Options below include 1) double-block science labs, 2) additional full-year math courses, 3) semester science electives. In some cases, a math course in this list may count toward the math requirement for graduation. See the course description for more information. Students may opt to take the following electives in addition to their required science courses. The purpose of these electives is to enhance student appreciation and understanding in areas related to the core science curriculum and allow students an opportunity to further explore areas of specific interest. 

This course is the equivalent of a college introductory biology course usually taken by biology majors and those interested in pursuing careers in science, medicine, and engineering during their first year of collegiate studies. The explosion of information and constructs in biology makes this course especially demanding. Topics that are addressed include biochemistry, cell structure and functioning, energy transformation, heredity, genetics, evolution, anatomy, physiology, classification, ecology and plant as well as animal diversity.

Personal experience in scientific inquiry will occur through the completion of a wide range of sophisticated, college-level laboratory experiments concluded with full lab write-ups that mirror those found in a freshman, bio-major course. Careful data collection, analysis, and interpretation based on hypotheses are expected. Students will read and review texts and articles, notes, supplementary guides, and AP review packets targeting each unit. Assignments include extensive readings from college-level texts in anticipation of two to three major exams per marking period using the AP model for assessment that, in addition to objective questions, include two to three essays to be developed by the students utilizing concepts gained in the course. Students will also be asked to design experiments based on their studies. Each marking period will see approximately 4 laboratory experiments conducted with full lab write-ups. Students are required to take the AP exam. Many colleges will grant credit and/or appropriate advanced placement to students who score well on the AP exam.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY                                          

Full Year (Double Block) | 10 credits | Grade Level: 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Teacher Recommendation + Summer assignment; Science Prerequisite: Grade of B or higher in Chemistry Honors OR Grade of A or higher in Chemistry CP; Math Pre/Co-requisite: Geometry (Honors or CP) Algebra II (Honors or CP); Requirement: Students are required to take the AP exam         

This course is the equivalent of a college chemistry course usually taken by chemistry majors and those interested in pursuing careers related to the study of chemistry during their first year of collegiate studies. Students will attain a depth of understanding of the fundamentals of chemistry as well as competence in dealing with chemical calculations. The course will also contribute to the development of the students’ abilities to think analytically and to express ideas, orally and in writing, with clarity and logic. Content foci include acids/bases, thermodynamics, free energy, chemical equilibria, kinetics, electrochemistry and precipitation reactions. Emphasis is also placed on descriptive aspects of bonding such as molecular orbital and VSEPR Theory, coordination and organic chemistry. Extensive laboratory activities conducted in this class will include quantitative analyses, and each student is expected to maintain their own, detailed laboratory book, which requires the student to apply theoretical concepts in explaining laboratory observations.

Assignments include extensive reading from college-level texts in anticipation of three to four major exams per marking period using the AP model for assessment that, in addition to objective questions, include two to three free-response items (problems and essays) requiring students to use and apply concepts gained in the course. They will also be asked to design experiments based on their studies. Each marking period will see approximately 4 laboratory experiments conducted with full lab write-ups. Students are required to take the AP exam. Many colleges will grant credit and/or appropriate advanced placement to students who score well on the AP exam.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE                 

Full Year (Double Block) | 10 credits | Grade Level: 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Teacher Recommendation + Summer assignment; Science Prerequisite: Physics CP or higher level completed + Chemistry CP with an “A” or “A+” OR Chemistry Honors with a “B” or higher; Math Pre/Co-requisite: Completed Algebra II (Honors or CP) or currently enrolled; Requirement: Students are required to take the AP exam    

This course is the equivalent of a college introductory ecology or environmental science course usually taken by biology or geo-science majors and those interested in pursuing a career in science, medicine, or engineering during their first year of collegiate studies. The goal of AP Environmental Science 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 and/or preventing them. Environmental science is interdisciplinary; it embraces a wide variety of topics from different areas and requires students to apply much of what they have learned while studying science in prior courses. Personal experience with scientific inquiry will occur through the completion of a range of college-level laboratory experiments concluded with full lab write-ups that mirror those found in first-year college science courses. The development of hypotheses, experimental design, data collection and data interpretation will all be significant factors in this work.

Successful completion of AP Environmental Science will require an extensive daily time commitment throughout the school year by the student, including reading and review of texts and articles, notes, supplementary guides, and AP review packets targeting key

topics. Projects and presentations are also a major component of the assessment of students with the end result being the development of the ability to apply knowledge and to critically analyze environmental issues and solutions. Assignments include extensive readings from college-level texts in anticipation of major exams and projects each marking period. Students will be asked to design experiments based on their studies and complete laboratory exercises provided within the curriculum, each with a concluding lab write-up. Students are required to take the AP exam. Many colleges will grant credit and/or appropriate advanced placement to students who score well on the AP exam.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS C                                              

Full Year (Double Block) | 10 credits | Grade Level: 12 

Prerequisite(s): Teacher Recommendation + Summer assignment; Science Prerequisite: Grade of B or higher in AP Physics 1 or B+ or higher in Physics H Grade of A or higher in Physics CP; Math Pre/Co-requisite: AP Calculus (BC or AB) or Calculus (CP or Honors); Requirement: Students are required to take the AP exam   

This course is the equivalent of two full semesters of university-level physics for engineering, physical science, and pre-med majors.  Since emphasis is placed on the use of differential and integral calculus to derive fundamental concepts and to solve problems, calculus is a co-requisite, and students must be willing to accept the challenge of a  rigorous college-level academic curriculum. Strong emphasis is placed on solving a variety of challenging problems that require calculus. Topics include an in-depth study of mechanics, electricity and magnetism. The use of calculus in problem-solving and in the required derivation of physics formulas increases as the course progresses.

Laboratory analyses include the extensive use of mathematical and graphical interpretation as students personally experience scientific inquiry through the completion of a wide range of sophisticated, college-level laboratory experiments which conclude with full lab write-ups that mirror those found in university courses. Assignments include extensive readings from college-level texts in anticipation of two to three major exams per marking period using the AP model for assessment that, in addition to objective questions, include two to three essays to be developed by the students utilizing concepts gained in the course. Students will also be asked to design experiments based on their studies. Each marking period will see approximately 4 laboratory experiments conducted with full lab write-ups.

Students who enroll in this course will be prepared to take two AP physics exams: Mechanics and Electricity/Magnetism, one of which is required. Many colleges will grant credit and/or appropriate advanced placement to students who score well on the AP exam. Students who enroll in this course also have the opportunity to gain college credit through Fairleigh Dickinson University.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS 2

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 10, 11, 12 

Prerequisite(s): Teacher Recommendation + Summer assignment; Science Prerequisite: AP Physics 1 OR Physics H with final grade of B or higher OR completion of Physics CP with final grade of A; Math Pre/Co-requisite: Geometry (CP or Honors) or Algebra II (CP or Honors); Requirement(s): Students are required to take the AP exam     

This course is a continuation of AP Physics 1 for those science students intent upon pursuing a career in the physical sciences, engineering or mathematics. AP Physics 2 remains an algebra-based program. Topics explored in the course include: the laws of thermodynamics, ideal gases and kinetic theory; fluid statics and dynamics; electrostatics in detail; electrical circuits; magnetism and electromagnetic induction; optics; and quantum physics. As in AP 1, concepts are explored more deeply than one would find at the CP level, with students engaged significantly in inquiry-based laboratory activities. Mathematical proficiency will continue to be a very significant factor in this course. At the end of this AP class, students are required to take the Advanced Placement Physics 2 exam. Many colleges will grant credit and/or appropriate higher placement in course sequences to students who score well on the AP Physics 2 exam.

BIOETHICS/ETHICAL ISSUES IN SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Chemistry (CP or Honors); Co-requisite: Biology (CP or Honors)

This course has students determine and justify positions that balance individual or corporate rights against the best interests of society, or our school community or even our species or other species. In this way, it is a more direct application of ideas approached in AP Environmental Science, but with a very specific biological context. Selected topics may include medical research testing, genetic testing and gene manipulations, vaccination programs, performance-enhancing drugs, or product and building safety codes and costs. Case studies will provide a context for much of the course. The course is for a wide variety of students, but especially those who want to apply their scientific understandings into a more sociological and societal perspective.

EARTH SCIENCE                                                                                                  

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): None                                                                                       

This course is a contemporary, interdisciplinary approach to the study of the Earth and its environment. Topics are developed through laboratory and inquiry-based investigations. The many student-centered laboratory experiences involve elements of biology, chemistry, physics, geology, geography, paleontology, meteorology, oceanography and astronomy. A basic assumption of the course is that ideas found in Earth Science have both social and educational relevance. Students will receive good preparation for other science courses and for college, as well as learn skills and concepts that will assist in the development of environmental awareness and responsible citizenship.

HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY HONORS 

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 12

Prerequisite(s):  Chemistry and Biology (CP or Honors) + Teacher Recommendation

This course involves a detailed study of the major systems of the human body. Students would increase their understanding of the principles of cell biology, biochemistry and human genetics. Extensive laboratory and dissection work will allow the students to investigate the major concepts presented. The course is a year-long elective targeted at seniors who have a strong interest in biological science or the related fields of medicine/dentistry/veterinary medicine/podiatry.

HUMAN GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY HONORS

Full Year | 5 credits | Grade Level: 12

Prerequisite(s): Chemistry and Biology (CP or Honors) + Teacher Recommendation

This course will focus on the impact of current genetic research on the quality of life and human existence. Students will complete laboratory work and will evaluate scientific data related to the effects of genes on human health and the prospects for engineering, altering and possibly eliminating defective genes. Cellular structure, DNA and RNA functioning, as well as inheritance mechanisms, are the starting points for the study of genes and gene technology. This year-long elective is targeted for seniors who have a strong interest in the sciences in general, and in biology specifically.

ASTRONOMY

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s):  Physics

Of the three major topics in science that students express the greatest interest in, even from an early age, astronomy is one of those three (besides dinosaurs and whales). This course will present current ideas about the origin, structure and functioning of the universe as well as its possible future “incarnations.” As an introduction to this specific area of earth and space science, the course would be mainly descriptive, with minimal mathematical expectations. Topics will include the characteristics and motions of the Earth, moon, planets and other objects in a solar system as well as our sun, stars, galaxies and current areas of interest such as black holes and quasars. Current astronomical data points are analyzed in the laboratory to add meaning to student studies.

ENVIRONMENTAL CITIZENSHIP

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s):  None

This course is designed to develop student awareness of how the world works and the student's place in it. Environmental issues are studied through real-life environmental experiences and lab investigations. Environmental challenges are designed to make students think. Human interaction with the environment is a recurring theme running throughout the course of study. Internet research is conducted and problem-based learning is incorporated into the course.

Note: In accordance with students’ IEPs, this course is offered in the Resource Room environment, and the curriculum is scaffolded to support students’ specific learning goals.

FORENSIC SCIENCE/CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Physics; Co-requisite: Chemistry (CP or Honors)

CSI is the scientific investigation of information introduced into a court of law for the purpose of convicting or exonerating a suspect involved in a criminal matter. This course will utilize investigative tools from multiple disciplines of science and technology, and allow students a hands-on laboratory experience as they apply their background in the science to real-world situations. This course can be taken concurrently with biology.

MARINE SCIENCE                                                                                

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): None                                                                                       

This is an introductory course that deals with the characteristics of oceans, shorelines, estuaries, and marshes, and the ability to distinguish one from the other. Students develop skills in biological and chemical, physical and geological sampling, and testing procedures in the laboratory which are used to measure and detect changes in the various marine environments. Field trips, both real and virtual, provide students with field experience

METEOROLOGY

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Physics

This is an introductory course in meteorology that focuses on a basic understanding of the atmosphere and its physical processes. Some areas of study include the atmosphere, winds, air masses, jet streams, Coriolis effect, moisture, precipitation, clouds, climate, and severe weather.  Students gather local weather data using an electronic weather station. This data, together with newspaper information, weather maps, televised weather information, and NOAA Weather Radio, is used to forecast and analyze local and national weather. In addition, students utilize the satellite imaging system to obtain weather images from geostationary and polar satellites for use in forecasting, weather pattern analysis, and storm tracking. Weather information and data available over the Internet are analyzed frequently in a laboratory setting.

Note: In accordance with students’ IEPs, this course is offered in the Resource Room environment, and the curriculum is scaffolded to support students’ specific learning goals.

SPORTS MEDICINE AND HUMAN ANATOMY                                     

Semester | 2.5 credits | Grade Level: 11, 12

Prerequisite(s): Chemistry (CP or Honors); Co-requisite: Biology (CP or Honors)

This course will look at human anatomy and physiology from a more holistic perspective and relate the study of the human body and its systems to sports, common occupational and athletic injuries as well as rehabilitation techniques. There will be less emphasis on the detailed study of the human body found in the traditional Anatomy and Physiology class. Emphasis would be above the cellular level, with discussions and laboratory activities focused on tissues, organs and systems and the injuries associated with each. This course is directed at students interested in careers in sports, training, coaching or physical or occupational therapy.