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Science Department Courses
Moravian Academy's Science Program emphasizes the fundamental
curricula in biology, chemistry, and physics. Weekly
laboratory assignments give students the opportunity to reinforce,
visually, the ideas put forth during lecture and to gain practical
experience in measurement, graphing, laboratory techniques,
instrumentation (including modern technology), and error analysis.
Acquisition of basic knowledge and familiarization with
scientific thought processes in a way that complements the student's
interests and preparedness are goals the department keeps in mind
when advising a student on the appropriate course of study.
A minimum of six semesters of science, which must include
biology and a chemistry course, are required for graduation.
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| Course Descriptions |
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| Biology |
2 Semesters, 1 Credit |
| This course is an introductory
survey to life science with emphasis on the molecular
approach. Topics included are classification,
evolution, photosynthesis, DNA and RNA, cell theory,
reproduction, genetics, the circulatory, respiratory,
digestive, excretory, nervous and skeletal systems and
ecology. Biology is required for all 9th graders.
Prerequisite: None |
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| Physics
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2 Semesters, 1 Credit |
| This course covers the following
topics: mechanics, hydrostatics, thermodynamics,
geometric optics, basic electricity and acoustics. The
course is open to upperclassmen who have completed Algebra
II with a grade of B. (Sophomores must have a minimum
of A- in Algebra II, standardized test results and
departmental approval).
Open to: Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors
Prerequisite: Algebra II (minimum grade of A- for
sophomores) |
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| Chemistry |
2 Semesters, 1 Credit |
| This introduction of chemistry
includes the following topics: matter and change,
scientific measurement, the factor label method of problem
solving, atomic structure, the periodic table, nomenclature,
chemical bonding, molecular structure, chemical equations
and reactions, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, gases,
liquids, solids, solutions, acids and bases, pH, reaction
rates and chemical equilibrium.
Open to: Sophomores and Juniors
Prerequisites: Algebra I |
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| Chemistry
Honors |
2 Semesters, 1 Credit |
| Chemistry Honors is an
accelerated introductory course designed for
science-oriented students. In addition to the topics
covered in chemistry, studies will include an introduction
to electrochemistry, organic chemistry, acid-base equilibria,
solubility equilibria, and nuclear chemistry.
Open to: Sophomores and Juniors
Prerequisites: Algebra II (minimum grade of B+ for
sophomores) |
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| Ecology
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2 Semesters, 1 Credit |
| Ecology focuses on the
interaction between organisms and their environment. This
course covers topics such as terrestrial and aquatic biomes,
effects of temperature, water availability, predation and
competition on populations, invasive species, and global
ecology. Outdoor laboratories are performed
frequently.
Open to: Juniors and Seniors
Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry |
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| Botany
and Zoology |
2 Semesters, 1 Credit |
| This course will comprise of
approximately one half year of Botany (in the fall) and one
half year of Zoology (in the spring). Botany will
explore such topics as invasive plants, genetically
engineered food crops, as well as the traditional
classification and physiology of plants. (What do they look
like and how do they work?) Zoology will explore the
Animal Kingdom, from microscopic amoeba all the way to
people, emphasizing the similarities and differences between
animal groups. Anatomy and physiology of different
animal groups from the invertebrates through the vertebrates
will be compared. It is hoped that the material in
this course will lead to a greater appreciation of the
living world that surrounds us.
Open to: Juniors and Seniors
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry |
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| AP Advanced
Biology
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2 Semesters, 1 Credit |
| AP Advanced Biology is
designed for students interested in pursuing science or
engineering in college. Topics covered are cellular biology,
classical and molecular genetics, biological diversity, the
relatedness between form and function, ecology and
evolution.
Open to: Seniors
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry Honors or
Chemistry, Physics
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| AP
Advanced Chemistry
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2 Semesters, 1 Credit |
| Advanced Chemistry is designed
for students interested in pursuing science, engineering, or
related fields in college. This course includes advanced
topics in chemistry such as: complex ions, molecular
orbital theory, spectrophotometry, qualitative analysis,
quantitative analysis, chemical thermodynamics, gas phase
chemical equilibria, kinetics, catalysis, further study of
acid-base equilibria, buffer solutions, solubility
equilibria, electrochemical cells, and organic chemistry.
Open to: Seniors
Prerequisite: Chemistry Honors, Physics |
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| Advanced
Physics (Honors)
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2 Semesters, 1 Credit |
| Advanced Physics is
designed for students interested in pursuing science,
engineering, or related fields in college. Topics covered
are: mechanics, electricity and magnetism, physical
optics.
Open to: Seniors
Prerequisite: Chemistry Honors, Physics
Co-requisite: Precalculus |
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