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 Science Teachers
Mr. Cannon
Courses Taught
After School Activities
Education
---- Chicago State University - Bachelors Degree in ---- Chemistry and Education
Mr. Gwilliam
Ms. Norberg-Johnson
Courses Taught
After School Activities
Education
Ms. Smith
Courses Taught
After School Activities
Education
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 Science Courses
Core Science Courses
Introductory Physics - 9th Grade
This is an introductory level physics course. The course will emphasize the combining of algebra skills and inquiry-based exploration of fundamental physics concepts. Students will investigate the following topics: laws of motion; acceleration and force; weight; composition of matter; energy transfer; heat and temperature; wave motion; properties of light, colors, lenses, and mirrors; static electricity and magnetism. Students will create and maintain an Interactive Notebook to keep a conceptual and graphical record of their learning.
This is a regular chemistry course at the college preparatory level. Motivation, an ability to work independently, a willingness to meet with the teacher outside of class if necessary, and competency in algebra are important for success. Topics include: traditional chemical analysis, industrial and biochemical reactions, the mole concept, oxidation/reduction reactions, basic organic chemistry, and nuclear chemistry. Laboratory exercises are included. Since the majority of the curriculum is applied with a focus on hands-on activities, this course will require active participation, discussion and the use of the scientific method.
This is an advanced college preparatory course in chemistry recommended for those students who have a strong interest in participating in more independent studies alongside chemical instruction. Students should have previously demonstrated above average abilities in deductive reasoning, computational skills, and abstract conceptualization. Topics include: modern atomic theory, the mole concept, chemical periodicity, oxidation/reduction reactions, theories of chemical bonding in biochemical and industrial reactions, chemical energetics, acid-base reactions, rates of reactions, equilibrium, and nuclear chemistry. Laboratory exercises are used where appropriate. The majority of the curriculum is applied with a focus on hands-on activities. This course will require active participation, discussion and the use of the scientific method.
Biology - 11th Grade
This is an introductory level biology course, emphasizing the investigation of living organisms and their life processes. Students will explore the following topics: Characteristics and classification of living organisms; the history of life on earth, adaptations and ecological systems; patterns and interrelationships among living systems, both internal and external; genetics, inheritance, and bioengineering; the human body, health, disease and immunity; bioethics and technology. Students will work within established safety requirements, perform laboratory investigations and manipulate data, be expected to complete and present several projects, and produce at final portfolio project relating biological concepts to design and construction principles.
Physics I - 11th Grade
The first year physics course is an introduction to the concepts of Newtonian Mechanics. The focus is on understanding and being able to apply principles of linear and 2-dimensional motion, forces, Newton’s Laws, energy, and circular motion. Emphasis is placed on discovery and hands-on learning. Student understanding is evaluated by performance on design projects as well as problem-solving.
This course is an introduction to the principles of materials science, the study of the structure and properties of materials. Emphasis will be on materials and processes used in the building trades, including structural materials such as steel, concrete, ceramics, and wood, and on materials used in electrical, plumbing, windows, and other areas. Coursework will consist mostly of hands-on projects exploring the relationship between the process of manufacturing materials and their physical structure and properties.
The second year physics course covers gravity, rotational mechanics, waves, sound, light and color, electrostatics, and currents and circuits, and magnetism. As with the first-year course, discovery, hands-on learning, and design projects are an important part of the curriculum, however there is more emphasis on use of mathematics as a tool for understanding the physical principles.
Other Courses
Information Technology
This course is a broad introduction to the use of computers as tools for creativity, communications and organizing information. We at Ace do not assume that you have any previous computer experience, but even those students who are already advanced computer users will find activities to challenge them. In addition to learning the technical fundamentals of computer use, we hope to help you build your skills in researching information, making appropriate ethical choices about the use of computers, and using technology to help you learn on your own and pass your new skills on to others.
Piano
This course is designed to teach students the basics of playing the piano and educate them on key historical and contemporary composers. By the end of the year, students should be able to read music and play late beginner/early intermediate piano pieces. Students learn to play the piano on digital keyboards, and as the instructor, I communicate with students through headsets. Tests are performance based, quizzes are written and based on theory, and homework assignments are taken from theory exercises relevant to each unit. Overall, the class will be divided between instruction time, and individual/group practice time.
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