Incoming Freshmen must complete at least two science courses during their first four terms at NMHS. Those courses will be Integrated Science A and one of the following: Aquatic World, Living Environment or Uplands Environment. All science courses will use the A, B, C & F grading format, with 70% required for passing. This format should ensure that all students who pass have completed and mastered the course content.

Level I Courses INTEGRATED SCIENCE A (This course is required before any other science course may be taken.) PREREQUISITE: none FULFILLS: Science level one graduation requirement GRADE LEVELS: 9-11 Can you roll your tongue? Why is there a "Ring of Fire" around the Pacific Ocean? How important are water and energy in our technological society? Answer these questions and more through this integrated course in science. Its general thematic nature allows you to examine four main topics by applying the principles of several different scientific disciplines. Performance will be graded on completion of a major product at the end of each topic. All of these topics will be approached through experiments and from the viewpoint of the physicist, chemist, biologist and geologist. INTRODUCTORY PLANT SCIENCE PREREQUISITE: Application and Instructor approval FULFILLS: Science graduation requirement GRADE LEVEL: 9-11 Do you like gardening? Do you like designing things and doing science experiments? Would you like to build a factory that employs earthworms? Are you willing to work outside and get dirt under you fingernails? Introductory Plant Science involves students in lab and field work doing ongoing projects and experiments as they grow plants, design watering systems and landscapes, and troubleshoot gardening problems. Students will work outside, as well as in the classroom and greenhouse Level 2 Courses THE AQUATIC WORLD PREREQUISITE: Integrated Science A or a previous H.S. Science course FULFILLS: Science level two graduation requirement GRADES: 9-12 This class beckons you to join in an exploration of the global and local aquatic world. Through field trips, classroom and field research and academic thoroughness, you'll gain an understanding and appreciation of our oceans, lakes and rivers, and the creatures that inhabit them. You will have the opportunity to apply your learning in interactive, action projects in the community. This course is taught at the Hood Canal Wetlands Project Center on the North Mason School District's Wetland Campus. Transportation to the Project Center is provided. THE LIVING ENVIRONMENT PREREQUISITE: Science A or previous high school science course FULFILLS: Science level two graduation requirement GRADES: 9-12 The Living Environment will give you an appreciation of the vast diversity of living things, and acquaint you with the special adaptations that allow these diverse things to function. Emphasis of study will be in the areas of digestion, Mendelian genetics, and comparative anatomy. The comparative anatomy will be explored with the aid of dissections. UPLAND ENVIRONMENTS PREREQUISITE: Integrated Science A FULFILLS: Science graduation requirement GRADES: 9-12 Would you like to collect raindrops, grow beautiful triclinic crystals, study gems, be on a team of astrogeologists, and grow plants under a variety of environmental conditions? If these activities intrigue you then choose this product-oriented course and discover the geological, biological, and chemical processes that make the Pacific Northwest "high countriy" a unique place on Earth. You will use digital thermometers, ovens, hot plates, ice, and chemicals in activities that occur in the laboratory and outdoors.   This page was created by XYL in 1996. Send comments and suggestions to: XYLblaster@hotmail.com Page maintained by Lisa McLoughlin North Mason High School Library

Level 3 Courses ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY PREREQUISITE: Passing grade in Level I and Level II Science. FULFILLS: Science graduation requirement. GRADES: 10-12 *New course pending district approval Anatomy and physiology is a class designed to give you an in-depth introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the human body. This class will provide you with an overall understanding of the structures, organs, and systems that make up the human body. Lab experiments will include fresh and preserved specimens. We will take a comparative approach using various organs, and yes, even dissect rats and cats. In your investigations, both inside and outside the laboratory, you will be required to observe record, interpret, and analyze scientific data in an organized problem solving method. ASTRONOMY PREREQUISITE: Passing grade in Level I and Level II Science course, completion of Algebra and reading at grade level FULFILLS: Science graduation requirement GRADES: 10-12 This course explores the mysteries of the universe and gives some sense of where we fit in it - a sense of location in the cosmic landscape. The universe will be explored through laser discs, the Internet, CD-ROM's, and telescopes. This course will consist of historical content as well as controversial topics. Since reading is a critical skill for success in astronomy, this course is recommended for those with good reading skills and an interest in the subject matter. Algebra is required for some computations. CHEMISTRY PREREQUISITE: Passing grade in Level I and Level II Science course, A or B in Beginning Algebra A FULFILLS: Science Level III graduation requirement GRADES: 10-12 Chemistry is the heart of all sciences. This course investigates the structure and behavior of matter. In this course you will cover the spectrum of chemistry from the periodic table to stoichiometry and organic chemistry. You will have the opportunity to learn proper chemistry laboratory techniques, turn pennies into “gold”, experiment with a wide range of chemicals, and practice many math related chemistry problems. Classes will involve lab experience, lectures, demonstration, reading, research, scientific writing, problem solving activities, and independent homework. This is a challenging, fast paced class with many activities and assignments developed to grasp a wide understanding of the importance of chemistry in our world. GENETICS PREREQUISITE: Integrated Science A, A or B in The Living Environment AND instructor permission FULFILLS: Science graduation requirement GRADES: 10-12 Genetics will provide you with an opportunity to explore the world of DNA and inheritance while learning biotechnology skills. Lab techniques will include selective breeding of fruit flies, DNA printing, and replicating DNA. Algebra based problems will be incorporated into genetic problem solving.. HOOD CANAL INSTITUTE FOR ECOLOGICAL STUDIES PREREQUISITE: - A or B in at least two high school science courses and instructor's permission FULFILLS: Science graduation requirement GRADES: 10-12 Here's a great chance to act as a scientist and active citizen in you local community while developing marketable skills for your future! Hood Canal uses a project-based learning experience in the areas of environmental research, monitoring and restoration; public performances live, on paper and via cyberspace; current technologies for data collection & management; and a chance to explore career areas of your choice. Students in the Watershed projects will be featured each term. These award winning projects utilize the Tahuya State Forest as Washington State's largest outdoor classroom. This course will be taught at the Hood Canal Watershed Project Center on the North Mason School District's Wetland Campus. Transportation to the center will be provided. So if getting active and being outdoors sounds good to you, join us and get started on your future now! MATERIAL SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY PREREQUISITE: Passing grade in Level I and Level II Science course. FULFILLS: Science graduation requirement GRADES: 10-12 Material Science Technology is a hands- on course in which students will observe, create, experiment with and manipulate a variety of materials used in our everyday lives. Theory behind materials and their behavior is also presented. The course consists of five areas of study including solids, metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites. Students will operate equipment, record and interpret data, analyze material systems and learn proper safety procedures. This course does not count towards satisfying the four year college entrance and NCAA Clearing House requirement in science. PHYSICS PREREQUISITE: Passing grade in Level I and Level II science course, A or B in two of the following: Beginning Algebra A, Beginning Algebra B, Advanced Algebra A or Geometry. FULFILLS: Science graduation requirement GRADES: 10-12 This product oriented course allows you to study the wonders of matter and energy in classical mechanics, thermodynamics and nuclear physics. Good word processing skills as well as knowledge of the use of the Internet are necessary for the successful completion of a course that all college-bound students should take.