Science Department
The department supports a wide range of on going independent research programs. The school's Turtle Tagging project in association with the National Marine Fisheries Service has been in place since 1987. The Legacy project in association with the Mauna Kea Soil and Water Conservation District is focused on the mapping and conservation of the plants, soil and water of the Pelekane Watershed of North Kohala. VOGNET in association with the Mauna Loa Observatory and the National Ocean and Atmospheric Association is active in studying the movement of volcanic emissions above the Big Island. Students interested in sports training and fitness have the opportunity to become involved in the Human Performance Lab under the auspices of physiologists from the North Hawaii Community Hospital. The Department offers classes in Astronomy, Electronics, Archaeology, Geology, Environmental Science, Human Anatomy and Physiology, and Marine Biology as well as offering an Independent Science Research elective.
Possible careers in the field of Science:
Pharmacist
Astronaut
Biologist
Chemical Engineer
Chemist
Dentist
Drug Rehabilitation
Environmental Protection
Environmental Conservationist
Epidemiologist
Forensic Scientist
Game Warden
Genetic Counselor
Genetic Engineer
Geneticist
Laboratory
Marine Biologist
Medical Doctor
Medical Technician
Mining
Museum Curator
Nurse
Optometrist
Park Ranger
Physical Therapist
Physicist
Public Health Services
Research Scientist
Teacher
Zoologist
_________
Advanced Marine Biology
Term: 2 Semesters
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Introduction to Marine Biology
This advanced course builds on the foundation developed in Marine Biology. Students employ acquired knowledge and skills in advanced field projects. Projects might include coral reef monitoring, sea turtle tagging, marine aquarium setup and maintenance, aquarium animal collection techniques, underwater photography and videography, and snorkeling and/or SCUBA diving observations of the coral reef environment in Hawai‘i. The focus remains on current marine-conservation issues and discussions of ways to help promote environmentally conscientious behavior.
Anatomy and Physiology
Term: 1 Semester
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisites: None
This course explores the structure and multiple functions of the human body. All major body systems are covered with emphasis on understanding the relationship between systems and the organism as a whole. This course focuses on the parts of a system, functions of that system, and common disorders, as well as treatments and prevention for disorders of that system. Students will be required to conduct research in this course.
AP Biology
Term: 2 Semesters
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: A- or better in Biology or B+ or better in Honors Biology
AP Biology prepares students for the AP Biology examination. It is advisable for students to take a chemistry course, prior to or simultaneously while taking AP Biology. Topics include cell biology, molecular biology and genetics, and evolution and ecology. Labs and activities complement lectures and readings. Upon successful completion of the AP Biology exam, a student is eligible to receive college credit for a one-year course in general biology.
AP Chemistry
Term: 2 Semesters
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: B+ or better in either Chemistry or Honors Chemistry and concurrent enrollment in General Physics and Calculus
Advanced Placement (AP) Chemistry is a course designed to prepare students to take the College Board’s AP Chemistry exam and for students who expect to major in Chemistry, Physics, Pre-med, or Pre-pharmaceutical fields. Topics include: electronic structure, quantum mechanics, atomic theories, bonding theories, chemical reactions, periodic law, molar relationships, acids and bases, different phase behavior, Thermo-chemistry, equilibrium reaction, and an introduction to organic chemistry. Upon successful completion of the AP Chemistry exam, a student is eligible to receive college credit for a one-year course in general chemistry.
AP Physics B
Term: 2 Semesters
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Algebra 2 Trigonometry (Calculus recommended)
AP Physics B represents a first-year physics college-level course, including motion, forces, energy, light, heat, sound, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics (atomic and nuclear). This is an excellent preparation course for the Advanced Placement exam in physics (B level: non-calculus).
AP Physics C
Term: 2 Semesters
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: AP Physics B (non-Calculus) and Honors Physics
This calculus-based course represents two semesters of a three-semester college Physics course for Engineering/Science majors. This course is based on the College Board specifications for students taking the Advanced Placement C exam (calculus based) in Physics, and as such, has certain required labs and material. The course teaches mechanics, electricity, and magnetism in semester two. The AP exam is divided into two separate exams and taking at least one of these exams is required. This course fulfills many college requirements for a freshman Physics course upon successful completion of the AP exam in May.
Astronomy
Term: 1 Semester
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisites: None
(Under Construction)
Biology
Term: 2 Semesters
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: None
Biology emphasizes individual discovery through activities, lab exercises, and projects. Students learn methods of biological investigations, how to derive knowledge from these investigations and the theories that organize this knowledge. This course explores research literacy, ecology, the cell theory and structure, and genetics. Animal systems are explored from invertebrates to humans. Students use and critically analyze scientific literature and other sources through readings, labs, activities, and explorations of local flora and fauna.
Chemistry
Term: 2 Semesters
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Strong background in Algebra, Geometry, and Biology is recommended.
Chemistry is an introductory course designed to provide students with a strong foundation in chemistry, cultivate analytical thinking, and encourage enthusiasm for science. This course is for students who expect to study science in college. Topics include: the concept of matter, atoms and molecules, chemical formulas and reactions, the periodic table, the concept of mole, acids and bases, different phase behavior, and basic quantum mechanics. This course places great emphasis on student interaction.
Foundation Science
Term: 2 Semesters
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: None
Foundation Science is an entry-level required course. The content challenges and tests a student’s ability to problem solve and think critically as they investigate physics, chemistry and biology concepts. Students are asked to apply concepts presented during class. This conceptual approach to science learning exposes students to many challenges. Demonstrations, activities, project competitions and lab exercises supplement the application-based curriculum. Being able to explain “why” in detail is a critical component of the assessment process. Organizational skills, competent written expression and coherent responses are all essential components for success.
General Physics
Term: 2 Semesters
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Algebra level math or instructor approval
This course is an excellent introduction and survey of Physics to help equip any student for further study in the sciences. Topics include: motion, force, energy, electricity, magnetism, and light. Students utilize laptop computers as data-gathering and testing devices in this hands-on course.
Geology
Term: 1 Semester
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisites: None
(Under Construction)
Environmental Science I & II
Term: 1 or 2 semesters
Credit: 0.5 or 1.0
Prerequisites: None
This course examines past, present, and future with regard to environmental change and human impact. Focus is on Hawai‘i’s unique atmosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere. Students apply past and current trends toward predicting future outcomes. Local environmental issues are presented and debated to provide insight, information, and different points of view.
Health and Nutrition
Term: 1 Semester
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation
This course provides knowledge and understanding of health and nutrition. The health component is related to diet, exercise, wellness, and personal hygiene. The nutritional aspect of the course focuses on the structure and function of the three basic foods sources, i.e. proteins, fats and carbohydrates, and develops into an understanding of how they fit into our dietary needs. Students also learn the calorific value and RQ values of each food source and the functions of the digestive system as it relates to food consumption.
Honors Biology
Term: 2 Semesters
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Biology
Honors Biology is a challenging course that explores the full range of standard biology topics at a level that prepares students to take the STAT II in biology or Advanced Placement Biology. Topics include cell biology, molecular biology and genetics, and evolution and ecology. Labs and activities complement lectures and readings. Students learn methods of biological investigations, how to derive knowledge from these investigations, and the theories that organize this knowledge. In addition to laboratory skills, students are challenged to develop their independent reading, note taking, and essay writing skills.
Honors Chemistry
Term: 2 Semesters
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Minimum of B+ or better in both Algebra 2 Trigonometry and Biology
Honors Chemistry is a higher-level, fast-paced introductory yearlong course that provides students with a strong foundation in chemistry, cultivates analytical thinking, and encourages enthusiasm for science. The course is for students who expect to major in science in college. Topics include: the concept of matter, atoms and molecules, chemical formulas and reactions, the periodic table, the concept of the mole, acids and bases, different phase behavior, and basic quantum mechanics. Students who perform well will be encouraged to take the SAT II in Chemistry.
Honors Physics
Term: 2 Semesters
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Algebra level math and teacher recommendation
This is a hands-on course in which students utilize laptop computers as data gathering and testing devices. The course is a survey of Physics, including a study of motion, force, energy, electricity, magnetism, light, and some material from the AP course as well as online simulation. Math used in this course is at the algebra level. This course equips students for further study in the sciences.
Introduction to Marine Biology
Term: 1 Semester
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisites: None
Marine biology is a science elective that focuses on the ocean ecosystem and its inhabitants. The course uses lecture, field trips, documentaries, projects, labs, and web-based resources to explore the marine world. The course includes the study of physical oceanography and a detailed survey of the characteristics and ecology of the major taxonomic groups of marine organisms.
Pre-Engineering
Term: 1 Semester
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisites: None
This is an experience-based course that provides an orientation and exposure to engineering activities. Engineering applies scientific principles to solutions of practical problems in a laboratory-based setting, utilizing computer systems, testing devices and equipment, materials, engineering graphics, math, science, language arts, and social studies principles. Students learn engineering practices of designing, prototyping, analyzing, and improving new and existing designs through activities. Students use tools, materials, and machines in the laboratory to solve real-world problems and communicate—through reading and writing—technical information. Students design, engineer, and evaluate products and systems to better understand the relationship between technology and society. Environmental and legal considerations, as well as professional ethics, are addressed through student engineering experiences.
Science Research
Term: 1 Semester
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisites: None
Science Research is an independent research course offered to exceptional science students who are self-motivated and show an interest in the sciences. Students are required to submit documentation of their research or a final paper.
Wilderness First Responder
Term: 1 Semester
Credit: 0.5
Prerequisites: 15 years of age or older
Wilderness First Responder is a nationally recognized program that trains students and provides tools to make critical medical and evacuation decisions when responding to emergencies in remote settings. Adult CPR is included in this course. The curriculum includes standards for urban and extended care situations. Special topics include, but are not limited to: wound management and infection, realigning fractures and dislocations, improvised splinting techniques, patient monitoring and long-term management problems, up-to-date information on all environmental emergencies, and advice on drug therapies. Emphasis is placed on prevention and decision-making. Students may earn certification.