Cellular Biology 0.75 credits W 11, 12 Prerequisite: Biology Cells are the building blocks of life. Cells have structure, function, and they are composed of smaller units called organelles that work together to make an organism what it is. This trimester course will cover the process of how cells cycle, how they regulate themselves, and cellular replication. This is a course designed for students who seek an in-depth exploration of the cellular level of life and how diversity, the essence of biology, is so vast. Student experiences include microscopy, looking at their own cells, and hands-on projects to demonstrate competencies. This course runs during H period. Beekeeping (Monday Afternoon Activity) 0.5 credits F, S 9-12 Want a taste of a fascinating outdoor hobby? Monday Afternoon Beekeeping introduces you to the basic care of a hive of honeybees -- humankind’s insect best friend. In Fall 2022, this class will take several field trips to learn from experienced local beekeepers, and will help lay the groundwork for Wooster’s first colony of honeybees, due to arrive in Spring 2023. In Spring 2023, this class will work with our own hive to establish a strong colony of these intelligent and useful creatures. Beekeeping Intensive 1.5 credits S 9-12 Work as a part of a team to see the world through the eyes of a honeybee, understand their needs, and provide the care that will sustain Wooster’s honey bee hive through the seasons. Learn how to identify the queen bee, provide supplemental food for the hive when needed, and manage for parasites. Become familiar with the biology of these fascinating organisms and how they communicate with each other to provide for the needs of the hive. Students that wish to participate in the Beekeeping Intensive program must also enroll in the Monday afternoon Beekeeping activity. This afternoon activity is pass/fail.
Mathematics
We have created our curriculum with the view that the understanding of fundamental mathematical ideas is a continuing and ordered process. We plan course offerings to give students recurring and varied contact with the essential principles, processes, language, and notation of mathematics. Discovery, logic, brainstorming, analogy, and other techniques introduce and reinforce concepts. Regular practice creates opportunities to master the manipulations and notions discussed in class. Calculators and graphing tools are used to facilitate computations after basic skills have been learned. The core subjects of the mathematics curriculum are the sequential Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2. Successful completion of these courses or their honors equivalents is a graduation requirement.
Embedded Honors
Students sometimes do not recognize their zest for more challenging mathematical thinking until they are actively engaged in deeper problem-solving experiences. That in mind, our Algebra 1 and Geometry courses offer an opt-in, Honors component for passionate and motivated students to dig deeper. Following the successful completion of basic course requirements, students may choose to 20