BSI Coursework

Biomedical Courses

Principles of Biomedical Sciences (Prerequisite)

In the introductory course of the PTLW Biomedical Science program, students explore concepts of biology and medicine. The activities and projects introduce students to human physiology, basic biology, medicine, and research processes while allowing them to design their own experiments to solve projects.

From design and data analysis to outbreaks, clinical empathy, health promotion, and more, students explore the vast range of careers in biomedical sciences. They develop not just technical skills, but also in-demand, transportable skills that they need to thrive in life and career.

Human Body Systems

Medical Interventions

Students follow the life of a fictitious family as they investigate how to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. Students explore how to detect and fight infection; screen and evaluate the code in human DNA; evaluate cancer treatment options; and prevail when the organs of the body begin to fail. Through cases, students learn about a range of interventions related to immunology, surgery, genetics, pharmacology, medical devices, and diagnostics.

Biotechnology Honors

Biotechnology honors is a course designed to provide students with intense laboratory and research skills in preparation for continued education and/or entry into the biotechnology industry. Students will build upon the skills attained in Biology honors, Chemistry honors, and the BSI program as they design and conduct experiments relevant to current biotechnology. A close association with local industry and post-secondary institutions will provide additional opportunities for the development and application of biotechnology practices.

PLTW Courses - Middle School

Middle school is a time of exploration, a time when students are figuring out what they’re passionate about today and how that relates to who they’ll become tomorrow.

During this transitional time, PLTW classes empower students to lead their own discovery. The hands-on program boosts classroom engagement and excitement, drives collaboration, and inspires “aha! moments” as well as deep comprehension. As students engage in PLTW’s activities in computer science and biomedical science, they see a range of paths and possibilities they can look forward to in high school and beyond.

Medical Detectives

Medical Detectives (Middle School elective class)

In PLTW Medical Interventions (MI), students follow the life of a fictitious family as they investigate how to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. Students explore how to detect and fight infection; screen and evaluate the code in human DNA; evaluate cancer treatment options; and prevail when the organs of the body begin to fail. Through real-world cases, students are exposed to a range of interventions related to immunology, surgery, genetics, pharmacology, medical devices, and diagnostics.

App Creators

App Creators (Middle School elective class)

PLTW App Creators introduces students to the field of computer science and the concepts of computational thinking, through the creation of mobile apps. Students are challenged to be creative and innovative, as they collaboratively design and develop mobile solutions to engaging, authentic problems. Students experience the positive impact of the application of computer science to society as well as to other disciplines, particularly biomedical science.

Computer Science for Innovators and Makers

Computer Science for Innovators and Makers (Middle School elective class)

Computer Science for Innovators and Makers (IM) teaches students that programming goes beyond the virtual world into the physical world. Students are challenged to creatively use sensors and actuators to develop systems that interact with their environment. While designing algorithms and using computational thinking practices, students code and upload programs to microcontrollers that perform a variety of authentic tasks. The unit broadens students’ understanding of computer science concepts through meaningful applications. Teams select and solve a personally relevant problem related to wearable technology, interactive art, or mechanical devices.

Flight and Space

PLTW Courses - High School

Introduction to Engineering

Introduction to Engineering

Introduction to Engineering (Elective Credit)

In introduction to Engineering, through both individual and collaborative team activities, projects, and problems, students apply systems thinking and consider various aspects of engineering design including material selection, human-centered design, manufacturability, assembly and sustainability. Students develop skills in technical representation and documentation especially through 3D computer modeling using a Computer Aided Design (CAD) application. As part of the design process, students produce precise 3D-printed engineering prototypes using an additive manufacturing process. Student-developed testing protocols drive decision-making and iterative design improvements. Students progress from completing structured activities to solving open-ended projects and problems that require them to plan, document, communicate, and develop other professional skills.

Additional Courses

Honors Chemistry

Honors Biology

AP Biology

BACE Exam

The BACE will be given at the end of the course: The Biotechnician Assistant Credentialing Exam (BACE) is an industry-recognized exam designed to assess core skills and knowledge sets identified by industry and represented within the academic and performance standards of Biotechnology programs.

Learn more about the baCe exam

In This Section

Contact

Laura Barker

Secondary Science Teacher, Head of BSI

School: (352) 729-5368