HSC 024 - General Science

Credits: 5
LEC hours per week: 5
This course is designed for students seeking a high school credits through the AEP/Open Doors Youth Re-Engagement Program, students studying for the GED exam, and students seeking educational enrichment. Students will explore foundational topics in science; a special focus will be placed on understanding those issues within the context of everyday life. Throughout this course students will gain familiarity with evidence-based writing, reading for comprehension, media/computer literacy, and mathematical concepts used in science. Students who successfully complete this course will earn a high school lab credit in science; students can earn an additional credit if they demonstrate the requisite competencies. All students under 19 years of age must have a signed release from the last school they attended. Students 16-18 years of age must first be admitted to the College following the Alternative Education Program (AEP)/Open Doors Youth Re-Engagement Program eligibility or Underage Admissions Policy, which is available in the Transitional Studies/High School Programs office.
Course Outcomes:

Evaluate scientific arguments presented in diverse media formats. (CCRS R5-9)
Comprehend scientific text, summarize key supporting details, and cite specific textual evidence. (CCRS R1, 2, and 10)
Create logical scientific arguments and cite evidence using logical and valid reasoning. (CCRS W1 and 9)
Produce clear and coherent writing in which development, organization, and style is appropriate to the task while using an academic writing process. (CCRS W4 and 5, R2-5)
Perform scientific investigations in a lab setting; gather, analyze, and critically evaluate scientific data; and communicate scientific results according to appropriate academic standards.
Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects, assessing the credibility of sources, integrating information, and citing relevant sources. (CCRS W7-9)
Perform basic mathematical computations in relation to scientific study, including data represented in charts and graphs.
Use technology skills for academic purposes, including word processing and learning management systems and to increase background knowledge, access information, and enhance scholarship.
Compile evidence through portfolio assessment to document academic growth and increased proficiency in content areas.
Students will show proficiency at Level D in Reading based on the Career and College Readiness Standards Anchors 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, and 10 (use reading rubric to determine competency).
Students will show proficiency at Level D in Writing based on the Career and College Readiness Standards Anchors 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 (use writing rubric to determine competency).
Students will show proficiency at Level B in Math based on the Career and College Readiness Standards Anchors 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 (use math rubric to determine competency).

Course Topics:

The Scientific Method
Characteristics of life
Cells - functions, structures, and division
Evolution
Genetics
Chemistry - periodic table and chemical reactions
Ecology - local, regional, and global
Cycles - water, nitrogen, and carbon
Reading comprehension and writing skills
Media literacy
Computer fundamentals