2026-2027 TSD Course Description Book - Flipbook - Page 50
Genetics, Bacteriology, Biotechnology, and Embryology (104063/204063)
Grades 10-12
Full year 1.0 credit
Meets NCAA requirements
Students must have completed Biology prior to taking this course. This course will explore four areas of study while
emphasizing the development of related laboratory skills and engineering practices in each unit of study. This course prepares
students for AP Biology through four key areas. In Genetics, you’ll study cells, chromosomes, mitosis, meiosis, and
reproduction while exploring gene transmission, inheritance patterns, polygenes, and cytogenetics. Biotechnology covers
DNA structure, replication, gene expression, mutations, cloning, and advanced techniques like CR, CRISPR, and gel
electrophoresis. In Bacteriology, you’ll examine microbes, germ theory, bacterial morphology, growth measurement,
antibiotics, resistance, metabolism, and microbial diversity, applying skills to identify unknowns. Finally, Embryology
investigates animal development stages, gene roles, and hormonal influence in reproduction. Unique research opportunities
are provided, and evolutionary theory is a common thread that ties the course together.
AP Biology (104073/204073)
Grades 10-12
Full year 1.0 credit
Meets NCAA requirements
Students must complete Biology, Chemistry 1 and Chemistry 2 OR Organic Chemistry prior to taking this course. AP Biology is an
introductory college-level biology course with emphasis on the application of concepts through laboratory experiences. Students
cultivate their understanding of biology through notetaking and inquiry-based investigations as they explore evolution, cellular
processes, energy and communication, genetic information transfer, ecology, and interactions. Students will engage in science
practices as they design experiments, collect and analyze data, apply statistical reasoning, and communicate scientific claims with
evidence. These scientific practices support deep conceptual understanding of biological processes that align with the College Board
AP Biology Exam.
Chemistry 1 (004122)
Grades 9-12
1 semester 0.5 credit
Meets NCAA requirements
Students will study theories and concepts in chemistry related to energy, atomic structure, bonding, chemical reactions,
solution, and combustion. Many topics are developed through problem solving real-life phenomena. Experiments will be
performed which will drive the learning of concepts. Students will execute a variety of laboratory techniques throughout the
semester. Students will be expected to work with a group, follow procedures, ask questions, organize data, make
observations, develop models, and apply concepts learned to real-life practical situations.
Chemistry 2 (004123)
Grades 9-12
1 semester 0.5 credit
Meets NCAA requirements
Students are required to complete Chemistry 1 prior to taking this course. Course satisfies 1/2 credit of math related graduation
requirement during the 12th grade year. Students will extend their learning of theories and chemistry related concepts including
atomic structure, bonding, chemical reactions, solutions, acid-base chemistry, thermodynamics, equilibrium, and gas laws. Many
topics are developed through analytical problem solving of real-life phenomena. Experiments will be performed in a collaborative
setting which will drive the learning of concepts. A strong foundation in algebra will be important in understanding class concepts.
Students interested in any STEM related field are encouraged to take the course. This course is a pre-requisite for taking AP
Chemistry.
