Energy changes affect matter through both physical (thermal and interaction energies) and chemical (breaking and reforming bonds). Scholars learn
nomenclature, balancing chemical equations, mathematical processes including conversions, density, heat capacity, mole equations, stoichiometry, and gas equations. The process of scientific discovery is explored through the history of the atomic theory development and the men and
women important to this process. Topics in acids, bases, reaction rates, nuclear chemistry, and basic organic chemistry are explored. Daily activities, labs and lab reports, as well as modeling techniques of drawing what the particles and energy are doing are used to obtain not only hands-on but minds-on understanding.

CHM 130 Rio Salado College: 4 Credits

Prerequisite: Biology, Algebra 1

This course is algebra-based Physics with a study of Kinematics, the reasons for, laws of and patterns in the motion of things.  Common misconceptions are unraveled as scholars learn how to articulate a new and improved perspective of the physical world. New vocabulary as well as old vocabulary used in new ways helps scholars to communicate their findings in scientific inquiry activities. Forming and testing hypotheses by experimentation and analysis of the results are important parts of this process. Other components of Newton’s mechanical universe are studied, including Momentum, Energy, Vectors, and Optics. Once scholars master the concepts of rectilinear motion, they are introduced to curves, satellites and orbits. A capstone unit on harmonic motion, waves, sound and light finishes this course of study.

Prerequisite: Biology & Algebra II     

Recommended for Seniors (12^th grade)

Dual Enrollment option with Rio Salado College

This class is an introduction to using computers for productivity in the academic environment. Keyboarding on the QWERTY keyboard requires practice time to become proficient at touch typing. Therefore, there are three components in the keyboarding class. First, typing practice is provided through a software as a service (Saas) environment. Typing lessons include teaching the layout of the modern qwerty keyboard, technique, and speed. Time is allocated so that each scholar is able to gain sufficient practice to know the keyboard well. Second, since typing happens in the context of a computer system, basic computer use is covered in lessons and practice. Students use the MS Windows operating system and become acquainted with basic file management, window operation, using network file systems, and launching and using application software. Focus is on MS Word. Third since understanding the principles of word processing in general is important, students are introduced to these concepts by using additional software such as LibreOffice. As students understand principles, they are more able to us available software whether it is Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or other. Pagination, margins, academic formats such as MLA, source citations, graphical image inclusion and placement, lists, bibliographies, and charting features are covered in order to prepare students to be able to create and modify further academic work required in English, History, and other classes.

Prerequisite: None