Science

Each Mt. Vernon graduate must earn a total of 3 Science credits. These credits can be earned through the following courses:

  • Ecology
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Advanced Placement (AP) Chemistry
  • Advanced Placement (AP) Biology
  • Physical Science
  • Physiology & Anatomy
  • Physics

Course Description

Ecology

The purpose of this course is to provide students with exploratory experiences and real-life applications in the Environmental and Earth Sciences.

Pre-Requisites: None

Physical Science

Physical Science is designed as an entry level science class that will help prepare students for higher level science courses. In Physical Science, students will experience both physics and chemistry. Physics is the study of forces, energy, and interactions within matter. Chemistry is the study of matter which pertains to its properties, its uses and the changes that different kinds of matter undergo.

Pre-Requisites: None

Biology

Biology students examine the nature of living organisms through a variety of projects and laboratory activities. Topics include cellular makeup and function, organization, functions and interactions of organisms, and the nature and functions of the human body. The impact of society’s perceptions of science, and the impact of scientific discoveries and technology on society will be examined and evaluated. These will be accomplished by lecture, laboratory activities, media, field trips, projects and homework assignments.

Pre- Requisites: None, Physical Science preferred

Chemistry 1

The study of the actions and interactions of matter. Subjects covered include the atomic theory, the periodic table, moles and molar conversions, stoichiometry, gases, solutions and nuclear chemistry.

Pre-Requisites: Physical Science

AP Biology

This is an advanced biology course that is taught at a level equivalent to an introductory biology course for a biology major at the college level. Areas of study include, biochemistry, cellular biology, genetics, evolution of plants and animals, and ecology.

Pre-Requisites: Biology 1, Chemistry 1

AP Chemistry

This is an advanced chemistry course that is taught at a level equivalent to an introductory chemistry course for a chemistry major at the college level. Areas of study include, atomic theory, chemical bonding, solutions, stoichiometry, gases, thermochemistry, chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, acids and bases, electrochemistry, and an introduction to organic chemistry.

Pre-Requisites: Chemistry 1


Physiology & Anatomy

The study of the structure and function of all major human body organ systems.

Pre-Requisites: Chemistry 1


Physics

The major subjects covered in this course include trig based kinetics (the study of objects in motion), waves, sound, light, and electricity.

Pre-Requisites: Physical Science and Trigonometry