Science Graduation Requirements: 20 credits (15 in in Lab-Based Science: Physics, Biology, and Chemistry) 

Lab-Based Science

Course #403 (03151) – Physics  (lab-based)                                                          Grade 9

College Prep (02)                                                                                                                                   Credits: 5

This lab-based class is a one-year introductory lab course to learn about the fundamentals of physics. Topics include mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, sound and light. Math skills will be limited to manipulation of foundational algebraic equations as well graphical representations of physical phenomena. Emphasis will be on acquiring a blend of conceptual, quantitative, and applied understandings of basic physics principles. The class will include laboratory experiences, demonstrations, projects, and computer simulations.  

Course #412 (03152) – Honors Physics (lab-based)                                                        Grade 9

Honors (03)                                                                                                                                           Credits: 5

This course is run simultaneously with College Prep Physics. For students to earn this honors credit, they will complete a science fair project related to physics throughout the school year. 

Course #404 (03051) –Biology  (lab-based)                                                                Grade 10

College Prep (02)                                                                                                                                Credits: 5

This introductory lab-based biology course provides opportunities for students to explore the fundamental concepts of biological science. Students will be actively engaged in investigations of topics including the chemical basis of life, biochemistry, cellular biology, principles of heredity, DNA and protein synthesis, evolution, and ecology. These concepts will be examined through laboratory investigations, modeling, interactive investigations, reading assignments (homework), projects, and lectures. Students will study and apply the scientific method to their lab work as well as learn to interpret data through the use of graphical representations. Students will obtain knowledge of the practical applications of life science and gain an understanding of its relevance to everyday life and society as a whole.

Course #413 (03052) –Honors Biology (lab-based)                                                       Grade 10

 Honors (03)                                                                                                                                          Credits: 5

This course is run simultaneously with College Prep Biology. For students to earn this honors credit, they will complete a science fair project related to biology throughout the school year. 

Course #405 (03101) –Chemistry (lab-based)                                                   Grades 11-12

College Prep (02)                                                       Credits: 5

Recommended:  Completed Algebra I

This lab-based chemistry course is organized around important concepts that are significant and have wide applications in the field of science.  The goal of this course is for students to understand the fundamental principles of chemistry and to apply that knowledge.  Students in this course will gain a basic understanding of the chemistry of substances encountered in daily life and of the basic skills needed to be chemically literate.  Students will study properties of matter, atomic structure, chemical bonding, periodic trends, molecular geometry, chemical reactions and equations, molar concept, stoichiometry, the gas laws, acids and bases, chemical equilibrium, and oxidation – reduction. Scientific practices, critical thinking, problem solving, and the use and development of models will be emphasized. The rigor and content of the course is beneficial to students interested in attending college, and it is particularly beneficial to those students who are interested in pursuing careers in the areas of health, medicine, all sciences, and engineering. 

Course #406 (03102) – Honors Chemistry (lab-based)                             Grades 11-12

Honors   (03)                                                                                                      Credits: 5 

Recommended: Algebra I recommended with a B or better, or recommendation of teacher. 

Honors Chemistry is a year-long course, the purpose of which is to give students an understanding and appreciation of what makes up the world around them and to help them realize the role chemistry will play in their personal and professional lives.  This course is a study of the basic laws of chemistry, focusing on the common elements of the study and arrangement of elements, atoms and their structure, interactions and energy relationships. This course is designed for students who have shown proficiency, and who have exhibited interest and enthusiasm for STEM. Emphasis is placed on science and engineering practices with the intent of helping students prepare for the rigors of lab science courses that may be encountered in college. A high level of comfort in mathematical problem solving is necessary for success in this course.  This course will follow a similar curriculum as the college preparatory course but will cover the topics in greater depth and includes some additional concepts. 

AP Science

Course #410 (03207) -- AP Environmental Science                                                   Grades 11-12

Advanced Placement (04AP)                                                                  Credits: 5 

Recommendation: Completion of Physics, Biology, and Algebra I with B or better.

The AP Environmental Science course is designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester, introductory college course in environmental science, through which students engage with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships within the natural world. The course requires that students identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Environmental science is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from geology, biology, environmental studies, environmental science, chemistry, and geography.

Course #411 (03156)  - AP Physics 1                                         Grades 11-12 

Advanced Placement (04AP)                                                                                                          Credits: 5

 (Not offered in 2025-2026)

Recommendation: Algebra II with a grade of a B or better, or recommendation of teacher.

AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course.   The course will be taught through inquiry-based investigations, lecture, textbook readings, and online resources and will entail the topics of kinematics, dynamics, circular motion and gravitation, energy and work, momentum, simple harmonic motion, torque and rotational motion, electric charge and electric force, DC circuits, and mechanical waves.  This course prepares you for the AP Physics 1 exam and completion of this exam is required. 

Course #408 (03056)-- AP Biology                                                                                         Grades 11-12

Advanced Placement (04AP)                                                                                                     Credits: 5

(Not offered in 2025-2026)

Recommendation: College Preparatory Biology with a B+ or better, or permission from the instructor. Also, completion of or enrollment in Chemistry.

This course is designed to be the equivalent of an introductory college biology course and aims to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Biology Exam. A student taking this course will be exposed to the topics and skills necessary for a career in Biological science. The course will include extensive lab work with great emphasis placed on using statistical analysis to validate or dismiss scientific data. Laboratory experiments will include an in-depth study of topics recommended by the College Board AP Biology Course Description. These labs will provide students with an opportunity to develop important lab skills, including experimental design, laboratory safety, data collection, and data analysis. The topics covered by this course include biochemistry, cell biology, principles of heredity, molecular genetics, evolution, animal behavior, and human physiology. 

Course #409 (03106)-- AP Chemistry                                                                  Grades 11-12

Advanced Placement (04AP)                                                            Credits: 5

Recommendation: Honors Chemistry and Algebra II with a B or better, or permission from instructor.

The Advanced Placement Chemistry course is designed to be the equivalent of a general chemistry course usually taken during the first college year. The course is designed to aid the development of the student's abilities to think clearly, express their ideas orally and in writing, with clarity and logic. Students in this AP Chemistry course will attain a depth of understanding of fundamental chemical principles and a reasonable competence in dealing with chemical problems. The pace of the course is fast and is directed by The College Board with respect to course content. Students are expected to be consistently self-directed in their study, and to complete the necessary at-home preparation. 

Project Lead the Way (PLTW)

PLTW elective courses adopt a problem-solving mindset, are engaged in compelling, real-world challenges that help them become better collaborators and thinkers, and are prepared with skills to step into any career path they take. Students will have the opportunity to take the PLTW test at the end of the course to receive college level credit.

Course #407 (03066) –Principles in Biomedical Science (PLTW)                                              Grades 10-12

Honors  (03)                                                                                                                    Credits: 5

Recommendation: College Preparatory Biology with a B or better or permission from the instructor.

Principles of Biomedical Science (PBS) is a full-year high school course in the PLTW Biomedical Science Program. This course serves to provide foundational knowledge and skills in fields such as biology, anatomy & physiology, genetics, microbiology, and epidemiology as well as engage students in how this content can be applied to real world situations, cases, and problems. Through both individual and collaborative team activities, projects, and problems, students will tackle real-world challenges faced by biomedical professionals in the field. They will work with the same tools and equipment used in hospitals and labs as they engage in relevant hands-on work. Students will develop skill in technical documentation to represent and communicate experimental findings and solutions to problems. In addition, students will explore how connections to other disciplines such as computer science and engineering shape the future of medicine and practice collaboration techniques that will help them connect with professionals across any field.

Course #457 (21024) –Environmental Sustainability  (PLTW)                                               Grades 10-12

Honors (03)                                                                                                                      Credits: 5

(not offered 2025-2026)

Environmental Sustainability (ES) is a high school-level specialization course in PLTW Engineering. In ES, students investigate and design solutions to solve real-world challenges related to clean drinking water, a stable food supply, and renewable energy. Students are introduced to environmental issues and use the engineering design process to research and design potential solutions. Utilizing the activity-, project-, problem-based (APB) teaching and learning pedagogy, students transition from completing structured activities to solving open-ended projects and problems that require them to develop planning, documentation, communication, and other professional skills. Through both individual and collaborative team activities, projects, and problems, students problem solve as they practice common design and scientific protocols such as project management, lab techniques, and peer review. Students develop skills in designing experiments, conducting research, executing technical skills, documenting design solutions according to accepted technical standards, and creating presentations to communicate solutions.

Course #460 (03076)-  Human Body Systems (PLTW)                                                 Grades 11-12

Elective (03)                                         Credits: 5

 (not offered 2025-2026)

Anatomy and Physiology is an engaging and comprehensive course designed to introduce high school students to the intricacies of the human body's structure and function. This course delves into the organization and systems of the human body, exploring the relationships between structure and function at various levels, from cells to organs and systems. Through a combination of lectures, hands-on activities, laboratory experiments, and multimedia resources, students will gain a deep understanding of human anatomy and physiology. The course emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific inquiry, encouraging students to analyze and interpret anatomical structures and physiological processes. Key topics covered include: Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology, Cellular Biology, Skeletal System, Muscular System, Nervous System, Cardiovascular System, Respiratory System, Digestive System, Endocrine System, and the Reproductive System. Throughout the course, students will engage in laboratory investigations, dissections (where permissible), interactive models, and case studies to reinforce theoretical knowledge with practical application. Discussions on health-related topics, medical advancements, and ethical considerations in healthcare will also be integrated into the curriculum. By the end of this course, students will have developed a solid foundation in human anatomy and physiology, enabling them to comprehend the complexities of the human body and its functions, laying a strong groundwork for further studies in medical and biological sciences.

Course #461 (21018) –Principles of Engineering (PLTW)                                                           Grades 9-12

Honors  (03)                                                                                                                        Credits: 5

Principles of Engineering is a full-year course designed to introduce high school student’s to the PLTW Engineering program and is appropriate for students in grades 9-12. In Principles of Engineering, students explore a broad range of engineering disciplines, careers, and design and solve real-world engineering problems. This course introduces students to engineering concepts that are applicable to a variety of engineering disciplines and empowers them to develop technical skills through the use of engineering tools such as 3-D modeling software, hands-on prototyping equipment, programming software, and robotics hardware to bring their solutions to life. Students apply the engineering design process to solve real-world problems across a breadth of engineering fields such as mechanical, robotics, infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and product design and development. Using PLTW’s activity-, project-, problem-based (APB) instructional approach, students advance from completing structured activities to solving open-ended projects and problems that provide opportunities to develop planning and technical documentation skills, as well as in-demand, transportable skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and ethical reasoning. The last is particularly important as the course encourages students to consider the impacts of engineering decisions. Through individual and collaborative team activities, projects, and problems, students create solutions to problems as they practice common engineering design and development protocols, such as experimental design, testing, project management, and peer review. 

SCIENCE ELECTIVES 

These courses are designed to broaden students’ horizons regarding the Science field. They do not meet the entirety of the state standards and are therefore electives rather than core courses. 

Course #459 (03003) – Environmental Science                                            Grades 9-12

Elective  (02)                                                                                                             Credits: 5 

 (not offered 2025-2026)

Environmental Science is a year –long elective course for any student interested in learning more about the environment and the current issues and events relating to the environment.  Students will learn how ecosystems function; how organisms interact with each other; population dynamics, and how the human population is affecting the global commons.  Food production and agriculture; waste management; pollution, and energy are also important topics to be explored.  Where possible, New England ecology will be highlighted and attention will be given to current events.  Students will leave the course with an appreciation for the interconnectedness of the living world to the nonliving components of ecosystems, and the interconnectedness of organisms and systems to each other.  Sustainability and the effects of human impact are themes that run through the course.  Students will participate in various activities and projects throughout the year. 

Course #452 (15055) – Forensic Science                                                                                     Grades 9-12

Elective (02)                                                                                                                      Credits: 5

(not offered 2025-2026)

This year-long science elective is a study of the practical application of fields of biological, physical, and chemistry to matters of criminal or civil justice. Forensic science can help prove the guilt or innocence of the defendant in a criminal trial. In civil actions, forensics can help solve a broad spectrum of legal issues through the identification, analysis, and evaluation of physical evidence. This course is designed to give students an  overview of Forensic science and to see how crime scenes are investigated. The laboratory portion of the  course is designed to give students hands-on experience and to review lecture material.  

Course #458 (03009) - Earth and Space Science                                             Grades 9-12

Elective(02)                                               Credits: 5

This elective allows students to explore additional and more complex phenomena related to Earth processes and systems, interactions among Earth’s systems, and interactions of Earth’s systems and human actions. Students will be able to apply a variety of science and engineering practices to three core ideas of earth and space science: Earth’s place in the universe, Earth’s systems, and Earth and human activity. Particular emphasis is placed on science and engineering practices of developing and using models; constructing explanations; and obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information.

Course #456 (03211) – STEM Innovations                                                                               Grades 9-12

Elective (02)                                                                                                                      Credits: 5

(not offered 2025-2026)

STEM Innovations is an independent research and project based class. Students will collaborate with peers and draw upon their knowledge of the design process to find solutions to problems. An emphasis will be placed on conducting research, the design process, data collection and analysis, and presenting their findings. Students will explore STEM careers, have an opportunity to participate in the Massachusetts STEM challenge, MSEF Region 1 and State Science Fairs, and start to learn how to network by contacting and visiting local businesses and/or laboratories.

MIDDLE SCHOOL SCIENCE

Course #401 (53237) - Science 7                                 Grade 7

Grade 7 Science will focus on cycles, systems, and  movement of energy beginning with the Earth and its environments. Students will begin the year learning about how abiotic and biotic factors are connected as well as how human activities have played on the earth’s environments and earth’s resources.  Students will  develop a model to demonstrate how matter is cycled through an ecosystem, describe the process of natural selection, and show the importance of biodiversity. Students will then focus on Forces and Energy.   Through conducting investigations students will construct and interpret graphs and data to describe the relationship between energy, mass, and speed of an object. Students will develop models that demonstrate potential and kinetic energy, how energy is transferred, and Newton’s laws of motion. Students will finish the year learning how energy drives plate tectonics and how the movement of earth’s plates slowly reconfigures oceans and continents as well as learn how volcanic activity and earthquakes alter the landscape in a dramatic and often violent manner. In addition to content, all middle school science classes emphasize effective communication skills, accurate written work, and the development of critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Course #402 (53238) - Science 8                                           Grade 8

This grade 8 science course covers four major units; chemistry, cells and heredity, water and the atmosphere, and astronomy.. In the chemistry unit, students learn that everything they encounter is made of matter, but different substances may have different properties such as its density, when the substance will melt, and if it can conduct electricity or heat. Students will then dive deeper into what matter is made of by learning about atoms, elements, and chemical reactions. In the cells and heredity unit, students will learn about cell organelles and structures, the relationship between form and function, genetic mutations, DNA, and many more. Students will also engage in the water and atmosphere unit which focuses on oceans, atmospheric events, and climate change over time. In the astronomy and space science unit, students explore topics such as the history of space exploration, the solar system, rockets, star phenomena, and the properties of black holes. Throughout the year students will experience lectures, labs, develop note taking skills, participate in class discussions, and be responsible for homework which students can expect to be assigned regularly. Students will often be asked to work cooperatively with classmates thus enhancing their collaboration, communication and critical thinking skills. 

Course #451(71003) - Building for Tomorrow                         Grades 7 & 8

Elective                                                                                                                    

This hands-on, project based STEM class combines science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In this class students will work with peers to solve building challenges, improve scientific process techniques, and become scientists and engineers by designing their own experiments and prototypes. Students will have the opportunity to complete a science fair project if they choose to do so.

Course #455 (53063)  - Environmental Ecology                                                 Grades 7 & 8

Elective                                                                     

(Not offered in 2025-2026)

This elective course is designed for middle school students interested in learning more about the ecology and environments within the Pioneer Valley and the rest of the world. From dinosaurs roaming our lands, to the glaciers shaping our valley, students will begin the course by learning about the unique natural history of Western Massachusetts. As students progress through the course, they will learn about soils and climate, biodiversity and what affects it, land management techniques, the carbon, nitrogen, phosphate, and water cycles, and conservation methods. Students will study not only the land ecology but marine ecosystems as well, from our oceans and coastlines to lakes and ponds.  Hands-on laboratory investigations, art projects, and professional speakers will help reinforce and illustrate key concepts covered in the course. Student’s will strive to become advocates of our natural world through collaborative projects to protect our native environment as climate change progresses. This course will expose students to other academic topics, including chemistry, biology, earth science, environmental science, oceanography, civics, and math.

Course #450 (71006) - MS Engineering                                                              Grades 7 & 8

Elective                                                                                                       

(Not offered in 2025-2026)

This hands-on, project based STEAM class combines science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics.  Students will use critical thinking skills to solve real world problems such as designing zoo habitats and animal road crossings, building wind turbines and a home that can withstand a tsunamis, designing and building a prototype to clean the microplastics from our waters, designing a disease to become a cure, build their own pacemaker prototypes, develop ideas to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, and many more great projects. Students will have the opportunity to complete a science fair project if they choose to do so that they can use to compete at the Massachusetts Science and Engineering Fairs.