Red Rock Central
Science Department

The science department at Red Rock Central High School is divided into three areas of specialty. Each of these areas is taught by an instructor with the proper degree, knowledge and skills required in their subject area. Our mission is to provide the students of Red Rock Central with the best possible background in science and to make them science literate adults.

 
 
Science Department Staff
 
Gerald Dammann
Jr. High Sciences
 
Life Science Earth Science
 
Don Stouch
High School Physical Sciences
 
Physical Science Physics  Chemistry
 
Tom Vold
High School Biological Sciences
 
Biology Wildlife Biology Human Biology

Course Descriptions

Following is a list of the science courses offered at Red Rock Central. The descriptions include the grade levels the class is designed for, if a Graduation Standard is available and the main focus of the course material.

Life Science - 7th Grade

This class focuses on the the study of life. Students will investigate plant and animal cells and cell processes including photosynthesis and respiration, the function and structure of DNA and RNA and their roles in the science of genetics. Also included are studies of the method of classification based on the Five Kingdom System, an investigation of plant systems and the processes of plant growth and reproduction, a comparison of vertebrates and invertebrates, the systems of the human body, and a discovery of the environment and methods of how to improve it.

Earth Science - 8th Grade

In this class students will investigate the earth and the forces that shape it's surface and place within the universe. Topics studied include: identifying & classifying rocks and minerals, the rock cycle, physical and chemical processes of weathering, and the processes of erosion. Students will also study the characteristics and movement of the Earth's air and water, the relationships of plate techtonics to earthquakes and volcanoes, the history of the earth, the study of Astronomy, and a focus on the earth's resources and human impact on earth's environment.

Physical Science - 9th Grade

This course is a combination of chemistry and physics. Some topics covered are stucture and change in matter, motion, energy, force, electricity and magnetism, and technology. Many of these topics are illustrated and supported by laboratory experiments.

Biology - 10th Grade

An in depth study of the nature of life including but not limited to the following topics: cellular structure and function, DNA & RNA, genetics, respiration and photosynthesis, microbiology, the facts and fiction about Evolution, taxonomy and the five kingdoms of classification, mulitcellular plants, characteristics and life cycles of invertebrates and vertebrates - especially insects, and ecology. The topics may be reinforced by lab activities, projects or applicable videos.

Chemistry - 11th or 12th Grade

An experimental science that examines both the macroscopic and submicroscopic worlds of matter as a way to study the structure, composistion, and physical and chemical change of solids, liquids, and gases. Considerable time will be spent in the laboratory. This course is recommended for students planning on attending college.

Physics - 11th or 12th Grade

Physics, often considered the most fundamental science, is concerned with the basic principles that govern the behavior of matter and energy. Some topics to be covered are mechanics of linear and wave motion, mechanics of light, electromagnetic theory, and relativity theory. Considerable time will be spent in the laboratory. This course is recommended for students planning on attending college.

Human Biology - 11th or 12th Grade

The objectives are to acquaint the students with the organs and systems of the human body and how they interact, to create an understanding of how all body systems function together. Emphasis on the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the body. Students will spend an extensive amount of time disecting an animal and studying in depth all internal systems.

Wildlife Biology - 11th or 12 Grade

Students will study Minnesota's wild plants, animals and their habitats. The following topics will be included: animal families, major habitat types, behaviors, and identification of tracks. Students will use multiple modes of research tools to prepare a computerized slide presentation complete with graphics and factual information about their animal.