Program of Studies Program of Studies 2019-2020 | Page 40

Everyday Engineering Marine Biology
Engineering Principles Honors Marine Biology
0.5 credit
Grades 9, 10, 11 and 12
Our modern lifestyle is built on many mechanical
devices that we use everyday or rely on for everyday
living. Students will learn basic mechanical concepts
and simple machines and then apply what they
learn to make more complex machines that model
real-world engineering projects. Students will
engage in engineering labs, prescribed projects and
independent creative projects. Upon completing the
course students will have a an understanding of basic
mechanical concepts and how to apply those concepts
to solve complex mechanical problems. Students will
use hand-held power tools, hand tools, and hot glue
guns.
1 credit
Grades 10, 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Everyday Engineering or placement by
instructor
Design and build complex machines that integrate
a variety of engineering concepts. The course will
revolve around a hands-on approach to systems
thinking. The course will also introduce VEX Robotics
to students and offer the opportunity to compete in
robotics competitions.
Maine Fish and Wildlife
0.5 credit
Grades 10, 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Biology or Honors Biology (may be taken
concurrently)
This course focuses on multiple classes of wildlife
found in Maine including mammals, birds, fish,
amphibians, and reptiles. Along the way, students
uncover the challenges Maine wildlife face, the
adaptations that allow them to survive here, and
some of the strategies used by humans to manage
populations. Students in this course get the
opportunity to participate in the T.A. Squirrel project,
an ongoing mark/recapture study of gray squirrels on
campus.
0.5 credit
Grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: two credits of science
In this course, students will discover the great
diversity of marine life and the physical and chemical
factors that influence it, including seawater chemistry,
tides, waves, and currents. Students will study the
coastal and oceanic environments of marine life from
shallow water habitats such as the rocky intertidal,
giant kelp forests, and coral reefs to deep-sea
communities such as those found at hydrothermal
vents. Students will learn basic dissection techniques
and use of the compound and dissecting microscopes
as they study the internal and external features of
marine organisms.
0.5 credit
Grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: two credits of science
This course is designed for students pursuing post
secondary education in a scientific field. The course
begins with a brief overview of basic physical,
chemical and geological oceanography. A discussion
of major phyla in each of the marine kingdoms will
include taxonomy, evolution, ecology, and concerns
relating to future survival/extinction of groups under
consideration. Laboratory exercises will enhance
students’ appreciation of the diversity of sea life.
Students will build skills in data collection, synthesis,
and interpretation through quantitative reasoning,
problem solving, and field work. Eligible students
will receive 4 credits in science at Southern Maine
Community College.
Trees and the Maine Forest
0.5 credit
Grades 10, 11, 12
Students will explore a wide array of topics in tree
identification, botany, history of Maine forestry,
forestry today, and Maine forest agriculture. Topics
of study will be geared toward native species and
management systems right here in Maine.