ACADEMICS: Science

Biology CP (2 semesters) Grade 10

This is a required course for all students who do not elect to take Biology Advanced. It is a general biology course which fulfills the laboratory life science requirement. An overview of living things is covered, with a practical application of the material to everyday life. Laboratory work and experimentation is included.

Biology Advanced (2 semesters) Grade 10

Prerequisite: GPA of 3.3 or better which includes two semesters of Algebra 1 or Algebra Advanced.

This is a required course with laboratory experience for all students who do not elect to take the College Prep Biology course. Cooperative learning, hands-on demonstrations and laboratories are utilized in an in-depth study of genetics, evolution and a review of the five kingdoms. Critical thinking and practical application of material are stressed.

Chemistry (2 semesters) Grades 11 and 12

Prerequisite: Four semesters of mathematics with a math GPA of 3.5 or better and Algebra 2 taken previously or concurrently. Biology Advanced must have been taken sophomore year.

Chemistry is the science of the composition, structure, properties and reactions of matter, especially of atomic and molecular systems. Laboratory, computer and cooperative learning experiences are used to develop inquiry and critical thinking skills. The importance of the relationship between mathematical concepts and chemistry is stressed throughout the course. Chemistry is a math based science with emphasis on algebraic and problem solving skills. A strong math background is necessary to understand chemistry concepts.

Physics (2 semesters) Grade 12

Prerequisite: Six semesters of mathematics with a GPA in these classes of 3.0 or better, and trigonometry taken previously or concurrently and instructor approval.

The physics course gives an understanding of contemporary views of the physical world. Scientific phenomena are described in terms of matter and energy; the units include measurement, force, motion, energy, heat and the structure of matter, wave motion, light, electricity and electromagnetism.

Physical Science (2 semesters) Grades 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Biology CP or Biology Advanced

This is a required course for all students who do not elect to take chemistry or physics. It is a general course which combines the study of chemistry and the study of physics. The student investigates the subject of matter and its physical and chemical properties. He/she also investigate energy and the physical laws of nature that affect all matters. Fulfills G requirements.

Biology AP (2 semesters) Grade 12

Prerequisite: "B" or above in both Biology and Chemistry and teacher approval

Biology AP includes those topics regularly covered a college program in introductory biology. The college course in biology differs significantly from the usual first high school course in biology with respect to the kind of textbook used, the range and depth of topics covered, the kind of laboratory work done by students and the time and effort required of the students. The textbook used by Biology AP is also used by college biology majors and the kinds of labs done by AP students must be equivalent to those done by college students. The course aims to provide students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing science of biology.

Essentials of Human Anatomy (1 semester) Grades: 11 and 12

Prerequisite: One year of Biology CP or Biology Advanced with a grade of 3.0 or above

This course gives the students an overall view of the human body. The structures and function of the different organ systems are discussed. (College Prep) Fulfills G requirements.

Introduction to Astronomy (1 semester) Grades: 9, 10, 11, and 12

This course is an introduction to the study of the universe. Students learn how astronomers study their subjects and gain an appreciation of the grandeur of the universe. Verbal rather than mathematic expressions are emphasized. (College Prep) Fulfills G requirements.

Marine Biology (I semester) Grades 11 and 12

Prerequisite: Recommendation from Biology teacher. Must be enrolled in or have taken a physical science course.

This is an elective course with some laboratory experience for any senior who is interested in the subject. The central focus of this course is on the marine organisms: what they are, what they do, how they interact with one another and how their lives connect with ours. Aspects of marine chemistry, geology and marine ecology are also explored. Cooperative learning, discussions projects and hands-on laboratory experiences are utilized with an emphasis on practical application and appreciation for marine life and human impact on the sea. (College Prep) Fulfills G requirements.

Teacher’s Aide ‑ Science Department

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry (preferably) or Physical Science; must be conscientious, responsible and able to follow directions.

The aide prepares lab solutions of a non‑hazardous nature under the direction of the teacher, cares for glassware and lab equipment, set up lab experiments, correct papers of a non‑ interpretive nature, cares for lab animals, and otherwise assists the teacher.