SO YOU WANT TO TA K E A SC I E N C E CLASS A Guide to Choosing the Science Class that is Right for You
Required Courses: COURSE NAME
Biology: Semester/Semester
or
W H O S H O U L D TA K E I T ?
∙ Students who would like to take a more deliberate approach to biology with more time for hands-on activities ∙ Students who would prefer a wider survey of biological content
Biology: Semester/Intensive
∙ Students who would like to move through foundational biology topics at a more rapid pace ∙ Students interested in specialized content in evolutionary biology
Chemistry
∙ Students who want extra math support (the math requirements are the same in both courses, but this course offers more support in learning the mathematical applications)
or
W H E N S H O U L D I TA K E I T ?
9th Grade
10th Grade
Quantitative Chemistry
Physics
∙ Students with strong mathematical skills who are comfortable with moving through material at a faster pace (this course does not offer as much in-class support for quantitative concepts) ∙ Students who benefit from a more hands-on approach to science ∙ Students weaker in quantitative thinking
or
11th or 12th Grade Rising juniors should consider overall scheduling plans, the availability of alternate-year
Quantitative Physics
∙ Students with plans to study quantitative disciplines in college ∙ Students drawn to an advanced challenge
electives, and whether an additional year of math study and brain development before taking the course would help them to feel more successful.
The sequencing and guidelines above may not apply to students who take alternative paths (enrollment later than 9th grade, semesters away, etc.).