Health Sciences

PRINCIPLES OF BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE

In this introductory course of the PLTW Biomedical Science program, scholars explore concepts of biology and medicine to determine factors that lead to the death of a fictional person, take on the role of a doctor, solve a mysterious disease outbreak at a hospital, and more. While investigating the case, scholars examine autopsy reports, investigate medical history, and explore medical treatments that might have prolonged the person's life. The activities and projects introduce scholars to human physiology, basic biology, medicine, and research processes while allowing them to design their own experiments to solve problems. (Note: Taking the Project Lead the Way Biomedical Sciences course sequence and an Environmental Science course will satisfy the Science graduation requirement under the Health Science pathway.)

HUMAN BODY SYSTEMS

Students can examine the interactions of human body systems as they explore identity, power, movement, protection, and homeostasis in the body. 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.

(Note: Taking the Project Lead the Way Biomedical Sciences course sequence and an Environmental Science course will satisfy the Science graduation requirement under the Health Science pathway.)

PHYSICS OF 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 real-world cases, students are exposed to a range of inventions related to immunology, surgery, genetics, pharmacology, medical devices, and diagnostics. (Note: Taking the Project Lead the Way Biomedical Sciences course sequence and an Environmental Science course will satisfy the Science graduation requirement under the Health Science pathway.)

Prerequisite: Principles of Biomedical Science or Human Body Systems

BIOMEDICAL INNOVATIONS

In this capstone course, students apply their knowledge and skills to answer questions or solve problems related to the biomedical sciences. Students design innovative solutions for the health challenges of the 21st century as they work through progressively challenging open-ended problems, addressing topics such as clinical medicine, physiology, biomedical engineering, and public health. They have the opportunity to work on an independent project and may work with a mentor or advisor from a university, hospital, physician's office, or industry.

(Note: Taking the Project Lead the Way Biomedical Sciences course sequence and an Environmental Science course will satisfy the Science graduation requirement under the Health Science pathway.)

Prerequisite: Physics of Medical Interventions