Course Description
This course focuses on both the large and small: the smallest structures – the atoms and cells that make up the living and nonliving world around us; and the largest systems – the cycles of the natural world, the interaction of energy and matter, classical mechanics, and the celestial objects throughout the universe. Beginning with classification systems, students learn about the elements and the structure of atoms. Students apply what they learn about temperature scales, the difference between temperature and heat, and chemical reactions to the study of energy and ways matter can change. This understanding of chemistry helps students in their next phase of study: cell function, the life-giving functions of photosynthesis and respiration, the biology of their own bodies, and the genetics that make each living being unique. The focus widens again as students explore classical mechanics: Newton’s Three Laws of Motion and the Law of Universal Gravitation. Students then apply classical mechanics to planetary motion, the effects of the Moon, travel beyond Earth, and the most up-to-date discoveries about the universe.

Course Breakdown

Elements and the periodic table
Chemical compounds and equations
States of matter
Solutions
Scientific measurements
Energy and reactions
Acids and bases
Systems of the human body Water, carbon, and nitrogen cycles
Prokaryotes and eukaryotes
Plant cells
Animal cells
The structure and function of cells
Cellular respiration
Asexual and sexual reproduction
Genetics
Newton’s Laws of Motion
Gravity
Planetary motion
Electromagnetic radiation
The solar system’s planets and moons
Stars, galaxies, and the universe

Course Goals
Describe the model of the atom and how it has developed over time.
Differentiate between the phases of matter and their properties.
Demonstrate how phase changes occur and explain when they occur.
Summarize the factors that affect the rate of a reaction, including enzymes and catalysts.
Describe the main organ systems in the body and the disorders associated with them. Explore the water, carbon, and nitrogen cycles.
Compare prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and organisms.
Investigate the difference in the structures of protist, fungus, plant, and animal cells.
Differentiate between mitosis and meiosis.
Explain the lunar cycle and how it affects the tides.