Biology Courses

Environmental Science

Course Code:

Prerequisite: None

Grades: 9-10

Elective: NCAA

1 Credit

This course is an introductory course that focuses on exploring the human dependence on Earth for a variety of resources. Students will examine how human actions have changed the environment and promote civic responsibility. This course will show the connection between science, technology, and society. Students will apply prior scientific knowledge to current environmental issues and will become a better-informed citizen and decision-makers. In this class, there will be an emphasis on hands-on activities and laboratory exercises that promote problem-solving, refine laboratory procedures, and reinforce reading, writing, and math skills.

Biology

Course Code:

Prerequisite: None

Required: NCAA

1 Credit

This course provides students with the fundamental concepts needed to give them a broad background in basic biology.  An overarching theme is the nature of science and how we need to approach questions scientifically. Important topics include life at the molecular level and cellular level, inheritance and change, life at the systems and organisms level, and interaction of life forms.  If a laboratory investigation includes an animal dissection, an alternative assignment will be provided to students objecting to this activity. At the end of this course, students will be tested on the Biology Standards of Learning. Laboratory activities serve to give practical applications of some of the basic concepts formed throughout the course. 

Honors Biology

Course Code:

Prerequisite: None

Required: NCAA

1 Credit

This course provides students with the fundamental concepts needed to give them a broad background in basic biology.  The differences include a more in-depth look at concepts through class discussions, laboratory experiences, and projects; more cross-curricular connections; higher-level critical thinking activities; and more individual projects to allow for individualized learning. This course includes an inquiry-based independent research project. At the end of this course, students will be tested on the Biology Standards of Learning.

Biology Intervention

Course Code:

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology and non-passing score on the Biology SOL

Elective

1 Credit

This course supports students who have completed the Biology course but have not passed the Biology SOL exam. It reinforces key concepts such as biochemical processes, cellular organization, and organism relationships while building skills in scientific inquiry and data analysis. Laboratory activities provide hands-on applications of the fundamental concepts explored throughout the course. 

Students will take the Biology SOL exam upon completion of the course. Note that credit from this course does not fulfill the science graduation requirement.

Biology II: Ecology

Course Code:

Prerequisite: Biology

Elective: NCAA

1 Credit

In this course, students will build upon knowledge and skills from Biology to explore the ecological levels of individuals, populations, species, communities, and ecosystems. Topics include Historical Foundations; Adaptations to the Environment; Population, Community, & Global Ecology. Students will participate in laboratory and field studies as well as online learning experiences. 

AP Biology

The appropriate course code (AP or AP/DE) will be used based on availability.

AP Course Code:

AP/DE Course Code:

Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry

Elective: NCAA

1 Credit

The course is designed in accordance with the requirements of the College Board and places high demands on students with regard to time, energy, and academic preparation. Emphasis is placed on “overarching concepts which recur, connect and unify our understanding of topics” central to the study of living organisms as well as specific concepts that “enhance understanding of how and why particular processes or patterns occur” (College Board, 2005). Major themes stressed throughout AP Biology, in both classroom and laboratory settings, include science as a process, evolution, energy transfer, continuity and change, the relationship of structure to function, regulation, interdependence in nature and science, technology, and society.  Students in AP Science courses may be expected to complete some activities outside of class time.  

This course may be offered at the Emil & Grace Shihadeh Innovation Center (EGSIC).

This course may be dual-enrolled. A final grade and/or credit for this course will be earned at the end of each semester. Students may have the opportunity to earn eight college credits through Laurel Ridge Community College (BIO 101 & 102), pending eligibility and meeting enrollment criteria. Additional fees may apply for college credit. 

Anatomy & Physiology

The appropriate course code (Academic or DE) will be used based on availability.

Academic Course Code:

DE Course Code:

Prerequisite: Biology / Honors Biology

Recommended: Chemistry

Elective: NCAA

Grades 10-12

1 Credit

This course is an introductory course designed for students who have an interest in entering a health-related field. Students will review basic chemical concepts and then progress to detailed investigations of cellular physiology and the anatomy and physiology of human organs and organ systems. Required laboratory applications include the use of real and virtual dissection and the extensive use of anatomical models.  

This course may be offered at the Emil & Grace Shihadeh Innovation Center (EGSIC).

This course may be dual-enrolled. A final grade and/or credit for this course will be earned at the end of the year. Students may have the opportunity to earn three college credits through Laurel Ridge Community College (BIO 145), pending eligibility and meeting enrollment criteria. Additional fees may apply for college credit.