Science

Biology I (SCI051)

Prerequisite: Earth Science  | Grade Level(s): 10 | Credits: 1   

This course introduces students to the study of living things and concentrates on the following areas: cell biology, classifications, biochemistry, genetics, and ecology. The scientific method, observation, analysis and interpretation of data, and graphing will be covered also. Lab work will be utilized when appropriate to reinforce course work. This course includes a Standards of Learning (SOL) test for students needing to earn a verified science credit.

Biology I A (SCI051A)

Prerequisite: Earth Science A  | Grade Level(s): 9-10 | Credits: 1   

Biology A is intended for students pursuing the advanced studies diploma. This course introduces students to the study of living things and concentrates on the following areas: cell biology, classifications, biochemistry, genetics, and ecology. The scientific method, observation, analysis and interpretation of data, and graphing will be covered also. Lab work will be utilized when appropriate to reinforce course work. Projects and research papers will be required at the discretion of the teacher. This course includes a Standards of Learning (SOL) test for students needing to earn a verified science credit.

Biology II: Ecology (SCI063)

Prerequisite: Biology or Biology A  | Grade Level(s): 10-12 | Credits: 1   

Biology II: Ecology builds on the concepts outlined in Biology I. This course provides students with a more intensive look at ecological concepts.  Students are expected to have had instruction in biology and Earth science content prior to taking the course (although Earth Science is not a pre-requisite for the course, students will need understanding of basic Earth processes that underlie ecological concepts).  Concepts include the flow of matter and energy in biotic and abiotic components of an ecosystem, geochemical processes (carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and oxygen cycles), chemical and biochemical processes essential for life, water chemistry and the impact of water on life processes, and processes and interactions of Earth systems.

Biology II: Anatomy & Physiology (SCI053)

Prerequisite: Biology or Biology A  | Grade Level(s): 10-12 | Credits: 1   

In this course the student will develop a working knowledge of human anatomy and physiology based on concepts. Students will be actively involved in laboratory experiences and projects designed to reinforce concepts. This advanced level course is designed for students who are strong in science and usually are pursuing an advanced studies diploma. The course may appeal to those interested in allied health fields.

Chemistry I (SCI101)

Prerequisite: Earth Science  | Grade Level(s): 10 | Credits: 1   

This course introduces students to the study of living things and concentrates on the following areas: cell biology, classifications, biochemistry, genetics, and ecology. The scientific method, observation, analysis and interpretation of data, and graphing will be covered also. Lab work will be utilized when appropriate to reinforce course work. This course includes a Standards of Learning (SOL) test for students needing to earn a verified science credit.

AP Chemistry (SCI101)

Prerequisite: Biology or Biology A | Corequisite: Algebra II  | Grade Level(s): 10-12 | Credits: 1  

Chemistry is a course that develops a student’s critical thinking skills through the use of the scientific method and problem-solving abilities. A well-developed mathematics background is necessary to develop and work with the concepts related to atomic structure, the periodic table, gases, acid-base chemistry, oxidation-reduction, equilibrium, nuclear chemistry, and organic chemistry. This course includes a Standards of Learning (SOL) test for students needing to earn a verified science credit.

Dual Enrollment Science I: Biology (DEBIO101)

Prerequisite: Biology A, Chemistry I  | Grade Level(s): 11-12 | Credits: 1   

 This college-level course through Blue Ridge Community College (BRCC) explores fundamental characteristics of living matter from the molecular level to the ecological community with emphasis on general biological principles. It introduces the diversity of living organisms, their structure, function and evolution. This biochemistry course also covers organic compounds, DNA, RNA, genetics and cell biology. Students must purchase the textbook for this course. This course is offered for dual enrollment credit through Blue Ridge Community College (BIO 101).

Earth Science I  (SCI001)

Prerequisite: None | Grade Level(s): 9 | Credits: 1   

Earth Science 

 a course designed to foster awareness of the planet on which the student is living and how everything he or she does, has done, or is going to do, is in some way related to the study of Earth. There are five major disciplines within the field of Earth Science, all of which are investigated in this course. Geology explores the rocky parts of Earth; oceanography explores the planet's oceans; meteorology explores the planet's atmosphere; environmental science explores human impact on the planet; and astronomy explores Earth's place within the universe. Throughout the semester, topics such as pollution, the environment, conservation, and energy, are incorporated into the curriculum. This course is primarily for students who are working towards the standard diploma. This course includes a Standards of Learning (SOL) test for students needing to earn a verified science credit.

Earth Science I A (SCI001A)

Prerequisite: None | Grade Level(s): 9 | Credits: 1   

Earth Science A is a course designed to foster awareness of the planet on which the student is living and how everything he or she does, has done, or is going to do, is in some way related to the study of Earth. There are five major disciplines within the field of Earth Science, all of which are investigated in this course. Geology explores the rocky parts of Earth; oceanography explores the planet's oceans; meteorology explores the planet's atmosphere; environmental science explores human impact on the planet; and astronomy explores Earth's place within the universe. Throughout the semester, topics such as pollution, the environment, conservation, and energy, are incorporated into the curriculum. This course is primarily for students who are working towards the advanced studies diploma. This course includes a Standards of Learning (SOL) test for students needing to earn a verified science credit.

Earth Science II: Astronomy (SCI004)

Prerequisite: Earth Science   | Grade Level(s): 10-12 | Credits: 1   

Earth Science II: Astronomy provides students with an introduction to the concepts of modern astronomy, the origin and history of the Universe, and the formation of the Earth and the solar system.  The course gives a description of astronomical phenomena using the laws of physics.  The course treats many standard topics including planets, stars, the Milky Way and other galaxies, black holes, and the origin of the universe.

Physics I (SCI151)

Prerequisite: Biology or Biology A (preferred) | Grade Level(s): 10-12 | Credits: 1   

Physics is a laboratory-based course in which the student studies the behavior of nature at its most fundamental level. Emphasis in Physics I is on understanding the basic principles from which mathematical equations are derived, and using those equations to solve a wide variety of problems. Students will gain a conceptual understanding of physics by applying those principles and the corresponding equations to real situations. Students will study Mechanics, Gravitation, Electricity and Magnetism, Wave Theory, Thermodynamics, Optics and Modern Physics. This advanced level course is designed for students who are strong in science and usually are pursuing an advanced studies diploma.

AP Physics I (SCI65) - Potential New Course in 2025-2026

Prerequisite: Physics I | Grade Level(s): 11-12 | Credits: 1   

AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course designed for high school students. This course covers fundamental concepts in physics, including mechanics, wave motion, and basic thermodynamics. Students will engage in hands-on laboratory experiments and simulations to enhance their understanding of the physical principles governing the natural world.

Through inquiry-based learning and problem-solving strategies, students will develop critical thinking skills and the ability to apply physics concepts to real-world scenarios. This course prepares students for the AP Physics 1 exam and lays the groundwork for further studies in physics and related fields. Lab work and collaborative projects will emphasize scientific investigation and communication of findings.