Science

Prerequisite: None

Earth Science is the study of land, sea, air, and space—an introduction to the sciences of geology, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy. Students deepen their understanding of the complexity and delicate balance of forces and processes that continue to shape our earth and our universe. Earth Science provides a practical and theoretical background for all of the specialized sciences. Emphasis will be placed upon practical knowledge in earth science and man’s relationship and dependence upon earth processes.

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

In addition to the topics investigated in Earth Science, this course is intended to present a more in- depth study of the earth, its processes, astronomy, oceanography, plate tectonics, and their interrelationships. This course is designed as an investigative approach to Earth Science in which the student will be responsible for comparing, contrasting, and finding relationships between and among earth processes. 

Prerequisite:  3130

Integrated Science is an introductory, laboratory-based course in which students explore fundamental chemistry and physics principles. Students enrolled in this course examine, through the process of scientific inquiry, topics such as the structure and properties of matter, chemical reactions, forces, motion, electricity, and the interactions between energy and matter. Working in a laboratory environment, students investigate the basics of chemistry and physics in solving real-world problems. The math component of this course requires skills gained in algebra I. This course is not intended for students planning to major in science in college. Students planning to have careers in the field of science, including engineering and medical careers, should take Chemistry I and Honors Physics. This course is not intended for students seeking a physics or chemistry credit towards an advanced diploma. Students seeking an advanced diploma should take Chemistry I.

Prerequisite: 4210

This course is designed to be a more in-depth treatment of concepts presented in the Earth Science course including a more detailed look at Earth Systems such as the interaction between the atmosphere and the lithosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere. Emphasis is given to the process of heat transfer between the oceans and atmosphere.

Prerequisite: 4210

Students may dual enroll with Laurel Ridge Community College

Geology is a broad survey course dealing with earth chemistry, earth materials, plate tectonics, weathering and erosion, mountain building, volcanism, and earth history. This course is designed to be a more in-depth treatment of the geology concepts presented in the Earth Science course. Field studies and out of class projects are a required component of this course.

Prerequisite: 4210, 4310, 3130

In this course the theories of Earth’s structure and plate tectonics will be presented as a base on which to build the explanation of the physical features of the ocean floor. Both historical and physical geology of the ocean floor will be investigated. Students will study the physical properties of sea water, marine chemistry, marine organisms, salinity and density, circulation within the oceans, waves, currents, tides, and oceanographic instruments and research.  Additionally, students will study the relationship between the oceans and climatology. Emphasis will be placed on the major skills of practicing oceanographers and scientists. Students will use scientific reasoning, class debates and discussions of current issues, and technology for research.

Prerequisite:   4210

Astronomy is the study of the universe, solar system, stars and galaxies. The course builds upon basic astronomy concepts presented in the Earth Science course.  Additional topics will include evolution of the universe and the human’s role in discovery and advancement in astronomical science. Students will use the internet, computer simulations, and astronomy software for class and special projects. In addition, students will be required to complete night time / out of class observations. The course should satisfy a standard united of credit requirement for the general or advanced studies diploma.  Geometry is recommended for this course.

 Prerequisite:  None

This course is designed to expand the opportunity for students to learn science and become environmentally literate citizens. The purpose of this Environmental Science course is to provide foundational content that will prepare students for either Earth Science I or Biology I while also including aspects of other disciplines such as civic engagement, mathematics, and engineering. The goal of the course is to provide the students with the skills and content necessary for them to analyze current and  future environmental issues, both natural and man-made, through a critical lens and to provide a platform to make informed decisions. This course will provide students the opportunity to learn environmental concepts in depth and build on the concepts currently embedded in the 2010 Science Standards of Learning. This Environmental Science course may fulfill either an Earth Science or Biology requirement towards graduation. It is highly recommended that students planning to apply or attend college take four science courses to include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and any other Board Approved Laboratory Science course.

Prerequisite: 4340

Students may dual enroll with Laurel Ridge Community College.

Environmental Science AP/DE,  a college level course, is an interdisciplinary study combining ideas and information from biology, chemistry, and geology, as well as the social science fields of economics and political science. It presents a general idea of how nature works and how things are interconnected. The fundamental scientific and social content of these areas needs to be mastered before the in-depth treatment of key environmental issues may be accomplished. 

 Prerequisite: 4270

Students may dual enroll with Laurel Ridge Community College.

Environmental Science II, a college level course, combining ideas and information from biology, chemistry, and geology, as well as the social science fields of economics and political science. It presents a general idea of how nature works and how things are interconnected. The fundamental scientific and social content of these areas needs to be mastered before the in-depth treatment of key environmental issues may be accomplished. Environmental Science DE must be completed before taking this course. 

Prerequisite: None

Biology is the study of life, including both the structure and functions of organisms and their role in the environment. Students extend their logical thinking and problem solving skills by investigating the living and nonliving world. Biology introduces students to information, along with the development in research skills. Emphasis will be placed on ecology, cytology, genetics, the six kingdoms of life, and evolution. The course is a wonderful investigation of the world surrounding and within the student.

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

In addition to the topics that are covered in Biology, this course is intended to provide a more in- depth study of cells, cell processes, genetics, classification and evolution. Students are expected to be able to discuss the material at a higher level, and may be required to complete independent research outside of class. This course is also designed to be more lab intensive than in Biology. More class time will be devoted to labs, and students will be expected to complete official lab write-ups.

Prerequisite: 4310 and 4410

Students may dual enroll with Laurel Ridge Community College

The advanced Biology program offers students the opportunity to extend their understanding of biology and biochemistry. The material is commensurate with a freshman college level course, and as many extended lab procedures as possible are offered. The course emphasizes cellular biology, biochemical processes of cellular respiration, vertebrate anatomy and physiology, advanced genetics, evolution, plant morphology, and ecology.

Prerequisite: 4310R (and 4410 preferred) 

Students may dual enroll with Laurel Ridge Community College

This course is intended for students who have attained a “B” average or better in Biology I and would benefit students choosing a career in the health professions. Course topics include an in-depth study of the structure and function of body systems; human diseases and disorders; and the health and maintenance of the human body. The material in this course is commensurate with a freshman level college course.

 Prerequisite: 4310

This course will explore the study of interactions between organisms and their environments. Ecology explores the links between the living and non-living parts of the world that surrounds us all. This course will incorporate information from many scientific fields such as chemistry, geology, and many branches of biology with emphasis on human impact.

Prerequisite: 4320 & 3135

Students may dual enroll with Laurel Ridge Community College

This is a college level course in the principles of biology for students who have a strong interest in biology or the biological sciences. The course topics include chemistry of life; organic molecules in organisms; enzymes; prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells; heredity and inheritance patterns; meiosis and gametogenesis; eukaryotic chromosomes; molecular genetics; gene regulation; mutation; population dynamics; plants and animals physiology; ecology; and technology and applications. Biology II and Biology III Honors should be taken in the same academic year, with Biology II taken in the fall and Biology III Honors taken in the spring. 

 Prerequisite: 3130

Chemistry is the investigation of the structure, properties, and reactions of matter. Students are introduced to the basic level of chemistry. Concepts are balanced with classroom study and laboratory experience to deepen the students’ understanding of the exciting world of chemistry. Strong mathematics skills are highly recommended for this course.

Prerequisite:  3135 and 4410

The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to topics that are taught in first year college chemistry courses. Emphasis will be placed on laboratory and problem solving skills. Topics will include atomic structure, periodic trends, stoichiometry, gas laws, equilibrium, oxidation-reduction reactions, acid- base reactions, and modern topics such as acid rain, ozone depletion, and hazardous waste disposal. Individual projects and extracurricular laboratory work will be required. Math is an integral part of this course, therefore, strong math skills are recommended.

Prerequisite: 4420

This is a course in the principles of chemistry for students who have a strong interest in chemistry, the biological sciences, physical sciences, or engineering. The course topics include stoichiometry; properties of gases, liquids, solids, and solutions; chemical equilibrium; chemical thermodynamics; atomic and molecular structure; chemical bonding; chemical kinetics; periodic properties; nuclear chemistry; and descriptive chemistry of the elements, including organic chemistry. Chemistry II and Chemistry AP should be taken in the same academic year, with Chemistry II taken in the fall and Chemistry AP in the spring. Students will be expected to take the Chemistry Advanced Placement Test.

Prerequisite: 3130

Physics is considered by many to be the most fundamental of the sciences as it seeks to understand and explain the behavior of matter and energy. In this course, students will use the skills and knowledge acquired in Algebra I to investigate, describe, model, manipulate and predict possible outcomes for many phenomena involved in industrial and vocational settings, and in the world around them. Topics include mechanics, thermal energy and heat transfer, current and static electricity, magnets, sound and optics, and energy conversions.

Prerequisite: 3143 and 3135

Physics is considered to be the most fundamental of all the sciences as it seeks to understand and explain the behavior of matter and energy. In this course, students will use knowledge and skills to investigate, describe, model, manipulate and predict possible outcomes for many phenomena occurring in the world around them. Topics include mechanics and dynamics, electricity and magnetism, waves, sound and optics, relativity and quantum physics.