Updated 12/2024
* Please note: Chemistry is required as a prerequisite for several advanced science options.
- All students are required to take both Biology (or CP Biology) and Earth Systems in order to meet the required state standards. These two courses are also foundational for all other science courses.
- Students in any pathway may take more than one science class per year provided appropriate prerequisites have been met.
- All students are required to take at least 30 credits of science: there are additional science courses not listed for the student who has difficulty meeting the 30 credit requirement.
- Incoming 9th graders who choose an accelerated option should have advanced math skills (completed Algebra 1 or higher), plan on taking more than 40 credits of science, have excellent academic skills and a strong work ethic.
6710 Biology
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: None
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 9 & 10
Biology is a standards-based life science course that explores the interactions of the living world. This course illustrates the relevance and impact of science in society, while engaging students in the mastery of basic biology concepts that will prepare them for higher level life sciences. Topics of study include cell structure and function, genetics, evolution, ecology, and other various topics. At FRHS: Students will participate in laboratory-based activities.
6709 CP Biology
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Algebra 1
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 9 & 10
CP Biology is a standards-based life science course that explores the interactions of the living world. This course illustrates the relevance and impact of science in society, while engaging students in the mastery of basic biology concepts that will prepare them for higher level life sciences. Topics of study include cell structure and function, genetics, evolution, ecology, and other various topics. The course includes more rigorous reading and intensive lab work that is intended to prepare students, in skill and content knowledge, to take Advanced Placement Biology.
At FRHS: This is a high-level class that requires exceptional motivation and interest in the sciences. It is strongly recommended that a student earned an “A” in 8th grade science. Students will study a broader range of topics (i.e. human physiology) and some of the content (i.e. cellular energy) at greater depth. Students will need about 3 hours outside of class each week in order to master the content of this class. This class is not required to take AP Biology.
6809 Earth Systems Science
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Algebra 1 (Geometry or higher concurrently)
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11, 12 (9th grade allowed with Biology or CP Biology co-requisite)
Earth Systems Science (ESS) is a standards-based physical science course that explores the fundamentals of energy and matter and the interactions of the various spheres of Earth (atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere) as a dynamic, evolving system. This course illustrates the relevance and impact of science in society, while engaging students in the mastery of basic physics and chemistry concepts that will prepare them for higher level physical sciences.
At FRHS: This is a valuable standards-based course designed to provide students with the necessary process, scientific reasoning, laboratory and 21st Century skills that are critical for development of scientific literacy. Students who can demonstrate strong science skills and earth systems science content knowledge on a placement test given during the prior spring semester will be able to enroll in higher level science courses.
6760CECU AP Biology (may be taken for concurrent enrollment credit through CU Denver)
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry (Anatomy and Physiology are strongly suggested)
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 11 & 12
AP Biology, as designed by the College Board, is a rich and challenging class for highly motivated students in biology. The rigor of this class stems from the depth of content, as well as its emphasis on the scientific process through completion of several college laboratories. Students will use a college textbook and supplementary material to understand the following major themes in biology: evolution, relationship of structure to function and regulation of life processes, interdependence in nature, and science as it relates to technology and society. Successful performance on the national AP Biology exam may result in the granting of college credit at many universities.
6830 Anatomy and Physiology
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Biology, Earth Systems Science
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 11 & 12
This upper level course is an in-depth study of the major human systems, their structure, functions, integrations of all systems, clinical applications, health and wellness, and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis. The course also introduces common human disease processes. The laboratory component includes anatomical studies using microscopy, dissection, and the study of physiological concepts via experimentation.
6860 Zoology **
Credits: 5 (semester course)
Prerequisite(s): Biology & ESS (concurrent)
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Zoology students study the major phyla of the animal kingdom. Life cycles, anatomy and physiology, reproduction, ecology, and economic benefits are emphasized. Correlated sciences would include entomology, herpetology, mammalogy, parasitology, and ornithology. This class should appeal not only to students who desire a career with animals, but also for others who have an interest in learning about the natural world around them. Laboratory dissections are a required component of this class.
At FRHS: **Zoology and Botany and Microbiology are merged into one integrated semester-long course.
6840 Botany and Microbiology**
Credits: 5 (semester course)
Prerequisites: Biology & ESS (concurrent)
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
This course studies plants, viruses, and bacteria. Class topics include phylogeny, plant anatomy and physiology, growth requirements, and plant reproduction and agriculture. Also included is a study of microorganisms with an emphasis on pathological species. Aseptic laboratory techniques are used. This course is for students with an interest in biology and the biomedical sciences. At FRHS: ** Zoology and Botany and Microbiology are merged into one integrated semester-long course.
6790 Chemistry
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Earth Systems Science and
Concurrent Algebra II
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Chemistry is a two-term laboratory class exploring the interactions of matter. Units of study include atomic structure, stoichiometry, nomenclature, chemical bonding, gases, and acids and bases. Its approach also emphasizes rigorous problem-solving skills and quantitative laboratory work necessary for college. At FRHS: This course is inquiry-based course that utilizes an on-line homework program called CALM.
6804 Advanced Chemistry
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Algebra 2 and Earth Systems Science
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Advanced Chemistry is a rich and challenging class for highly motivated students in chemistry. The rigor of this class stems from the depth of content, as well as its emphasis on the science process through completion of laboratory activities. Topics of study include atomic structure, chemical bonding, periodicity, nomenclature and reactions, solution chemistry, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, the behavior of gases, and other various topics. At FRHS: This course is designed for students who have a strong interest in science, poses advanced math skills, and are independent learners. This course is not a requirement for those students who plan on taking AP Chemistry. Students in Advanced Chemistry will use ALEKS, an online program, for out of class practice and application of material learned in class.
6800CECU AP Chemistry (may be taken for concurrent enrollment credit through CU Denver)
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Chemistry and Algebra II
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
AP Chemistry, as designed by the College Board, is a rich and challenging class for highly motivated students in chemistry. The rigor of this class stems from the depth of content, as well as its emphasis on the scientific process through completion of several college laboratories. Students will use a college textbook and supplementary material to study chemical kinetics and equilibrium, acid base chemistry, electrochemistry, thermodynamics, and other miscellaneous topics. Successful performance on the national AP Chemistry exam may result in the granting of college credit at many universities.
6820 Physics
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Algebra 2 (concurrent) with strong Math skills
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Physics is a laboratory course exploring the interactions of energy and matter. Units of study include one dimensional and two-dimensional motion, forces, energy, momentum and introductions to waves, sound, light, electricity and modern physics. Its approach also emphasizes rigorous problem-solving skills and quantitative laboratory work necessary for college. At FRHS: This class is available to 9th graders enrolled concurrently in Biology / CP Biology. Must be recommended for Algebra 2 or higher in 9th grade and intend in taking 4 more years of science in high school.
6822 AP Physics 1
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Algebra 2 with strong Math skills
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
AP Physics 1 is equivalent to a first-semester college course in algebra-based physics designed by the College Board. It is a rich and challenging class for highly motivated students in physics. The rigor of this class stems from the depth of content, as well as its emphasis on the scientific process through completion of several college laboratories. Students will use a college textbook and supplementary material to cover Newtonian mechanics (including kinematics and dynamics); work, energy, and power; momentum; rotational motion and torque; and mechanical waves. Successful performance on the national AP Physics exam may result in the granting of college credit at many universities.
6826 AP Physics C
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Calculus (concurrent). It is recommended that students have successfully completed either a Physics class or a Calculus class
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
AP Physics C is a calculus-based course designed by the College Board. It is a rich and challenging class for highly motivated students in physics. The rigor of this class stems from the depth of content as well as its emphasis on the scientific process through completion of several college laboratories. Students will use a college textbook and supplementary material to study mechanics, thermodynamics, waves, electricity and magnetism, atomic and nuclear physics, and other miscellaneous topics. Successful performance on the national AP Physics exam may result in the granting of college credit at many universities. At FRHS: Students will use a college textbook and supplementary material to study the Mechanics concepts of kinematics; Newton’s laws of motion, work, energy, and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; rotation; oscillations; and gravitation and the Electricity and Magnetism concepts of electrostatics, conductors, capacitors and dielectrics, electric circuits, magnetic fields, and electromagnetism. This course prepares students to take BOTH the Mechanics and E & M exams.
6770 Environmental Science
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Biology and ESS (concurrent)
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Environmental Science is a course designed for the student who is interested in local, national, and global environmental issues. Topics of instruction may include ecology, biomes, energy utilization and alternate energy sources, land use patterns, pollution, population, and analysis of environmental problems. At FRHS: Environmental Science is a laboratory-based course. It is NOT recommended that a student take BOTH Environmental Science and AP Environmental Science.
6881 Astronomy
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Algebra 2
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Astronomy goes beyond what is offered in Earth Systems Science and Geospace. Topics include the history of astronomy, observational astronomy and mathematics, telescope fundamentals and design, space exploration, the solar system, star evolution, galaxy evolution, and the history and future of the Universe. Students will be performing laboratory-based activities. Students may have an opportunity to attend evening and early morning observations at the school, as well as field trips to local observatories and planetariums.
6774 AP Environmental Science
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 11 & 12
AP Environmental Science, as designed by the College Board, is a rich and challenging class for highly motivated students interested in environmental science. The rigor of this class stems from the depth of content, as well as its emphasis on the scientific process through completion of several college laboratories. Students will use a college textbook and supplementary material to study concepts and methodologies to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine the alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Successful performance on the national AP Environmental Science exam may result in the granting of college credit at many universities.
6850 Cell Biology and Genetics **
Credits: 5 (semester course)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology or CP Biology
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
The class will focus on the cell as the basic unit of structure and function for living systems, cell anatomy metabolic processes at the molecular level and cell division. The genetic portion deals with Mendelian genetics, molecular genetics, chromosomal mutation, population genetics and statistical evaluation of data. This class is strongly recommended for students with interests in biology and biomedicine. Laboratory activities will relate to these topics and statistical evaluation of data will be used. At FRHS: **Biotechnology and Cell Biology and Genetics are merged into one integrated semester-long course.
6748 Biotechnology **
Credits: 5 (semester course)
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Biology or CP Biology
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Biotechnology uses a hands-on approach to explore the use of DNA technology in medicine, agriculture, law enforcement, and industry. This class is designed to introduce students to various lab techniques utilized in the life sciences. Students will complete labs in microbiology, use state of the art technology to isolate and manipulate DNA, and practice techniques used in crime scene investigation. At FRHS: **Biotechnology and Cell Biology and Genetics are merged into one integrated semester-long course.
3075S1 Introduction to Health Science A
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: None
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This introductory Health Science course provides an overview of the challenging environments and occupation is the healthcare field. This course introduces students to the five pathways that make up the health science cluster (Diagnostic, Therapeutic, and Support Services, Health Informatics, Biotechnology Research and Development). In addition, students are provided a hands-on application of the foundational skills/ knowledge including health maintenance, employability skills, teamwork, healthcare systems, communications, and legal issues in healthcare. At FRHS there are no science course prerequisites to enroll in this course.
7666 Medical Terminology
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: None
Meets requirement(s): Wellness
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
Medical Terminology is a one semester course which gives students in-depth instruction in recognizing and forming medical terms related to the body's organ systems. Students will learn medical root words, prefixes, and suffixes and apply them to the body systems, as well as understand different diseases, conditions, diagnostic, and treatment procedures for each system.
3788 Patient Care Technician Certification A/B
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Intro to Health Sciences
Co-requisites: Anatomy and Physiology
Meets requirement(s): Wellness
Open to Grades: 11 & 12
The Patient Care Technician Certification (CPCT) course is a 10 credit course and provides preparation for the National Health career Association (NHA) CPCT/A certification exam. Students may take the NHA certification exam up to one year before their anticipated graduation. The course will prepare students in knowledge and practice of patient care skills, EKG and phlebotomy content, as well as a review of anatomy and physiology, and pathology
Seal of Climate Literacy
Colorado’s Seal of Climate Literacy is awarded to students who demonstrate an understanding of climate literacy and a commitment to addressing its impacts in their communities. To attain this diploma endorsement, students must complete three elements including a combination of two Poudre School District-approved academic courses and an experiential learning project. See https://www.sealofclimateliteracy.org/seal for more information. At Fossil Ridge, in order to earn the Seal of Climate Literacy students must complete Biology and Earth Systems Science in person at Fossil Ridge as well as an experiential learning project that meets the criteria outlined in the PSD rubric.
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: None
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 9 & 10
Biology is a standards-based life science course that explores the interactions of the living world. This course illustrates the relevance and impact of science in society, while engaging students in the mastery of basic biology concepts that will prepare them for higher level life sciences. Topics of study include cell structure and function, genetics, evolution, ecology, and other various topics. At FRHS: Students will participate in laboratory-based activities.
6709 CP Biology
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Algebra 1
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 9 & 10
CP Biology is a standards-based life science course that explores the interactions of the living world. This course illustrates the relevance and impact of science in society, while engaging students in the mastery of basic biology concepts that will prepare them for higher level life sciences. Topics of study include cell structure and function, genetics, evolution, ecology, and other various topics. The course includes more rigorous reading and intensive lab work that is intended to prepare students, in skill and content knowledge, to take Advanced Placement Biology.
At FRHS: This is a high-level class that requires exceptional motivation and interest in the sciences. It is strongly recommended that a student earned an “A” in 8th grade science. Students will study a broader range of topics (i.e. human physiology) and some of the content (i.e. cellular energy) at greater depth. Students will need about 3 hours outside of class each week in order to master the content of this class. This class is not required to take AP Biology.
6809 Earth Systems Science
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Algebra 1 (Geometry or higher concurrently)
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11, 12 (9th grade allowed with Biology or CP Biology co-requisite)
Earth Systems Science (ESS) is a standards-based physical science course that explores the fundamentals of energy and matter and the interactions of the various spheres of Earth (atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere) as a dynamic, evolving system. This course illustrates the relevance and impact of science in society, while engaging students in the mastery of basic physics and chemistry concepts that will prepare them for higher level physical sciences.
At FRHS: This is a valuable standards-based course designed to provide students with the necessary process, scientific reasoning, laboratory and 21st Century skills that are critical for development of scientific literacy. Students who can demonstrate strong science skills and earth systems science content knowledge on a placement test given during the prior spring semester will be able to enroll in higher level science courses.
6760CECU AP Biology (may be taken for concurrent enrollment credit through CU Denver)
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry (Anatomy and Physiology are strongly suggested)
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 11 & 12
AP Biology, as designed by the College Board, is a rich and challenging class for highly motivated students in biology. The rigor of this class stems from the depth of content, as well as its emphasis on the scientific process through completion of several college laboratories. Students will use a college textbook and supplementary material to understand the following major themes in biology: evolution, relationship of structure to function and regulation of life processes, interdependence in nature, and science as it relates to technology and society. Successful performance on the national AP Biology exam may result in the granting of college credit at many universities.
6830 Anatomy and Physiology
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Biology, Earth Systems Science
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 11 & 12
This upper level course is an in-depth study of the major human systems, their structure, functions, integrations of all systems, clinical applications, health and wellness, and mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis. The course also introduces common human disease processes. The laboratory component includes anatomical studies using microscopy, dissection, and the study of physiological concepts via experimentation.
6860 Zoology **
Credits: 5 (semester course)
Prerequisite(s): Biology & ESS (concurrent)
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Zoology students study the major phyla of the animal kingdom. Life cycles, anatomy and physiology, reproduction, ecology, and economic benefits are emphasized. Correlated sciences would include entomology, herpetology, mammalogy, parasitology, and ornithology. This class should appeal not only to students who desire a career with animals, but also for others who have an interest in learning about the natural world around them. Laboratory dissections are a required component of this class.
At FRHS: **Zoology and Botany and Microbiology are merged into one integrated semester-long course.
6840 Botany and Microbiology**
Credits: 5 (semester course)
Prerequisites: Biology & ESS (concurrent)
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
This course studies plants, viruses, and bacteria. Class topics include phylogeny, plant anatomy and physiology, growth requirements, and plant reproduction and agriculture. Also included is a study of microorganisms with an emphasis on pathological species. Aseptic laboratory techniques are used. This course is for students with an interest in biology and the biomedical sciences. At FRHS: ** Zoology and Botany and Microbiology are merged into one integrated semester-long course.
6790 Chemistry
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Earth Systems Science and
Concurrent Algebra II
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Chemistry is a two-term laboratory class exploring the interactions of matter. Units of study include atomic structure, stoichiometry, nomenclature, chemical bonding, gases, and acids and bases. Its approach also emphasizes rigorous problem-solving skills and quantitative laboratory work necessary for college. At FRHS: This course is inquiry-based course that utilizes an on-line homework program called CALM.
6804 Advanced Chemistry
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Algebra 2 and Earth Systems Science
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Advanced Chemistry is a rich and challenging class for highly motivated students in chemistry. The rigor of this class stems from the depth of content, as well as its emphasis on the science process through completion of laboratory activities. Topics of study include atomic structure, chemical bonding, periodicity, nomenclature and reactions, solution chemistry, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, the behavior of gases, and other various topics. At FRHS: This course is designed for students who have a strong interest in science, poses advanced math skills, and are independent learners. This course is not a requirement for those students who plan on taking AP Chemistry. Students in Advanced Chemistry will use ALEKS, an online program, for out of class practice and application of material learned in class.
6800CECU AP Chemistry (may be taken for concurrent enrollment credit through CU Denver)
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Chemistry and Algebra II
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
AP Chemistry, as designed by the College Board, is a rich and challenging class for highly motivated students in chemistry. The rigor of this class stems from the depth of content, as well as its emphasis on the scientific process through completion of several college laboratories. Students will use a college textbook and supplementary material to study chemical kinetics and equilibrium, acid base chemistry, electrochemistry, thermodynamics, and other miscellaneous topics. Successful performance on the national AP Chemistry exam may result in the granting of college credit at many universities.
6820 Physics
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Algebra 2 (concurrent) with strong Math skills
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Physics is a laboratory course exploring the interactions of energy and matter. Units of study include one dimensional and two-dimensional motion, forces, energy, momentum and introductions to waves, sound, light, electricity and modern physics. Its approach also emphasizes rigorous problem-solving skills and quantitative laboratory work necessary for college. At FRHS: This class is available to 9th graders enrolled concurrently in Biology / CP Biology. Must be recommended for Algebra 2 or higher in 9th grade and intend in taking 4 more years of science in high school.
6822 AP Physics 1
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Algebra 2 with strong Math skills
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
AP Physics 1 is equivalent to a first-semester college course in algebra-based physics designed by the College Board. It is a rich and challenging class for highly motivated students in physics. The rigor of this class stems from the depth of content, as well as its emphasis on the scientific process through completion of several college laboratories. Students will use a college textbook and supplementary material to cover Newtonian mechanics (including kinematics and dynamics); work, energy, and power; momentum; rotational motion and torque; and mechanical waves. Successful performance on the national AP Physics exam may result in the granting of college credit at many universities.
6826 AP Physics C
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Calculus (concurrent). It is recommended that students have successfully completed either a Physics class or a Calculus class
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
AP Physics C is a calculus-based course designed by the College Board. It is a rich and challenging class for highly motivated students in physics. The rigor of this class stems from the depth of content as well as its emphasis on the scientific process through completion of several college laboratories. Students will use a college textbook and supplementary material to study mechanics, thermodynamics, waves, electricity and magnetism, atomic and nuclear physics, and other miscellaneous topics. Successful performance on the national AP Physics exam may result in the granting of college credit at many universities. At FRHS: Students will use a college textbook and supplementary material to study the Mechanics concepts of kinematics; Newton’s laws of motion, work, energy, and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; rotation; oscillations; and gravitation and the Electricity and Magnetism concepts of electrostatics, conductors, capacitors and dielectrics, electric circuits, magnetic fields, and electromagnetism. This course prepares students to take BOTH the Mechanics and E & M exams.
6770 Environmental Science
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Biology and ESS (concurrent)
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Environmental Science is a course designed for the student who is interested in local, national, and global environmental issues. Topics of instruction may include ecology, biomes, energy utilization and alternate energy sources, land use patterns, pollution, population, and analysis of environmental problems. At FRHS: Environmental Science is a laboratory-based course. It is NOT recommended that a student take BOTH Environmental Science and AP Environmental Science.
6881 Astronomy
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Algebra 2
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Astronomy goes beyond what is offered in Earth Systems Science and Geospace. Topics include the history of astronomy, observational astronomy and mathematics, telescope fundamentals and design, space exploration, the solar system, star evolution, galaxy evolution, and the history and future of the Universe. Students will be performing laboratory-based activities. Students may have an opportunity to attend evening and early morning observations at the school, as well as field trips to local observatories and planetariums.
6774 AP Environmental Science
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 11 & 12
AP Environmental Science, as designed by the College Board, is a rich and challenging class for highly motivated students interested in environmental science. The rigor of this class stems from the depth of content, as well as its emphasis on the scientific process through completion of several college laboratories. Students will use a college textbook and supplementary material to study concepts and methodologies to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine the alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Successful performance on the national AP Environmental Science exam may result in the granting of college credit at many universities.
6850 Cell Biology and Genetics **
Credits: 5 (semester course)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology or CP Biology
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
The class will focus on the cell as the basic unit of structure and function for living systems, cell anatomy metabolic processes at the molecular level and cell division. The genetic portion deals with Mendelian genetics, molecular genetics, chromosomal mutation, population genetics and statistical evaluation of data. This class is strongly recommended for students with interests in biology and biomedicine. Laboratory activities will relate to these topics and statistical evaluation of data will be used. At FRHS: **Biotechnology and Cell Biology and Genetics are merged into one integrated semester-long course.
6748 Biotechnology **
Credits: 5 (semester course)
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Biology or CP Biology
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 10, 11 & 12
Biotechnology uses a hands-on approach to explore the use of DNA technology in medicine, agriculture, law enforcement, and industry. This class is designed to introduce students to various lab techniques utilized in the life sciences. Students will complete labs in microbiology, use state of the art technology to isolate and manipulate DNA, and practice techniques used in crime scene investigation. At FRHS: **Biotechnology and Cell Biology and Genetics are merged into one integrated semester-long course.
3075S1 Introduction to Health Science A
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: None
Meets requirement(s): Science
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
This introductory Health Science course provides an overview of the challenging environments and occupation is the healthcare field. This course introduces students to the five pathways that make up the health science cluster (Diagnostic, Therapeutic, and Support Services, Health Informatics, Biotechnology Research and Development). In addition, students are provided a hands-on application of the foundational skills/ knowledge including health maintenance, employability skills, teamwork, healthcare systems, communications, and legal issues in healthcare. At FRHS there are no science course prerequisites to enroll in this course.
7666 Medical Terminology
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: None
Meets requirement(s): Wellness
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11 & 12
Medical Terminology is a one semester course which gives students in-depth instruction in recognizing and forming medical terms related to the body's organ systems. Students will learn medical root words, prefixes, and suffixes and apply them to the body systems, as well as understand different diseases, conditions, diagnostic, and treatment procedures for each system.
3788 Patient Care Technician Certification A/B
Credits: 10
Prerequisites: Intro to Health Sciences
Co-requisites: Anatomy and Physiology
Meets requirement(s): Wellness
Open to Grades: 11 & 12
The Patient Care Technician Certification (CPCT) course is a 10 credit course and provides preparation for the National Health career Association (NHA) CPCT/A certification exam. Students may take the NHA certification exam up to one year before their anticipated graduation. The course will prepare students in knowledge and practice of patient care skills, EKG and phlebotomy content, as well as a review of anatomy and physiology, and pathology
Seal of Climate Literacy
Colorado’s Seal of Climate Literacy is awarded to students who demonstrate an understanding of climate literacy and a commitment to addressing its impacts in their communities. To attain this diploma endorsement, students must complete three elements including a combination of two Poudre School District-approved academic courses and an experiential learning project. See https://www.sealofclimateliteracy.org/seal for more information. At Fossil Ridge, in order to earn the Seal of Climate Literacy students must complete Biology and Earth Systems Science in person at Fossil Ridge as well as an experiential learning project that meets the criteria outlined in the PSD rubric.