Science (Cont.)

Advanced Physics C (1 credit, full year)

Corequisite: Calculus or higher math course. Expectations in this course include a grade of 95 in their previous regular science course or evidence of success in Honors- or Advanced-level science courses, active participation in class, and demonstrated ability to work with others in a variety of classroom situations. Department permission required.

11th, 12th

This is a college-level course for those who are considering majoring in science or engineering. The class focuses on classical mechanics and prepares students to take the AP Physics C Mechanics exam. Calculus is used in problem-solving. Frequent laboratory experiments are an important component of the class.

Chemistry Fundamentals (1 credit, full year)

10th

This course provides students with a solid foundation in the fundamentals of chemistry. Many exciting demonstrations and challenging investigative labs highlight this course. These experiences help students make connections between chemistry in the classroom and everyday life. The laboratory component of this course takes full advantage of modern computer technology to collect and manipulate data. Note: This course does not fulfill the prerequisite for Advanced Chemistry.

Honors Chemistry (1 credit, full year)

Prerequisite: 95 or above in the full year of the previous science course, active participation in class, and demonstrated ability to work with others in a variety of classroom situations. Corequisite: Algebra 2 or higher math course, with a preference for Honors Algebra 2 Trig or higher. Department permission required.

10th

Honors Chemistry is an advanced comprehensive high school chemistry course. The Honors class requires significant independent effort and moves more quickly through the foundations of chemistry to allow more time for advanced topics and labs. This course places emphasis on fundamental concepts, such as principles of chemical reactions & chemical bonding, as well as the application of these principles to descriptive chemistry. Experiments play an integral part in the course and help students discover basic principles for themselves. Topics include atomic theory, the periodic table, bonding, formulas, reactions, solutions, acids, bases, stoichiometry, and an introduction to equilibrium. Students are required to have strong math skills & a solid foundation in the physical sciences.

Advanced Chemistry (1 credit, full year)

Prerequisite: 90 or above in the full year of Honors Chemistry or by department permission. Corequisite: Honors Algebra 2 Trigonometry or higher math course. Expectations in this course include active participation in class and demonstrated ability to work with others in a variety of classroom situations. Department permission required.

11th, 12th

This course is the equivalent of an introductory college-level chemistry course. Students who successfully complete this course should be well prepared to take the AP chemistry exam in May. In this class we reinforce the chemical principles learned in introductory Honors-level chemistry courses including periodic properties of elements, chemical formulas and equations, states of matter, stoichiometry, and chemical bonding. Students in this course will also include new quantitative topics such as chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and thermodynamics. The goal is for students to attain an in-depth understanding of fundamental concepts and to develop competence in dealing with general chemistry problems.

Biology (1 credit, full year)

Prerequisite: Chemistry

11th, 12th

Biology introduces students to the fundamentals of the study of life. It encompasses essential concepts needed to explain our natural world and their interdependence with the environment. The course covers, but is not limited to: cells, biochemistry, genetics, biotechnology, evolution, ecology and human biology. Students focus on the study of biological processes, structures and functions at multiple levels of organization. They explore patterns, processes, and systems in order to understand the fundamental principles of living organisms. The course strengthens the development of analytical science skills, critical thinking, problem-solving and the practical application of technology and use of scientific tools. Students are active learners. They collect, analyze and interpret data working both independently and collaboratively in the classroom and laboratory. The ultimate goal is for students to have a deeper understanding of the world through an examination of the underlying processes and mechanisms of life.

Advanced Biology (1 credit, full year)

Prerequisite: Chemistry. Expectations in this course include a grade of 95 in their previous regular science course or evidence of success in Honors- or Advanced-level science courses, active participation in class, and demonstrated ability to work with others in a variety of classroom situations. Department permission required.

11th, 12th

This course is the equivalent of an introductory college-level biology course. In this fast-paced course, students study a range of topics in depth. From molecular and cellular biology, genetics and evolution to organismal biology and ecology, students will be challenged to dig deep into the material in search of the why. Extensive laboratory work supports the main themes of the curriculum, including modern genetic techniques and biotechnology. Other integral aspects to the course are attention to current scientific literature, project-based learning, hands-on activities, and student-led seminars.