Astronomy: A Comprehensive Study of our Solar System & Universe

Designed to increase student awareness of the beauty, wonder, and vastness of our universe, this course presents a compelling and meaningful package of information based upon the explorations and discoveries of ancient and modern astronomers. Topics in this descriptive course include observing the night sky, history of Astronomy, telescopes, and investigations into the formation, evolution, and nature of planets, moons, stars, and galaxies. Students should have a working knowledge of algebra and geometry. This course may require some viewing sessions after dark. It is hoped this course will precipitate a lifelong interest in Astronomy and the space sciences.

Advanced Topics in Astronomy (Honors): Discovering the Universe

Advanced Astronomy is intended to provide the serious student a comprehensive survey of contemporary issues and research questions posed by today’s astronomers. Discussions, readings, and research-based inquiries will enhance the student’s knowledge of selected themes including the origin and structure of the sun and solar system, stellar Astronomy, spectroscopy, and the formation and properties of galaxies. Using data collected from research-quality telescopes, students will be encouraged to conduct their own authentic research projects, collect and present data, and write scientific articles, which may be submitted for publication in a student journal.

Weather and Climate: A Comprehensive Study of Earth’s Atmosphere

This comprehensive course introduces students to the scientific principles of weather and climate. Topics studied include structure and composition of the atmosphere, heating and cooling of the earth’s surface, motion and stability of the atmosphere, weather instruments, weather map analysis and forecasting, pressure systems, severe storms, and global weather systems.

Aviation and Aerospace

Principles of Aviation and Aerospace is specifically designed to provide White Bear Lake students an introduction to the science of air and space flight and the career opportunities available following this course of study. In addition, students may expect a thorough examination of the topics covered in Pilot Ground School which will assist the student in preparing for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Private Pilot written exam, the first step in obtaining a Private Pilot License.

Planet Earth: A Study of the Physical Geology of our Home Planet

The objective of this course is to provide students with a fundamental understanding of the earth and the dynamic processes that shape it. Detailed studies include the formation and classification of minerals, rocks, ore deposits and fuels, geologic map and model interpretation, geologic time, surface and global processes, plate tectonics, mountain building, volcanoes, and earthquakes.

Introduction to Earth and Space Systems

This integrated course in the Earth/Space Sciences is intended to familiarize students with the fundamental concepts of Geology, Meteorology, and Astronomy. Topics covered include formation and classification of minerals and rocks, geologic processes operating at the earth’s surface and in its interior, atmospheric forces responsible for weather and climate, and a comprehensive investigation of our solar system, galaxy, and universe. Emphasis is placed upon recent discoveries in the Earth/Space Sciences and how these findings assist in our understanding of the world around us.

Physics

Students taking this conceptual physics course will be introduced to the scientific principles of motion, forces, energy, heat, light, electrostatics, magnetism, atomic and nuclear physics The course provides an in-depth analysis of these selected topics using lecture, demonstration, film and other teaching aids. Considerable emphasis is placed on laboratory investigation and problem solving. Students should have good working knowledge of algebra and geometry.