Explore Our Curriculum

Science

The Out-of-Door Academy Science Department’s core courses are taught in alignment with the Next Generation Science Standards. Each of the core courses is designed to emphasize depth of content rather than breadth of content. As well, each content item is covered in conjunction with the seven science practices outlined by the College Board. This improves our student’s ability to not only know science, but to think like a scientist, and apply this thinking to their everyday challenges.

  • Advanced Honors Engineering Part 1: Prototype Design

    Designed for students who intend to pursue engineering studies in college, Engineering Studies prepares students by emphasizing integration of mathematics, science, and English concepts and skills into engineering problems in a curriculum demanding rigorous study habits and other college-level skills. Students are encouraged to become routinely inquisitive through brainstorming and prototyping. Students practice basic engineering skills and communication of technical information while applying the engineering design process to complete an engineering project.

  • Advanced Honors Engineering Part 2: Advanced Applications of Engineering

    Students will acquire foundational knowledge and skills for entry and advanced level coursework in higher educational institutions, which includes the fundamental knowledge of mechanical and electrical design, fabrication, and programming. Students will gain skills in advanced elements of robotics and engineering. This will include the use of software for design (i.e.: SolidWorks or AutoCAD) and programming (i.e.; Scratch, Robot-C and MAT). 

  • AP Biology

    Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, and Teacher Recommendation

    This course serves two purposes–the first is to expand on the information that was introduced in core biology and chemistry courses; the second is to prepare the student for the Advanced Placement exam in the spring, which can earn the student college credits. The basics learned in biology will be quickly reviewed and expanded to include considerably more detail. Throughout the year, the guidelines set by the College Board will be used to determine to what extent each topic is covered. This course is geared toward the serious science student who either has a passion for the sciences and/or is thinking of majoring in a science field. This is a great opportunity for students to be exposed to true college-level learning. This qualifies as a lab science course.

  • AP Chemistry

    Prerequisites: Chemistry, Algebra II, and Teacher Recommendation

    This course is the equivalent of a first-year college course in chemistry. The basics learned in Honors Chemistry will be quickly reviewed. The students will then work to deepen their understanding of these foundational topics while exploring the interconnectivity of these topics into overall big ideas. Laboratory experiments introduce students to advanced glassware, equipment, and procedures, and reinforce theoretical concepts learned in the classroom. Stoichiometry is the foundation of this course. Students must have a strong grasp of mathematics and chemical processes to enter this fast-paced and extremely rewarding class. This qualifies as a lab science course.

  • AP Environmental Science

    Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, and Teacher Recommendation.

    The goal of this course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. Students will identify and analyze environmental problems, both natural and human-made, as well as evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Environmental science is interdisciplinary; it embraces a wide variety of topics from different areas of study. This qualifies as a lab science course

  • AP Physics 1

    Prerequisites: Algebra II  and Teacher Recommendation.

    This first-year physics course expands the content of the core physics course to include derivation of physics formulas and problem-solving of a more rigorous nature.  Labs are also more detailed and complex.  Students are expected to work in a more independent, self-motivated manner while completing the requirements of this course.  Concepts are developed through reading assignments, lectures, demonstrations, videos, software, and computer-based labs.  Topics include Newtonian mechanics and dynamics, gravitation, work, energy, power, sound, light, and an introduction to electric circuits. This qualifies as a lab science course.

  • AP Physics 2

    Prerequisites: AP Physics 1 and Teacher Recommendation

    This course expands on the foundations of physics principles covered in AP Physics 1. Critical thinking and problem-solving are the cornerstones of this course. Students will be expected to obtain solutions to complex problems involving several physics principles by the use of physical intuition, experimental investigation, and formal logic. Students should be self-motivated and capable of independent effort as labs, many computer-based will be mainly open investigations with minimal direction. Topics will include thermodynamics, fluids, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, and nuclear physics. This qualifies as a lab science course.

  • AP Psychology

    Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation, Grades 11 or 12, Grade 12 given priority

    This course introduces students to the systemic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. While considering the psychologists and studies that have shaped the field, students explore and apply psychological theories, key concepts, and phenomena associated with such topics as the biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and cognition, motivation, developmental psychology, testing, and individual differences, treatments of psychological disorders, and social psychology. Throughout the course, students employ psychological research methods, including ethical considerations, as they use the scientific method, evaluate claims and evidence, and effectively communicate ideas. This course is designed to be the equivalent of the Introduction to Psychology course usually taken in the first year of college. This qualifies as a lab science course.

  • Biology

    Prerequisites: None

    This course, which includes both lecture and laboratory, is designed as an introduction to the many complexities of biology. The major goal of this course is to provide the student with a basic knowledge of biology while preparing for more specific life science courses in college. Specific topics include an introduction to chemistry and biochemistry, the cell, genetics, evolution, life forms, and ecology. This qualifies as a lab science course.

  • Chemistry

    Prerequisites: Algebra I or Advanced Algebra

    This course will provide an introduction to the basic concepts of chemistry starting with the atomic theory and ending with acids and bases. Through lectures, discussions, experiments, and hands-on activities, students will be introduced to new material and learn how the chemistry involved applies to everyday life. The laboratory component of the course acquaints students with the techniques, skills, and technology used by chemists. The course works to further develop the critical-thinking abilities of students with an emphasis on how to make scientific decisions based on the evidence available. This qualifies as a lab science course.

  • Computer Programming I

    Prerequisites: None

    This course is intended for students in grades 9 or 10 and is a first course in programming for students regardless of programming experience. This is an opportunity for students to learn about algorithms and logical thinking. Students will utilize different software packages and environments to work individually as well as collaboratively on programming projects of increasing complexity. Students taking this course will need a computer and Internet access as students will be required to download and work in development environments. Recommended for students who plan to enroll in AP Computer Science A.

  • Computer Programming II

    Prerequisites: Computer Programming I
    This course is intended for students in grades 9 or 10 and is the second introductory course in programming for students regardless of programming experience. This is an opportunity for students to learn about algorithms and logical thinking. Students will utilize different software packages and environments to work individually as well as collaboratively on programming projects of increasing complexity. Students taking this course will need a computer and Internet access as students will be required to download and work in development environments. Recommended for students who plan to enroll in AP Computer Science A.

  • Engineering I: Design and Analysis

    Prerequisites: Algebra I (or Advanced Algebra)

    The focus of this course is to expose students to the engineering design process as they problem-solve challenges in a variety of engineering fields.  Students will employ engineering and scientific concepts in the solution to engineering challenges. Students will develop problem-solving skills as they apply researched knowledge to design creative solutions to various challenges. This may count as an art credit.

  • Engineering II: Applied Designs

    Prerequisites: Engineering I: Design and Analysis.

    The course continues to build on the Engineering Design and Analysis course. The challenges will increase in difficulty throughout the course. This course will also focus on exploring different disciplines of engineering while utilizing the engineering design process, ethical decision-making, teamwork, and communicating to diverse audiences. These concepts will be developed through project-based learning techniques.

  • Forensics Science I

    Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry

    This course will introduce the principles and practices of forensic science. Students will learn about the different types of evidence that can be collected and analyzed at a crime scene, as well as the scientific methods used to examine and interpret this evidence. Students will also learn about the role of forensic science in the criminal justice system. This qualifies as a lab science course.

  • Forensics Science II

    Prerequisites: Forensic Science I

    Building upon the foundation established in Forensics I, this advanced course delves deeper into the specialized techniques and applications of forensic science. Students will gain experience in conducting crime scene investigations, analyzing more complex evidence, and learn writing and presentation methodologies that can support legal proceedings. This qualifies as a lab science course.

     

  • Honors Advanced Engineering I: Prototype Design

    Prerequisites: Honors Engineering I and Part II

    Designed for students who intend to pursue engineering studies in college, Engineering Studies prepares students by emphasizing the integration of mathematics, science, and English concepts and skills into engineering problems in a curriculum demanding rigorous study habits and other college-level skills. Students are encouraged to become routinely inquisitive through brainstorming and prototyping. Students practice basic engineering skills and communication of technical information while applying the engineering design process to complete an engineering project. This may count as an art credit.

  • Honors Advanced Engineering II: Advanced Applications of Engineering

    Prerequisites: Advanced Honors Engineering I: Prototype Design

    Students will acquire foundational knowledge and skills for entry and advanced level coursework in higher educational institutions, which includes the fundamental knowledge of mechanical and electrical design, fabrication, and programming. Students will gain skills in advanced elements of robotics and engineering. This will include the use of software for design (i.e.: SolidWorks or AutoCAD) and programming (i.e.; Scratch, Python, Java). This may count as an art credit.

  • Honors Anatomy and Physiology: External

    Prerequisites: Biology (or Honors Biology) and Chemistry (or Honors Chemistry), Grades 11 or 12 or Teacher Recommendation.

    Anatomy is the physical structure of an organism, and physiology is the study of how the physical structure functions. To fully appreciate one, you need to understand the other. This Course will Focus on the Integumentary System, Skeletal System, and Muscular System. Each System’s Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology will be discussed. This qualifies as a lab science course.

  • Honors Anatomy and Physiology: Internal

    Prerequisites: Biology (or Honors Biology) and Chemistry (or Honors Chemistry), Grades 11-12 or Teacher Recommendation.

    Anatomy is the physical structure of an organism, and physiology is the study of how the physical structure functions. To fully appreciate one, you need to understand the other.   This Course will Focus on the Digestive System, Cardio-respiratory SystemRespiratory, and Nervous System. Each System’s Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology will be discussed.  This qualifies as a lab science course. *Each course is one semester and can be taken independently of the other. However, it is recommended to take External Anatomy and Physiology first.

  • Honors Biology

    Prerequisites: Teacher Recommendation

    This introductory biology course, designed for the self-motivated science student, is an in-depth introduction to the many complexities of biology. The scope and depth of this Honors level course are greater than that of the core biology course. The topics covered in the class include an introduction to chemistry and biochemistry, the cell, genetics, evolution, life forms, and ecology. This qualifies as a lab science course.

  • Honors Chemistry

    Prerequisites: Algebra and Teacher Recommendation.

    This introductory course is designed to develop the basic ideas of chemistry using a more mathematical approach than that of the core chemistry course. Calculation-based critical thinking and problem-solving are emphasized. Laboratory experiments, many open-ended and inquiry-based, reinforce the concepts learned in the classroom. The topics covered in the course include properties of matter, atomic structure, bonding, stoichiometry, solutions, acids and bases, and nuclear chemistry. This qualifies as a lab science course.

  • Honors Engineering I: Drones and Robotics

    Prerequisites: Engineering I: Design and Analysis and Engineering II: Applied Designs OR successful completion of AP Computer Science A.
    This course comprises a combination of project-based, socially relevant design challenges and explorations that introduce students to key computing principles in the context of engineering. Students employ engineering processes, skills, and habits of mind to solve more complex challenges that rely on computing, programming, data representation and analysis, algorithmic thinking, and modeling skills that are so important in engineering. Students will learn the basic building of robots and drones; programming simple movements then progress to working with sensors and more complex behaviors.

  • Honors Engineering II: Programming Applications

    Prerequisites: Honors Engineering I: Drones and Robotics

    This course addresses technology's positive and negative impacts and the intended and unintended results of its implementation. Students investigate and analyze critical emerging issues affecting the creation, development, use and control of contemporary and future technology. This is a laboratory-based engineering course designed to study a technological system or topic that will allow students to propose and implement alternative solutions. Students will then measure, quantify, assess, design, and communicate how this advancement affects society and/or the environment. This may count as an art credit.

  • Honors Engineering: Drones and Robotics

    Prerequisites: Engineering I: Design and Analysis and Engineering II: Applied Designs OR successful completion of AP Computer Science A.

    This course comprises a combination of project-based, socially relevant design challenges and explorations that introduce students to key computing principles in the context of engineering. Students employ engineering processes, skills, and habits of mind to solve more complex challenges that rely on computing, programming, data representation and analysis, algorithmic thinking, and modeling skills that are so important in engineering. Students will learn the basic building of robots and drones; programming simple movements then progress to working with sensors and more complex behaviors. This may count as an art credit.

  • Honors Environmental Science

    Prerequisites: Biology and Teacher Recommendation.
    The honors environmental course provides students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required
    to understand the interrelationships of humans within the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems
    both natural and manmade, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems and to examine alternative
    solutions for resolving and/or preventing the problems. Environmental science is a multidisciplinary science,
    combining aspects of biology, chemistry, marine science, and ecology.

  • Honors Marine Science

    Prerequisites:  Biology, Chemistry, and Teacher Recommendation.

    This course is an in-depth survey of the marine biome.  Topics include both the biotic and abiotic components of marine environments:  physical oceanography,  the diversity of marine organisms, and human impacts on marine communities.   Through ODA’s partnership with Mote Marine Aquarium, this course provides students with access to research-based field experiences in our local gulf, bays, and estuaries. This qualifies as a lab science course.

  • Honors Physics

    This course focuses on the concepts of physics principles as they apply to everyday life. These concepts are developed through reading assignments, lectures, demonstrations, videos, software, and computer-based labs. Although a “concepts-before calculations” approach is taken in this course, math proficiency at the Algebra II level is required for basic, straightforward problem solving. The topics covered in the class include Newtonian mechanics and dynamics, gravitation, energy, special relativity, sound, light, electricity and magnetism, and nuclear physics.

  • Honors STEM Innovation and Research: From Concept to Creation I

    Prerequisites: Teacher Recommendation, Grades 11 or 12.

    Ever wanted to do a STEM-related research project but didn’t know where to start? This is the class for you! This course is designed to support students who are interested in pursuing independent experimental research on a STEM project. The first part of the course focuses on exploring ideas and creating potential projects related to the student’s interests and abilities. The second part of the course consists of hands-on research, conducted in the science laboratory, or product development, built in the maker space studio. Students in this course are expected to be able to work independently and to have demonstrated the maturity needed to be able to do so. 

  • Honors Zoology

    Prerequisites:  Biology, Chemistry, and Teacher Recommendation.

    Honors Zoology will focus on the study of individual organisms, populations, and species parting from the core foundations of evolution and ecology learned in previous Biology courses. The course will study major terrestrial animal groups such as mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects emphasizing their specific adaptations, behaviors, anatomy, and relations with each other and the environment.  Taking advantage of the unique habitats in the surrounding area, this course will offer hands-on research opportunities and field excursions to local points of interest. This qualifies as a lab science course.

  • Marine Science I

    Prerequisites: Biology (or Honors Biology) and concurrently taking, or the completion of, Chemistry (or Honors Chemistry).

    Marine Science is designed to be a broad survey of coastal and marine ecosystems.  Through lectures, laboratories, activities, and field trips, the course will include a study of the physical, chemical, and geological aspects of oceanography, marine biology, and the coastal environment. The interrelationships of humans and our impacts on marine ecosystems are featured concepts throughout the course. This qualifies as a lab science course.

  • Marine Science II

    Prerequisites: Biology (or Honors Biology) and concurrently taking or the completion of, Chemistry (or Honors Chemistry).

    Both the lecture and laboratory components of the course emphasize the study of the ocean and its environment above and below the surface. Using a global perspective and current events, students apply the “big picture” concepts in a PBL (Project Based Learning), data-based exploration. Students will be engaging in our local marine ecosystem, via class field trips and project-specific data-gathering opportunities.  Professionals serve as guest speakers and mentors for a culminating project where students will display proficiency and a depth of knowledge. This qualifies as a lab science course. *Each course is one semester and can be taken independently of the other. However, it is recommended to take Concepts in Marine Science first.

  • Physics

    Prerequisites: Concurrently taking, or the completion of Algebra II or Algebra II Honors

    This course focuses on the basic concepts of physics principles as they apply to everyday life. These concepts are developed through reading assignments, lectures, demonstrations, videos, software, and computer-based labs. Although a “concepts-before calculations” approach is taken in this course, math proficiency at the Algebra II level is required for basic, straightforward problem-solving. The topics covered in the class include Newtonian mechanics and dynamics, gravitation, energy, special relativity, sound, light, electricity and magnetism, and nuclear physics. This qualifies as a lab science course.

The Out-of-Door Academy

LOWER SCHOOL |  Historic Siesta Key Campus  |  Pre-K – Grade 5
444 Reid Street, Sarasota, FL 34242  |  941-349-3223  |  Fax: 941-349-8133

LOWER SCHOOL |  Lower School Campus on Clark Road  |  Pre-K – Grade 1
11011 Clark Rd, Sarasota, FL 34241   |  941-349-3223

MIDDLE & UPPER SCHOOLS  |  Uihlein Campus in Lakewood Ranch  |  Grades 6 – 8 |  Grades 9 – 12
5950 Deer Drive, Sarasota, FL 34240  |  941-349-3223  |  Fax: 941-907-1251
The Out-of-Door Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, physical ability, religion, sex, age, gender, sexual orientation, or national origin.
The Out-of-Door Academy is an equal opportunity employer.

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