Earth Science Courses

Earth Science

Course Code:

Prerequisite: Biology

Elective: NCAA

1 Credit

This course is designed for students to investigate Earth’s development and its relationship in space. The curriculum investigates the disciplines of Geology, Meteorology, Oceanography, and Astronomy. Students will gain a deeper understanding of many natural processes occurring around them. This curriculum is reinforced by hands-on-activities, demonstrations, research and investigation, as well as individual activities.  This course is also offered at the middle school.

Astronomy

Course Code:

Prerequisite: Earth Science

Elective

1 Credit

This course provides a quantitative introduction to the science of astronomy. Course themes are chosen from a variety of astronomical observations and models, the main topics of the course are exploration, the solar system, stars, the universe, and cosmology. Exploring the sky section includes the origins of modern astronomy, gravity, light, and telescopes. The solar system section includes the origin of the solar system, planets, moons, asteroids, meteorites, and comets. The star section includes stellar evolution, death of stars, interstellar medium, neutron stars, and black holes. The universe section includes galaxies, supermassive black holes, quasars, and dark matter. The cosmology section includes the expanse of the universe, the Big Bang Theory, dark energy, and the future of the universe. Students will be expected to research, write detailed scientific papers, and present on astronomical topics. 

AP Environmental Science

Course Code:

Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry

Elective

1 Credit

This course is designed for students who want to gain a greater understanding of the complex relationship between human societies and the problems that face our environment today. Through global case studies, students will gain a broad perspective on the causes and consequences of environmental degradation and possible solutions that may create a more sustainable world. The course will include discussions on ethical, economic, and social choices as they relate to our environment, including a historical perspective, population growth models, and an understanding of environmental policies. Students will also examine our interaction and reliance on natural systems and resources including those of the atmosphere, water, soil and Earth’s energy sources.