D: Laboratory Sciences

Biology (diploma requirement for all high school students, required for 10th graders): 

This engaging and comprehensive Biology course provides students with an in-depth understanding of living organisms and their interactions with the environment. Aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), the course emphasizes the molecular, cellular, and ecological foundations of life, while fostering scientific inquiry and critical thinking. Students will explore topics such as genetics, evolution, ecology, and the structure and function of living systems, using hands-on experiments, interactive simulations, and real-world applications.

Throughout the course, students will develop skills in scientific reasoning, data analysis, and problem-solving as they investigate the mechanisms that govern life. By examining biological concepts from the molecular level to ecosystems, students will gain a deeper understanding of the natural world and the interconnectedness of life. This course prepares students for further study in biology, health sciences, and other STEM fields.

*This course description is a generalized overview of a California high school biology class that follows NGSS standards. It is subject to change based on the teacher assigned to the course

Chemistry (year-long science option for 11th-12th graders): 

This dynamic Chemistry course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles governing the behavior of matter and energy. Aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), the course focuses on the nature of substances, their properties, and the changes they undergo. Students will explore concepts such as atomic structure, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, thermodynamics, and the periodic table, while developing scientific reasoning and laboratory skills.

Through hands-on experiments, inquiry-based learning, and real-world applications, students will investigate the interactions between matter and energy. They will also learn how chemistry shapes the world around us, from the materials we use to the environmental challenges we face. Emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, this course prepares students for college-level chemistry courses and careers in STEM fields.

*Students must have passed Algebra I before taking this course

**This course description is a generalized overview of a California high school chemistry class that follows NGSS standards. It is subject to change based on the teacher assigned to the course

Computer Science: (year long science option for students who have passed bio and another year of laboratory science)

We use the Internet, social media, smart devices, and technology every day. In Computer Science Principles, we will learn how people are using computer science to change the world with breakthroughs in every field - from medicine to music, and from Fashion to business; how apps and websites like Instagram and YouTube actually work; and the benefits and downfalls of living in an increasingly online world. (sourced from code.org)

*Students must have passed Algebra I before taking this course

AP Computer Science  (year-long science option for 11th-12th graders who have passed bio and another year of laboratory science):

AP Computer Science covers the same topics as Computer Science Principles but will be more rigorous. In preparation for the AP exam at the end of the year, students will additionally independently develop an app and demonstrate their understanding of their constructed code in addition to the major concepts covered throughout the course. 

Note: Students that took Computer Science already cannot take the AP course. However, if they wish to take the AP next year, be sure to email Mr. Qiu (dqiu@oakarts.org) about how to make it work.

*Students must have passed Algebra I before taking this course

**By registering for this course, you are committing to taking the AP exam at the end of the school year and paying all fees associated with the test. The test fee for 2025 was $110 and $40 to cancel.

Physics  (year-long science option for 11th-12th graders):

This comprehensive Physics course explores the fundamental principles of matter, energy, and the forces that shape our universe. Designed for high school students, this course emphasizes the development of scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills through hands-on activities, inquiry-based learning, and real-world applications. Aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), students will investigate key topics such as motion, forces, energy, waves, electricity, and magnetism, while connecting these concepts to everyday phenomena.

Throughout the course, students will engage in scientific practices, including modeling, data analysis, and experimentation, to deepen their understanding of the physical world. They will explore how physical laws and theories govern everything from the motion of objects to the behavior of light and sound, and how technology is used to harness these principles for real-world solutions.

*Students must have passed Algebra I before taking this course

**This course description is a generalized overview of a California high school physics class that follows NGSS standards. It is subject to change based on the teacher assigned to the course