Honors Biology Class Overview

Students will analyze and evaluate components of the biological world and implement procedures to safely investigate the chemical, microscopic, and macroscopic components of life, analyzing and categorizing biological processes and life forms that they may encounter on an almost daily basis or in a scientific work setting. This course includes comparisons of the various types of cellular structures and structures found within and among the various types of multicellular organisms as well as the interactions of life forms with their environment.

The following topics will be covered:

• Cells

• Organisms

• Genetics

• Ecology

AP Research Class Overview

Students design, plan, and conduct a year-long research-based investigation to address a research question. In the AP Research course, students further skills acquired in the AP Seminar course by understanding research methodology, employing ethical research practices, and accessing, analyzing, and synthesizing information as they address a research question. Students explore their skill development, document their processes, and curate the artifacts of the development of their scholarly work in a portfolio. The course culminates in an Academic Paper (AP) of approximately 4000–5000 words (accompanied by a performance or exhibition of product where applicable) and a Presentation with an Oral Defense (POD)

Oceanography Class Overview

Oceanography  is designed to emphasize the interconnectedness of multiple science disciplines. Students will recognize that the ocean is a dynamic system reflecting interactions among organisms, ecosystems, chemical cycles, and physical and geological processes, on land, in air, and in the oceans. Students will investigate oceanography concepts through experience in laboratories and fieldwork using the processes of inquiry.

The following topics will be covered:

• Georgia’s Barrier Islands

• Indigenous Species to wetlands and estuaries of Georgia

• Ocean Currents, Circulation, Waves and Climate

• Formation of the Earth and the oceans

• Marine Animals

• Water Chemistry