Biology is a required course for freshmen that meets every day of the school week. We will discuss as much as possible about life and its characteristics. Classes will consist of lecture, discussion, laboratory exercises, projects, and video. (Two semesters; 5 cr. hrs./sem.)
A study of fundamental chemical experiments and principles. The course is based on the approach of the CHEM study project. Contents include: the atomic theory, the phases of water, the periodicity of the elements, the mole concept, molecular structure and chemical bonding, principles of chemical reactions, acid-base behavior, oxidation-reduction and selected topics in descriptive chemistry. Prerequisites: Algebra I and a previous science course. (Two semesters; 5 cr. hrs./sem.)
Physics:A course designed to introduce the student to four major topics in modern physics: mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, and quantum mechanics. Areas that receive spe
cial attention are Newton's laws of motion, vectors, energy and momentum, properties of matter, optics and wave motion, heat, electricity and magnetism, atomic and nuclear physics. Integrated laboratory experiments make physical theories and concepts concrete. Prerequisites: Algebra II and a previous science course. (Two semesters; 5 cr.hrs./sem.)
This is a two-semester sequence that introduces students to all major concepts within the scope of modern biology. These courses are intended for students majoring in the biological sciences or related pre-professional programs (pre-medicine, pre-dentistry, etc.). Topics covered include cell structure and function, metabolism, the biology of plants and animals, genetics, ecology, diversity and evolution. Laboratory exercises provide hands-on experiences that reinforce the lecture material. (Two sem.; 6 cr. hrs./sem.; dual-credit option allows for 4 college cr. hrs./sem.)
Honors physics is a second year physics course offered to seniors. It is the equivalent of a first year college physics course with calculus. Students taking this course are required to take calculus concurrently. Students who choose to pay a registration fee may earn 8 hours of college credit from Creighton University provided that they successfully manage the course. Topics covered are classical mechanics, special relativity, optics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, quantum mechanics and nuclear physics. Class meets five days per week. Classes consist of lectures, problem solving, laboratory exercises, demonstrations, computer based exercises and video materials. In the classroom, the students are always the focus of the learning. In addition to being asked to respond to questions in class, students are expected to demonstrate proficiency with material by making presentations to their classmates. Problems which require small groups solution occur each week. Demonstrations and laboratory exercises always have the students as the primary actors.
