-
STEAM Pathway:
As the acronym STEAM indicates, concepts and skills from science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics are developed and applied to a wide variety of real world issues. Problem solving strategies and habits of mind are used within the scientific and engineering design frameworks as students consider these issues. Through individual and collaborative research and reflection students are immersed in hands on activities, investigating open-ended questions. Math and science skills are developed in core courses taken in grades 9 and 10. These include Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Biology, Science 9 and Chemistry. These are expanded on in grades 11 and 12 as students select from a wide range of current and newly created offerings that allow them to focus on areas of particular interest.If you are a member of the Class of 2024 (incoming 9th grader) who is interested in this pathway, sign up for this new elective.
Mission Mars: An Introduction to STEAM
Have you ever wondered about the challenges humans will face when traveling to or colonizing Mars? If so, this co-taught, project-based elective is for you. You will design, test and evaluate models with real life applications that integrate science, technology, engineering and math.
These models will be used to begin to answer some of the questions you have asked including: ---- What will the climate be like?
- How will we get to Mars?
- How will we sustain a food supply and water?
- How will we determine the best place for colonization?
STEAM Pathway Requirements
In order to complete the STEAM Pathway, students must accumulate a minimum of 30 points as described below:- A minimum of 12.5 points from Topic Area 1: STE and/or Health and Wellness related courses (1 credit = 1 point)
- A minimum of 10 points from Topic Area 2: Mathematics courses beyond Algebra 2 (1 credit = 1 point)
- A minimum of 2.5 points from Topic Area 3: Other STEAM applicable courses, see program of studies (1 credit = 1 point)
- A maximum of 2 points from STEAM-related extra curricular activities. These may include active participation in the Environmental Club, Math Team and/or Science Team. Each year's participation would earn 0.5 points.
- An internship or other capstone project is required to complete the pathway and will earn 3 points.
The courses listed below qualify to earn points toward the completion of the STEAM pathway.
-
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
- 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.
- Successful completion of Biology. This course counts towards the lab science requirement for graduation.
- Full year - 5 credits
- 11, 12
- CP
- STEAM, Global, CCC
- All years
- A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2
- 4.
- Wellness
- EMT-B (H)
- 2972
- Are you considering a career in medicine, law enforcement, firefighting, or any other profession that may require you to manage a health emergency? This course will prepare you to take both State and National exams to become a certified EMT, enabling you to work in hospitals, college EMS services and ambulances where you will assess and care for patients who have become suddenly ill or injured. Topics include scene and patient assessment, airway management, CPR, trauma care, and much more.
- For those seeking certification (an option- many students take the class for personal satisfaction without seeking certification), students must attend 95% of classes and maintain an 70% or higher semester average to be eligible. It is recommended that students purchase their own textbook/workbook (~$200). EMT candidates must be 18 years old to take the State Practical exam, but may take the National Written Exam whenever they successfully complete the course.
- Full Year - 5 Credits
- 11, 12
- H
- STEAM
- All Years
- 5.
- Business & Computer Science
- Computer Science I : Business Applications and Technologies (CP)
- 5811
- A course designed to explore a number of new and innovative technologies used in Business and Computer Science. Create cartoon and graphic animations with Animation Shop. Learn how to make visually appealing applications and games with Code.org, Python, Visual Basic, etc.
- Full Year - 5 Credits
- 9,10,11,12
- CP
- Computer Science, Global, STEAM
- All years
- A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
- 6.
- Business & Computer Science
- Computer Science I : Business Applications and Technologies (H)
- 5812
- A course designed to explore a number of new and innovative technologies used in Business and Computer Science. Create cartoon and graphic animations with Animation Shop. Learn how to make visually appealing applications and games with Code.org, Python, Visual Basic, etc.
- Full Year - 5 Credits
- 9,10,11,12
- H
- Computer Science, Global, STEAM
- All years
- A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
- 7.
- Business & Computer Science
- Computer Science II: Coding and App Development (CP)
- 5821
- Students will gain programming and design skills within the Code.org environment. Web programming, App development and Video Game design. Additional requirements for Honors Level.
- Full Year - 5 Credits
- 10,11,12
- CP
- Computer Science, Global, STEAM
- All years
- A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
- 8.
- Business & Computer Science
- Computer Science II: Coding and App Development (H)
- 5822
- Students will gain programming and design skills within the Code.org environment. Web programming, App development and Video Game design. Additional requirements for Honors Level.
- Full Year - 5 Credits
- 10,11,12
- H
- Computer Science, Global, STEAM
- All years
- A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
- 9.
- Business & Computer Science
- Computer Science - Gaming & Industry
- 5851
- This course explores game programming and will cover many different game genres including action and adventure, first person, sports, and multiplayer games. It will explore the different types of roles in the game development process from the design phase to technical programming. Students will work independently as well as in team settings to complete major game projects throughout the year utilizing various game development software.
- Full Year - 5 Credits
- 11,12
- CP
- Computer Science, Global, STEAM
- All years
- A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C3
- 10.
- Business & Computer Science
- Computer Science - Gaming & Industry
- 5852
- This course explores game programming and will cover many different game genres including action and adventure, first person, sports, and multiplayer games. It will explore the different types of roles in the game development process from the design phase to technical programming. Students will work independently as well as in team settings to complete major game projects throughout the year utilizing various game development software.
- Full Year - 5 Credits
- 11,12
- H
- Computer Science, Global, STEAM
- All years
- A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C3
- 11.
- Business & Computer Science
- Marketing
- 5534
- This Marketing course is designed to serve as an introduction to the basic principles of marketing and the application of these practices. This course is conducted through lecture, engaging activities, group paced instruction, and hands-on practice. For the final project students will prepare a professional marketing plan proposal. This course also integrates experiential learning with the Masco Variety School Store. This honors course includes an additional project each quarter.
- Semester - 2.5 Credits
- 10,11,12
- H
- Media & Communications, Computer Science, STEAM, Visual & Performing Arts
- All Years
- A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C3
- 12.
- Business & Computer Science
- Marketing
- 5554
- This Marketing course is designed to serve as an introduction to the basic principles of marketing and the application of these practices. This course is conducted through lecture, engaging activities, group paced instruction, and hands-on practice. Students will prepare a professional marketing plan proposal.For the final project students will prepare a professional marketing plan proposal. This course also integrates experiential learning with the Masco Variety School Store.
- Semester - 2.5 Credits
- 10,11,12
- CP
- Media & Communications, Computer Science, STEAM, Visual & Performing Arts
- All years
- A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C3
- 13.
- 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.
- Student has successfully completed biology AND chemistry. Teacher recommendation required. 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
- 14.
- Business & Computer Science
- Computer Science AP
- 5841
- If you are interested in a career in computer science and programming, this course is a MUST! Java is one of the more popular programming languages and is widely used to implement network interfaces, Web servers, and e-commerce solutions, as well as standard business applications. Students will learn to use Java to create well-written and readable programs using a disciplined coding style to solve mathematical problems. The curriculum will cover the material found on the AP Exam (A Level).
- AP Computer Science Principles & Teacher Recommendation
- Full Year - 5 Credits
- 12
- AP
- Computer Science, Global, STEAM
- All years
- A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2, C3
- 15.
- 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.
- Successful completion of Biology. 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
- 16.
- 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.
- Successful completion of Biology. 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
- 17.
- 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.
- Teacher recommendation and completion of department math evaluation required. Student must have completed Honors Algebra II or be concurrently enrolled in Honors Algebra II. 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
- 18.
- 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.
- Successful completion of Algebra I is required. Teacher recommendation and completion of department math evaluation required. 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
- 19.
- 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.
- Teacher recommendation required. Successful completion of Chemistry H and 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
- 20.
- 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
- 21.
- Soc. Stud.
- Biopsychology: The Science of Psychological Disorders
- 2131
- Biopsychology is a interdisciplinary laboratory science course that explores the complex relationships between biology and psychology. It explains the roles of biological, anatomical, and physiological factors of the human nervous system on neurological and psychological processes. Students will examine the contributions of recent scientific advancements in an effort to understand the origins underlying certain developmental disorders and common psychological issues.
- Prior to taking this course you must have taken Biology and it is recommended that you have taken a psychology course (Experiencing Psych, Intro to Psych, or AP Psych).
- Semester - 2.5 Credits
- 10,11,12
- H
- CCC, STEAM
- 2025-2026
- A1, A3, A4, S1, S2, C1, C2
- 22.
- 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
- 23.
- Math
- Precalculus (CP)
- 1422
- Topics include: --- An extensive, in --- depth study of trigonometric and circular functions including proving trigonometric identities and solving trigonometric equations --- An introduction to the polar coordinate system and the relationship between polar and rectangular coordinates --- An introduction to conic sections. Throughout the course applying these concepts to mathematical and real world problems is emphasized.
- Successful completion of Algebra II and teacher recommendation. A graphing calculator is required for this course.
- Full Year - 5 Credits
- 11, 12
- CP
- STEAM
- All years
- A1, A2, A3, A4, S1, S2
- 24.
- Wellness
- First Responder
- 2934
- First Responder is an elective for students interested in learning advanced first aid skills. This course is well-suited for students wishing to pursue employment as lifeguards or in the ski patrol or for those considering careers in law enforcement, medicine, firefighting, or other occupations where advanced layperson medical care may be required. The course provides an overview of human anatomy, personal safety in emergency situations, legal considerations, and the care of sick and
- Students learn medical terminology, assessment of sick and injured people, and teamwork techniques when dealing with emergency scenes. Upon successful completion of the course, tests, and skill stations, students earn a BLS Healthcare Provider CPR card. Topics include bleeding, shock, wounds, fractures, seizures, scene safety and control, drug overdose, childbirth, sudden illness, poisoning, burns, airway management, infection control, sudden illness, and rescue.
- Semester - 2.5 Credits
- 9, 10, 11, 12
- CP
- STEAM
- All years
- A1, A3, C3, S1
- 25.
- Wellness
- Introduction To Medicine (H)
- 2993
- How do we know what to believe about medicine and health when so many false claims are publicly presented? What rights should terminally ill patients have regarding their own death and dying? Should patients be forced to get treatment if they are “different”- psychologically or physically- if they don’t want it? How do medical professionals care for patients, and how often (and why) do serious mistakes get made?
- Through dozens of cases studies, Intro to Medicine examines these and many more fascinating questions about how our physical and mental health issues are perceived and handled by our healthcare system. Nightly readings lead to lively discussions and debates as we examine how our own values and beliefs interact with the science of the human body to form a system that addresses human health- and the financial, political, social influences that affect that system.
- Semester - 2.5 Credits
- H
- STEAM
- All years