Science

"The more I study nature, the more I stand amazed at the work of the Creator. Science brings us nearer to God. " -Louis Pasteur

Biology I

Biology I (College Prep) is a laboratory science course that investigates the relationship between structure and function from molecules to organisms and systems, the interdependence and interactions of biotic and abiotic components of the environment, and mechanisms that maintain continuity and lead to changes in populations over time. The students will gain understanding as they investigate topics related to real-world applications of biology, biochemistry, cell structure and function, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, mitosis and meiosis, heredity and genetics, DNA and gene expression, gene technology, ecology, and biodiversity. The CK-12 curriculum is used as the basis for study but is supplemented with slide presentations and various web-based interactive activities.

Honors Biology I

Honors Biology I is a laboratory science course that investigates the relationship between structure and function from molecules to organisms and systems, the interdependence and interactions of biotic and abiotic components of the environment, and mechanisms that maintain continuity and lead to changes in populations over time. The students will gain understanding as they investigate topics related to real-world applications of biology, biochemistry, cell structure and function, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, mitosis and meiosis, heredity and genetics, DNA and gene expression, gene technology, ecology, and biodiversity. The CK12 curricula is used as the basis for study but is supplemented with slide presentations and various web-based interactive activities. Whereas the same resources as CP Biology are utilized, Honors Biology requires more application and depth of subject matter as students hone their critical thinking and problemsolving skills.

Chemistry I

Chemistry I (College Prep) is designed to aid the student’s ability to understand the composition of matter on an atomic level. The electronic structure of an atom is emphasized as the basis for compound formation, chemical reactions, light, and energy transformations. Molecular model kits and hands-on laboratory experiments are designed to visualize general principles that are explained by the atomic properties.

Honors Chemistry I

Honors Chemistry I is designed to aid the student’s ability to understand the composition of matter on an atomic level. The electronic structure of an atom is emphasized as the basis for explaining the layout of the periodic table, compound formation, chemical reactions, light, and energy transformations. Molecular model kits and hands-on laboratory experiments are designed to visualize general principles that are explained by the atomic properties. Honors Chemistry I takes the same chemical principles taught in CP Chemistry I to a greater depth with the goal of developing a deeper understanding of the interactions of various states of matter. This class requires greater problem-solving skills and is more explanation-focused.

Honors Physics I

*(Pre-requisites: Honors Algebra II) Honors Physics I emphasizes a Newtonian study of the interactions of macroscopic objects that students will observe throughout their daily lives. This course has a heavy mathematical component that is mostly algebra-based, but it does require some basic understanding of geometry and trigonometry. This mathematical emphasis is designed to provide both evidence for physical principles discussed in class, as well as the development of problem-solving skills. Students will learn about kinematics from mathematical, theoretical, graphical, and practical relationships. They will also study forces, projectile motion, momentum, collisions, and rotational motion. Laboratory experiments will be designed to tie the principles they are learning to applicable real-life situations.

Biology II Biology II is a college-prep laboratory science course in which students engage in an in-depth study of the principles of biology. This course emphasizes internal and external anatomical structures and their functions, the environmental interaction of organisms, processes of living things, mechanisms that maintain homeostasis, biodiversity, and changes in life forms over time. Students will investigate and gain an understanding of topics such as: classification of organisms, viruses, and bacteria, protists, fungi, botany, human body structure, circulatory and respiratory systems, immune system, nervous and endocrine systems, and reproduction and development. Students will be involved in hands-on laboratory activities, individual and cooperative learning, as well as group and individual presentations.

Honors Chemistry II *(Pre-requisites: Honors Chemistry I) Honors Chemistry II is designed to build on the student’s knowledge attained in Chemistry I during their sophomore year of high school and emphasizes free-response questions aimed at developing the ability to explain the atomic processes they observe in hands-on laboratory activities in addition to natural events in their daily lives. Topics covered in Honors Chemistry I are reviewed with a greater emphasis on the why. Students in Honors Chemistry II will further explore the nature of acid/base reactions, oxidation/reduction reactions, thermochemistry, chemical kinetics, and chemical equilibria. Students will also enjoy an introduction to organic chemistry designed to destigmatize the subject as they enter college and give them the confidence to be successful in the subject at the collegiate level. The hands-on laboratory experiments will be designed to further explain chemical principles discussed in class as well as encourage students’ confidence in a laboratory setting.

Anatomy and Physiology

*(Prerequisites: Biology I and Chemistry I) Anatomy and Physiology is a year-long course that will include an intense program of human anatomy (structure) and physiology (function) studies. The areas covered will include medical terminology, cell and tissue structure, and the 11 systems of the human body (integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, digestive, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive). Students will gain understanding as they explore anatomy and physiology through inquiry, hands-on laboratory investigations, dissections, individual studies, and group activities.

Computer Science

Computer Science Principles is a year-long college-prep course that introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world. This course focuses on concepts such as how the internet works and the societal impacts of computer science. This is beneficial for beginners as well as students with computer experience in other courses. The student will be exposed to the following topics: digital information, the Internet, app designs, variables, conditionals, functions, lists, loops, transversals, algorithms, parameters, data, cybersecurity, and global impacts.