Groton Area School
 
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Science

SCIENCE

 

REQUIRED CLASSES:

 

PHYSICAL SCIENCE                                     Grade 9                 

 

Physical science is a required course for ninth graders. This course is an introduction to physics and chemistry and deals with the interaction of matter and energy. Areas to be studied include speed, acceleration, machines, composition of matter, reactions of matter, wave motion including light, sound, and electricity.  This is a laboratory based science class.  Many laboratory processes and techniques will be studied.  Students will use computer interfaces to study motion, pressure and sound.  Students will gain an introduction to basic chemistry laboratory equipment and its use.

 

 

 

BIOLOGY I                                                         Grade 10

 

Biology is the study of living things. It is required of all sophomores. Some of the topics studied are ecology, DNA heredity, cells and one-celled organisms, plants, animals from simplest to the most complex, and the human body systems. There are several laboratory investigations during the year including microscopic studies, dissection of several organisms and the growing of plants.   

 

 

 

 

ELECTIVE CLASSES :

 

BIOLOGY  II                            Prerequisite: Biology I

                                                                                       Grades 11 & 12

 

This course covers Human Anatomy and Physiology and is designed to prepare students for a future study in college or tech of the human body.  All major body systems will be discussed and several labs will be performed.  Students will learn health science vocabulary, analyze medical conditions, and do practice tests in science.  The course will consist of lectures, discussions, projects, written activities, lab activities (including dissections), quizzes, and tests. 

 

It is recommended for students wishing to enroll in Biology II that they have a B average in Biology I.  This course is subject to the weighted grading scale used at Groton Area High School.

 

 

CHEMISTRY I                            Prerequisite: Algebra I

 

Chemistry is the study of matter and the changes it undergoes.  Topics to be studied include problem solving, measuring chemical quantities, density, specific heat, periodic properties, states of matter, stoichiometry, formula writing, equation writing, electron structure, acids, bases and solutions.  This course will prepare students for chemistry in college and is recommended for those planning on attending college. 

 

 

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Many laboratory exercises will also be completed.  Students will learn how to use basic chemistry laboratory equipment such as beakers, flasks, Bunsen burners, crucibles, spot plates, and test tubes.  They will learn basic laboratory techniques such as filtration, decanting, drying, separation, and titration.

 

CHEMISTRY II                               Prerequisite: Chemistry I

 

Chemistry II is a weighted second year chemistry class focusing on organic chemistry.  The class uses a college textbook.  Topics covered during the class include organic nomenclature, physical properties, and chemical reactions.  Laboratory units are also covered including distillation, extraction, polymerization, organic synthesis and saponification.  This class is especially useful for students planning to pursue science or medical careers.

 

PHYSICS                        Prerequisite: Algebra I and II, and

                                                                 Physical Science

 

Physics is a branch of knowledge that involves the study of the physical world and the relationship between matter and energy. This course covers the basic laws and concepts of motion, forces, energy, waves, mirrors, light, electricity, and magnetism. Several labs accompany each unit.  Students will work with timers, laboratory carts, springs, mirrors, lenses, circuits and computer based lab equipment.

 

Students pursuing a college degree in any science (physical, life, agricultural, medical) or math would benefit by taking this course.


 

Groton Area High School

406 North 2nd Street PO Box 410
Groton, SD  57445

Office:  605.397.8381

Fax:  605.397.8453

Groton Area Junior High School

406 North 2nd Street PO Box 410
Groton, SD  57445

Office:  605.397.8381

Fax:  605.397.8453

Groton Area Elementary

810 North 1st Street  PO Box 410
Groton, SD  57445

Office:  605.397.2317

Fax:  605.397.2344

Business Office

406 North 2nd Street PO Box 410
Groton, SD  57445

Office:  605.397.8381

Fax:  605.397.8453