Essential Elements of Science Classroom Information
Question	Answer
What is Essential Elements of Science (EES)?	SC09 is a capstone science course at the junior high level and provides the conceptual foundation for the MPS high school science curriculum. Students in SC09 receive instruction and practice in developing and refining scientific skills and methods which are prerequisites for success in subsequent science classes. Using chemistry, physics, and astronomy concepts as a framework, students in SC09 discover and collect evidence that supports the atomic/molecular theory of matter. These principals lay the groundwork for understanding all biological and chemical relationships.
Who can take EES?	Any 9th grade student and any 8th grade student who has taken 7th and 8th grade science in 7th grade.
Does EES count toward high school graduation?	Yes. It counts as credit both for the standard and scholastic diploma. It also counts as one of the two laboratory based course that the state universities in Arizona require.
Is EES required?	Not at this time, but there is the possibility that it will become a required course in the near future.
How many semesters is EES?	Two (one full year).
What science class should be taken after EES?	In most cases, SC49 Biology should be taken as a follow up course to SC09 as this will round out the study of scientific concepts that all students should receive in high school. It is best to contact your high school counselor to have any specific questions answered concerning the sequence of courses.
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