• SCI Tech

    Masconomet’s Science, Technology, and Engineering (STE) Program is designed to enable all our students to become literate citizens in science and technology. To achieve this goal, STE courses promote the development of scientific reasoning skills, guide students in acquiring a functional body of scientific knowledge, and enhance students’ appreciation of the role technology plays in society. Students will be engaged with the eight science and engineering practices that were derived from the work of scientists and engineers. These practices include: asking questions/defining problems, developing and using models, planning and carrying out investigations, analyzing and interpreting data, using math and computational thinking, constructing explanations/solutions, engaging in argument from evidence, and communicating information. Honors students are expected to be more independent and have the ability to work with more abstract concepts. The STE Program prepares students for a wide range of majors/careers requiring a strong science, technology, and/or engineering background. Three years of lab science are REQUIRED for graduation. One lab course must be first-year biology and one must be a lab course in one of the physical sciences.

    TYPICAL COURSE PROGRESSIONS

    Students may elect STE courses at different levels, based on their interests, teacher recommendation, and completion of prerequisite courses. Teacher or department head approval is necessary for a student to move to a higher level in science.This approval is based on prerequisites and on student characteristics shown to be necessary for success at a more rigorous level.

    Life Science

    Physcial Science Course

     Engineering  

Course List

  • Program of Studies

    • 1.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Bioethics (CP)
      • 3031
      • This semester elective focuses on ethical dilemmas resulting from emerging scientific knowledge and applications. Students examine current issues such as scientific experimentation, genetic engineering, cloning, stem cell research, gene therapy, reproductive technology and pollution. Students participate in discussions/debates, present projects and write position papers. Students must maintain a journal and read primary source materials.
      • Successful completion of a full year of Biology. This course is also offered at the Honors level
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • CP
      • STEAM, CCC
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2
    • 2.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Bioethics (H)
      • 3041
      • This semester elective focuses on ethical dilemmas resulting from emerging scientific knowledge and applications. Students examine current issues such as scientific experimentation, genetic engineering, cloning, stem cell research, gene therapy, reproductive technology and pollution. Students participate in discussions/debates, present projects and write position papers. Students must maintain a journal and read primary source materials.
      • Successful completion of a full year of Biology. This course is also offered at the CP level.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • CP
      • STEAM,CCC
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2
    • 3.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Science 9 (CP-2)
      • 3111
      • This course prepares students for the Introductory Physics MCAS Exam and is aligned with the Massachusetts content standards. Topics include motion and forces, conservation of energy and momentum, waves, electromagnetism, electromagnetic radiation, and heat transfer. In this course, students develop a conceptual understanding of physics topics while incorporating science skills and practices.
      • Recommendation of eighth grade science teacher.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 9
      • CP2
      • All Years
      • A1,A2,A3,S1,S2
    • 4.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Sustainability and Food Ed
      • 3525
      • This interdisciplinary, project-based science course engages students in questions of how food helps us make meaning of the world and mediates our place in the environment. Students will complete a capstone project that addresses a sustainability issue in the school or greater community. While implementing solutions, students will engage in project management skills and may collaborate with community partners to bring about positive change. Course helps prepare students to be global citizens.
      • Minimum grade of B- in Biology. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Full year -5.0 credits
      • 11, 12
      • CP
      • STEAM, Global, CCC
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2
    • 5.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Science, Technology, and Society
      • 3714
      • Students will investigate the technical applications of science. In the process, students learn how to apply science and technology to their lives. This is a project based course and topics vary, depending on their relevance and student interest. Sample topics include: energy in the home; transportation; machines in our lives; and communication. Students will work with support and develop problem solving skills.
      • Full year -5.0 credits
      • 11, 12
      • CP
      • STEAM
      • All Years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2
    • 6.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Biology (CP-2)
      • 3211
      • This course is a survey of biology with emphasis on understanding biological issues that are necessary for informed citizenship as well as those that relate to personal well being. The units of study in this course align with the four content areas of the Massachusetts State Framework for Biology: molecules to organisms, ecosystems, heredity, and biological evolution. This course prepares eligible students for the Biology MCAS exam.
      • This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 10, 11
      • CP2
      • All years
      • A1, A3, S1, S2, C1
    • 7.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Biology (CP)
      • 3221
      • The units of study in this course align with the four content areas of the Massachusetts State Framework for Biology: molecules to organisms, ecosystems, heredity and biological evolution. Students will apply the eight science and engineering practices in a variety of content related laboratory exercises. These experiences will enable students to assess and understand the living world and their place in it. This course prepares eligible students for the Biology MCAS exam.
      • This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 10
      • CP
      • All years
      • A1, A3, S1, S2, C1
    • 8.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Biology (H)
      • 3331
      • This course includes a survey of the diversity, complexity and interconnectedness of life by exploring major topics in biology. These topics are: molecules to organisms, ecosystems, heredity and biological evolution. Success in this course requires a strong, independent work ethic as well as advanced reading and writing skills. Honors biology emphasizes investigative, inquiry based laboratory experiences and prepares students for the Biology MCAS Exam.
      • Students must have maintained a minimum of an A- in current science course and must be recommended by their current science teacher. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 9
      • H
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2
    • 9.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • AP Biology
      • 3541
      • This is a rigorous college level biology course intended for students interested in majoring in the biological sciences. Students will explore the four major themes of biology as prescribed by the College Board: evolution, energy, information transfer, and ecology. Students enrolled in AP Biology are expected to prepare for and take the AP exam. Students are REQUIRED to contact the instructor for their summer assignment.
      • Minimum grade of A- in both Biology CP and Chemistry CP or B in both Biology H and Chemistry H. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • AP
      • STEAM
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2
    • 10.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Biotechnology (CP)
      • 3423
      • Biotechnology explores technologies at the molecular and cellular level. In this course, students will learn lab techniques used in biotechnology and apply them to real-world situations. The course examines applications of biotech that have contributed to industrial processes, agriculture, forensics, and medicine as well as its role in managing environmental waste and pollution. Students will examine potential careers and emerging applications in biotechnology.
      • A minimum grade of B- in Biology and Chemistry. This course is also offered for Honors credit. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • CP
      • Global, STEAM
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2
    • 11.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Biotechnology (H)
      • 3432
      • Biotechnology explores technologies at the molecular and cellular level. In this course, students will learn lab techniques used in biotechnology and apply them to real-world situations. The course examines applications of biotech that have contributed to industrial processes, agriculture, forensics, and medicine as well as its role in managing environmental waste and pollution. Students will examine potential careers and emerging applications in biotechnology.
      • A minimum grade of A- in Biology and Chemistry. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation. This course is also offered for CP credit.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • H
      • Global, STEAM
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2
    • 12.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Chemistry (H)
      • 3231
      • This is a rigorous course for high achieving science students with strong analytic and mathematical skills. The course moves at a faster pace and provides more advanced treatment of the topics taught in Chemistry CP. Students must also demonstrate mastery of prerequisite math skills through a diagnostic assessment.
      • Must have completed Honors Algebra II or be concurrently enrolled in Honors Algebra II. Minimum of B- in Biology H or minimum of an A- in Biology CP. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 10, 11
      • H
      • STEAM (after 2 years of science)
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2
    • 13.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Chemistry (CP)
      • 3321
      • Students explore chemistry concepts through laboratory experiences and achieve conceptual mastery through class discussions and collaborative problem solving. Students with strong algebra skills are more successful in CP Chemistry.
      • Minimum of a C in Algebra I. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • STEAM
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A3, S1, S2
    • 14.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • AP Chemistry
      • 3441
      • This is an advanced, second-year course for students considering a college major in science or engineering. AP Chemistry provides a thorough treatment of the chemistry topics as outlined in the College Board-approved AP Chemistry syllabus. Students enrolled in AP Chemistry are expected to prepare for and take the AP Chemistry exam.
      • Minimum grade of B in Chemistry H or an A in Chemistry CP and a minimum grade of B+ in Honors Algebra II with concurrent enrollment in Honors Pre-calculus. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • AP
      • STEAM
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A3, S1, S2
    • 15.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Computer-Aided Modeling
      • 6521
      • This course introduces fundamental concepts, principles, and practices of 2D and 3D design, digital modeling, assemblies, rendering, and rapid prototyping. Students will learn about 3D printing and 3D animation while using Onshape CAD software. Students are expected to work independently on intermediate to advanced problems with a focus on application and mastery of skills.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 9,10,11,12
      • CP
      • Computer Science, STEAM
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, C1
    • 16.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Conceptual Chemistry (CP)
      • 3315
      • Conceptual chemistry focuses on basic chemistry concepts. Students explore concepts through laboratory experiences and collaborative problem solving. Students should be able to work independently and in group settings. There is less emphasis on the mathematical aspects of chemistry, as compared to a traditional chemistry course, but basic algebraic skills are necessary. Conceptual chemistry is appropriate for college bound students who are not planning to major in science or engineering.
      • This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • CP
      • STEAM (after 2 years of science)
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A3, S1, S2, C1, C2
    • 17.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Engineering (H)
      • 6941
      • This semester elective is a project based course intended to teach students the fundamentals of different types of engineering. Students will learn engineering skills through applicaitons of mechanical, civil, aeronautical, and electrical engineering. Success in this course is directly related to students ability to work independently on advanced problems.
      • This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • H
      • Computer Science, STEAM
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, C1
    • 18.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Environmental Science (H)
      • 3611
      • This rigorous Environmental Science course examines humanity's relationship to the natural world. This course will increase student knowledge of current environmental challenges while cultivating scientific skills. The following will be studied: pollution, natural resources, energy (sources/consumption), land/water use, population/ecosystem dynamics, biogeochemical cycles, earth systems, and global changes.
      • Minimum grade of A- in Biology CP or B- in Biology H. Chemistry is recommended but not required. Students who have not completed a chemistry course should meet with the department head. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation. The course is taught concurrently with AP Environmental Science.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 10,11,12
      • H
      • Global, STEAM
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 19.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Environmental Science (CP)
      • 3621
      • Environmental Science examines humanity's relationship to the natural world. This course will increase student understanding of environmental challenges while cultivating scientific skills. The following will be studied: pollution, natural resources, energy (sources/consumption), land/water use, population/ecosystem dynamics, biogeochemical cycles, earth systems and global changes. Students examine alternative solutions for preventing or resolving environmental issues.
      • Successful completion of a full year Biology course. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • CP
      • Global, STEAM
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C3
    • 20.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • AP Environmental Science
      • 3631
      • This is an advanced course for students interested in pursuing a science degree in college. Students will increase their knowledge of environmental challenges and cultivate scientific skills while studying topics outlined by the College Board, including; pollution, natural resources, energy (sources/consumption), land/water use, population/ecosystem dynamics, biogeochemical cycles, & global changes. Students enrolled in AP Env Sci are expected to prepare for and take the AP Env Sci exam.
      • Minimum grade of A- in Biology CP and Chemistry CP or B- in Biology H and Chemistry H. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • AP
      • Global, STEAM
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 21.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Forensic Science
      • 3021
      • Forensic science is an interdisciplinary science that includes: biology, anatomy/physiology, chemistry and physics content. This course focuses on the collection, identification and analysis of crime scene evidence. Emphasis will be placed on the methods that link suspect, victim and crime scene. Laboratory exercises may include fingerprinting, handwriting analysis, ballistics, blood typing, hair/fiber examination and DNA analysis. Case studies and current events will be explored.
      • Successful completion of a full year of Biology. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • CP
      • STEAM
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C2
    • 22.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Human Anatomy & Physiology (H)
      • 3523
      • This is a rigorous biology course for students seeking challenging, engaging experiences as they learn about the precise structures and functions of the human body. Students will learn the fundamental concepts of human anatomy, the inner workings of human physiology, and their relationships to homeostasis. Major topics include an orientation to the human body, tissues and form and function of the body systems. Participation in dissections is required.
      • Minimum grade of B- in Biology H and Chemistry H or A- in Biology CP and Chemistry CP. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 11,12
      • H
      • STEAM, Visual & Performing Arts
      • All years
      • A1, A3, A4, S1, S2
    • 23.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Mission Mars: An Introduction to STEAM
      • 3122
      • Have you ever thought about the challenges humans will face when traveling or colonizing the red planet? If so, this project based learning experience was designed for you. In this course you will design, test and evaluate models with real life applications that integrate science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. We will also explore various careers associated with this mission. We are going to Mars, are you in?
      • Credit earned in this course does not count toward the 15 credit graduation requirement in math or science
      • Semester - 2.5 Credits
      • 9, 10
      • CP
      • STEAM
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2
    • 24.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Physics (CP)
      • 3421
      • This course applies science and engineering practices in laboratory experiments and demonstrations to guide student understanding of the physical laws fundamental to all sciences. Course topics include motion in one and two directions, projectile motion, momentum, work and energy, and introductory wave theory, light, and sound. Students planning to major in engineering in college should consider taking Physics H.
      • This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 12
      • CP
      • STEAM
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A3, S1, S2
    • 25.
      • Science, Technology, & Engineering
      • Physics (H)
      • 3431
      • This course provides a systematic introduction to the five principles of physics: mechanics, waves, electricity, magnetism, and light. Students solve problems quantitatively using a non-calculus based college text and related laboratory activities. This course is more intensive and analytical than Physics CP. Students are expected to be highly motivated and self starters. Students may enroll in Physics H or AP, but not both.
      • A minimum grade of C+ in Precalculus H and C+ in Chemistry H or A- in Chemistry CP. Students must also have completed trigonometry. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation. This course is taught concurrently with AP Physics.
      • Full Year - 5 Credits
      • 12
      • H
      • STEAM
      • All years
      • A1, A2, A3, S1, S2