SCIENCE
PHYSICAL SCIENCE prerequisite - none 5 Credits
This course is a study of matter and energy. It will involve some of the basic principles of Chemistry and Physics. This course leads students from their experiences with the states of matter to the development of models of the atom and the underlying principles of chemistry. Basic principles of physics emerge in this course, where the study of force and motion leads students to the concept of energy. All forms of energy are introduced and investigated, and principles of transformation and laws of conservation are developed.
HONORS PHYSICAL SCIENCE prerequisite - none 5 Credits
This course offers a more in-depth treatment of the topics covered in Physical Science. Major topics of study include the scientific method, forces and motion, energy, wave phenomena, phase of matter, chemical and physical properties, and the structure of matter.
BIOLOGY CP prerequisite - Physical Science 5 Credits
The study of biology is an attempt to make sense of the living component of our natural world. Biology, like other sciences, includes both the process of scientific inquiry through which knowledge is attained and the knowledge which results from the inquiry. An emphasis on molecular and cellular biology gives a background for understanding the concepts of reproduction and genetics. Understanding the continuity of life and transmission of characteristics to offspring by heredity gives meaning to organic variation and scientific classification.
The laboratory exercises will reinforce and expand the facts, principles, and concepts presented in the classroom. The laboratory will encourage skills in observation, record keeping, data interpretation, and operation of technical equipment.
HONORS BIOLOGY prerequisite - Honors Physical Science 5 Credits
The study of biology is an attempt to make sense of the living component in our natural world. Biology, like other sciences, includes both the process of scientific inquiry through which knowledge is attained: the knowledge which results from the inquiry. An emphasis on molecular and cellular biology gives a background for understanding the concepts of reproduction and genetics. Understanding the continuity of life and transmission of characteristics to offspring by hereditary determiners gives meaning to organic variation and scientific classification.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE prerequisite - none 5 Credits
All students will develop an understanding of the environment as a system of interdependent components affected by human activity and natural phenomena. The course will create an awareness of the need to protect, conserve, and preserve natural resources, which is a goal of science education. This course calls for students to develop knowledge of environmental issues, including management of natural resources, production and use of energy, waste management, and the interdependence of ecosystems.
CHEMISTRY CP w/lab prerequisite--Physical Science, Algebra I, Biology 6 Credits
Chemistry is designed to give the student an understanding and appreciation for the development of this science. Chemistry includes the study of measurements in the metric system, matter and classification, periodic law, bonding and formula writing, chemical equations and stoichiometry, gas laws, solutions and oxidation-reduction. Some of the major topics covered are: atomic theory, the Periodic Table of the Elements, chemical reactions, acid-base theory, chemical bonding, kinetic molecular theory and solutions. Laboratory experiments are used to support the topics that are studied. This course will provide the students with their first true application of their mathematics skills in real problem-solving situations.
HONORS CHEMISTRY w/lab prerequisite--Honors: Physical Science, Algebra I, Biology 6 Credits
This is a more detailed study of the topics in chemistry, with an emphasis on mathematical modeling and error analysis. Additional topics of study include calorimetry, organic nomenclature, and predicting reaction products. Some of the major topics covered are: atomic theory, the Periodic Table of the Elements, chemical reactions, acid-base theory, chemical bonding, kinetic molecular theory and solutions. Laboratory experiments are to support the topics that are studied. This course will provide the students with their first true application of their mathematics skills in real problem-solving situations.
PHYSICS CP w/lab prerequisite--Biology, Chemistry, Algebra I, Geometry 6 Credits
Through experimentation and classroom discussion, students will become more aware and discriminatory of the physical world about them. Physics begins with the study of classical Newtonian physics and proceeds through metric measurement, kinematics, Newton’s laws, linear and circular motion, simple harmonic motion, work, power, energy and machines, heat, sound, light and electricity. This lab course will give students a solid background for further study in the sciences, health, or engineering fields.
HONORS PHYSICS w/lab prerequisite-Honors: Biology, Chemistry, Algebra I, Geometry 6 Credits
Students will study mathematical models for a variety of physical phenomena. Topics of study include dimensional analysis, vectors, linear and nonlinear motion, forces and Newton’s Laws, universal gravitation, momentum, energy and optics. This course is intended for advanced students who have an Algebra II and science background. Students are expected to develop competence in laboratory techniques and to work for extended periods of time with minimum direction.
EARTH SCIENCE prerequisite - none 5 Credits
All students will gain an understanding of the structure, dynamics, and geophysical systems of the Earth. The study of science should include a study of the planet Earth and its relationship to the rest of the universe. This course describes what students should know about the composition of the Earth and the forces that shape it. Building upon knowledge and skills gained in preceding grades, by the end of this school year, students will explain the interrelationship of the geosphere, hydrosphere, and the atmosphere, describe how weather (in the short term) and climate (in the long term) involve the transfer of energy in and out of the atmosphere, and use the theory of plate tectonics to explain the relationship among earthquakes, volcanoes, mid-ocean ridges, and deep-sea trenches.
