STEM Academy: Pre-Physical Therapy
8710: Principles of Biomedical Science (1 credit SCI, Gr. 9-12, weighted)
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation from 8th grade science
In the introductory course of the PLTW Biomedical Science program, students explore concepts of biology and medicine to determine factors that led to the death of a fictional person. While investigating the case, students examine autopsy reports, investigate medical history, and explore medical treatments that might have prolonged the person’s life. 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 problems.
8827: Medical Terminology (0.5 credit ELE, Gr. 9-12)
This course introduces elements of medical terminology, such as the etymology of words used to describe the human body. Students learn to apply proper terminology and spelling for major pathological conditions. This course identifies and explains the terms used for the integumentary, respiratory, nervous, reproductive, endocrine, urinary, digestive, lymphatic, hematic, immune, and musculoskeletal systems.
8712: Human Body Systems (1 credit SCI, Gr. 10-12, weighted)
Prerequisite: Principles of Biomedical Science
In this course, students examine the interactions of human body systems as they explore identity, power, movement, protection, and homeostasis. Exploring science in action, students build organs and tissues on a skeletal Maniken®; use data acquisition software to monitor body functions such as muscle movement, reflex and voluntary action, and respiration; and take on the roles of biomedical professionals to solve real-world medical cases.
8624: Biomechanics of Sport (1 credit ELE, Gr. 11-12)
Prerequisite: Human Body Systems
This course will cover all aspects of assessment, application, and advanced sports medicine techniques and topics. Students who enter should have a basic understanding of anatomy and movement as it relates to the human body and its function in sport.
8623: Introduction to Physical Therapy - Online Dual Credit (0.5 credit ELE, Gr. 11-12, weighted) College Credit
Prerequisite: Human Body Systems
This course is an introduction to physical therapy and the role of a physical therapist assistant, including function of the PTA and of the health care team, history of medical care and physical therapy, legal and ethical standards, culturally sensitive care and communication.
8625: Biomechanics Capstone (1-2 credits ELE, Gr. 12)
Prerequisite: Biomechanics of Sport
This capstone is a project that allows students to learn about themselves by moving an idea or dream toward a topic of interest, specialization, community need, or career choice. As part of this course, all students must complete a capstone experience which may include, but is not limited to: senior project, virtual enterprise, internship, externship, work-based learning, service learning, community service, etc.
This course can be taken as either one or two credits, depending on the chosen project. In the spring semester of the student’s junior year, the student will develop a capstone proposal for approval.
8621: Internship in STEM Careers - Cerner Scholars (2 credits PAR, Gr. 12)
Cerner is a leading company in the Kansas City area that provides health information solutions to improve the well-being of individuals and communities. Cerner creates leading-edge health information technology through strategies that empower organizations to know, manage and engage their populations. The Cerner Scholars program at Summit Technology Academy provides students with an opportunity to gain a deeper learning experience related to their interest in computing and technology.