The Scholars Online Science Program provides a unique opportunity for students to pursue an integrated science education in which the fundamentals of biology, chemistry, physics, and astronomy are set in their historical and cultural contexts and taught from the classical Christian education perspective that studying nature gives us insights to the mind of God the Designer, and prepares us to accept our responsibility as stewards of His creation.
The curriculum is coordinated so that students completing each course cover
- the fundamental concepts of the topic, along with the relationship of these concepts to other sciences
- connections and interdependencies between scientific activity and the society in which it takes place
- the purpose, application, and limitations of the scientific method
- practice in communicating scientific concepts, data, results, and implications to others
- vocabulary and practice for the SAT II examinations (biology, chemistry, and physics)
All classes involve online chat sessions, in-class reports, textbook reading assignments, homework preparation, frequent quizzes, semester examinations, and email feedback. Natural Science is supplemented by a range of web-based readings. The Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Astronomy use standard textbooks and multimedia materials that include CDROM-based animations, videos, and interactive quizzes and exercises.
Class Examples
In order to prevent disruption of the teacher's curriculum and to secure the student learning environment, Scholars Online does not allow non-members to visit live class sesssions. We have, however, included a log from an actual chat session, changing only student names to protect their privacy. The content and flow of the course discussion has been preserved, so that you can get a sense of how the chat environment works. Note that while this is a non-audio class, students and teachers may enter HTML tags and unicode characters (unlike simple IRC sessions), and the log is preserved for student review.
Individual courses
Courses are listed the recommended order. Grade levels indicate those grades at which students usually have the required mathematical skills. (Click on small triangle next to course name to expand listing and review course description, meeting and homework expectations, instructor, and links to further information.)
If you would like to see a couse not yet listed, please use the EMAIL US link below to contact Scholars Online Administration with your course request.
Students who were enrolled in courses from previous years will find the teacher, text, and course description information available from the student's unofficial transcript, which can be reached from the parent's Account Management Center, or from an alumni's own Account Management Center.
To see details about an individual course, click on the black triangle to the left of the course name
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Natural Science I • 2012 listing - for reference only • Grade 7 or above
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from September 3, 2012 to May 27, 2013Tuesday 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM ETTuition: $400.00
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Website
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Description
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| | Natural Science is a unique course for junior high and early high school students, designed to provide the background and skills in earth, life, and physical sciences necessary for success in more intensive college-preparatory courses in biology, chemistry, and physics. The core concepts of modern science are presented in their social and historical context, rather than as abstract theories isolated from each other or their historical roots. We will encounter the basic principles underlying both the physical and life sciences, including atomic theory, chemical reactions, motion, energy, electricity and magnetism, classification of living things, ecology, evolution, and cellular biology, along with overviews of the sciences of geology, meteorology, astonomy, oceanography, zoology and botany as we move through the history of scientific ideas from the ancient world to our own time. Students will learn to apply and recognize the limitations and advantages of scientific methodology, experimental and observational methods, to use mathematical methods for data analysis, and to appreciate not only the interrelations between different areas of scientific knowledge, but how the methods of critical analysis of observations developed, and how social forces shaped modern science. The first year covers advances made during ancient, medieval, and Renaissance periods.
For more information on how this course fits into the Scholars Online Science Curriculum, please read the Science Curricum Design page.
This course is taught using the Scholars Online Chat software, which allows the teacher to embed graphics, mathematical equations, and movies in the chat session, with complete logging available for the entire year. Audio software is deliberately not used, as a means of enforcing students students to think clearly and write precisely. [Students with limited online bandwidth can also participate fully in the course.]
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Meetings
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| | This course meets once a week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students have weekly web reading assignments, with worksheet exercises, quizzes, and lab assignments to help students learn the practical application of the ideas discussed in class.
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Prerequisites
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Recommended background
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| | Junior high level courses in life, earth, and physical sciences are useful but not required. Students should have taken a survey course in world history or western civilization, or be taking one concurrently.
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Instructor's Notes
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| | Parents: please read the Procedures page at the teacher's website above, which describes the course in more detail.
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Textbooks and Materials
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How to Study Science (Edition: 4)
Fred Drewes, Kristen L.D. Milligan
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| | This text is required.
ISBN: 0072346930
Best sources: Scholars Online Bookstore
Other information: This is a small, very good, but very overpriced book. Get it used if you can.
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Natural Science II • 2012 listing - for reference only • Grade 7 or above
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from September 4, 2012 to May 28, 2013Wednesday 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM ETTuition: $400.00
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Website
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Description
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| | Natural Science is designed to provide the background in earth, life, and physical sciences necessary for success in more intensive college-preparatory courses in biology, chemistry, and physics. The core concepts of modern science are presented in their social and historical context, rather than as abstract theories isolated from each other or their historical roots. We will encounter the basic principles underlying both the physical and life sciences, including atomic theory, chemical reactions, motion, energy, electricity and magnetism, classification of living things, ecology, evolution, and cellular biology, along with overviews of the sciences of geology, meteorology, astonomy, oceanography, zoology and botany as we move through the history of scientific ideas from the ancient world to our own time. Students will learn to apply and recognize the limitations and advantages of scientific methodology, experimental and observational methods, to use mathematical methods for data analysis, and to appreciate not only the interrelations between different areas of scientific knowledge, but how the methods of critical analysis of observations developed, and how social forces shaped modern science. The second year covers the development of modern science since the Renaissance, including the development of chemistry, thermodynamics, genetics, quantum mechanics, relativity, information science, ecology and cosmology.
For more information on how this course fits into the Scholars Online Science Curriculum, please read the Science Curricum Design page.
This course is taught using the Scholars Online Chat software, which allows the teacher to embed graphics, mathematical equations, and movies in the chat session, with complete logging available for the entire year. Audio software is deliberately not used, as a means of enforcing students students to think clearly and write precisely. [Students with limited online bandwidth can also participate fully in the course.]
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Meetings
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| | This course meets once a week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students have weekly web reading assignments, with worksheet exercises, quizzes, and lab assignments to help students learn the practical application of the ideas discussed in class.
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Prerequisites
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| | Natural Science I or equivalent background.
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Recommended background
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| | Junior high level courses in life, earth, and physical sciences are useful but not required. Students should have taken a survey course in world history or western civilization, or be taking one concurrently.
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Instructor's Notes
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| | Parents: please read the Procedures page at the teacher's website above, which describes the course in more detail.
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Textbooks and Materials
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There are no textbook or materials currently required for this course.
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| | Check instructor's notes above for additional information, or contact the instructor.
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Biology - Advanced Option (Biology AP) • 2012 listing - for reference only • Grade 9 or above
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from September 6, 2012 to May 30, 2013Dates and times to be arranged with enrolled students.Tuition: $125.00
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Website
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Description
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| | Students must be already enrolled in the regular Biology course to attend this small-enrollment chat session where we will review scientific methodology as applied to biology, discuss laboratory work required for the course and AP credit, and cover key topics greater depth. Students may take diagnostic exams and complete extra essay work preparation for the May AP Biology Examination. This course has been approved as meeting the AP requirements and will be listed as an AP course on student transcripts.
This course is taught using the Scholars Online Chat software, which allows the teacher to embed graphics, mathematical equations, and movies in the chat session, with complete logging available for the entire year. Audio software is not used to allow students with limited internet access to participate fully, and to encourage precise thinking and writing skills.
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Meetings
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| | This course meets once a week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students have additional problem or essay work and reading per week. Workload varies, becoming more intense in March and April in preparation for the May examination. Students must also complete a minimum set of laboratory exercises.
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Prerequisites
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| | Concurrent enrollment in the regular Biology course. Prior life science at the junior high level or high school level covering cells, basic concepts of heredity, anatomy, and ecology.
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Recommended background
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| | Students should have some prior background in life science and be able to work independently.
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Instructor's Notes
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Textbooks and Materials
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AP Biology Lab Manual for Students
The College Board
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Barron's How to Prepare for the AP Biology Advanced Placement Examination (with CD ROM)
Deborah T. Goldberg
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| | This text is required.
ISBN: 0764179101
Best sources: Scholars Online Bookstore
Other information: You can and should look at several AP preparation texts before choosing one; I happen to like this one the best. Find some issue that you know a little about or that confuses you and read the explanations in Barron's, REA, Princeton Review or other AP preparation text, then pick the one that makes the most sense AND has several practice exams.
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Biology • 2012 listing - for reference only • Grade 9 or above
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from September 5, 2012 to May 29, 2013Monday 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM ET • Thursday 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM ETTuition: $450.00
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Website
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| | Please review more extensive materials at the teacher's Biology website.
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Description
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| | Introduction to the principles of modern biology, including organic chemistry, the structure and components of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, cellular respiration and photosynthesis, genetics, evolution and speciation, comparative anatomy with an emphasis on human anatomy and physiology, plant structure, growth, and reproduction, and ecology.
This course is taught using the Scholars Online Chat software, which allows the teacher to embed graphics, mathematical equations, and movies in the chat session, with complete logging available for the entire year. Audio software is not used to allow students with limited internet access to participate fully, and to encourage precise thinking and writing skills.
TEXTBOOKS FOR THIS COURSE ARE STILL UNDER REVIEW.
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Meetings
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| | This course meets 2 times per week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students read 10-15 pages per session and complete at least one short essay or presentation each week. Online quizzes are required for each unit, term reports and comprehensive examinations are given each semester.
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Prerequisites
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| | One year life science course at junior high level, or Natural Science II.
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Recommended background
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| | Students should have completed a junior high school level course in life science that covers the description of a cell and its method of reproduction, concepts of classification of organisms, some evolution theory, and some human anatomy and physiology (i.e., human organ systems and their functions). We cover all of these topics in detail, and students have an easier time if they have been exposed to the basic concepts before starting this course. It is also useful to have some physical science experience, especially with the concepts of atoms, molecules, chemical reactions, and thermodynamics or heat energy to better understand our discussions of cell structure and functions.
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Instructor's Notes
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| | This course meets basic requirements for Honors Biology. Attendance at both weekly sessions is required for all students. Enrollment in the AP Option, additional chat sessions, and lab work are required for students seeking AP credit and/or lab credit for Biology.
Controversial topics such as evolution, reproductive controls, and genetic engineering require student maturity. For information about our approach to evolution, see the evolution page.
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Textbooks and Materials
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Biology: Concepts and Connections (Edition: 6)
Neil A. Campbell, Janet B. Reece, Lawrence G. Mitchell, Martha R. Taylor
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| | This text is required.
ISBN: 0321489845
Publisher's website: Biology: Concepts and Connections
Best sources: Scholars Online Bookstore
Other information: Students may not substitute editions. Although edition 7 is now available, it is more expensive and I have not had time to review it properly. The 2012-2013 course will use edition 6. Students require copies with keyword allowing access to the text companion website. Note: Text and study guide together are available directly from Pearson as Package ISBN0321587820.
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Student Study Guide for Biology: Concepts and Connections (Edition: 6)
Campbell, Reece, Taylor, Simon, Dickey
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| | This text is required.
ISBN: 0321548256
Publisher's website: Student Study Guide for Biology: Concepts and Connections
Best sources: Scholars Online Bookstore
Other information: This book will be used for weekly assignments. No substitutions are allowed.
Please note that while the 7th edition has now been released, I have chosen to stay with the 6th edition for the 2012-2013 school year, as it is somewhat less expensive.
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Astronomy • 2012 listing - for reference only • Grade 10 or above
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from September 5, 2012 to May 29, 2013Wednesday 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM ETTuition: $400.00
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Website
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| | Please review more extensive materials at the teacher's Astronomy website.
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Description
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| | Introduction to the principles of modern astronomy, including basic constellation recognition, apparent motions of celestial objects, development of the Copernican model of the solar system, telescope optics, characteristics of solar system planets, stellar structure and life cycles, and current theories on the origin of the universe.
This course is taught using the Scholars Online Chat software, which allows the teacher to embed graphics, mathematical equations, and movies in the chat session, with complete logging available for the entire year. Audio software is not used to allow students with limited internet access to participate fully, and to encourage precise thinking and writing skills.
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Meetings
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| | This course meets once a week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students read one chapter per week from a college-level introductory astronomy textbook, and perform a set of 9-12 exercises, many of which involve mathematical calculation. Quizzes are taken weekly. Students also prepare a term paper on some aspect of modern astronomy each semester, and take a comprehensive semester examination.
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Prerequisites
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| | Students should have completed Algebra I and be able to solve the quadratic formula and calculate areas and volumes.
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Recommended background
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| | This course is particularly appropriate for students who have completed Biology or Natural Science but have not yet taken the pre-calculus math required for Honors Chemistry or Physics. It is also an excellent opportunity for seniors who have completed a biology-chemistry-physics sequence to apply their skills in a different area.
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Instructor's Notes
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| | Lab exercises and observing session suggestions are presented for each week's chapter, but are not required for completion of the course. Students completing at least 15 lab exercises will receive lab credit; labs may be completed over the summer to accommodate weather conditions and best opportunities for observing planets and deep-sky objects.
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Textbooks and Materials
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Universe (Edition: 9)
Roger A. Freedman, William J. Kaufmann III
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| | This text is required.
ISBN: 1429263768
Publisher's website: Universe
Best sources: Scholars Online Bookstore
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Chemistry - Advanced Option • 2012 listing - for reference only • Grade 11 or above
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from September 6, 2012 to May 30, 2013Friday 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM ETTuition: $125.00
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Website
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Description
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| | Students must be already enrolled in the regular Chemistry course to attend this small-enrollment chat session where we will review chemistry lab techniques and safety, discuss laboratory work required for the course and AP credit, and cover key topics greater depth. Students may take diagnostic exams and complete extra essay work preparation for the May AP Chemistry Examination. The syllabus for this course is being submitting for formal AP designation by the College Board, but has not yet been approved. Whether or not the College Board formally recognizes the course, we believe that it will adequately prepare students for the AP Chemistry exam.
This course is taught using the Scholars Online Chat software, which allows the teacher to embed graphics, mathematical equations, and movies in the chat session, with complete logging available for the entire year. Audio software is not used to allow students with limited internet access to participate fully, and to encourage precise thinking and writing skills.
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Meetings
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| | This course meets once a week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students have additional problem or essay work and reading per week. Workload varies, becoming more intense in March and April in preparation for the May examination. Students must also complete a minimum set of laboratory exercises.
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Prerequisites
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| | Concurrent enrollment in the regular Chemistry course. Previous physical science at the junior high level covering basic concepts on nature of matter (atomic theory, chemical reactions). Natural Science II very helpful.
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Recommended background
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| | Students should have some prior background in life science and be able to work independently.
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Instructor's Notes
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Textbooks and Materials
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Illustrated Guide to Home Chemistry Experiments (Edition: 1)
Robert Bruce Thompson
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Chemistry • 2012 listing - for reference only • Grade 11 or above
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from September 5, 2012 to May 30, 2013Monday 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM ET • Thursday 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM ETTuition: $450.00
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Website
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| | Please review more extensive materials at the teacher's Chemistry website.
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Description
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| | Introduction to the concepts of matter, atomic structure, electron configuration, the nature of chemical bonds, aspects of acid-base and precipitation reactions, simple solution preparation, chemical equilibria, ane energy. Additional topics may include organic chemistry, biochemistry, and the characteristics of chemical families.
This course is taught using the Scholars Online Chat software, which allows the teacher to embed graphics, mathematical equations, and movies in the chat session, with complete logging available for the entire year. Audio software is not used to allow students with limited internet access to participate fully, and to encourage precise thinking and writing skills.
TEXTBOOKS FOR THIS COURSE ARE STILL BEING REVIEWED
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Meetings
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| | This course meets 2 times per week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students are expected to read 5-15 pages per week in the text, with close study of example situations; work through web or CD-ROM based animations and exercises; complete a set of 5-10 math-based homework problems for each session and post at least one solution with explanations from each set, and take quizzes on each chapter in preparation for the semester examinations.
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Prerequisites
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| | Students should have completed a first year algebra and a year geometry course or their equivalent, and be taking a second year algebra course. They must be able to factor algebraic expressions and be able to solve the quadratic equation. Use of scientific notation and logarithmic expressions will be covered during the course. See the Teacher's website for more details.
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Recommended background
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| | A junior high school level course in physical science is highly recommended. Students taking this accerated Chemistry course in preparation for the SAT II and/or AP examinations in chemistry should also have completed ScholarsOnline Natural Science (especially Year II), Biology, or Astronomy, or their equivalent.
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Instructor's Notes
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| | This course meets basic requirements for Honors Chemistry. Attendance at both weekly sessions is required for all students. Enrollment in the AP Option, additional chat sessions, and lab work are required for students seeking AP credit and/or lab credit for Chemistry.
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Textbooks and Materials
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Chemistry and Chemical Reactivity (Edition: 7)
James C. Kotz, Paul M. Treichel, Gabriela C. Weaver
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| | This text is required.
ISBN: 0495390291
Publisher's website: Chemistry and Chemical Reactivity
Best sources: Scholars Online Bookstore
Other information: There are two versions of the 7th edition of this text: a hardback (published in 2008) and this "Enhanced" paperback version. Both contain the same text materials and exercises; the enhanced edition has additional review materials for AP students. Verify that your copy has access to the online ChemistryNow Website; if you purchase a used copy, you may need to purchase access to the publisher's support site separately.
Note: While the 8th edition has been published, changes are largely cosmetic for the multimedia helps. I have chosen to remain with the 7th edition as it is possible to acquire second-hand or at less expense than the 8th edition. DO NOT PURCHASE the 8th edition!
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Study Guide for Kotz/Treichel/Weaver's Chemistry and Chemical Reactivity (Edition: 7)
Kotz, Treichel, and Townsend
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Natural Science I • Offering for 2013 • Grade 7 or above
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from September 3, 2013 to May 30, 2014Tuesday 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM ETTuition: $400.00
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Website
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Description
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| | Natural Science is a unique course for junior high and early high school students, designed to provide the background and skills in earth, life, and physical sciences necessary for success in more intensive college-preparatory courses in biology, chemistry, and physics. The core concepts of modern science are presented in their social and historical context, rather than as abstract theories isolated from each other or their historical roots. We will encounter the basic principles underlying both the physical and life sciences, including atomic theory, chemical reactions, motion, energy, electricity and magnetism, classification of living things, ecology, evolution, and cellular biology, along with overviews of the sciences of geology, meteorology, astonomy, oceanography, zoology and botany as we move through the history of scientific ideas from the ancient world to our own time. Students will learn to apply and recognize the limitations and advantages of scientific methodology, experimental and observational methods, to use mathematical methods for data analysis, and to appreciate not only the interrelations between different areas of scientific knowledge, but how the methods of critical analysis of observations developed, and how social forces shaped modern science. The first year covers advances made during ancient, medieval, and Renaissance periods.
For more information on how this course fits into the Scholars Online Science Curriculum, please read the Science Curricum Design page.
This course is taught using the Scholars Online Chat software, which allows the teacher to embed graphics, mathematical equations, and movies in the chat session, with complete logging available for the entire year. Audio software is deliberately not used, as a means of enforcing students students to think clearly and write precisely. [Students with limited online bandwidth can also participate fully in the course.]
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Meetings
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| | This course meets once a week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students have weekly web reading assignments, with worksheet exercises, quizzes, and lab assignments to help students learn the practical application of the ideas discussed in class.
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Prerequisites
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Recommended background
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| | Junior high level courses in life, earth, and physical sciences are useful but not required. Students should have taken a survey course in world history or western civilization, or be taking one concurrently.
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Instructor's Notes
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| | Parents: please read the Procedures page at the teacher's website above, which describes the course in more detail.
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Textbooks and Materials
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How to Study Science (Edition: 4)
Fred Drewes, Kristen L.D. Milligan
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| | This text is required.
ISBN: 0072346930
Best sources: Scholars Online Bookstore
Other information: This is a small, very good, but very overpriced book. Get it used if you can.
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Natural Science II • Offering for 2013 • Grade 7 or above
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from September 3, 2013 to May 30, 2014Wednesday 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM ETTuition: $400.00
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Website
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Description
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| | Natural Science is designed to provide the background in earth, life, and physical sciences necessary for success in more intensive college-preparatory courses in biology, chemistry, and physics. The core concepts of modern science are presented in their social and historical context, rather than as abstract theories isolated from each other or their historical roots. We will encounter the basic principles underlying both the physical and life sciences, including atomic theory, chemical reactions, motion, energy, electricity and magnetism, classification of living things, ecology, evolution, and cellular biology, along with overviews of the sciences of geology, meteorology, astonomy, oceanography, zoology and botany as we move through the history of scientific ideas from the ancient world to our own time. Students will learn to apply and recognize the limitations and advantages of scientific methodology, experimental and observational methods, to use mathematical methods for data analysis, and to appreciate not only the interrelations between different areas of scientific knowledge, but how the methods of critical analysis of observations developed, and how social forces shaped modern science. The second year covers the development of modern science since the Renaissance, including the development of chemistry, thermodynamics, genetics, quantum mechanics, relativity, information science, ecology and cosmology.
For more information on how this course fits into the Scholars Online Science Curriculum, please read the Science Curricum Design page.
This course is taught using the Scholars Online Chat software, which allows the teacher to embed graphics, mathematical equations, and movies in the chat session, with complete logging available for the entire year. Audio software is deliberately not used, as a means of enforcing students students to think clearly and write precisely. [Students with limited online bandwidth can also participate fully in the course.]
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Meetings
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| | This course meets once a week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students have weekly web reading assignments, with worksheet exercises, quizzes, and lab assignments to help students learn the practical application of the ideas discussed in class.
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Prerequisites
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| | Natural Science I or equivalent background.
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Recommended background
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| | Junior high level courses in life, earth, and physical sciences are useful but not required. Students should have taken a survey course in world history or western civilization, or be taking one concurrently.
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Instructor's Notes
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| | Parents: please read the Procedures page at the teacher's website above, which describes the course in more detail.
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Textbooks and Materials
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There are no textbook or materials currently required for this course.
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| | Check instructor's notes above for additional information, or contact the instructor.
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Biology - AP Credit Option • Offering for 2013 • Grade 9 or above
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from September 3, 2013 to May 30, 2014Dates and times to be arranged with enrolled students.Tuition: $125.00
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Website
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Description
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| | NOTE: Students must be already enrolled in the regular Biology course to attend this small-enrollment chat session where we will review scientific methodology as applied to biology, discuss laboratory work required for the course and AP credit, and cover key topics greater depth. Students may take diagnostic exams and complete extra essay work preparation for the May AP Biology Examination. This course is currently under revision to meet the new 2013 Biology AP standards and is awaiting final approval by the audit committee.
This course is taught using the Scholars Online Chat software, which allows the teacher to embed graphics, mathematical equations, and movies in the chat session, with complete logging available for the entire year. Audio software is not used to allow students with limited internet access to participate fully, and to encourage precise thinking and writing skills.
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Meetings
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| | This course meets once a week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students have additional problem or essay work and reading per week. Workload varies, becoming more intense in March and April in preparation for the May examination. Students must also complete a minimum set of laboratory exercises.
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Prerequisites
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| | Concurrent enrollment in the regular Biology course is required. Prior life science at the junior high level or high school level covering cells, basic concepts of heredity, anatomy, and ecology.
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Recommended background
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| | Students should have some prior background in life science and be able to work independently.
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Instructor's Notes
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Textbooks and Materials
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AP Biology Investigative Labs: An Inquiry-Based Approach Student Manual
The College Board
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Barron's How to Prepare for the AP Biology Advanced Placement Examination (with CD ROM)
Deborah T. Goldberg
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| | This text is recommended; purchase and use is optional.
ISBN: 0764179101
Best sources: Scholars Online Bookstore
Other information: You can and should look at several AP preparation texts before choosing one; I happen to like this one the best. Find some issue that you know a little about or that confuses you and read the explanations in Barron's, REA, Princeton Review or other AP preparation text, then pick the one that makes the most sense AND has several practice exams.
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Physics Lite • Offering for 2013 • Grade 9 or above • [Summer course]
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from June 10, 2013 to August 16, 2013Tuesday 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM ET • Thursday 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM ETTuition: $225.00
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Website
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| | Please review more extensive materials at the teacher's Physics Lite website.
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Description
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| | This is an nin-week course covering the basic concepts of physics. Students will find this a gentle introduction to the principles underlying studies of motion, heat, electricity, magnetism, light, nuclear reactions, and modern cosmology. Students planning on taking Honors or AP Physics will be given more challenging assignments to help them hone skills essential for surviving the fast pace and college-level workloads of these courses. Lab work is optional, but labs completed for this course may be applied to the Scholars Online Physics AP course requirements.
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Meetings
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| | This course meets 2 times per week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students will be assigned exercises from the text, AP students will be assigned further exercises and labs from the teacher's syllabus.
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Prerequisites
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| | At a minimume, students must be able to handle simple algebraic equations, such as s = 1/2 at2 and should have completed a junior-high level survey of physical science. To tackle optional advanced AP course preparation work, students should have completed or be planning to take Advanced Algebra.
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Recommended background
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Instructor's Notes
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| | There will be no meetings the week of 4 July.
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Textbooks and Materials
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Understand Physics: Teach Yourself (Edition: 3)
Jim Breithaupt
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| | This text is required.
ISBN: 0071768688
Best sources: Scholars Online Bookstore
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Biology • Offering for 2013 • Grade 9 or above
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from September 3, 2013 to May 30, 2014Monday 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM ET • Thursday 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM ETTuition: $450.00
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Website
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| | Please review more extensive materials at the teacher's Biology website.
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Description
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| | Introduction to the principles of modern biology, including organic chemistry, the structure and components of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, cellular respiration and photosynthesis, genetics, evolution and speciation, comparative anatomy with an emphasis on human anatomy and physiology, plant structure, growth, and reproduction, and ecology.
This course is taught using the Scholars Online Chat software, which allows the teacher to embed graphics, mathematical equations, and movies in the chat session, with complete logging available for the entire year. Audio software is not used to allow students with limited internet access to participate fully, and to encourage precise thinking and writing skills.
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Meetings
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| | This course meets 2 times per week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students read 10-15 pages per session and complete at least one short essay or presentation each week. Online quizzes are required for each unit, term reports and comprehensive examinations are given each semester.
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Prerequisites
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| | One year life science course at junior high level, or Natural Science II.
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Recommended background
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| | Students should have completed a junior high school level course in life science that covers the description of a cell and its method of reproduction, concepts of classification of organisms, some evolution theory, and some human anatomy and physiology (i.e., human organ systems and their functions). We cover all of these topics in detail, and students have an easier time if they have been exposed to the basic concepts before starting this course. It is also useful to have some physical science experience, especially with the concepts of atoms, molecules, chemical reactions, and thermodynamics or heat energy to better understand our discussions of cell structure and functions.
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Instructor's Notes
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| | This course meets basic requirements for Honors Biology. Attendance at both weekly sessions is required for all students. Enrollment in the AP Option, additional chat sessions, and lab work are required for students seeking AP credit and/or lab credit for Biology.
Controversial topics such as evolution, reproductive controls, and genetic engineering require student maturity. For information about our approach to evolution, see the evolution page.
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Textbooks and Materials
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Biology: Concepts and Connections (Edition: 7)
Neil A. Campbell, Janet B. Reece, Lawrence G. Mitchell, Martha R. Taylor
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| | This text is required.
ISBN: 0321696816
Publisher's website: Biology: Concepts and Connections
Best sources: Scholars Online Bookstore
Other information: An alternative format (3-hole looseleaf) that is somewhat cheaper is available and may be substituted (ISBN 0321783468). Students may not substitute editions (e.g., students may NOT use edition 6 for the 2013-2014 course).
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Student Study Guide for Biology: Concepts and Connections (Edition: 7)
Liebert, Campbell, Reece, Taylor, Simon, Dickey
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Astronomy • Offering for 2013 • Grade 10 or above
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from September 3, 2013 to May 30, 2014Wednesday 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM ETTuition: $400.00
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Website
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| | Please review more extensive materials at the teacher's Astronomy website.
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Description
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| | Introduction to the principles of modern astronomy, including basic constellation recognition, apparent motions of celestial objects, development of the Copernican model of the solar system, telescope optics, characteristics of solar system planets, stellar structure and life cycles, and current theories on the origin of the universe.
This course is taught using the Scholars Online Chat software, which allows the teacher to embed graphics, mathematical equations, and movies in the chat session, with complete logging available for the entire year. Audio software is not used to allow students with limited internet access to participate fully, and to encourage precise thinking and writing skills.
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Meetings
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| | This course meets once a week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students read one chapter per week from a college-level introductory astronomy textbook, and perform a set of 9-12 exercises, many of which involve mathematical calculation. Quizzes are taken weekly. Students also prepare a term paper on some aspect of modern astronomy each semester, and take a comprehensive semester examination.
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Prerequisites
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| | Students should have completed Algebra I and be able to solve the quadratic formula and calculate areas and volumes.
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Recommended background
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| | This course is particularly appropriate for students who have completed Biology or Natural Science but have not yet taken the pre-calculus math required for Honors Chemistry or Physics. It is also an excellent opportunity for seniors who have completed a biology-chemistry-physics sequence to apply their skills in a different area.
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Instructor's Notes
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| | Lab exercises and observing session suggestions are presented for each week's chapter, but are not required for completion of the course. Students completing at least 15 lab exercises will receive lab credit; labs may be completed over the summer to accommodate weather conditions and best opportunities for observing planets and deep-sky objects.
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Textbooks and Materials
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Universe (Edition: 9)
Roger A. Freedman, William J. Kaufmann III
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| | This text is required.
ISBN: 1429263768
Publisher's website: Universe
Best sources: Scholars Online Bookstore
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Physics - AP Credit Option • Offering for 2013 • Grade 11 or above
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from September 3, 2013 to May 30, 2014Dates and times to be arranged with enrolled students.Tuition: $125.00
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Website
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Description
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| | Students already enrolled in the regular Physics course will attend small-enrollment chat sessions to review course material in greater depth, complete more difficult assignments, and report laboratory experiences in preparation for the May AP Physics B Examination. The syllabus for this course has been reviewed by the College Board and this course is authorized to use the AP designation. Starting in Fall, 2007, only courses whose syllabi meet the rigorous standards of the College Board's review team of college and university professors can be listed on transcripts as AP courses.
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Meetings
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| | This course meets once a week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students have additional problem or essay work and reading per week. Workload varies, becoming more intense in March and April in preparation for the May examination. Students must also complete a minimum set of laboratory exercises.
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Prerequisites
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| | Concurrent enrollment in the regular Physics course is required. Prior physical science at the junior high level covering basic mechanics, dynamics, electricity and magnetism, and optics.
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Recommended background
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| | Students should be able to work independently and adher to a rigorous study schedule.
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Instructor's Notes
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Textbooks and Materials
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Physics: Principles with Applications AP Test Prep Workbook (Edition: 6)
Douglas C. Giancoli
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| | This text is required.
ISBN: 0536731586
Publisher's website: Physics: Principles with Applications AP Test Prep Workbook
Best sources: Scholars Online Bookstore
Other information: This is the Workbook alone. Students taking this option may wish to purchase the text and workbook in combination (see optional texts for the primary physics course itself).
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Physics • Offering for 2013 • Grade 11 or above
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Primary Instructor
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Sections
[Enrolled students will be notified if teacher schedules change between course posting at the time enrollment opens and the scheduled start of classes. Please see Tuition and Fees for refund policy.]
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| | Section 1 Instructor: Christe McMenomyClasses meet from September 3, 2013 to May 30, 2014Monday 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM ET • Thursday 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM ETTuition: $450.00
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Website
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| | Please review more extensive materials at the teacher's Physics website.
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Description
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| | Introduction to the principles of modern physics, including basic concepts of motion, conservation laws, kinematics and dynamics, energy, momentum, thermodynamics, optics, electrical and magnetic fields, light wave mechanics, quantum mechanics, and nuclear energy.
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Meetings
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| | This course meets 2 times per week for discussion and review of assigned homework.
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Homework
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| | Students read 5-10 pages and complete homework assignments of 5-10 problems twice a week, posting a complete solution with explanations for one of the problems from each assignment. Online quizzes are required for each unit, and comprehensive examinations are given each semester.
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Prerequisites
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| | Physical science course at junior high level. Algebra covering the evaluation of functions and the quadratic equation and basic geometry must be completed prior to course. Trigonometry and precalculus math should be taken prior to enrollment or concurrently if trigonometry will be covered immediately.
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Recommended background
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| | Students should have completed a junior high school level course in physical science that covers describes the basic concepts of energy and motion, the forces of gravity, electricity, and magnetism. A thorough grounding in basic algebra is highly recommended, as the course is math-intensive.
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Instructor's Notes
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| | An additional text using computer simulations is under review and may be required. Please check textbook listings in August.
See notes on Physics - Advanced Option for information on AP Physics.
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Textbooks and Materials
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Physics: Principles with Applications (Edition: 6)
Donald C. Giancoli
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| | This text is required.
ISBN: 0131846612
Publisher's website: Physics: Principles with Applications
Best sources: Scholars Online Bookstore
Other information: This is the textbook alone. Students taking the AP option may wish to purchase the optional package instead, which includes both textbook and AP Workbook at a slight discount than when purchased separately.
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Physics: Principles with Applications Combo Package (Edition: 6)
Douglas C. Giancoli
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| | This text is recommended; purchase and use is optional.
ISBN: 0131142860
Publisher's website: Physics: Principles with Applications Combo Package
Best sources: Scholars Online Bookstore
Other information: Students taking the AP option may wish to purchase this combination package instead of purchasing text and AP workbooks separately.
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| To enroll in any of the courses listed above, log into your Scholars Online Account Management Center using the login link at the bottom of any page and select the member you wish to enroll. If you do not have an account, you may create one using the Membership and Enrollment link in the SiteMap to the left of any page. |
All science courses are open to all students who meet the mathematics prerequisites for the individual courses. Each full course is designed to accommodate students wishing to master the fundamentals of the subject at a level normally taught in high school. Past classes have included junior high school students and adults, as well as high school students preparing for college entrance.
Lab Course Credit and AP Preparation: AP Option
Available with Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, the AP Option adds extra sessions to the regular course material, and is designed to prepare the student for the Advanced Placement examinations for college credit and to meet lab experience requirements for most colleges. Because of the extra time required, students who seek lab credit, even if they do not plan to take the AP examination, must sign up for this option. Students not taking this option are welcome to perform the suggested labs on their own initiative, but lab work done outside the AP option will not be graded or given credit.
We realize that such a short description doesn't really give you much information about how the courses are structured and the material integrated, how we address ethical controversies in biology, or just help students who may be a bit overwhelmed by a "college-prep" course workload. If you are considering our courses, or are just trying to get ideas for your own science curriculum, please read through the The Design behind the Scholars Online Science Curriculum to find out why past students have found our instruction a unique opportunity that not only prepares them to perform well on the SAT and Advanced Placement examinations, but also challenges them to see how science grew out of human experience with nature and religion.
Scholars Online is accredited by AdvancED and the Northwest Accreditation Commission.
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