Science
INTEGRATED SCIENCE
1 Credit
Grade: 9 (Required)
This course is a science requirement for all freshmen. The course is an introduction to physical science. Students will devote one quarter of the school year to the study of basic scientific principles. Students will learn laboratory procedures including the use of laboratory equipment. The remaining three quarters of the school year will be devoted to the introduction of chemistry, physics, and earth/space science.
INTRODUCTION TO BIOLOGY
1 Credit
Grade: 10
This course combines laboratory work, field work, dissection, and information from a variety of sources to present the major themes in biology. Topics include cell biology, mitosis and meiosis, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, human anatomy and physiology, genetics, biotechnology, and evolution.
CHEMISTRY
1 Credit
Grades: 10, 11,12
(Grade 10 only by special recommendation from Integrated Science teacher.)
Students will study the concepts, facts, formulas, and principles of basic chemistry. Topics covered will include energy and matter, atomic structure, chemical formulas and bonding, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, and chemical equilibrium.
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
1/2 Credit
Grades: 11,12
Prerequisite: Chemistry
This class is the study of organic compounds. Emphasis is placed on the nomenclature of all major organic compounds using the IUPAC system. Students will learn to write reactions of organic compounds. Advanced laboratory techniques are introduced. Students will synthesize and analyze these compounds.
BIOCHEMISTRY
1/2 Credit
Grades: 11,12
Prerequisite: Chemistry
This class is an in depth study of biochemical compounds: carbohydrates, amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Chemical metabolic pathways are studied. Students will learn to isolate and analyze these compounds in the laboratory.
PHYSICS
1 Credit
Grades: 11,12
Prerequisite: Completion of Integrated Science and Introduction to Biology
A course designed for the college-bound student, it is the study of conceptual physics. Major topics to be covered are motion, energy, momentum, waves, light, and sound. A course in Chemistry is strongly suggested as a prerequisite.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
1/2 Credit
Grades: 11,12
Prerequisite: Introduction to Biology and Chemistry
This course explores the aquatic, terrestrial, and atmospheric systems of the Earth, as well as the environmental impact of human actions and population growth on these systems, environmental issues will be examined, and extensive laboratory and field work will be included.
ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY
1/2 Credit
Grades: 11,12
Prerequisite: Introduction to Biology and Chemistry
This one-semester course includes detailed study of the structures and functions of the various cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems of the human body, as well as the diseases associated with those systems. Extensive laboratory work, dissection, and practicum examinations are included.
AP BIOLOGY
(Biology 101 and 101L)
1 Credit
(4 College hours)
Grade: 12
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Introduction to Biology and Chemistry and/or prior teacher's recommentation.
This course is for the dedicated, self-motivated student seriously considering a major in biology. It introduces some of the topics not covered in the Introduction to Biology course, such as microbiology and botany. Cell biology, mitosis and meiosis, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and evolution are studied in much greater detail, while biotechnology and genetics are intensely explored. Extensive laboratory work using state-of-the-art technology is included. Students who plan to take the AP exam should also take College Level Anatomy and Environment Science.