2023-24 Science

2023-24 High School Program

Science Sequence[edit | edit source]

3 years required in sequence

15 credits required for graduation

(Must include: Lab Biology, Lab Chemistry and/or Physics and/or Environmental Science; plus a third laboratory/inquiry-based science).

Core (Graduation Requirement)[edit | edit source]

Name	Yr/Sem	Level	Credits	Pre-requisites	Available to Grades	Elective  / NCAA Core
Biology Hon Bio	Year	CP Hons	5 6	None	9	Non Elective
This is a basic course in biological science that stresses inquiry as a means of learning biological concepts. Students study various topics, including the scientific method and metric system, historical aspects of biology, biochemistry, cytology, genetics (both Mendelian and non-Mendelian), theories of evolution, taxonomy, the characteristics of the major kingdoms (including Archaebacteria, Eubacteria, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia), and ecology
AP Biology	Year	AP	6	Hon Bio	10-12	Elective or Non Elective
AP Biology is a more in-depth continuation of those topics outlined in the prerequisite courses. The major topics of focus will be: the chemistry of living organisms, cytology, cellular energetics (cellular respiration and photosynthesis), heredity, molecular genetics, evolutionary biology, diversity of organisms, plant and animal structure and function, and ecology. A hands-on, integrative, problem-solving approach will be used to address each topic. This course prepares students take the Advanced Placement Biology exam.
Chemistry Hon Chem	Year	CP Hons	5 6	Algebra 1 and Biology	10	Non Elective
This course is designed to encourage students to learn how to solve problems and use thinking skills. Students will be asked to work together and independently to solve problems theoretically and in collaborative settings, and to apply mathematical reasoning and skills to chemistry problems. The content of the course is focused on the properties of matter and the changes that matter undergoes. The laws and principles, which govern chemical and physical change, are studied. Students will need a scientific calculator to solve problems throughout the year. Students will need to use algebra in most problem-solving activities, and have a working knowledge of percents, fractions, graphing, and exponents. Laboratory experiments and organization are an integral part of the Level II and Level III courses.
AP Chemistry	Year	AP	6	Chemistry and Algebra 1	11-12	Non Elective or Elective
This course is designed for the students who are strong in both mathematics and science and intend to major in science in college. This course will cover in-depth all topics from first-year chemistry along with several additional chapters. Students will be prepared to take the Advanced Placement Chemistry exam in the spring.
Physics	Year	CP	5	Algebra 1 and Chemistry	11	Non Elective or Elective
This course is divided into six major areas of study: mechanics, heat, sound, electricity, light, and modern physics. In all cases, topics are presented from a mathematical standpoint. Numerous problems are solved. Every attempt is made to relate the topics of physics to current everyday problems. Whenever possible, a certain amount of laboratory work is done to reinforce a concept. Each experiment performed requires a written report describing the procedure, complete with calculations and conclusion.
AP Physics 1	Year	AP	6	Geometry co-requisite Algebra 2 and Chemistry	11-12	Elective or Non Elective
The AP Physics 1 course is equivalent to a first-semester college course in algebra-based physics. The course covers Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum); work, energy, and power; and mechanical waves and sound. It also introduces electric circuits. Students will be prepared to take the Advanced Placement Physics 1 exam in the spring.
AP Physics 2	Year	AP	6	AP Bio or AP Chem or AP Physics 1	12	Elective or Non Elective
The AP Physics 2 course is equivalent to a second-semester college course in algebra-based physics. The course covers fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, optics, and atomic and nuclear physics. Students will be prepared to take the Advanced Placement Physics 2 exam in the spring.
AP Physics C	Year	AP	6	AP Bio or AP Chem or AP Physics 1	12	Elective or Non Elective
This course has two parts: Mechanics and Electricity/Magnetism. The sequence is parallel to or preceded by mathematics courses that include calculus. Methods of calculus are used wherever appropriate in formulating physical principles and in applying them to physical problems. Strong emphasis is placed on solving a variety of challenging problems, some requiring calculus. Part I: Mechanics The subject matter of this course is classical mechanics and includes topics in kinematics; Newton’s laws of motion, work, energy and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation; oscillations; and gravitation. Use of calculus in problem-solving and in derivations is expected to increase as the course progresses. Calculus is used freely in formulating principles and in solving problems. Part II: Electricity and Magnetism The subject matter of this course is principally electricity and magnetism. Methods of calculus are used wherever appropriate in formulating physical principles and in applying them to physical problems. Strong emphasis is placed on solving a variety of challenging problems, some requiring calculus.
Environmental Science	Year	CP	5	Biology	10-12	Elective or Non Elective
Environmental Science is a course that focuses on the "how" and "why" of environmental topics. Students will identify the importance of responsible use of the world's resources to meet the food, fiber, and shelter needs of its inhabitants. This will be covered through a hands-on approach.
AP Environmental Science	Year	AP	6	Biology or Chemistry	10-12	Elective or Non Elective
This course is a year-long examination of the inter-relationships of the natural world. Students identify and analyze environmental problems and their effects and evaluate the effectiveness of proposed solutions. Students learn to think like environmental scientists: making predictions based on observations, writing hypotheses, designing and completing field studies and experiments, and reaching conclusions based on the analysis of data derived from these experiments. Students are taught methods for analyzing and interpreting environmental problems and learn how to identify resolutions, prevention, and sustainability. Students apply the concepts of environmental science to their everyday experiences, current events, and issues in science, politics, and society. This course provides opportunities for guided inquiry and student-centered learning to foster critical thinking skills. Topics include: Earth Systems and Resources, The Living World, Population, Land and Water Use, Energy Resources and Consumption, Pollution, and Global Change.
Contemporary Science	Year		5	None	9-12	Non Elective

Electives[edit | edit source]

Name	Yr/Sem	Level	Credits	Pre-requisites	Available to Grades	Elective
Forensic Science	Year	CP	5	Algebra 1, Biology, Chem, and/or Environmental	11-12	Elective
This course introduces the student to the improved technological techniques used in crime solving. The analysis of evidence at the crime scene and in the laboratory has provided those in criminal justice with a greater confidence that they have prosecuted the perpetrator of the crime. The course examines the crime scene team, different types of evidence analysis, the processing of evidence, and presentation of conclusions regarding evidence from a scientific perspective.
Anatomy And Physiology	Year	CP	5	Biology, Chemistry	10-12	Elective
This course will provide a comprehensive study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body. Topics will include body organization; homeostasis; cytology; histology; and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous systems and special senses. The students will gain an understanding of the relationship between the structure and function of living organisms, most specifically the human body. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of principles of anatomy and physiology and their interrelationships. Laboratory work includes microscopic study (histology), and physiologic experiments.