STEM Academy: Pre-Medical Pathway
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.
8604: Medical Interventions (1 credit SCI, Gr. 11-12, weighted)
Prerequisite: Human Body Systems
In this course, 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.
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.
8607: Biomedical Innovations (1 credit SCI, Gr. 12, weighted)
Prerequisite: Medical Interventions
In the final course of the PLTW Biomedical Science sequence, students build on the knowledge and skills gained from previous courses to design innovative solutions for the most pressing health challenges of the 21st century. Students address topics ranging from public health and biomedical engineering to clinical medicine and physiology. Students will have the opportunity to work on an independent design project with a mentor or advisor from a university, medical facility, or research institution.
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.