Welcome to the world of physics! Freshman Physics is the first science course for all students at Twin Valley High School. Because physics concepts are easily observable and measurable with simple apparatus, students will have the opportunity to gain direct experience in the scientific process as they discover some of the laws of physics. An understanding of physics provides the basis for understanding chemical and biological processes in future courses. Course topics will include motion, Newton's laws, energy, momentum, waves & sound, and electric circuits.

The foundation of science is observation, measurement and analysis. This course emphasizes these skills in the study of motion, forces, energy, momentum, projectiles, and electric circuits. Students are led to develop their ability to think about and describe these aspects of the physical world. Laboratory activities and other classroom experiences provide opportunities for students to observe, measure, analyze results, and predict events. Graphing and the mathematics of algebra are routinely used to analyze data and solve real world problems. Students need to have strong math skills and be academically motivated.

This is an introductory, inquiry based course designed to provide the student with a good foundation in chemistry for future study in the biological, environmental, and medical sciences as well as chemical technology and other related fields. Beginning with a macro perspective of the particulate nature and states of matter, the development of the model of the atom and the relationship of the periodic properties of the elements to modern atomic theory will be studied. Included in these studies are a treatment of gas laws, chemical reactions, formulas and equations, chemical bonding, molecular structure, intermolecular forces, and acids and bases. In the laboratory, students will learn to design and perform experiments in a safe and efficient manner. Oral and written communication skills will be emphasized.

Honors courses are fast-paced and challenging.  Honors chemistry includes all the content of Chemistry but at a deeper level, requiring more initiative and independent work on the part of the student. Chemistry topics will be examined conceptually and analytically with a strong concentration on mathematical problem solving. Application of understanding to additional related topics will further develop critical thinking skills.

A study of the interactions of organisms with their environment fosters the development of environmental stewardship. Through laboratory experiences and use of multiple models, students will investigate cells as the basic unit of living things, including the biochemistry of cell structure and function. Students will also explore the role of DNA in controlling cell function, reproduction, differentiation, heredity, and evolution. Academic biology incorporates and builds upon the concepts learned in previous science courses (physics and chemistry). Lab experiences include field experimentation, modeling molecular reactions, digital microscopy and DNA fingerprinting. PA Keystone for Biology will be given at the completion of this course. 

The Honors Biology course is designed as an accelerated one semester science course covering Keystone Biology content and additional topics. Students will explore the role of DNA in controlling cell function, reproduction, differentiation, heredity, and evolution. Students will be required to complete additional assignments outside of the classroom in order to devote more class time to in depth quantitative analysis of lab experiences, case studies, and topic specific classroom discussions. Students should be academically motivated and expect to schedule several hours per week for out of class work. Proficiency in Algebra I skills are strongly suggested. Students should expect a minimum of one formal lab report or formal presentation per unit. PA Keystone for Biology will be given at the completion of this course.    

Prerequisites: Physics and Chemistry; honors recommended.

AP® Biology is the honors level 11th grade science course. Motivated students will experience the challenge of a college-level biology course while developing the study and time management skills necessary to become confident, independent learners. At the end of this full year course, students will have completed the four credit science requirement leaving the senior year open for additional advanced science classes or electives in another field of interest.

AP® Biology is strongly recommended for any student intending to pursue a science major in college or a medical-related career. Units are determined by the College Board® and include molecules and cells, genetics, biotechnology, evolution, populations, plant and animal (human) physiology, and ecology. Twelve required quantitative labs will be supplemented with many additional lab experiences including dissection. Students will be expected to read and organize textbook material on their own so that the class period can be devoted to concept clarification, activities and laboratory experience. Written expression will be emphasized in essays and lab reports in preparation for the AP® exam in May. A score of 3 or above on the AP® exam may result in earning up to eight college credits. PA Keystone for Biology will be given at the completion of AP® Biology II.

Prerequisite: Chemistry

This course serves as a second semester of chemistry for students who want to explore additional topics in chemistry as well as first-year topics in more depth. Through scientific inquiry, students will develop an appreciation for the central role of chemistry in current biochemical, environmental and industrial issues. Units of study include, but are not limited to, quantifying and communicating molecular changes, factors affecting chemical reactions, organic chemistry, and applications of chemistry to real life issues. This course would benefit any student who wants additional preparation for college chemistry and a better understanding of chemistry in the everyday world.

Recommendation: Successful completion of Algebra II; may be taken concurrently with Biology

AP® Chemistry is designed for motivated students interested in the challenge of a first year college general chemistry course. The course integrates conceptual understanding with significant quantitative analysis. Students will deepen their understanding of chemical phenomena and improve their ability to think and solve chemical problems. In accordance with the College Board® syllabus, topics include atomic theory, atomic structure, chemical bonding, molecular models, nuclear chemistry, kinetic-molecular theory, liquids and solids, solutions, reaction types, stoichiometry, equilibrium, kinetics, thermodynamics, descriptive chemistry, electrochemistry and organic chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on development of laboratory skills, and oral and written communication of experimental results. Due to the extensive amount of material to be covered, students will be expected to keep up to date on all assignments and come to class well prepared. This course is strongly recommended for students pursuing a science, engineering, or medical-related degree in college.

Prerequisite: Students should have completed Geometry and should have taken or be concurrently taking Algebra II.

AP Physics I is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. This course will provide a solid physics background for future pre-med, geology, and life sciences students. It is also a good option for students planning to attend colleges where they will have to fulfill a science requirement but will not be studying science as their major. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through inquiry-based investigations as they explore these topics: kinematics, dynamics, circular motion and gravitation, energy, momentum, simple harmonic motion, torque and rotational motion. This course requires that 25% of instructional time be spent in hands-on laboratory work, with an emphasis on inquiry-based investigations that provide students with opportunities to demonstrate the foundational physics principles and apply the science practices. 

Prerequisite: Students should have completed AP Physics 1 or AP Physics C - Mechanics and should have taken or be concurrently taking pre-calculus. 

AP Physics II is a second-semester algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through inquiry-based investigations as they explore these topics: fluids; thermodynamics; electrical force, field, and potential; electric circuits; magnetism and electromagnetic induction; geometric and physical optics; and quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics. This course requires that 25% of instructional time be spent in hands-on laboratory work, with an emphasis on inquiry-based investigations that provide students with opportunities to demonstrate the foundational physics principles and apply the science practices.

Requirement: Concurrent enrollment or completion of Calculus (AP preferred)

AP® Physics C: Mechanics is equivalent to a one-semester, calculus-based, college-level physics course, especially appropriate for students planning to specialize or major in physical science or engineering. The course explores topics such as kinematics; Newton’s laws of motion; work, energy and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation; and oscillations and gravitation. Introductory differential and integral calculus is used throughout the course. This course includes a hands-on laboratory component comparable to a semester-long introductory college-level physics laboratory. Students will spend a minimum of 20 percent of instructional time engaged in hands-on laboratory work. Students ask questions, make observations and predictions, design experiments, analyze data, and construct arguments in a collaborative setting. Each student will complete a portfolio of lab reports. 

Prerequisite: Physics, Chemistry

Everyone is interested in the weather, and the climate is of vital interest to everyone on the planet.  In this course students will monitor and measure the weather on a regular basis using Twin Valley’s own weather station and many online sources.  Students will apply concepts of physics and chemistry to understand everyday weather and extreme weather events.  These activities will complement the study of local and global climate, the factors that contribute to climate change, and the methods used to study climate change.  

Astronomy is the oldest of the natural sciences, deeply rooted in the history of almost every society. People have always stared at the sky in wonder at how the universe works; they have used their observations for timekeeping, marking the seasons, and navigation. Modern astronomy continues to explore the origin of stars, planets, and life itself. Continually advancing technology reveals a universe that is vast, varied, and beautiful, and promotes curiosity, imagination, and a sense of shared exploration and discovery. Our exploration of astronomy will include topics such as the earth and moon, the solar system, stars, galaxies, origins of the universe, and tools of astronomers. Come develop your understanding and enjoy a lifelong interest.

Prerequisite: Completion of Physics, Chemistry, Biology

Forensic Science is the application of science knowledge and technology for the enforcement of laws. Because forensics is an integrated science requiring background knowledge in earth science, physics, chemistry, and biology, the course is open to seniors who have completed these required courses. Students will further develop their laboratory and analytical skills by investigating case studies involving toxicology, entomology, physiology, pathology, ballistics, accident reconstruction, geology and the instrumental analysis of hair, fiber and DNA.