Science

Pre-AP Biology 1

Prerequisites: Placement in this course based on testing data/ranking.

This course follows a curriculum closely aligned to Biology 1. Students in the Biology 1 Honors section(s) will move at a faster pace and will be required to complete numerous independent projects, research, readings, and labs. This course has a standardized assessment.

Biology 2 Honors

Prerequisites: Biology 1 and Chemistry 1 (Should register for AP Bio)

Biology 2 Honors serves as preparation for AP Biology. This course should be taken concurrently with AP Biology. It is also an intermediate continuation of Biology 1 with emphasis on plants, protozoan and anatomy/physiology.

Chemistry 1

Prerequisites: Algebra 1

Students are expected to have an adequate background in algebra since the majority of the problem-solving activities are mathematically oriented. Dimensional analysis, atomic structure, periodic trends, bonding, formula writing and naming compounds and stoichiometry are stressed. Laboratory work is an important element of the class. This course has a standardized assessment.

Chemistry 2

Prerequisites: Chemistry 1 & Co-requisite: Algebra 2

This course is strongly recommended for those students who plan on majoring in engineering or a field of science in college, as well as those that are interested in a health-related career. Chemistry II picks up where Chemistry 1 leaves off in the Chemistry textbook. Students study solutions, acids and bases, thermochemistry, kinetics, equilibrium, oxidation-reduction reactions, as well as nuclear chemistry and how to name and classify organic compounds. Students planning on taking AP Chemistry should take the honors section of this course.

AP Chemistry

Prerequisites: Chemistry 1 and Chemistry 2 Honors

Students are given an opportunity for credit for college-level course work. The pacing and workload will be at a rate expected in a regular college class. There are outside reading and problem assignments almost every evening. Students will perform numerous quantitative laboratory exercises. All topics covered in Chemistry 1 and Chemistry 2 will be covered more in-depth. Only students who are highly self-motivated and well-disciplined in study habits should consider enrollment.

Pre-AP Physics

Prerequisites: Algebra 1

This advanced course will examine the relationship between matter and energy and how they interact. There is a strong emphasis in the mathematics of physics. Students explore physics concepts through an inquiry approach. Embedded standards for inquiry, technology, engineering and mathematics are taught in the context of these standards. Topics covered include motion, forces, sound, light, electricity and many others. This course should be taken before AP Physics.

Conceptual Physics (“Physical World Concepts”)

Prerequisite: Freshmen only. Admission by permit only.

This introductory science course will integrate the ideas and concepts behind the new approach known as STEM or Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. Students in this course will be introduced to concepts in physics by incorporating technology and will be prepared to enter chemistry or physics after taking this course. Students enrolled in this course are part of a freshmen honors cohort. This course is linked to the CTE Engineering classes.

Anatomy & Physiology

Prerequisites: Biology 1 and Chemistry 1

This course is a required for students wanting to take AP Biology. This course is the study of the body’s structures and respective functions at the molecular/biochemical, cellular, tissue, organ, systemic, and organism levels. Content includes anatomical orientation, protection, support, and movement, integration and regulation, transportation, absorption and excretion, and reproduction, growth and development. This class prepares students for a variety of pursuits such as health care, sports, and fitness careers, as well as taking an active part in their own health and fitness. It is intended for, but not limited to, those students planning to take AP Biology.