Program of Studies | Page 31

Astronomy 0.5 credit Grades 11 and 12 Prerequisite: Successful completion of two science credits Look up! What is out there? Astronomy is the study of the universe beyond the earth’s atmosphere. Through the physics of matter, energy, forces, and motion students will learn about the birth, life, and death of our universe and the stars and other objects that fill it. Students will also learn about our view of the universe from here on earth and study the basics of celestial coordinate systems, the paths and appearance of the sun, moon, and planets across the sky. all of the creatures that call it home? Maine has a rich natural history and supports a diverse array of habitat types and species. This class will focus on the various classes of wildlife found in Maine including Fish, Amphibians, Reptiles, Mammals, and Birds. Along the way we will uncover the challenges Maine wildlife face, the adaptations that allow them to survive here, and some of the strategies used by humans to manage populations. An emphasis will be placed on getting “out there” to experience some of the wildlife right in our back yard. Marine Biology 0.5 credit Grades 11 and 12 Prerequisite: Successful completion of two credits of science What is the ocean like? What lives in the ocean? How do these things survive? Students will discover the great diversity of marine life and the physical and chemical factors that influence it, including seawater chemistry, tides, waves, and currents. Students will study the coastal and oceanic environments of marine life from shallow water habitats such as the rocky intertidal, giant kelp Environmental Studies 0.5 credit Grades 11 and 12 Prerequisite: Successful completion of two science credits This class is a single science discipline that integrates a range of other scientific disciplines (chemistry, physical science, and biology). Students will study ecological principles and various environmental issues. Students will become familiar with species interactions, population dynamics, and various environmental issues threatening ecosystems today. The goal of this class is to increase students’ awareness and level of appreciation for the world around them. Everyday Engineering 0.5 credit Grades 9, 10, 11 and 12 Our modern lifestyle is built on many mechanical devices that we use everyday or rely on for everyday living. Students will learn basic mechanical concepts and simple machines and then apply what they learn to make more complex machines that model real-world engineering projects. Students will engage in engineering labs, prescribed projects and independent creative projects. Upon completing the course students will have a an understanding of basic mechanical concepts and how to apply those concepts to solve complex mechanical problems. Students will use hand-held power tools, hand tools, and hot glue guns. Maine Fish and Wildlife 0.5 credit Grades 10, 11 and 12 Prerequisite: Successful completion of Introduction to Biology I or Honors Biology (or either concurrently) Do you love the Maine outdoors and 31