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Science

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 three years of science, which must include biology and a chemistry course, are required for graduation.  

Talented science students involve themselves in science-oriented activities outside of the standard curriculum.  In the 9th and 10th grade, students often participate in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science.  In the 11th and 12th grade the PJAS is still available as well as the Comenius Projects (independent honors research).  Many students participate in summer science programs and internships, especially those that involve experiential learning, as opposed to the strictly academic coursework.
  • Anatomy and Physiology

    2 Semesters, 1.0 Credit, Full-Time
    Anatomy and Physiology is a study of the structure and function of the human body and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis within it. The course will include the study of cells, tissues, and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems. In addition the student will examine the endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems, as well as the concepts of development, metabolism, fluid and electrolyte balance, and acid-base balance. The student will examine the gross, microscopic and developmental anatomy of structures and study their relationships among body systems. The functional aspect is examined by using various laboratory procedures. Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry
  • AP Biology

    2 Semesters, 1.0 Credit, Full-Time
    This AP Biology course is designed to be the equivalent of a two-semester college introductory biology course usually taken by science majors during their first year. This rigorous course includes topics regularly covered in a college course and the curriculum follows the requirements of the College Board in scope and sequence. As a second-year biology class in high school, AP Biology uses knowledge gained in a first year course and dives deeper into the content and incorporates laboratory and research studies as essential components of the course. Students are expected to work both independently and collaboratively with peers and assume responsibility for their learning both in class and outside of the classroom. The course work in the AP Biology course can be quite demanding and a desire to learn scientific content is paramount. Prerequisites: Department recommendation and completion of Biology and Chemistry
  • AP Environmental Science

    2 Semesters, 1.0 Credit, Full-Time
    This AP Environmental Science course is intended for students who are interested in pursuing science in college and would like to explore environmental topics through a problem-based approach. The course helps students acquire and apply AP course content and skills through engagement in project work. Problem-based learning (PBL) challenges students to learn as active problem-solvers while they identify and analyze natural and human-produced environmental problems, evaluate risks, and examine alternative solutions for resolution or mitigation. Environmental science is an applied science and utilizes concepts from other science disciplines such as,but not limited to; geology, biology, chemistry, demography, physics, meteorology and geography Students should expect to work individually and collaboratively during this PBL course. The teacher's role is that of a facilitator and coach of student learning, acting at times as a resource person and liaison throughout the process. This allows for the development of both scientific knowledge and 21st century skills including problem solving, collaboration, communication, and creativity. Prerequisites: Department recommendation and completion of Biology and Chemistry
  • AP Physics C

    2 Semesters, 1.0 Credit, Full-Time
    AP Physics C is designed for students interested in pursuing science, engineering, or related fields in college, and approaches the subject using calculus as a basis. This is a college course focusing on problems in Newtonian Mechanics, including but not limited to motion, forces, torque, energy, momentum, angular momentum, center of mass, gravity, orbital mechanics, and oscillations of springs and pendula. The laboratory component is a central feature of the course, which involves collecting and analyzing data using Vernier sensors, using Excel to create tables and graphs, and writing scientific lab reports. Prerequisite: Department recommendation and completion of Biology and Chemistry. We recommend that students complete a year of Physics and/or AP Calculus before taking AP Physics. Co-requisite: AP Calculus AB or BC.
  • Astronomy-S1

    2 Semesters, 1.0 Credit, Full-Time
    Astronomy, offered in alternating years, is a semester-long science elective designed to be taken upon completion of Biology and Chemistry. With the renewed interest in the space program provided by commercial companies such as SpaceX and Blue Origin, along with the successful launch of the James Webb space telescope, interest in astronomy has spiked. This course serves to introduce students to planetary properties, stellar birth and development, space exploration and astronomical objects of interest such as planetary nebulae, galaxies and clusters. Students learn to use the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram to classify stars, examine data from the James Webb telescope, and participate in citizen-science astronomy research. Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry
  • Biology

    2 Semesters, 1.0 Credit, Full-Time
    This course is an introductory survey of the life sciences with emphasis on the molecular approach. Topics include classification, evolution, photosynthesis, DNA and RNA structure and function, cell theory, cellular reproduction, organismal reproduction genetics, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, excretory, nervous, and skeletal systems in vertebrates, and ecology.
  • Biology Honors

    2 Semesters, 1.0 Credit, Full-Time
    Biology Honors is an accelerated introductory course designed for science-oriented students. In addition to the topics covered in biology listed above, studies include molecular biology, microbiology, and a more in-depth study of general biology topics. Prerequisite: Algebra I and Departmental Recommendation
  • Botany-S1

    1st Semester, .5 Credit, Full Time Course

    Botany, which will be offered in alternating years, 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?)  This course will introduce the vocabulary and principles of plant biology. In addition, we will expose the student to the topics of field identification of native and invasive plants as well as horticulture of common plants found in Pennsylvania.
    Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry
     
  • Chemistry

    2 Semesters, 1.0 Credit, Full-time
    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, gasses, liquids, solids, solutions, acids and bases, pH, reaction rates, and chemical equilibrium. Chemistry or Chemistry (Honors) is required for all sophomores. Prerequisite: Algebra I and Biology
  • Chemistry Honors

    2 Semesters, 1.0 Credit, Full-Time
    Chemistry Honors is an accelerated introductory course designed for science-oriented students. In addition to the topics covered in chemistry, studies include an introduction to electrochemistry, organic chemistry, acid-base equilibria, solubility equilibria, and nuclear chemistry. Chemistry or Chemistry (Honors) is required for all sophomores. Prerequisite: Biology and Departmental Recommendation
  • Engineering and Robotics

    2 Semesters, .5 Credit, Part Time Course
     
    The primary purpose of Introduction to Engineering and Robotics is to learn the basics of design, construction, and coding to prepare for FIRST robotics competition (FRC). The first part of the course is devoted to learning about the fundamentals of robots and design. This includes learning about strengths of materials and as well as modeling and prototyping using Autodesk Inventor and 3D printing. Next, students will learn about how robots are programmed to perform tasks using Arduino digital circuit boards. Finally, students will work on the design process and the actual building of the robots which they will take to at least two competitions in the MAR district area. Participation in this event is encouraged but not required of students.

    Open to 9th Graders with Teacher Recommendation and to 10th, 11th and 12th Graders
  • Environmental Science

    2 Semesters, 1 Credit, Full Time Course 

    Environmental Science is a topic that anyone can relate to because it is the study of human impact on the planet.  Topics covered include the Earth, the atmosphere, global water resources and use, ecosystems, natural biogeochemical cycles, populations, human impact and health, land use, energy, pollution and climate change.  Since science is not simply an accumulation of facts to be memorized, weekly labs reinforce the concept that science is a process.  Labs will develop your skills of observation, developing hypotheses, testing those hypotheses, analyzing the resulting data, and using conclusions to better understand the natural world and our impact upon it. 
    The course will be held at the same time as the AP Environmental Science program and the course content will be the same as the AP course.  The only difference will be in the assessments that you will be given.  The AP course will have “extra” questions that are specific to the AP exam.  As the semester progresses, you may want to challenge yourself by attempting to answer these questions, but it will not be mandatory.
    Prerequisites:  Completion of Biology and Chemistry
  • Exercise Physiology-S2

    2nd Semester, 0.5 Credit, Full-Time
    Exercise physiology explores the physiological responses and adaptations of the human body to various forms of physical activity and exercise. This course examines the physiological effects of exercise on key systems, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, and metabolic systems. Students will analyze how these adaptations enhance health, fitness, and athletic performance, as well as their role in injury prevention and rehabilitation. Through a combination of lecture-based learning and hands-on experiences, students will explore the principles of exercise and training. This course provides foundational knowledge for those interested in health professions, sports performance, or understanding the relationship between physical activity and lifelong health and wellness. Prerequisite: Completion of Biology and Chemistry
  • Geology-S1

    1st Semester, 0.5 credit, Full-Time

    Geology, which will be offered in alternating years, provides an introduction to the processes that have shaped Earth’s history, including those that shape the geosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere. The course will focus on rock and mineral identification, anthropogenic climate change and natural hazards, and to a lesser extent will cover the geology of recognizable landmarks such as natural parks. The geology of the Appalachian mountains, including local geological formations, orogenic processes and sedimentary processes will be explored.
    Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry
  • Introduction to Engineering and Robotics-S2

    2nd Semester, 0.5 Credit, Full-Time
    The primary purpose of Introduction to Engineering and Robotics is to learn the basics of design, construction, and coding to prepare for FIRST robotics competition (FRC). The first part of the course is devoted to learning about the fundamentals of robots and design. This includes learning about gear ratios, the relationship between motor torque and speed, and drivetrain fundamentals. The second part of the course involves learning computer-aided design and modeling using Autodesk Fusion 360. Students create generative designs and use 3D printers and CNC routers to make their designs come to life. Finally, students work on the design process and the actual building of the robots which they take to at least two competitions in the Philadelphia/New Jersey district area. Participation in this event is encouraged but not required of students. Open to Grades 10-12; Grade 10 requires teacher recommendation
  • Microbiology-S1

    1st Semester, .5 Credit, Full Time Course (open to juniors and seniors)

    Microbiology is a course that will allow the student an appreciation of organisms that are invisible to the unaided eye.  Through lecture and laboratory, the student will become familiar with the basic principles and terminology of microbiology.  Topics covered in the lecture portion will include bacterial structure, genetics, metabolism, and a survey of disease causing organisms, virology, and environmental microbiology.  Laboratory exercises will emphasize procedures and techniques used to study these organisms.

    Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry
     
  • Physics

    2 Semesters, 1.0 Credit, Full-Time
    Physics is a fundamental science that creates a foundation for other natural sciences. It describes the interactions between matter and energy, predicts particle trajectories, provides a foundation for sound, light and electromagnetism, and explains the natural world around us. We will be focusing on a wide range of topics in Physics, and although the course will involve the use of math up to Algebra 2, it is considered to be introductory in nature. Labs will be a significant part of the course, where students learn how to collect and analyze data using Vernier sensors, create tables and graphs in Microsoft Excel, and use scientific writing to write lab reports. Prerequisite: Completion of Biology & Chemistry; Co-requisite: Precalculus or higher math class
  • Science Research and Writing Honors-S1

    1st Semester, 1.0 Credit, Full-Time
    Science Research and Writing Honors is designed to be a rigorous semester elective focusing on scientific research and scientific writing. Students choose a research project in the fields of natural/physical sciences or engineering, conduct a literature review, design experiments and write a 3000-4000 word scientific paper with accompanying figures, tables and graphs. We cover how to do a proper literature search using Google Scholar, how to email professors/researchers to ask for a PDF of their journal article when access is blocked by a paywall, and how to write a scientific paper to satisfy journal requirements. Each student is expected to present a scientific paper that has been published in a peer-reviewed journal, with students asking follow-up questions after the presentation. While it is helpful to have a project in mind prior to joining the class, students may meet with the teacher about potential topics prior to the start of class. Students who sign up for Science Research and Writing Honors must submit a proposed research topic prior to the start of classes. Prerequisite: Completion of Biology and Chemistry
  • The Green Pond Project-S1

    1st Semester, 0.5 Credit, Full-Time
    This environmental science elective explores Green Pond and the surrounding environment through a problem-based approach. Problem-based learning (PBL) challenges participants to learn as active problem-solvers confronted with a real local problem. The focus is on creativity and collaboration while students conduct research and use communication and critical thinking skills in a supported and cooperative learning environment. The teacher's role is that of a facilitator and coach of student learning, acting at times as a resource person and liaison throughout the process. Students investigate the science surrounding the fact that Green Pond is actually green and learn how water quality for life in and surrounding the pond is impacted. Students brainstorm, explore, and implement solutions to improve the water quality of the pond where necessary, and share information with the community. Students who like a hands-on, minds-on approach to learning, like to be outside and learn about the environment, and enjoy collaborating should take this course. Prerequisite: Completion of Biology. Open to Grades 10-12; Grade 10 requires teacher recommendation.
  • Zoology-S2

    2nd Semester, .5 Credit, Full Time Course (open to juniors and seniors)

    Zoology will explore the Animal Kingdom as related to both vertebrate and invertebrate organisms. This course dives deeply into the classification, morphology, structure, and function of various animal groups. Additionally, students will explore several issues affecting animal populations today, such as overfishing, changing climate, and more. In the laboratory, students will investigate both the anatomy and behavior of different types of animals.
    Prerequisite:  Completion of Biology and Chemistry
  • AP Chemistry

    2 Semesters, 1.0 Credit, Full-Time
    AP 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. Prerequisites: Minimum grade of B in Chemistry Honors or minimum grade of an A in Chemistry, department recommendation and completion of Biology and Chemistry; Co-requisite: Precalculus Honors
  • Introduction to Engineering and Robotics-

    2 Semesters, 1/2 Credit, Part Time Course

    Open to freshman (with teacher recommendation), sophomores, juniors and seniors

    The primary purpose of Introduction to Engineering and Robotics is to learn basics of design, construction, and coding to prepare for FIRST robotics competition (FRC). The first part of the course is devoted to learning about the fundamentals of robots and design. This includes learning about strengths of materials and as well as modeling and prototyping using Autodesk Inventor and 3D printing. Next, students will learn about how robots are programmed to perform tasks using Arduino digital circuit boards. Finally, students will work on the design process and the actual building of the robots which they will take to at least two competitions in the MAR district area. Participation in this event is encouraged but not required of students.

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