USCC 7.18 rev3 (1) - Flipbook - Page 21
SCIENCE
Four science credits are required
for the College Bound plan. Three
science credits are required for
the Foundation plan. Placement
in honors-level Science classes
requires teacher recommendation
and administrative approval.
BIOLOGY
Biology is a laboratory-based course
examining general life processes,
including biochemistry, cellular
processes, genetics, classification
and taxonomy of microorganisms,
invertebrates, and vertebrates.
Computer applications are used to
facilitate learning. Laboratory skills,
critical thinking, summary writing,
and vocabulary development are
emphasized. Some dissection is
required.
Grade Level: 9
Type: Required
Credit: 1
Prerequisite: None
Pathway to Success
Cassidy Duan Swain, Shelton Class of 2016, Food Science
Product Developer,
Keurig Dr Pepper
• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry,
University of North Texas; Master’s
degree in Food Science and
Flavor Chemistry, Texas Woman’s
University; Ph.D. in Nutrition, Texas
Woman’s University
• Former chemist at PepsiCo
• Served as lead researcher on her
university’s largest USDA-funded
project
Shelton Coursework and Activities
• Shelton senior-year coursework:
Honors Chemistry, Honors Physics
II, Honors Pre-Calculus, Honors
English IV-British Literature,
Honors Post WW II, Government,
Economics, Philosophy, Spanish II
• Studio Art
• Learning difference: Dyslexia
“Shelton helped me understand my
learning difference and taught me not to
fear hard work. I learned that setbacks
are a normal part of the path to success.”
PHYSICS I
CHEMISTRY
Chemistry is a laboratory-based general chemistry
course, including topics such as metric measurement
in the laboratory, identification and function of
scientific instruments, classification of matter, basic
atomic structure, characteristics of elements, structure
and patterns of the periodic table of elements,
chemical reactions and chemical formulas, and
characteristics of compounds. Computer applications
are used. Critical thinking and laboratory skills are
stressed. Basic math skills are necessary.
Grade Level: 10
Type: Required
Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Biology
SHELTON.ORG
Physics I is a laboratory-based introductory physics
course that includes concepts of energy, forces, and
work and motion, as well as wave motion, electricity,
magnetics, and optics. Problem-solving and critical
thinking skills are emphasized and further developed
throughout the course.
Grade Level: 11
Type: Required
Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry
SCIENCE COURSE OPTIONS FOR
REQUIRED FOURTH SCIENCE CREDIT
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE
Earth and Space Science is a laboratory-based course
that includes studies in astronomy, atmospheric
dynamics, meteorology, oceanic and freshwater
kinetics, topography, landmasses, tectonics, geologic
time, petrology (rock studies), paleontology, and
mineralogy. Computer software is used extensively.
Emphasis is placed on observation of natural
phenomena, models and simulations, as well as the
collection and analysis of laboratory data.
Grade Level: 12
Type: fourth Science course option
Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, Physics I
UPPER SCHOOL COURSE CATALOG
2026-2027
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