Science Course Descriptions

Earth Science Academic

Course Code 640300

Course Code 640V00 Virtual Loudoun Online

Grade(s): 9-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: None

Earth Science is a study of the interrelationships between the Earth’s composition, structure, processes, and history and its atmosphere, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy. Various scientists and their contributions are studied.

Students interpret various maps, charts, and tables and utilize technology, including GIS and GPS to organize and analyze data. Facility in using many different kinds of maps and graphics is a major outcome of learning earth science. Students also consider costs and benefits of using the Earth’s resources in problem-solving situations. *Students may be required to complete the SOL Assessment for VDOE accountability. 

Research Earth Science Honors

Course Code 640200

Grade(s): 9-12

1 Credit

Prerequisite: None

Earth Science is a study of the interrelationships between the Earth’s composition, structure, processes, and history and its atmosphere, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy. Various scientists and their contributions are studied.

Research Earth Science is designed to give students multiple experiences conducting research as a means to develop and reinforce earth science content knowledge and scientific thinking. Students interpret various maps, charts, and tables and utilize technology, including GIS and GPS to organize and analyze data. Students learn the role that scientific evidence and scientific thinking plays in development of new scientific knowledge in the earth science disciplines.

Students begin to develop expertise needed to conduct in-depth scientific research. In particular, students gain the ability to collect and communicate data with descriptive statistics and graphical representations. In addition, students learn skills to use data and scientific knowledge to develop conclusions about their research questions.

All Research Earth Science students are expected to complete an in-depth, independent Science Research Investigation (SRI) as a required part of their course work. Research Earth Science students may participate in the process leading to possible selection for participation in the Loudoun County Regional Science and Engineering Fair (RSEF). *Students may be required to complete the SOL Assessment for VDOE accountability. 

Astronomy Virtual Loudoun Online

Course Code 64057V

Grade(s): 11-12 Credit: 1

Prerequisite: Earth Science

In Astronomy, students examine the universe and Earth’s place in it. Beginning with a basic introduction to astronomy, this course covers the known universe, including the sun, stars, radiation and the electromagnetic spectrum, the larger Solar System and how astronomy influences everyday life. Through media-rich content, engaging assessments, simulations, and scientific investigations, students explore this sub-section of Earth Science throughout history and the universe.

This course counts as an Earth Science credit.

Oceanography Virtual Loudoun Online

Course Code 64000V

Grade(s): 11-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Earth Science

In this Oceanography course, students take a journey through the ocean world – the planet earth is approximately 71% ocean water. Oceanography is a discipline of science that records and describes the features of the oceans. Unlike the sciences of geology, biology, chemistry, and physics, oceanography uses a different approach and is a combination of these four sciences in the ocean realm; however, oceanography also involves engineering to develop devices that will take scientists to the depths and everywhere underwater. In this on-line course, students gain an understanding of oceanography through media-rich interactivities, videos, collaborative discussions, hands-on applications, scientific investigations, and real-world projects.

This course counts as an Earth Science credit.

Biology Academic

Course Code 650300

Course Code 650V00 Virtual Loudoun Online

Grade(s): 9-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: None

SOL Test Students taking Biology gain detailed knowledge of living systems. Areas of study include cellular organization and processes, molecular biology, classification of organisms, genetics, evolution, and ecosystems. Students are expected to be able to demonstrate proper use of laboratory tools. Controlled experiments are performed, and results are reported. The importance of science research is emphasized.

Research Biology Honors

Course Code 650200

Grade(s): 9-12 

1 Credit

Prerequisite: None

SOL Test Students taking Biology gain detailed knowledge of living systems. Areas of study include cellular organization and processes, molecular biology, classification of organisms, genetics, evolution, and ecosystems. Research Biology is designed to give students multiple experiences conducting science research as a means to develop biology content knowledge and scientific thinking. Students interpret biological information and utilize technology, and biological protocols to organize and analyze data.

Students learn the role that scientific evidence and scientific thinking plays in development of new scientific knowledge in the field of biology. Students are expected to collect and communicate data with descriptive statistics and graphical representations. In addition, students answer research questions using scientific data and draw conclusions using their biological content knowledge.

During Research Biology, students develop the science thinking and process skills required to generate a scientific research question and design an investigation to collect data that will answer their question. Additionally, students develop a deeper understanding of the role of inferential statistics in data analysis and drawing conclusions. All Research Biology students are expected to complete an in-depth, independent Science Research Investigation (SRI) as a required part of their course work.

Research Biology students may participate in the process leading to possible selection for participation in the Loudoun County Regional Science and Engineering Fair (RSEF).

AP Biology

Course Code 655100

Grade(s): 10-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Biology Research or Academic and Chemistry Research or Academic (completed or taken concurrently).

This advanced course is a college-level, fast-paced course that follows the course outline of the College Board’s AP program. The course emphasizes cellular biology, biochemical processes or cellular respiration and photosynthesis, vertebrate anatomy and physiology, advanced genetics, evolution, plant anatomy and physiology, and ecology. Students have the opportunity to take the AP Biology exam in May with the possibility of earning college credit.

Biology DE/AP

Course Code 6551DE

Grade(s): 10-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Biology Research or Academic and Chemistry Research or Academic (competed or taken concurrently).

LCPS provides students the opportunity to earn college credit while fulfilling the AP Biology course requirements. Dual Enrollment/Advanced Placement Biology is a rigorous, college-level course that not only follows the course outline of the College Board’s AP program but also two full semesters of college biology (also fulfills college biology laboratory course requirements).

The course emphasizes cellular biology, biochemical processes of cellular respiration and photosynthesis, vertebrate anatomy and physiology, advanced genetics, evolution, plant anatomy and physiology, and ecology. Biology DE/AP is taught by LCPS teachers who are also adjunct faculty members at participating colleges. Students will also have the opportunity to take the AP Biology exam in May. Through the Dual Enrollment component, this course awards 8 college credits. 

Chemistry

Course Code 660000

Course Code 660V00 Virtual Loudoun Online

Grade(s): 10-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Algebra I

Chemistry students develop an appreciation for the interaction between matter and energy. Students investigate the structure, properties, and reactions of matter. Classroom study is balanced with laboratory experiences to deepen the students’ understanding of Chemistry.

Analytical experimental investigations are conducted using the scientific method, and proper safety precautions are employed. Students investigate kinetic theory, the Periodic Table stoichiometry, reactions and equations, and chemical equilibrium. Students report findings of both qualitative and quantitative data using effective communication skills, correct expression of significant figures and error, and factor labeling in problem solving. Chemistry is designed as a challenging course requiring advanced reading and writing skills. *Students may be required to complete the SOL Assessment for VDOE accountability. 

Research Chemistry Honors

Course Code 661000

Grade(s): 10-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Algebra I

Research Chemistry is designed to give students multiple experiences conducting science research as a means to develop chemistry content knowledge and scientific thinking. Students interpret chemical information and utilize technology and chemistry protocols to organize and analyze data. Students learn the role that scientific evidence and scientific thinking plays in development of new scientific knowledge in the field of chemistry. Students are expected to collect and communicate data with descriptive statistics and graphical  representations. In addition, students answer research questions using scientific data and draw conclusions using their chemical content knowledge. During Research Chemistry, students develop the science thinking and process skills required to generate scientific research question and design an investigation to collect data that will answer their question. Additionally, students develop a deeper understanding of the role of inferential statistics in data analysis and drawing conclusion.

All Research Chemistry students are expected to complete an in-depth, independent Science Research Investigation (SRI) as a required part of their course work.

Research Chemistry students may participate in the process leading to possible selection for participation in the Loudoun County Regional Science and Engineering Fair (RSEF). *Students may be required to complete the SOL Assessment for VDOE accountability. 

AP Chemistry

Course code 665100

Grade(s): 11-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Biology Research or Academic and Chemistry Research or Academic

This advanced course is a college-level, fast-paced course in Chemistry that follows the course outline of the College Board’s AP Chemistry program. The course includes many extended lab procedures. In addition, such fields as organic chemistry, biochemistry, nuclear chemistry, coordination complexes, and semi-micro qualitative analysis are introduced. Students have the opportunity to take the AP Chemistry exam in May with the possibility of earning college credit.

Chemistry DE/AP

Course Code 6651DE

Grade(s): 11-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Biology Research or Academic and Chemistry Research or Academic

LCPS provides students the opportunity to earn college credit while fulfilling the AP Biology course requirements. Dual Enrollment/Advanced Placement Chemistry is a rigorous, college-level course that not only follows the course outline of the College Board’s AP program but also two full semester of college chemistry (also fulfills college chemistry laboratory course requirements).

This course emphasizes the fundamental laws, theories and mathematical concepts of chemistry and atomic structure and chemical periodicity, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, nuclear chemistry, coordination complexes, and explores semi-micro qualitative analysis.

Chemistry DE/AP is taught by LCPS teachers who are also adjunct faculty members at participating colleges. Students will also have the opportunity to take the AP Chemistry exam in May. Through the Dual Enrollment component, this course awards 8 college credits. 

Environmental Science

Course Code 656000

Grade(s): 10-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Earth Science or Biology

Environmental Science provides the opportunity to synthesize information and knowledge of physics, chemistry, earth science, and biology while developing the Naturalist Intelligence. Students gain an understanding of ecological concepts including air, water, soil, biological diversity, and human impacts. Inquiry skills are developed through fieldwork, service projects, and collaborative investigation while using appropriate technology. Because of the interdisciplinary focus of the course, students are challenged with diverse topics, rigorous reading requirements, and opportunities for written and oral presentations.

Environmental Science is either an Earth Science or Biology credit depending on which discipline the student needs to satisfy their diploma requirements.

AP Environmental Science

Course Code 674200

Grade(s): 11-12

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Earth Science Academic or Research, or Biology Academic or Research suggested

This advanced course is a college-level, fast-paced course follows the course outline of the College Board’s AP program. The goal of AP Environmental Science course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Students have the opportunity to take the AP Environmental Science exam in May with the possibility of earning college credit.

Environmental Science is either an Earth Science or Biology credit depending on which discipline the student needs to satisfy their diploma requirements.

Conceptual Physics

Course Code 673000

Grade(s): 10-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Algebra I

Students build on basic physical science principles by in-depth exploration of the nature and characteristics of energy and its electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, and nuclear energy. The course draws connections between the concepts of physics and many everyday applications. Students who are awarded a credit for Conceptual Physics cannot receive an additional credit for Physics 671000.

Physics H

Course Code 671000

Physics A

Course Code 670V00 Virtual Loudoun Online

Grade(s): 11-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Algebra II

This course uses a highly mathematical approach. Students learn and use many algebraic and trigonometric concepts while investigating physics content. Laboratory work includes graphical analysis. Topics include mechanics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, the Special Theory of Relativity, and atomic structure. Physics is designed as a challenging course requiring advanced reading, writing, and mathematical skills. Students who have previously completed Conceptual Physics are not awarded another science credit for taking Physics 673000.

AP Physics C: Mechanics

Course Code 675100

Grade(s): 11-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Physics

Corequisite: Calculus

This course is a college-level, fast-paced course in Physics that follows the course outline of the College Board’s AP Physics program. Emphasis is placed on mechanics. Students study concepts in each of the following six content areas: kinematics; Newton’s laws of motion; work, energy, and power; systems of particles and linear momentum circular motion and rotation; and oscillations and gravitation. Pre-Calculus and Calculus are used to develop concepts and solve problems. Students have the opportunity to take the AP Physics C exam in May with the possibility of earning college credit.

Physics DE

Course Code 670016

Grade(s): 11-12

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Algebra II with a corequisite of Pre-Calc or above

Dual Enrollment Physics is a rigorous, college-level course that uses a highly mathematical approach (also fulfills college physics laboratory course requirements). Students learn and use many algebraic and trigonometric concepts while investigating physics content. Laboratory work includes graphical analysis. Topics include mechanics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, the Special Theory of Relativity, and atomic structure DE Physics is designed as a challenging course requiring advanced reading, writing, and mathematical skills. DE Physics is taught by LCPS teachers who are also adjunct faculty members at participating colleges. This course awards 8 college credits. 

Geospatial Science Honors

Course Code  670204

Grade(s): 11-12  

Geospatial Science DE

Course 670206

Grade(s): 11-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Completion of at least two sciences in different disciplines (to be chosen from Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry or Physics)

Geospatial science involves the use of geographic information systems (GIS) which integrate hardware, software, and data for capturing, managing, analyzing, and displaying all forms of geographically-referenced information. In this course, GIS is used to organize, analyze, and communicate spatial-data relationships. In the first semester, students learn about GIS tools and acquire the essential skills necessary to use GIS software and hardware effectively. These computer/software skills form the foundation of the course and are used extensively as students conduct independent research later in the course. Teacher-directed activities gradually lead to more student-directed research.

All students are expected to complete an in-depth research project as a required part of their course work during the second semester.

Students may also choose a Dual Enrollment option offered through a partnership with James Madison University’s Department of Geology and Geography. Students have the opportunity to earn 6 college credits from JMU while completing the in-depth research project. The project (mandatory for all students regardless of whether they choose the Dual Enrollment option) requires students to apply all skills acquired during the first semester, identify a suitable independent research topic, and demonstrate their ability to complete and present their project to school faculty, members of the GIS community, and JMU faculty and staff. To earn the 6 credit hours, students must meet or exceed the project expectations established by JMU. The deadline to drop the Dual Enrollment Credit is October 25th, 2024.

GIS is credited as an Earth Science course. 

Geospatial Science II DE

Course Code 670306

Grade(s): 12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Completion of Geospatial Science and approval of JMU faculty

Students enrolled in Geospatial Science II deepen their expertise gained in Geospatial Science with an emphasis on acquiring advanced skills to capture, manage, analyze, and display geographically referenced information. These skills include: displaying and analyzing data, building and working with databases, understanding and incorporating geographic and projected coordinate systems, and using remote sensing and LiDAR data. All students are expected to complete an in-depth research project as a required part of their course work during the year, with expectations of submitting their work into various competitions.

Geospatial Science II is a dual Enrollment course offered through a partnership with James Madison University’s Department of Geology and Geography. Students have the opportunity to earn 6 college credits from JMU while completing the in-depth research project. The research project requires students to apply all skills acquired during the Geospatial Science, identify a suitable independent research topic, and demonstrate their ability to complete and present their project to school faculty, members of the GIS community, and JMU faculty and staff. To earn the 6 credit hours, students must meet or exceed the project expectations established by JMU. The deadline to drop the Dual Enrollment Credit is October 25th, 2024.

GIS is credited as an Earth Science course. 

Independent Science Research

Course Code 680000

Independent Science Research DE

Course Code 680106

Grade(s): 11-12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Completion of at least two sciences in different disciplines (to be chosen from Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, of AP Sciences)

Elective This elective science course is intended for juniors and seniors interested in continuing their study through an independent project in science, engineering, mathematics, or computer science. Students participating in Independent Science Research (ISR) should have a significant science background prior to entering the course. ISR projects are subject to considerable peer and teacher review during all phases of development.

The focus of this course is on sustained, scientific inquiry. Students are expected to take responsibility for project development, meeting timelines, collecting data, defending procedures, and presenting results.

The instructor advises students on the research process, information sources, and contacts. Instruction is also provided on such topics as data collection and presentation, statistical interpretation of results, protocols for research, and presentation skills.

All ISR students are required to participate in the process leading to possible selection for participation in the Loudoun county Regional Science and Engineering Fair.

All students are expected to complete an in-depth research project as a required part of their course work.

Students may choose a Dual Enrollment option offer through a partnership with George Mason University College of Science. Students must have at least a 3.0 GPA in order to be considered for the Dual Enrollment section. Students choosing the Dual Enrollment option must complete a transcript release at the time of course selection. The transcript release allows GMU access to review their transcripts as part of the application process. Students have the opportunity to earn 3 college credits from GMU while completing the in-depth research project. The project (mandatory for all students regardless of whether they choose the Dual Enrollment option) requires students to identify a suitable research topic, develop an investigation design and demonstrate their ability to complete and present their project o LCPS, GMU faculty and staff and the scientific community. To earn the 3 credits, students must meet or exceed the project expectations established by GMU.

Students working toward an Advanced Studies Diploma must also complete 3 science courses from different disciplines in order to acquire the 4 required science credits (to be chosen from Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or AP Sciences).

Independent Science Research II DE

Course Code 680206

Grade(s): 12  

1 Credit

Prerequisite: Completion of Independent Science Research DE

Elective This elective science course is intended for seniors interested in either 1) continuing their study of an independent project in science, engineering, mathematics, or computer science initiated in the first Independent Science Research DE course; or 2) beginning a new independent project in science, engineering, mathematics, or computer science.

Students will participate in all aspects of sustained, scientific inquiry at a more advanced level including taking responsibility for project development, meeting timelines, collecting data, defending procedures, and presenting results. All students are expected to complete an in-depth research project as a required part of their course work.

All ISR students are required to participate in the process leading to possible selection for participation in the Loudoun County Regional Science and Engineering Fair. Students must have at least a 3.0 GPA in order to be considered for the Dual Enrollment section. Students must complete a transcript release at the time of course selection. The transcript release allows GMU access to review their transcripts as part of the Dual Enrollment application process. Students have the opportunity to earn 3 college credits from GMU while completing the in-depth research project. The project requires students to identify a suitable research topic, develop an investigation design and demonstrate their ability to complete and present their project to LCPS, GMU faculty and staff, and the scientific community. To earn the 3 credits, students must meet or exceed the project expectations established by GMU.

Students working toward an Advanced Studies Diploma must also complete 3 science courses from different disciplines in order to acquire the 4 required science credits (to be chosen from Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or AP Sciences).