Science and Technology Engineering Course Composites

Science, Technology, & Engineering

The science program at Westford Academy is a formalized exploratory academic endeavor. All courses are laboratory classes, providing the hands-on experimentation essential in the study of science. The three-year science requirement for graduation is designed to meet the needs of all students. We encourage students to complete the three-year sequence of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, especially if their post high school plans include college. The science curriculum is aligned with the Massachusetts Science Frameworks and provides a twofold foundation. First, a scientifically educated citizenry is essential. Second, this program provides students with a solid knowledge base to pursue STEM studies in college and beyond.

To select honors, students must receive a recommendation from their Science teacher and meet the minimum grade requirement. In order to enter an Advanced Placement class, a student must be enrolled in an honors or AP course and have earned the required prerequisite average in that current honors or AP course. Students may not move from a college preparatory class into an Advanced Placement class.

Life Science
Chemistry
Physics
Engineering

Life Science

406 Biology CP (9) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation. Below 78 overall average in 8th grade science AND "Partially Meeting Expectations or Needs Improvement" or lower on 5th grade science MCAS

408 Biology CP is a general survey course in life sciences that stresses a qualitative approach to topics in Biology. This course includes laboratory activities emphasizing process skills, data analysis, and critical thinking. Fundamental Biology will cover the same general topics in the life sciences as the 410 Biology CP course (biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, genetics, evolution, human physiology, and ecology), with emphasis on project-based learning, decreased dependence on math, and minimal dependence on textbook reading. This college preparatory course is designed for students who would benefit from increased teacher support in a more structured, hands-on learning environment. This course will prepare students to take the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) in Biology.

408 Biology CP (9) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation. Below 78 overall average in 8th grade science

408 Biology CP is offered to students who have been identified and recommended by the Science Department as in need of a modified program. The Biology class will be bi-leveled. Students taking the class at the 408 level will be exposed to the same program as 410 Biology CP, however, adaptation and differentiation will occur.

The major concepts and principles of the biological sciences will be explored. The four major areas of concentration include the characteristics of organisms, the evolution of life, matter and energy relationships in ecosystems, and the principles of heredity. In addition, students will study protein synthesis, meiosis, mitosis, and human body systems. The many methods of inquiry, design processes, and participation in scientific investigations will be incorporated throughout the course content. Mathematical models and computer simulations will be used to analyze collected data. Students will be prepared to take the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) test in Biology near the end of this course.

410 Biology CP (9) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation. 78 overall average in 8th grade science

412 Biology Honors (9) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation. 95 overall average in 8th grade science.

Major biological topics include the characteristics of organisms, the evolution of life, matter and energy relationships within ecosystems, and genetics. Methods of study include inquiry, data collection, analysis through the use of mathematical models, computer simulations, scientific study design and student designed models. Students will be required to complete an independent scientific research project as part of their final exam. Students will also be required to perform a year-long, extensive study of the local ecosystem including field observations, independent investigations, and formal reports. Students will be prepared to take the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) test in Biology near the end of this course.

430 Human Anatomy & Physiology Honors (12) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation. Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry, with an 85 average in Honors science (422, 440, 490), 90 average in CP science (420, 435, 427, 489, 493), or 80 average in AP science (450, 452, 454, 425).

This is a full year course for students with a strong interest in human anatomy and physiology to prepare for those anticipating study in the medical/health field. This full course will consist of an in-depth discussion from the molecular and cellular level to the systemic level and processes. Topics will include the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, cardiovascular, and digestive systems. Course work includes projects, discussion, laboratory activities, and independent work; the laboratory work includes an anatomical dissection of a preserved organism.

431 Human Anatomy & Physiology CP (11-12) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry, with a 70 average in CP science (420, 435, 427, 489, 493) or 65 average in CP science (418, 434, 426, 488, 494).

431 Human Anatomy and Physiology CP is offered to students who have been identified and recommended by the Science department as in need of modified program. This class will be bi-leveled. Students taking the class at the 431 level will be exposed to the same program, however, some adaptation and differentiation will occur.

This is a full year course designed to introduce students to the structures that compose the human body and how they function. Topics will include the skeletal, muscular, nervous, cardiovascular, and digestive systems, with an emphasis on real world applications to health and the human body. Course work includes projects, discussion, laboratory activities, and independent work; the laboratory work includes dissection. Students will be expected to analyze and evaluate the role of health science in society throughout the course.

432 Human Anatomy & Physiology CP (11-12) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry, with a 70 average in Honors science (422, 440, 490), 75 average in CP science (420, 435, 427, 489, 493), or 95 average in CP science (418, 434, 426, 488, 494).

488 Marine Biology CP (11-12) - 2.5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry, with a 70 average in CP science (420, 435, 427, 432, 493) or 65 average in CP science (418, 434, 426, 431, 494).

488 Marine Biology CP is offered to students who have been identified and recommended by the Science department as in need of modified program. This class will be bi-leveled. Students taking the class at the 488 level will be exposed to the same program, however, some adaptation and differentiation will occur.

Marine Biology is a semester long course designed to introduce students to the biological and biochemical processes of the ocean. The goal of this course is for students to have a basic understanding and appreciation of the ocean and the unique life that calls the ocean home, as well as a functional understanding of the impact of human activity on marine ecosystems. Course work includes discussion, cooperative learning, experimentation, dissection, and inquiry based projects. Students will be asked to think critically about issues affecting ocean life and to problem solve how to resolve these issues.

489 Marine Biology CP (11-12) - 2.5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry, with a 70 average in Honors science (422, 440, 430), 75 average in CP science (420, 435, 427, 432, 493), or 95 average in CP science (418, 434, 426, 431, 494).

490 Marine Biology Honors (12) - 5.0 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation. Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry, with an 85 average in Honors science (422, 440, 430), 90 average in CP science (420, 435, 427, 432, 493), or 80 average in AP science (450, 452, 454, 425).

Honors Marine Biology is designed for students with a strong interest in environmental sciences with a potential to major in environmental/ecosystem science in college. This course is an in-depth view of the biological and biochemical processes of the ocean. A focus will be placed on marine animals, ecosystems and management. This course will study the marine life including invertebrates like jellies and lobsters as well as marine vertebrates like turtles and mammals. Marine Biology introduces students to the different marine environments and will emphasize the management of available resources the ocean has to offer. Course work includes discussion, laboratory experiments, independent readings, and independent projects. Students are expected to complete independent work throughout the course.

450 AP Biology (11-12) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation. Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry. Must be currently enrolled in honors or AP science course, with an 87 average in current Honors science (422, 440), 90 average in current Honors science (490, 430), or 85 average in AP science (452, 454, 425).

This second year Biology course seeks to meet the objectives of an introductory college Biology course and to prepare students for the AP Biology exam. It is designed to allow those juniors and seniors interested in the Biological Sciences an in depth preparation in a variety of biological topics to better enable future career direction choices within the field. Students study the following topics in regards to living organisms and biological systems: evolution, cellular processes (energy and communication), genetics, information transfer, ecology, and interactions. The lab portion incorporates current biotechnology techniques as well as an inquiry-based experimental approach, as students establish lines of evidence and use them to develop and refine testable explanations and predictions of natural phenomena. Students selecting this course are required to complete summer work and are expected to take the Advanced Placement Biology exam in May.

493 Forensic Biotechnology CP (11-12) - 2.5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry, with a 70 average in Honors science (422, 440, 490, 430), 75 average in CP science (420, 435, 427, 432, 489), or 95 average in CP science (418, 434, 426, 431, 488).

This semester course is designed to introduce students to a variety of laboratory techniques utilized by forensic scientists. Students will examine how evidence is collected and analyzed in support of prosecution in a criminal court of law. Areas of study include current biotechnological techniques used to examine a variety of types of evidence (prints, blood, DNA, documents). All students will participate in a crime scene simulation assessment, requiring the application of skills and knowledge from all areas of study.

494 Forensic Biotechnology CP (11-12) - 2.5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry, with a 70 average in CP science (420, 435, 427, 432, 489) or 65 average in CP science (418, 434, 426, 431, 488).

494 Forensic Biotechnology CP is offered to students who have been identified and recommended by the Science department as in need of modified program. This class will be bi-leveled. Students taking the class at the 494 level will be exposed to the same program, however, some adaptation and differentiation will occur.

425 AP Environmental Science (11-12) - 5 credits

The Advanced Placement Environmental Science course is a rigorous course that stresses the use of scientific investigations to engage students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. The course requires that students identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Areas of study include energy, populations, geology, global change, pollution, energy consumption and biodiversity. Students selecting this course are required to complete summer work and are expected to take the Advanced Placement Environmental Science exam in May.

426 Environmental Science CP (11-12) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry, with a 70 average in CP science (420, 435, 432, 489, 493) or 65 average in CP science (418, 434, 494, 431, 488).

426 Environmental Science CP is offered to students who have been identified and recommended by the Science department as in need of modified program. This class will be bi-leveled. Students taking the class at the 426 level will be exposed to the same program, however, some adaptation and differentiation will occur.

The college preparatory Environmental Science course is a hands-on, lab-based course that stresses the use of scientific investigations to engage students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. The course encourages students to identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Students will be introduced to the topics of energy, populations, geology, global change, pollution, energy consumption and biodiversity.

427 Environmental Science CP (11-12) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry, with a 70 average in Honors science (422, 440, 490, 430), 75 average in CP science (420, 435, 493, 432, 489), or 95 average in CP science (418, 434, 494, 431, 488).

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Chemistry

414 Chemistry CP (10-12) - 5 Credits

Prerequisite: 65 in 408 or 406 Biology CP, 413 Phenomena in LS, or 423 Phenomena in PS.

This course is designed and offered for students who have been identified and recommended by the Science Department as in need of a modified program. Students enrolled in this course will learn the chemistry behind gaseous and nuclear explosions, water and solubility, food energy, and industry.

418 Chemistry CP (10) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: 70 in 410 Biology CP, or 78 in 408 Biology CP, or 95 in 406 Biology CP.

418 Chemistry CP is offered to students who have been identified and recommended by the Science Department as in need of a modified program. The Chemistry class will be bi-leveled. Students taking the class at the 418 level will be exposed to the same program as 420 Chemistry CP, however, adaptation and differentiation will occur.

This introductory course addresses chemistry through the perspective of theoretical models, their development and implementation, and the organizational information derived through this development. Topics include periodicity, atomic and molecular structure, phases of matter and the kinetic theory, chemical bonding, the nature of chemical reactions and stoichiometry. Laboratory experimentation supports the inquiry approach.

420 Chemistry CP (10) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: 70 in 412 Biology Honors, 75 in 410 Biology CP, or 95 in 408 Biology CP.

422 Chemistry Honors (10) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation. 87 in 412 Biology Honors or 95 in 410 Biology CP. Concurrent Algebra II preferred.

Students in this honors level course will develop an in-depth understanding of matter and atomic theory, learn to interpret complex chemical equations, and utilize stoichiometry to evaluate quantities produced in reactions. In addition to content skills, students will also conduct inquiry-based investigations, link evidence to conclusions, utilize models, and demonstrate appropriate lab safety practices.

452 AP Chemistry (11-12) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation. Successful completion of Biology and 422 Chemistry Honors. Must be currently enrolled in honors or AP science course, with an 87 average in current Honors science (422, 440), 90 average in current Honors science (490, 430), or 85 average in AP science (425, 454, 450).

This second year chemistry course is designed to be the equivalent of a first year college chemistry course in regards to the understanding of theoretical concepts, development of problem solving techniques and in-depth experience in the rigorous experimental application of chemical principles. Topics revolve around the 6 Big Ideas and include chemical equilibrium, kinetics, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and acid-base reactions. Students will spend significant time in the laboratory and will be expected to cover some material independently through outside resources and video lectures. Students selecting this course are required to complete summer work and are expected to take the Advanced Placement Chemistry exam in May.

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Physics

434 Physics CP (11-12) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: 65 average in CP Chemistry (420, 418, 414), Phenomena in LS (413), or Phenomena in PS (423).

The course will focus on understanding the basic concepts of physics with an emphasis on the real world application of physics principles. Major units of study will include linear motion, Newton's laws, simple machines, and waves (sound and light). Demonstrations and laboratory activities will make up the bulk of the course to challenge students and reinforce basic concepts while also fostering comfort and competence with algebraic skills.

435 Physics CP (11-12) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: 70 in 422 Chemistry Honors, 75 in 420 Chemistry CP, or 95 in 418 Chemistry CP.

The course will focus on understanding the basic principles of physics at a conceptual level. Units in linear motion, projectile motion, forces, Newton's Laws, momentum, work & energy, circular motion, center of gravity, rotational mechanics, waves (sound, light, electromagnetic spectrum), and reflection & refraction, may be included in the material presented. Demonstrations and laboratory activities will be included to challenge the student and reinforce basic concepts. There will be multiple Project Based Learning assignments throughout the year. Students need to be able to work independently and collaboratively on these PBL assignments.

440 Physics Honors (11-12) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: 87 in 422 Chemistry Honors, 95 in 420 Chemistry CP, or 80 in an AP science (450, 4520, 454, 425). Concurrent Trigonometry preferred.

Students will develop an understanding of foundational principles of physics in mechanics and electricity such as kinematics; Newton’s laws of motion (dynamics), work, energy and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation; oscillations; gravitation, waves, sound, light and Electric circuits. Students will apply these principles to physical situations that combine aspects of physics rather than present concepts in isolation. Students will design and conduct inquiry-based laboratory investigations to solve problems through first-hand observations, data collection, analysis and interpretation. Students will develop critical thinking skills through inquiry-based learning, and students should be confident in their ability in Algebra and Trigonometry. Highly recommended for students considering STEM fields.

454 AP Physics (12) - 5 credits

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation. 87 average in 440 Physics Honors. Concurrent Calculus required (or successful completion).

Students will be introduced to advanced topics in classical mechanics such as kinematics; Newton’s laws of motion (dynamics), work, energy and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation; gravitation and oscillations. Students will apply these principles to complex physical situations that combine multiple aspects of physics, conducting inquiry-based laboratory investigations, applying methods of differential and integral calculus and building critical thinking skills through inquiry-based learning. This course fulfills the AP requirements and is an introduction or "bridge" course for further STEM studies in college, mainly Physics and Engineering courses (such statics, dynamics, etc.). Students selecting this course are required to complete summer work and are expected to take the Advanced Placement Physics C: Mechanics exam in May.

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Engineering

480 Introduction to Engineering CP (9-10) - 2.5 credits

Prerequisite: 80 in 8th grade science, 70 in 412 Biology Honors, 75 in 420 Biology CP, 85 in 408 Biology CP, 95 in 406 Biology CP.

This course introduces students to the world of technology and engineering. The course focuses on the methods and execution of problem solving, while engaging students at an exploratory level in science, technology and engineering. Students will learn and apply the engineering design process. Topics of study may include: Construction technology, structural materials, fluid systems, electrical systems, and Bernoulli's principle. Through this course's practical real-world connections, students have an opportunity to see how science, mathematics, and engineering are part of their everyday world, and why it is important for every citizen to be technologically and scientifically literate. Satisfies technology requirement.

458 Robotics I CP (10-12) - 2.5 credits

Prerequisite: 80 in Honors science (412, 422, 440, 490, 430, 492), 85 in CP science (410, 420, 435, 489, 431, 427, 493, 480, 485), 95 in CP science (408, 418, 434, 488, 494, 431, 426, 434).

This introductory course is the first of a two-semester sequence. Students will use the Vex Robots system to design, construct, and program robots. Students will build a simple robot capable of performing tasks autonomously and/or with Wi-Fi joystick operation. Students will design and build machines that utilize physics concepts center of gravity, torque/rpm, gears and mechanical advantage. Student robots will have to complete numerous “challenges” throughout the semester. Grading will be based on the level of success in meeting specific criteria in a challenge. A majority of the class grade is based on a student-produced Engineering Notebook. Participants must be able to use algebra to complete some units. Programming experience is not a prerequisite, but is is an advantage. Satisfies technology requirement.

459 Robotics I Honors (10-12) - 2.5 credits

Prerequisite: 85 in Honors science (412, 422, 440, 490, 430, 492) or 90 in CP science (410, 420, 435, 489, 431, 427, 493, 480, 485).

This introductory course is the first of a two-semester sequence. It will focus on the use of the Intelitek Robotics Engineering Curriculum and the design, construction, and programming of Vex Robots. Students will build a simple robot capable of performing tasks autonomously and/or with Wi-Fi joystick operation. Students will build machines that demonstrate physics concepts including acceleration, momentum, center of gravity, torque/rpm, gears and levers. Students will understand how to construct and use basic machine control systems and integrate sensors to give the robot environmental awareness and to effect simple navigation. Participants must be able to use algebra to complete some units. Students selecting this honors 459 course must complete additional requirements above the CP 458 level including additional projects during the semester. Grading will be based on the level of success in meeting specific criteria in a challenge. A majority of the class grade is based on a student-produced Engineering Notebook. Satisfies technology requirement.

461 Robotics II CP (10-12) - 2.5 credits

Prerequisite: 80 in 459 Robotics I Honors or 75 in 458 Robotics I CP.

This course will focus on design, construction, and programming of complex robots capable of multimodal navigation and use of integrated sensors. Emphasis will be on basic physical manipulation of objects in an assembly line model. The semester ends with a capstone project. Ability to use algebra is essential for successful completion of course. As with all Robotics classes, the Engineering Notebook comprises a majority of the student grade. Satisfies technology requirement.

462 Robotics II Honors (10-12) - 2.5 credits

Prerequisite: 75 in 459 Robotics I Honors or 90 in 458 Robotics I CP.

This course will focus on design, construction, and programming of complex robots capable of multimodal navigation and use of integrated sensors. Emphasis will be on complex physical manipulation of objects in an assembly line model. The semester ends with a capstone project. Ability to use algebra is essential for successful completion of course. Students selecting this honors 462 course must complete additional requirements above the CP 461 level including additional projects during the semester. As with all Robotics classes, the Engineering Notebook comprises a majority of the student grade. Satisfies technology requirement.

485 Mechanical Engineering CP (11-12) - 2.5 credits

Prerequisites: 80 in Honors science (412, 422, 440, 490, 430), 85 in CP Intro to Engineering 480, or 85 in CP science (420, 435, 489, 431, 427, 493, 458). Concurrent Physics (or successful completion).

Engineers solve problems using technology. This Engineering course is for students interested in pursuing a career in Engineering or other technology field. The course will use hands-on projects, experiments and the underlying science concepts to introduce the process of solving problems with technology. Students will be expected to use math skills and work independently on projects. Past projects have included: structure/strength challenges, cardboard furniture and a poker chip shooter, and a center of mass challenge. 3D printing may include: using CAD software and 3d printers to make prototypes. Satisfies technology requirement.

492 Mechanical Engineering Honors (11-12) - 2.5 credits

Prerequisites: 85 in Honors science (412, 422, 440, 490, 430), 95 in CP Intro to Engineering 480, or 95 in CP science (420, 435, 489, 431, 427, 493, 458). Concurrent Physics (or successful completion).