Biomedical Sciences CTE Program

The Biomedical Sciences Program is an extraordinary opportunity for students to embark with hands on experiments, projects, and activities in the biomedical world. Students investigate the roles of biomedical professionals as they study the concepts of human medicine, physiology, genetics, microbiology, and public health. Additionally, Students engage in activities such as investigating the death of a fictional person to learn content in the context of a real world setting. They also examine the structures and interactions of human body systems and explore the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases; all while working collaboratively to understand and design solutions to the most pressing health challenges of today and the future.

Each course in the Biomedical Sciences sequence builds on the skills and knowledge students gain in the preceding courses. Students in the first two years of the program take foundation courses entitled Principles of Biomedical Sciences and Human Body Systems. Student during their third year take Medical Interventions (MI) where they explore how to conquer cancer, fight superbugs, and prevail when organs fail. Our final capstone course in the program is entitled Biomedical Innovations (BI) where students gain internships and explore research opportunities to explore approaches in order to overcome disease that plague our world. All courses include field trips to medical centers, internships and guest speakers. Students in our biomedical pathways are encouraged to become members of HOSA and compete at State Conferences along with becoming trained in CPR/First Aid. Lastly, students who are part of the Biomedical Sciences Program are eligible to earn 8 free PCC credits in Biomedical Innovations, and 4 credits from PCC in Medical Innovations.

Principles of Biomedical Sciences (PLTW)

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.

Prerequisite: Students and Parents/Guardians must sign a Basic Statement of

Understanding.

Grade Level: 9

Human Body Systems (PLTW)

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.

Prerequisite: Pattern Physics

Grade Level: 10-12

MEDICAL INTERVENTIONS

(PLTW)

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.

Students enrolled in the course will register as a PCC students and earn 3 credits in MP108- Medical Health Care Essentials and 2 credits in the BIT102 – Exploring Biosciences for a total of 5 credits!

Prerequisite: HBS or a strong interest in entering the program in your junior year and have a strong science background

Grade Level: 10-12

BIOMEDICAL INNOVATIONS (PLTW)

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. They have the opportunity to work on an independent design project with a mentor or advisor from a university, medical facility, or research institution. Additionally, Students may have interests in any field whether it be physics, environmental science, forensics, heath, chemistry, or biology. By the end of the year students present their research as they compete in science fairs around Portland such as PSU’s Innovation Challenge.

Students enrolled in the course will register as a PCC students and earn 4 credits in Advanced Biology 101 and 4 credits Advanced Biology 102 for a total of 8 college credits!

Prerequisite: Curious minds who are interested in exploring the field of biology and medicine using cutting edge equipment. We suggest completion of Medical Interventions and a strong background and/or interest in the biomedical sciences.

Grade Level: 12