Science

SURVEY OF SCIENCE is available to 9th grade students who would benefit from an introduction to Chemistry, Physics, and Biology prior to taking a full-year biology course, based on career pathways and/or academic need. This course would allow students to explore both chemistry and physics which would provide a better basis for their course selection decision later in high school and allow students to learn some of the basic Environmental Science, Ecology, and Biochemistry information in preparation for Keystone exams. Students would be required to take Biology in their 10th grade year before completing the Biology Keystone Exam.

1.0 Credit - Full Year

Grade 9

In APPLIED BIOLOGY students will explore the study of life. The following topics are addressed: Scientific Method, Scientific Tools, Metric System, Characteristics of Living Things, Chemistry of Living Things, Cell Structure and Function, Photosynthesis, Cellular Respiration, Cell Cycle, Meiosis, Genetics, DNA, RNA, and Protein Synthesis, Human Heredity, Genetic Engineering, Evolution, Evolution of Populations, and Ecology & Human Impact on the Environment. Students will perform experiments that will enhance and supplement concepts studied throughout this course. Students will then apply learned concepts in lab reports and other assessments. APPLIED BIOLOGY is a Keystone course where students are required to take the Keystone Biology exam at the end of the course.

1.0 Credit - Full Year

In BIOLOGY students will explore the study of life. Students are expected to independently read high-level texts, take notes, and process concepts both in and out of the classroom. The following topics are addressed: Scientific Method, Scientific Tools, Metric System, Characteristics of Living Things, Chemistry of Living Things, Cell Structure and Function, Photosynthesis, Cellular Respiration, Cell Cycle, Meiosis, Genetics, DNA, RNA, and Protein Synthesis, Human Heredity, Genetic Engineering, Evolution, Evolution of Populations, and Ecology & Human Impact on the Environment. Students will perform experiments that will enhance and supplement concepts studied throughout this course. Students will then have to display mastery of these concepts in lab reports and other assessments. BIOLOGY is a Keystone course where students are required to take the Keystone Biology exam at the end of the course.

Prerequisite: Earn a minimum grade of a C+ in Grade 8 SCIENCE.

1.0 Credit - Full Year

In HONORS BIOLOGY students will explore the study of life. It is designed for students who have earned high levels of achievement in math, science, and literacy. Students are expected to independently read high-level texts, take notes, and process concepts both in and out of the classroom. The following topics are addressed: Scientific Method, Scientific Tools, Metric System, Characteristics of Living Things, Chemistry of Living Things, Cell Structure and Function, Photosynthesis, Cellular Respiration, Cell Cycle, Meiosis, Genetics, DNA, RNA, and Protein Synthesis, Human Heredity, Genetic Engineering, Evolution, Evolution of Populations, and Ecology & Human Impact on the Environment. Students will perform experiments that will enhance and supplement concepts studied throughout this course. Students will then have to display mastery of these concepts in lab reports and other assessments including an evening presentation at the science fair. HONORS BIOLOGY is a Keystone course where students are required to take the Keystone Biology exam at the end of the course.

Prerequisite: Earn a minimum grade of a B+ in Grade 8 SCIENCE.

1.0 Credit - Full Year

APPLIED CHEMISTRY is designed for students to explore the fundamental principles of chemistry, including the properties of matter and the changes it undergoes. Students will perform various hands-on applications of the course concepts and conduct experiments. Students will then have to apply learned concepts in lab assignments and assessments. The following topics are discussed and studied throughout the APPLIED CHEMISTRY course: states of matter, phase changes, atomic structure, bonding, chemical compounds, chemical reactions, periodic laws, and gas laws. These concepts will be applied to authentic situations and the application of chemistry will be emphasized throughout the course. Algebra will be used throughout the course. Students will engage in laboratory investigations to further develop their reasoning and problem-solving skills.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of BIOLOGY course; AND Successful completion of ALGEBRA I course.

1.0 Credit - Full Year

In CHEMISTRY students will study the properties of matter and the changes it undergoes. The study of chemistry is essential for students considering careers not only in chemistry, but also in biology, engineering, and all medically related fields. Topics addressed in this course include states of matter, phase changes, atomic structure, bonding, chemical compounds, chemical reactions, periodic laws, gas laws, and stoichiometry. Students will engage in laboratory investigations to further develop an understanding of topics in CHEMISTRY.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of BIOLOGY course; AND Earn a minimum grade of B- in APPLIED ALGEBRA I, a C- in ALGEBRA I, or a C- in a middle school ALGEBRA I course.

Required: Scientific Calculator

1.0 Credit - Full Year

HONORS CHEMISTRY offers students an intensified introduction to the discipline of chemistry, including the properties of matter and the changes it undergoes. The study of chemistry is essential for students considering careers not only in chemistry, but also in biology, engineering, and all medically related fields. Students will explore topics in-depth that include: states of matter, phase changes, atomic structure, bonding, chemical compounds, acids and bases, chemical reactions, periodic laws, gas laws, nomenclature, and stoichiometry. There will be an emphasis placed on inter-relationships between the topics and problem-solving. In the solution of problems, students will need to employ high levels of mathematical concepts and abstract reasoning skills. Students will engage in laboratory investigations to further develop an understanding of topics in this course. HONORS CHEMISTRY is designed for students who have earned high levels of achievement in math and science. Students are expected to independently read high-level texts, take notes, and process concepts both in and out of the classroom.

Prerequisite: Earn a minimum grade of a B+ in BIOLOGY or a B in HONORS BIOLOGY, AND Earn a minimum grade of a B+ in ALGEBRA I or a B+ in a middle school ALGEBRA I course

Required: Scientific Calculator

1.0 Credit - Full Year

APPLIED PHYSICS offers students an introduction to the laws that govern motion. This course is highly recommended for students considering careers in engineering, technology, or any science. Students will learn how the entire universe can be analyzed and categorized as Matter, Forces, and Energy. Utilizing various disciplines in math, students will discover how to interact with the universe. Students will engage in laboratory investigations as they apply these analysis techniques to the topics of velocity, acceleration, gravity, Newton’s Laws of Motion, vectors, momentum, energy, waves, and optics. This course provides hands-on learning experiences where students develop an understanding of concepts through labs. The students’ background in mathematics is considered in determining appropriate instructional techniques and classroom applications.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of a GEOMETRY course; AND Successful completion or concurrent enrollment in an ALGEBRA II course.

Required: Scientific Calculator

1.0 Credit - Full Year

PHYSICS offers students a study of the laws that govern motion. This course is highly recommended for students considering careers in engineering, technology, or any science. Students will learn how the entire universe can be analyzed and categorized as Matter, Forces, and Energy. Utilizing various disciplines in math, students will discover how to interact with the universe. Students will engage in laboratory investigations as they apply these analysis techniques to the topics of velocity, acceleration, gravity, Newton’s Laws of Motion, vectors, momentum, and energy. This course provides hands-on learning experiences where students design and implement experiments to solve challenges.

Prerequisites: Earn a minimum grade of a B+ in APPLIED GEOMETRY, or a C in GEOMETRY, or successful completion of HONORS GEOMETRY or middle school GEOMETRY, AND Successful completion or concurrent enrollment in an ALGEBRA II course.

Required: Scientific Calculator

1.0 Credit - Full Year

HONORS PHYSICS offers students an in-depth study of the laws that govern motion. This course is highly recommended for students considering careers in engineering, technology, or any science. Students will explore how the entire universe can be analyzed and categorized as Matter, Forces, and Energy. Utilizing various disciplines in math, students will discover how to interact with the universe. Students will engage in laboratory investigations as they apply these analysis techniques to the topics of velocity, acceleration, gravity, Newton’s Laws of Motion, vectors, momentum, energy, heat, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, and more! HONORS PHYSICS is designed for students who have earned high levels of achievement in math and science. Students are expected to independently read high-level texts, take notes, and process concepts both in and out of the classroom. This course provides hands-on learning experiences where students utilize advanced analysis techniques in laboratory experiments.

Prerequisites: Earn a minimum grade of an A- in GEOMETRY, a B in HONORS GEOMETRY, or a B in middle school GEOMETRY; AND Successful completion or concurrent enrollment in an ALGEBRA II course.

Required: Scientific Calculator

1.0 Credit - Full Year

AP PHYSICS I is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as Newtonian mechanics (including rotational motion) work, energy, and power; mechanical waves and sound; and introductory, simple circuits. Through inquiry-based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills. Because of the demanding nature of this course, it should only be taken by students that are highly motivated and ready for the rigorous academic challenge of the course. Students will have the option of taking the AP exam for college credit at the end of the course at their own expense.

Prerequisite: B in HONORS ALGEBRA II.

Required: Scientific Calculator

1.0 Credit - Full Year

AP PHYSICS II is an algebra-based, college-level physics course that explores topics such as fluid statics and dynamics; thermodynamics with kinetic theory, PV diagrams and probability, electrostatics, electrical circuits with capacitors; magnetic fields; electromagnetism; physical and geometric optics; and quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics. Because of the demanding nature of this course, it should only be taken by students who are highly motivated and ready for the rigorous academic challenge of the course. It is recommended that a student have strong skills in writing analysis, geometry, and unit conversion. Students will have the option of taking the AP exam for college credit at the end of the course at their own expense

Prerequisite: A in PHYSICS I or C in AP PHYSICS I.

1.0 Credit - Full Year

The AP PHYSICS C program (calculus-based) is intended to form the first part of the college sequence, which serves as the foundation in physics for students majoring in engineering or the physical sciences. It is an intensive and analytic course with an emphasis on problem-solving that requires calculus. The subject matter is mechanics and electricity and magnetism, with approximately equal emphasis on these two areas. Because of the demanding nature of this course, it should only be attempted by students that are highly motivated and ready for such work. Students are advised to consult with their parents, teachers, and school counselors before selecting any AP course. Students will have the option of taking the AP exam for college credit at the end of the course at their own expense.

Eligible for Dual Enrollment Credit through Seton Hall University

Prerequisites: A grade of B+ or higher in PHYSICS I or B or higher in AP PHYSICS I

Co-requisite: CALCULUS

Required: Scientific Calculator, Graphing Calculator recommended

1.0 Credit - Full Year

PHYSICS: ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM offers students a continuation to the study of physics. This course is recommended for students considering careers in engineering, technology, or any science. In this course, students will apply the analysis techniques gained in the previous physics course to the topics of Electricity, Circuits, Magnetism, Electrostatics, Inductance, Capacitance, and Semiconductors. The 2nd semester is project based and will require computer programming as well as 3D design and printing. Students must be able to handle multiple assignments and deadlines.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of any of the following classes with "C" average or higher: Physics, Honors Physics, AP Physics 1, AP Physics 2, AP Physics C

Required: Scientific Calculator

1.0 Credit - Full Year

AP BIOLOGY is designed to be the equivalent of a full-year college introductory biology course usually taken by biology majors during their first year. The course includes topics regularly covered in a college biology course and the four big ideas as defined by the College Board. Because of the demanding nature of this course, it should only be taken by students that are highly motivated and ready for the rigorous academic challenge of the course. Students will have the option of taking the AP exam for college credit at the end of the course at their own expense.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of one course in high school biology (BIOLOGY I or HONORS BIOLOGY) AND one course in high school chemistry (CHEMISTRY I or HONORS CHEMISTRY) with a minimum grade of B- in each course.

2.0 Credit - Full Year

AP CHEMISTRY is designed to be equivalent to a general chemistry course usually taken during the freshman year of college. The course includes topics covered in college chemistry and covers four major areas of study: structure and properties of matter, chemical reactions and their rates, thermochemistry, and the equilibrium state. It is a rigorous and demanding course and as a college-level course, students will be held to high expectations and mature responsibilities just as college freshmen would be. Students should be self-motivated and able to work both independently and collaboratively to solve science-related problems. Students will have the option of taking the AP exam for college credit at the end of the course at their own expense.

Eligible for Dual Enrollment Credit through Seton Hall University

Prerequisites: CHEMISTRY I with a grade of B+ or higher or B or higher in HONORS CHEMISTRY and a grade of B or higher in ALGEBRA II, or B- or higher in HONORS ALGEBRA II.

Co-requisite: PRE-CALCULUS OR CALCULUS

Required: Scientific Calculator

2.0 Credit - Full Year

The AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE course is designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester, introductory college course in environmental science, through which students engage with scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. The course requires that students identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing these problems. AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from geology, biology, environmental studies, environmental science, chemistry, and geography. Students will have the option of taking the AP exam for college credit at the end of the course at their own expense. For those planning on taking the AP test, a strong mastery of written expression is highly recommended.

Eligible for Dual Enrollment Credit through Seton Hall University

Prerequisites: B or higher in BIOLOGY I, CHEMISTRY I, AND ALGEBRA I. Students will need Excel skills (graphing/charting).

1.0 Credit - Full Year

HONORS ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY is designed for students who have earned high levels of achievement in science and mathematics. Students interested in understanding human body systems in preparation for careers in health fields would benefit from this course. The course will emphasize form as it relates to function within each of the body systems as well as histology and general anatomy. i n this course students will experience lecture and discussion, research and report writing for various individual as well as group projects, computer aided instruction and a variety of dissections including but not limited to sheep organs, earthworm and the cat.

Prerequisites: Earn a minimum grade of a B in APPLIED BIOLOGY, a C in BIOLOGY, or successful completion of HONORS BIOLOGY; AND earn a minimum grade of a B in APPLIED CHEMISTRY, a C in CHEMISTRY, or successful completion of HONORS CHEMISTRY.

1.0 Credit - Full Year

This course examines the environment and human impact on it. Students who take ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE will develop an understanding of what an ecosystem is and the elements that determine the types and numbers of organisms that live there. Students will look at the atmosphere (air), the hydrosphere (water), and the lithosphere (soil) and how they sustain the biosphere (life). Students will also explore the role humans have in changing each of these spheres and the impact these changes have had on the world. The students will be asked to define different problems facing the world today. They will research the problems and propose possible solutions and potential obstacles to the implementation of these solutions. Topics may change due to current events. Students should be prepared to engage in the in-depth research of current ecological topics and design long-term projects related to these topics. Students will also create projects to improve awareness of relevant ecological issues and implement lifestyle changes related to this awareness. These activities and projects will be oriented towards collecting data, implementing action, analyzing the information, and drawing conclusions that are supported by the data to create their solutions.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of a BIOLOGY course; AND Successful completion of a CHEMISTRY course, AND Successful Completion of Algebra I.

1.0 Credit - Full Year

FORENSIC SCIENCE will provide an introduction to criminalistics and forensics, including topics such as fingerprints; DNA analysis; fiber and hair analysis; ballistics; document and handwriting analysis; drugs and toxicology; analysis of human (including skeletal) remains; and evidence from blood and other bodily fluids. This course will allow students to apply topics learned in biology and chemistry. It will include case studies and examination of reproduced evidence from actual crimes as well as laboratory analysis of evidence gathered at simulated crime scenes.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of a BIOLOGY course AND Successful completion of a CHEMISTRY course.

1.0 Credit - Full Year

GENETICS AND BIOTECHNOLOGY offer students a study of heredity and the variable characteristics that arise through gene expression, and their application to industry. In this course, students will develop a greater understanding of the following topics: The Cell Cycle and Cancer, Meiosis and Cytogenetics, Gene Transmission, Genetic Recombination and Mapping, Structure and Function of DNA/RNA, Gene Expression, Gene Regulation, Mutation, and Genetic Variation, Construction and Analysis of Clones, Applications of Biotechnology, Population Genetics, Behavioral Genetics, Immunology, and Genetic Diseases.

Eligible for Dual Enrollment Credit through Seton Hall University

Prerequisites: Earn a minimum grade of an A- in Applied Biology, a B in Biology, or a C in Honors Biology; AND Earn a minimum grade of a B in Chemistry or a C in Honors Chemistry

1.0 Credit - Full Year

KINESIOLOGY is the study of movement of the human body. The study of KINESIOLOGY covers a broad range of topics, with multiple fields of study falling under the kinesiology umbrella. Areas of study include human anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system and neuromuscular systems, biomechanics, biochemistry of human metabolism, and neurobiology.

Eligible for Dual Enrollment Credit through Seton Hall University

Prerequisites: Successful completion of a BIOLOGY course AND Successful completion of a CHEMISTRY course.

1.0 Credit - Full Year

In ZOOLOGY students explore issues dealing with ecology, evolution, comparative anatomy, and biotechnology. In this course, students will apply concepts learned in Biology and it is designed for students who are interested in broadening their knowledge of the biological sciences. Students will have the opportunity to enhance laboratory and research skills through the use of dissections, projects, and presentations in both group or individual explorations.

Eligible for Dual Enrollment Credit through Seton Hall University

Prerequisite: Earn a minimum grade of a C or better in Honors Biology, earn a minimum grade of a B or better in Biology, earn a minimum grade of A in Applied Biology.

1.0 Credit - Full Year