Mary Nicholson
![]() | |
Department | Science |
---|---|
House | STEM |
Contact | mnicholson@tsas.org |
Joined | 2017 |
Education |
Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from Loyola University New Orleans Master of Science in Biology from the University of New Orleans |
Why I teach | I teach science because I believe that my students have the ability to positively impact the future of this country, but for that to be true they must have a foundational knowledge of how the world around them works and to be critical thinkers who can make their own decisions. |
About me | I am a lover of science, avid reader, gardener, and swimmer. I have taught every age group in some capacity from preschool to college level courses in multiple different cities. I adore animals, and live here in Tulsa with my husband, 3 dogs, 2 cats, and 5 chickens. |
AP Biology
Tris: 3 | Open to: Juniors, Seniors | Prerequisites: Biology
The AP Biology course is a 3 trimester course designed by the College Board as a college level biology course. In this class, students will study the core scientific principles, theories, and processes that govern living organisms and biological systems. This course will prepare students for the AP Biology exam through lecture, writing, data analysis, and hands-on laboratory work to investigate natural phenomena. - Open to seniors, juniors with teacher approval
Biology
Tris: 2 | Open to: Freshmen | Prerequisites:
Biology is a laboratory science course in which students investigate living things and their interactions with biotic and abiotic factors around them. This course covers a wide range of topics including cells, cell transport and reproduction, genetics, DNA, evolution, and ecology. Students will increase their understanding of biological concepts, processes, and data analysis by participating in various labs and activities throughout the course.
Health and the Human Body
Tris: 1 | Open to: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors | Prerequisites: Biology
"Health and the Human Body" is a science elective that delves into the complexities of human health and how the environment and our own anatomy and physiology intersect and lead to either health or disease. Through presentation, hands-on activities, research, and engaging discussions, students will explore topics such as nutrition, genetics, and infectious disease transmittance and prevention.
Intro to Psychology
Tris: 1 | Open to: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors | Prerequisites: Biology
This course introduces students to the study of the human mind and behavior. Students will strive to better understand how we think and act based on intrinsic and extrinsic forces. Topics exploring the basic principles and theories of psychology including personality, the brain, consciousness, learning, and memory will be covered.
Ecology Around Us
Tris: 1 | Open to: Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors | Prerequisites: Biology
In this course, students will explore the interactions of organisms with each other and their environment at the population, community, and ecosystem levels. The focus will be on using case studies, labs, and field techniques to observe the diversity of organisms around us.
Science in Fiction
Tris: 1 | Open to: Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors | Prerequisites: Biology
In this course, students will explore the role that science plays in works of fiction. They will analyze both accurate and inaccurate portrayals of science concepts in literature and film to deepen their understanding of concepts such as genetics, parasitism, and disease. This course will include discussion, research, and labs.