitosis; microorganisms’ roles in life processes and cycles on earth; bacteria, viruses and yeasts; the responsibility of DNA for genetic inheritance physically and chemically; how traits are inherited: probability and pedigree; infectious verses genetic disorders; evolution and biodiversity; genetic mutation, natural selection and adaptation to the environment; population; classification and biotechnology.  Additionally, CAPT building skills and CAPT imbedded tasks will be integrated into the course.

 

Assessment Methods: Assessment tools will include hand-on , open ended activities in experiments in all modules; vocabulary building, journal recording and writing; teacher-made tests and quizzes, city-wide exams.

                                                                                                                                            

Macy College Biology                              Grade 10                                             1 Credit

Level:  2                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

Prerequisite:  No less than a B average in Macy Integrated Science

                        Description:   Macy College Biology and Macy Honors Biology is the study of life.  The courses cover the following topics:  Fundamental life processes; physical structure and chemical activities of the cell; photosynthesis, cellular respiration, mitosis; microorganisms’ roles in life processes and cycles on earth; bacteria, viruses and yeasts; the responsibility of DNA for genetic inheritance physically and chemically; how traits are inherited; probability and pedigree; infectious verses genetic disorders; evolution and biodiversity; genetic mutation, natural selection and adaptation to the environment; population; classification and biotechnology.  Additionally, CAPT building skills and CAPT imbedded tasks will be integrated into the course.

Assessment Methods: Assessment tools will include hands-on, open ended activities in experiments in all modules; vocabulary building, journal recording and writing; teacher-made tests and quizzes, city-wide exams.

                                                                                                                                            

College Biology                                         Grade 10                                             1 Credit

Level:  2                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Integrated Science

                        Description:   Students must have solid reading and study skills.  College Biology is an introductory course in the study of living things.  The course covers the following topics: Fundamental life processes; physical structure and chemical activities of the cell; photosynthesis, cellular respiration, mitosis; microorganisms’ roles in life processes and cycles on earth; bacteria, viruses and yeasts; the responsibility of DNA for genetic inheritance physically and chemically; how traits are inherited: probability and pedigree: infectious verses genetic disorders; evolution and biodiversity, genetic mutation, natural selection and adaptation to the environment; population; classification and biotechnology.  Additionally, CAPT building skills and CAPT imbedded tasks will be integrated into the course.

 

Assessment Methods: Assessment tools will include hands-on , open ended activities in experiments in all modules; vocabulary building, journal recording and writing; teacher-made tests and quizzes, city-wide exams.

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Basic Biology                                            Grade 10                                             1 Credit

Level:  3                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

Prerequisite:  Completion of Integrated Science

                        Description:   This full year course introduces students to the study of living things.  The course covers the following topics: Fundamental life processes; physical structure and chemical activities of the cell; photosynthesis, cellular respiration, mitosis; microorganisms’ roles in life processes and cycles on earth; bacteria, viruses and yeasts; the responsibility of DNA for genetic inheritance physically and chemically; how traits are inherited: probability and pedigree; infectious verses genetic disorders; evolution and biodiversity; genetic mutation, natural selection and adaptation to the environment; population; classification and biotechnology. Additionally, CAPT building skills and CAPT imbedded tasks will be integrated into the course.  

Assessment Methods: Assessment tools will include hands-on, open ended activities in experiments in all modules, vocabulary building, journal recording and writing; teacher-made tests and quizzes, city-wide exams.

                                                                                                                                            

Macy Honors Chemistry                          Grade 11                                             1 Credit

Level:  1                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

Prerequisite:  No less than a B average in Macy Biology

                        Description:   Macy College Chemistry and Macy Honors Chemistry introduce students the concepts, facts, formulas and principles of chemistry.  Laboratory investigations are integrated into course objectives.  The topics covered include; measurements; matter and energy; atomic structure and bonding; chemical formulas and equations; stoichiometry; periodicity; solutions; acids and bases; and an introduction to organic chemistry.  Macy College chemistry and Macy Honors Chemistry cover the same topics.  The Honors Chemistry class discusses some topics in greater depth.

 

Assessment Methods: Students are expected to maintain a B average to remain in the Macy Program.  Performance Based Assessment of Laboratory Reports, Projects, Written work – including Research Papers and Essays, and Oral Presentations/Communication.  Teacher made tests and quizzes as well as class participation

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Macy College Chemistry                          Grade 11                                             1 Credit

Level:  2                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

   Prerequisite:  No less than a B average in Macy Biology

                        Description:   Macy College Chemistry and Macy Honors Chemistry introduce students the concepts, facts, formulas and principles of chemistry. Laboratory investigations are integrated into course objectives.  The topics covered include; measurements; matter and energy; atomic structure and bonding; chemical formulas and equations; stoichiometry; periodicity; solutions; acids and bases; and an introduction to organic chemistry. Macy College Chemistry and Macy Honors Chemistry cover the same topics. The Honors Chemistry class discusses some topics in greater depth.

 

Assessment Methods: Students are expected to maintain a B average to remain in the Macy Program. Performance bases Assessment of Laboratory Reports, Projects, Written work including Research Papers and Essays, and Oral Presentations/Communication.  Teacher made tests and quizzes, City wide quarterly exams as well as class participation.

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College Chemistry                                    Grades 11                                            1 Credit

Level:  2                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

Prerequisite:  Students must have successfully completed a Biology and Algebra I course with no less than a C average in each of those courses.

                        Description:  College Chemistry studies all the major concepts of chemistry within the context of everyday life, and integrated less mathematics than the Honors level Chemistry.  The topics covered include: measurements; matter and energy; atomic structure and bonding; chemical formulas and equations; stoichiometry; periodicity; solutions and acid and bases.

Assessment Methods: Performance based Assessment of Laboratory Reports, Projects, Written work including Research Papers and Essays, and Oral Presentations/Communication.  Teacher made tests and quizzes, City wide quarterly exams as well as class participation.

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Basic Chemistry                                    Grades 11, 12                                         1 Credit

Level:  3                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of one year of a physical or biological science.

                        Description:   This course covers the basic concepts of chemistry such as metrics, atomic structure, formula writing, equation-balancing, gas laws and laboratory techniques within the context of everyday life and integrates less mathematics than the College Chemistry.

Assessment Methods: Laboratory Reports, Projects, Oral Presentations/Communications, teacher made tests and quizzes, City wide quarterly exams, homework as well as class participation.

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Macy Anatomy and Physiology            Grades 11, 12                                         1 Credit

Level:  1                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

                        Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Macy Integrated Science, Biology and Chemistry (or concurrent) with no less than a B- in each of those courses.

                        Description:   Problem based learning is an exciting, challenging and rewarding approach to acquiring new information.  A primary goal of this approach is the development of the student’s skills in self-directed learning and problem solving.  Students in this course, using patient simulations, and problem based learning modules (PBLM) acquire the skills to enable the student to learn the basic concepts of Anatomy and Physiology but they may be applied equally well in any other area of study.

Assessment Methods: Students will maintain a lab journal/notebook; homework and papers will be assigned; teacher-made tests/quizzes; attendance and participation and Problem Based Learning Modules.

                                                                                                                                            

College Human Physiology                   Grades 11, 12                                         1 Credit

Level:  2                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

Prerequisite: The student should have received a B average or better in General Biology or a C average or better in better in College level Biology.

                        Description:   College Human Physiology investigates the functions of the body.  Students will study the chemical and physical activities of the major systems of the body.  Students will learn the anatomy of the body through dissections.  Problem-based learning is a key component as students will be given the opportunity to diagnose based on information given to them.

Assessment Methods: Students will maintain a jab journal/notebook; homework and papers will be assigned; perform hands-on experiments; teacher made tests and quizzes; attendance and participation and Problem Based Learning.

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Human Physiology                                 Grades 11, 12                                         1 Credit

Level:  3                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Biology

                        Description:   This course analyzes the functions of the human body.  As students go through each system of the body, they also learn the anatomy (structure) of the body.  Laboratories, dissections and microscope skills are incorporated into the course.

 

Assessment Methods: Students are expected to keep a notebook/lab journal; vocabulary development included in notebook; homework and papers will be assigned; perform hands-on experiments; teacher made tests and quizzes; attendance and participation.

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Physics                                                   Grades 11, 12                                         1 Credit

Level:  1                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

                        Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Algebra II or Honors Integrated Math III or Integrated Math III; concurrently in Pre-Calculus A or B, or Calculus.

                        Description:   The Physics Course is designed to help students with a wide range of backgrounds and abilities to learn Physics.  Students will learn only if they become involved in the subject.  The course employs hands-on and minds-on activities and application that relate Physics to everyday life.  Five major units will be covered in this Physics course:  mechanics, Proper ties of Matter; Waves, Sound and Light, and Electricity and Magnetism.

Assessment Methods: Students will maintain a lab journal/notebook; homework and papers will be assigned; perform hands-on experiments; teacher made tests and quizzes; attendance and participation.

                                                                                                                                            

Introduction to Forensic Science          Grades 11, 12                                         1 Credit

Level:  1                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

                        Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry with a grade of B or better. A solid understanding of laboratory procedures and the scientific method is essential to understanding and being successful in forensic science.

                        Description: Forensic Science is an interdisciplinary, inquiry-based course focusing on modern crime solving methods.  Students will use careful observation, precise measurements, scientific method, and deductive reasoning to solve “crimes”.  Laboratory work will be done weekly as Forensic Science is an applied science.  Students will apply science principles to solve problems.  Some topics covered are: preservation and documentation of crime scenes; collection of physical evidence; analysis of various types of physical evidence (glass, soil, hair, fiber, paint, etc.); fingerprints; drug and toxicology; DNA evidence; document analysis and much, much, more. Field trips and solving of elaborate “crimes” make the class very enjoyable. 

Assessment Methods: Special projects will be assigned such as book reports on historical mystery novels and writing crime fiction.  Student participation in class work and lab work is very important.  Other assessments will be formal laboratory reports, teacher-made tests, and practical tests of forensic skills.

Health                                                 Grades 10, 11, 12                                      1 Credit

Level:  3                                     Length of Course:  Full Year

Prerequisite: This course is available to students who need another credit in science or to those who express an interest in the class.

                        Description:   Health Science is a course designed for students to become more aware of their physical, mental and spiritual beings.  Students will discover how to live healthier lives, and will strive to make themselves more health conscious.

Assessment Methods:  Hands on activities, homework/class work, teacher made tests and quizzes, journals of health articles.