Science Education, Secondary Chemistry

Introduction to Systems Thinking and Applications provides learners with the skills required to engage in a holistic systems-based approach to analyzing complex problems and solutions. This course introduces the foundational concepts and principles of systems thinking and provides opportunities to use a systems thinking approach to analyze and evaluate real-world case studies. The course will culminate with using systems thinking to develop a solution to an authentic complex problem. This course has no prerequisites, but general education math (C955 or C957) is preferred. Because the course is self-paced, learners may move through the material as quickly or as slowly as needed, with the goal of demonstrating proficiency in the five competencies covered in the final assessment. If learners have no prior knowledge of this material, they can expect to spend 30 to 40 hours on the course content.

This course provides further application and analysis of algebraic concepts and functions through mathematical modeling of real-world situations. Topics include: real numbers, algebraic expressions, equations and inequalities, graphs and functions, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and systems of linear equations.

American Politics and the U.S. Constitution examines the evolution of representative government in the United States and the changing interpretations of the civil rights and civil liberties protected by the Constitution. This course will give candidates an understanding of the powers of the branches of the federal government, the continual tensions inherent in a federal system, the shifting relationship between state and federal governments, and the interactions between elected officials and the ever-changing electorate. This course will focus on such topics as the role of a free press in a democracy, the impact of changing demographics on American politics, and the debates over and expansion of civil rights. Upon completion of the course, candidates should be able to explain the basic functions of the federal government, describe the forces that shape American policy and politics, and be better prepared to participate in America’s civic institutions. This course has no prerequisite.

Welcome to Introduction to Communication: Connecting with Others! It may seem like common knowledge that communication skills are important, and that communicating with others is inescapable in our everyday lives. While this may appear simplistic, the study of communication is actually complex, dynamic, and multifaceted. Strong communication skills are invaluable to strengthening a multitude of aspects of life. Specifically, this course will focus on communication in the professional setting, and present material from multiple vantage points, including communicating with others in a variety of contexts, across situations, and with diverse populations. Upon completion, you will have a deeper understanding of both your own and others’ communication behaviors, and a toolbox of effective behaviors to enhance your experience in the workplace.

Welcome to Composition: Successful Self-Expression! In this course, you will focus on four main topics: professional writing for a cross-cultural audience, narrowing research topics and questions, researching for content to support a topic, and referencing research sources. Each section includes learning opportunities through readings, videos, audio, and other relevant resources. Assessment activities with feedback also provide opportunities to check your learning, practice, and show how well you understand course content. Because the course is self-paced, you may move through the material as quickly or as slowly as you need to gain proficiency in the seven competencies that will be covered in the final assessment. If you have no prior knowledge or experience, you can expect to spend 30-40 hours on the course content. You will demonstrate competency through a performance assessment. There is no prerequisite for this course and there is no specific technical knowledge needed.

Technology and Ethics: Emerging Trends and Society explores the intersection of ethical thinking and technological innovations. A foundational introduction to ethical frameworks is applied to emerging trends in technology, including artificial intelligence, social media, and other forms of digital media. This course examines the impact of technology on our understanding of self, as well as the individual’s role in interacting with others in a globalized society. The course helps students gain the ability to recognize ethical actions within the context of current and newly evolving technological landscapes. This course has no prerequisites.

Statistical Data Literacy utilizes concepts in statistics, research, data, and data representation to explore the interpretation of data and their application to decision-making. The course uses real-world scenarios to build upon foundational principles of data collection and description. The use of data to make and explain decisions is also explored. The course also builds on skills of descriptive statistics and graphical depictions of data to help students understand data and make data-based decisions. This course has no prerequisites.

Precalculus builds on previous math courses to provide a deeper understanding of fundamental mathematical concepts and problem-solving skills to prepare students for calculus and professional success. The course will lead students to engage with functions, trigonometry, systems of equations, analytic geometry, and sequences and series. Through interactive learning experiences and real-world applications, precalculus will help students develop a deeper understanding of mathematical principles and their practical significance across diverse fields. Successful completion of a college level algebra course is a prerequisite for this course.

Welcome to Composition: Writing with a Strategy! In this course, you will focus on three main topics: understanding purpose, context, and audience, writing strategies and techniques, and editing and revising. In addition, the first section, will offer review on core elements of the writing process, cross-cultural communication, as well as working with words and common standards and practices. Each section includes learning opportunities through readings, videos, audio, and other relevant resources. Assessment activities with feedback also provide opportunities to check your learning, practice, and show how well you understand course content. Because the course is self-paced, you may move through the material as quickly or as slowly as you need to gain proficiency in the seven competencies that will be covered in the final assessment. If you have no prior knowledge or experience, you can expect to spend 30-40 hours on the course content.

This course focuses on equipping secondary science educators with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively teach science through a three-dimensional approach, integrating science and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas. Participants will explore general considerations for science instruction, including inquiry-based learning, hands-on activities, and assessment strategies. By building on foundational knowledge in Three-Dimensional Science and Engineering, educators will enhance their ability to engage students in meaningful and authentic scientific learning experiences. This methods course will count towards 7 hours of the 51 total clinical hours that learners will gain from their SCED methods courses.

This General Physics course covers fundamental concepts, including Newton’s Laws, forces, motion, energy, waves, electricity, and magnetism, with real-world applications and insights into relativity and quantum theory. Learners will study measurement, forces and motion, Newton’s Laws, centrifugal and centripetal forces, friction, gravity, momentum, collisions, vectors, wave motion, energy, thermodynamics, and electromagnetic waves. Skills developed include scientific literacy, physical science application, systems thinking, and scientific reasoning.

This comprehensive survey course provides a foundational understanding of Earth's position in the universe and its dynamic systems. Students will explore Earth's placement within the solar system, including the effects of its orbit, origin, and celestial interactions on tides and seasons. The course delves into Earth's subsystems—geosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and atmosphere—focusing on their interactions and impacts on weather, climate, and geological processes like weathering, erosion, and soil formation. Additionally, the course examines natural phenomena such as earthquakes and volcanoes, and the significant influence of human activities on Earth's systems, addressing topics such as resource management, land use, pollution, and sustainability. Through interactive simulations, multimedia resources, and real-life applications, students will engage in interdisciplinary thinking and develop a deep appreciation for the scientific methods, theories, and laws that underpin Earth science.

In this lab that follows the General Physics course, learners will develop the ability to conduct scientific investigations to answer questions using experimentation in the field of physics. The section emphasizes the application of the scientific method to solve problems, analyze data from experiments, and draw conclusions. Students will also learn to accurately summarize their findings and perform tasks with attention to detail. Throughout the lessons, students will engage in activities designed to enhance their scientific reasoning and written communication skills, ensuring they can effectively explain their results. They will practice identifying interconnections within systems. The course provides a foundational understanding of experimental techniques and data analysis, preparing learners to conduct independent investigations and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.

The Earth Science I Lab course equips students with skills to conduct scientific investigations in Earth science. Students will apply the scientific method, design controlled experiments, and follow lab safety protocols. They will gain experience with data collection methods, including field observations, experiments, and virtual simulations of phenomena like erosion. The course emphasizes analyzing weather, climate, and seismic data using basic techniques. It also covers essential aspects of identifying and analyzing the components of a lab report by answering questions related to a simulated lab report. Students will learn to interpret data, draw conclusions, and communicate findings effectively, preparing them for advanced Earth science studies and research.

This course is a foundational introduction to the biological sciences. The overarching theories of life from biological research are explored as well as the fundamental concepts and principles of the study of living organisms and their interaction with the environment. Key concepts include how living organisms use and produce energy; how life grows, develops, and reproduces; how life responds to the environment to maintain internal stability; and how life evolves and adapts to the environment.

General Chemistry I introduces foundational principles of chemistry, starting at the atomic level and expanding to the behavior of elements within the periodic table. This course explores how atoms bond to form molecules and proceeds into chemical reactions, acids and bases, solutions, and nuclear reactions. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of stability and change in chemical processes. This course highlights the practical aspects of chemistry, providing insights into how chemical principles underpin everyday phenomena and contribute to our understanding of environmental processes.

General Chemistry I Lab focuses on developing foundational skills in scientific investigation in chemistry. It emphasizes the application of the scientific method to answer chemistry questions through hypothesis-driven experimentation. Students will learn to design, execute, and analyze chemistry experiments, ensuring adherence to rigorous scientific protocols and ethical standards. The course also covers essential aspects of scientific communication, including writing clear and structured scientific reports and effectively presenting experimental findings. Throughout the course, students will cultivate critical thinking skills necessary for interpreting data and drawing conclusions.

This course focuses on developing foundational skills in scientific investigation within the field of biology. It emphasizes the application of the scientific method to answer biological questions through hypothesis-driven experimentation. Students will learn to design, execute, and analyze biological experiments, ensuring adherence to rigorous scientific protocols and ethical standards. The course also covers essential aspects of identifying and analyzing the components of a lab report by answering questions related to a simulated lab report. Throughout the course, students will cultivate critical thinking skills necessary for interpreting data, drawing conclusions, and proposing further research directions in biology.

Assessing and Monitoring Student Learning is a targeted course crafted for candidates who aim to enhance their skills in evaluating student progress and educational outcomes. This course provides an in-depth exploration of various assessment techniques, including formative and summative assessments, standardized tests, benchmark assessments, progress monitoring, and alternative assessment strategies. Participants will learn how to design effective assessment tools, interpret data to inform instruction, and provide meaningful feedback to students. This course also provides a foundation of data analysis that supports educators’ need to understand data and present data to stakeholders. Candidates will also explore online and digital assessment tools. Assessing and Monitoring Student Learning will prepare learners to align assessments to standards to monitor student learning, assess data, and provide on time and quality feedback.

Instructional Technology and Online Pedagogy is an innovative course designed to equip students with the skills to effectively integrate technology in their teaching practices. The course also covers best practices for online pedagogy, assessment and feedback, collaborative learning, and the use of multimedia and interactive elements to enhance learning experiences. With a focus on practical application, students will leave the course ready to create and facilitate compelling, high-quality online learning experiences that meet the needs of today's diverse learners. This course also provides a foundation for supporting digital literacy in K–12 education. In addition, this course prepares students to use technology to improve professional productivity and effectiveness in areas like data analysis and data representations.

Learners and Learning Science provides WGU students with a deep understanding of the science behind learning processes. This course covers a broad spectrum of topics pertaining to the science of learning, including cognitive development, learning theories, neuroscience in education, and the impact of developmental milestones on learning. Students will explore how these concepts apply to learning environments and educational levels, from early childhood through adolescence. The course emphasizes evidence-based practices and the practical application of learning science principles, equipping students with strategies to enhance learning outcomes and student engagement. This course aims to empower educators to create more effective, inclusive, and engaging learning experiences for all learners.

Personalized Learning for Inclusive Classrooms empowers educators to create more inclusive and effective learning environments. This course focuses on the principles and strategies of personalized learning, emphasizing the need to value and support the unique needs, interests, and abilities of each learner. The course provides a foundation for learner characteristics of learners with exceptionalities and other unique learning needs. This course helps candidates develop skills for partnering with parents and families to advocate for all students with exceptionalities, including those impacted by provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Multitiered systems of support are addressed to prepare candidates for their future classrooms as they seek to select appropriate instructional practices and interventions to best serve their learners. These factors are also addressed in relation to online and hybrid learning environments.

Creating Positive Learning Environments delves into the key elements that contribute to creating and maintaining a positive learning atmosphere for educators focused on fostering supportive and productive classroom climates. The course teaches effective communication, classroom norms and routines, and positive behavior supports. Emphasizing the importance of a safe and inclusive environment, the course also explores methods to promote student engagement, collaboration, and mutual respect among all learners. It also addresses the role of mental well-being in learning, exploring trauma-informed and restorative practices, which are addressed in relation to online and hybrid learning environments. Through a blend of theoretical frameworks and practical applications including case studies, Creating Positive Learning Environments teaches learners how to develop and sustain environments that not only enhance academic performance but also support the holistic development of students.

Planning Instructional Strategies for Meaningful Learning is a dynamic course designed for educators seeking to deepen their understanding of instructional planning and the execution of educational strategies that foster meaningful learning experiences. This course provides candidates with the knowledge and skills necessary to create engaging and standards-aligned lessons that meet the needs of all students. This course also covers a range of high-leverage instructional practices to increase student learning, engagement, and achievement. Participants will learn to utilize assessments to inform instruction, adapt teaching to accommodate all students, and incorporate technology to enhance learning.

The Professional Educator prepares WGU students to excel in the exciting and impactful profession of being an educator. Additionally, the course addresses the importance of continuous professional development and ethical considerations in teaching through the School of Education (SOE) Professional Dispositions and Ethics. Upon completion of the course, WGU students will be equipped with the tools and insights needed to continue their professional journey of becoming effective, inspiring, and adaptive educators, capable of making a significant impact in the lives of their students and the broader educational community. (This is not a transferable course.)

This Organic Chemistry course prepares teacher candidates to understand and apply foundational concepts in carbon-based chemistry. You will learn to describe molecular structures using proper nomenclature, analyze chemical processes, and apply instrumental methods of analysis to determine molecular structures. The course emphasizes practical skills, including the use of modeling kits and spectroscopic techniques to synthesize and analyze organic compounds. By the end of this course, you will be equipped to teach these concepts effectively to your students.

This course delves into the critical role of macromolecules and chemical reactions in living organisms, with a focus on molecular interactions, metabolic pathways, and the regulatory mechanisms that underpin biological processes. The student will start by analyzing macromolecules in organisms and study information on the structure, function, and interactions of key biological macromolecules including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, emphasizing their roles in cellular functions and intercellular interactions. The course then builds to analyzing macromolecules in organisms by building on this foundation, examining the interactions between these macromolecules and the forces driving these interactions, such as intermolecular forces and solubility principles. Finally, the student will explore chemical reactions in organisms through enzyme function and inhibition, metabolic pathways, like glycolysis and the citric acid cycle, and the electron transport chain, as well as the regulation of these pathways and the impact of metabolic disorders. Throughout the course, students will engage in activities and analyses that deepen their understanding of these biochemical processes and their relevance to the functioning of living organisms.

Chemistry II with Lab course is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of advanced chemical principles and their real-world applications. Covering a wide range of topics from energy transfer during physical and chemical processes to the recognition and naming of compounds, the course emphasizes critical thinking and practical skills. Students will delve into quantitative relationships in chemical reactions, gaining proficiency in stoichiometry, solution concentration, and reaction predictions. Through scientific inquiry, students will learn to design experiments, collect and analyze data, and apply their knowledge to solve environmental and industrial problems. The course also includes extensive practice in communicating scientific findings effectively, both in written reports and oral presentations. With a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on laboratory experience, this course prepares students for success in advanced studies and professional applications of chemistry.

In "Analytical Chemistry with Lab," students will deepen their understanding of chemistry through the scientific method, data analysis, and data visualization. This course aligns with Utah Competency Areas C2.1.A and C2.1.B, focusing on questioning, methods, argumentation, models, data, and analysis. Students will gain hands-on experience with classical, optical, chromatographic, mass spectrometric, and electrochemical techniques. Prerequisites include a solid foundation in mathematics and prior chemistry courses. Students will critically evaluate experiments, learning to design effective methods and present their data clearly. This course prepares students to gather, process, and communicate chemical data, emphasizing its application in teaching and real-world scenarios. This course helps prepare students in chemistry and related fields.

Physical Chemistry I provides an exploration of the intersection of physics and chemistry to understand the fundamental principles that govern chemical reactions and matter. This course covers key topics such as atomic and molecular structure, thermodynamics, and kinetics, emphasizing real-world applications and practical problem-solving. Through a blend of virtual labs and interactive activities, learners will develop a deep understanding of energy changes, reaction mechanisms, and the behavior of matter in various states. This course emphasizes engagement with complex concepts, enhancement of analytical skills, and application of theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.

Three Dimensional Science and Engineering focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of science and engineering pedagogical knowledge. This course is the first of three science teaching methods courses and provides a robust foundation in integrating disciplinary core ideas, crosscutting concepts, and science and engineering practices in phenomena-based curriculum and instruction. Candidates will delve into planning learning experiences, designing instructional strategies, and utilizing phenomena-based teaching to promote engagement and understanding. Reflective practices, such as evaluating observed teaching, analyzing personal teaching methods, and reviewing course content, are emphasized to foster continuous improvement. The course will be assessed via an integrated performance assessment task, requiring candidates to demonstrate their instructional skills.

Secondary Chemistry Curriculum synthesizes the core content of the Secondary Chemistry Program, preparing candidates to apply education theory and teaching approaches to the chemistry content areas. This course aligns with the areas covered by the Chemistry Praxis exam, ensuring candidates demonstrate both a deep understanding of the subject matter and the ability to effectively deliver content in a secondary classroom setting. Topics include atomic structure, chemical bonding, energy relationships, chemical reactions, solutions, and the role of science and engineering in society. There are no prerequisites for this course.

Secondary Literacy Methods & Interventions utilizes MTSS to equip educators with evidence-based strategies to address adolescents' reading challenges through the Multi-Tiered System of Supports Model. Candidates learn to identify, monitor, and provide differentiated instruction, integrating screening tools and progress monitoring to enhance comprehension. The course emphasizes the development of personalized intervention plans while utilizing reading assessments for informed instructional decisions. By completion, candidates compile intervention strategies supporting learners across MTSS tiers, fostering inclusive environments for academic success.

Advanced Clinical provides aspiring educators with real-world classroom experience. This course emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning, offering candidates the unique opportunity to observe and participate in classroom environments under the guidance of experienced mentors. The curriculum includes demonstrating reflective practice, classroom engagement techniques, instructional strategies, and effective communication skills with students and colleagues through a pedagogical performance assessment. Through this immersive experience, candidates not only observe the daily responsibilities of a teacher, but also start to develop their own teaching style and philosophy, laying a solid foundation for their future careers in education. This course is taken immediately prior to Student Teaching I as part of an engaging and intensive clinical experience.

Early Clinical Experiences is a pivotal course designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical teaching skills. This course offers aspiring educators an immersive experience in real classroom settings under the mentorship of experienced teachers. Candidates engage in a range of activities, including observation, to develop a deeper understanding of classroom dynamics, student engagement, and effective instructional strategies. Emphasizing reflective practice, the course encourages participants to analyze their experiences, integrate feedback, and adapt their teaching methods accordingly. This experiential learning approach equips future teachers with the confidence and competence necessary to foster a positive and impactful learning environment for their students.

Student Teaching I is the first part of a two-part series and is a mandatory course for all candidates seeking initial licensure. This course provides a supervised classroom experience in a real-world setting, allowing candidates to demonstrate and reflect upon professional ethics and dispositions, collaborate with experienced teachers, and implement instructional strategies rooted in students' learning and developmental patterns. Building on the responsibilities and skills developed in Advanced Clinical, candidates will receive ongoing feedback through observations and evaluations. Feedback will encourage candidates to reflect on their commitment to professional practices as educators, analyze and adjust teaching methods, and explore new teaching materials and methods that are culturally relevant. Additionally, the course features synchronous learning sessions that delve into communication and collaboration, accepting feedback, creating positive learning environments, and technology and online learning. Candidates must attend the required synchronous learning sessions in addition to their classroom placement.

Student Teaching II is the final part of a two-part series and is a mandatory course for all candidates seeking initial licensure. The course offers a supervised classroom experience in a real-world setting, allowing candidates to demonstrate professional ethics and dispositions, collaborate with experienced teachers, and implement instructional strategies. Building on the responsibilities and skills developed in Student Teaching I, candidates receive ongoing feedback through observations and a final evaluation. This evaluation assesses activities' relevance and cultural engagement, the effectiveness of teaching each student, the ability to analyze and adjust teaching methods, and the willingness to explore new materials and methods. Successful completion of Student Teaching II is a crucial step in the licensure process, as it determines eligibility for licensure as a professional educator. Additionally, the course features synchronous learning sessions that delve into professional development topics such as professional growth opportunities, ethical decision making, and self-care. Candidates must attend the required synchronous learning sessions in addition to their classroom placement.

General Secondary Methods prepares students for secondary teaching by equipping them with essential instructional skills and knowledge tailored to adolescent learners. Students will explore how adolescent development influences learning, how secondary school settings influence instructional choices, and how to implement effective teaching strategies in these environments. Through a blend of theory and practical application, students will create and assess lesson plans, focusing on differentiated instruction, formative and summative assessments, and the integration of technology, including AI tools, to promote affective learning in diverse secondary education settings.

Secondary Disciplinary Literacy is a cutting-edge course designed for candidates seeking to enhance their literacy skills within specific secondary academic disciplines. The course examines the distinct literacy needs of various secondary content areas, focusing on how reading, writing, speaking, and listening function differently in each discipline. Candidates will explore specialized language structures and text features relevant to each field and develop strategies to help students master these complexities. The curriculum integrates the science of reading to support critical engagement with and production of disciplinary texts, while also incorporating technology and digital literacy to aid students in accessing and interpreting discipline-specific information. The course combines research-based evidence with practical, structured literacy activities to equip educators with the skills necessary to improve student achievement and understanding across all subjects. This course is a required component in SCED programs and will be assessed through a performance assessment task for both undergraduate and graduate versions.

The course "Laboratory Safety" aims at equipping learners with essential safety knowledge and skills for various learning environments, including laboratories, classrooms, and field settings. Learners in this course will deeply understand safety protocols, legal responsibilities, and effective teaching strategies for safety in educational settings.