Science

Biology CP

Grade 9 - 10
Biology CP is a lecture/lab/demonstration course that includes the study of biochemistry, photosynthesis and cellular respiration, cell structure and function, genetics, evolutionary theory, and classification of the organisms in the six Kingdoms.

Biology H

Grade 9 - 10

Biology H is a lecture/lab/demonstration course that focuses on principles of classification, cladistics, cell structure and function, photosynthesis and cellular respiration, biochemistry of nucleic acids, genetics and evolution.

Biology

Grade 10
Biology is a lecture/lab/demonstration course that emphasizes the unity in the diversity of life. The major life processes are discussed using examples from the six Kingdoms with particular attention to humans. This course does not satisfy the prerequisites for upper level Honors courses.

Chemistry CP

Grade 10-11
Chemistry CP is lecture/lab/demonstration course that establishes a working mastery of chemical terms and techniques for use in the study of atomic structure, bonding, states of matter, reactivity and gas laws. Knowledge of algebraic operations and graphical analysis is necessary for chemical calculations.

Chemistry H

Grade 10-11
Chemistry H, a lecture/lab/demonstration course, extends the student's understanding of stoichiometry, thermochemistry, correlation of electronic structure and chemical properties, and characteristics of gases, liquids and solids.

Chemistry

Grade 11
Chemistry is designed to extend chemistry concepts learned in Foundations of Science through the use of laboratory work and demonstrations, technology and activities. This course does not satisfy the requirements for upper level Honors science courses.

AP Chemistry

Grade 11-12
AP Chemistry is a second year course aimed at increasing student mastery of chemistry and preparing them for the AP exam. Topics covered in the previous course (atomic structure, bonding, states of matter, stoichiometry and chemical reactions) will be expanded and new topics introduced (physical, organic, polymer and experimental chemistry). Students will move beyond mastery of basic principles to the use of knowledge to make predictions of chemical behavior. A double period lab is structured into the course.

Physics CP

Grade 11-12
Physics CP, a lecture/lab/demonstration course, greatly expands the student’s understanding of physical principles introduced in Foundations of Science. Through lectures, discussions, demonstrations, lab work and problem solving sessions, projects, and presentations, the students will be introduced to vectors, motion, forces, universal gravity, conservation laws, thermodynamics, wave motion, light and electricity and magnetism. Current topics in physics will be addressed. Critical thinking and analytical and problem solving skills are emphasized.

Physics H

Grade 11-12
Through lecture, extensive laboratory work and high level problem solving, students develop a working knowledge of Newtonian mechanics, energy, waves and thermodynamics.

Physics

Grade 12
Physics, a lecture/lab/demonstration course, is designed to extend physics concepts begun in the Foundations of Science course. Through lectures, discussions, demonstrations, laboratory work and problem solving, the students will acquire a sound knowledge of motion, forces, gravity, heat, sound, light, electricity and magnetism. Relevance to daily life experiences and technology is emphasized.

Anatomy and Physiology H

Grade 11-12
Anatomy and Physiology H, a lecture/lab/demonstration course, is intended for those interested in careers in medicine, nursing or allied health fields, involves intensive study of medical vocabulary and the anatomy and physiology of human systems. Lab is primarily dissection. Students discuss readings, case studies and recent developments in medicine. A summer assignment is required.

AP Biology

Grade 11- 12
AP Biology is a second year course designed to provide students with an in depth understanding of modern biology and to prepare them for the AP Biology Exam. Concepts, relationships in systems, and methods of analysis are studied and applied to practical situations. Critical thinking and creative problem solving are emphasized. Topics in molecular and cell biology, heredity, evolution, and organismal and population biology are studied. A double period lab is scheduled into the course.

Environmental Science CP

Grade 11-12
Environomental Science is a full year lecture/lab course that introduces students to principles of environmental science. Emphasis is placed on ecosystem sustainability and balance, population dynamics, food production and distribution, soil and pest management, pollution and biodiversity.

Forensic Science CP

Grade 11-12
Forensic Science is a lecture/lab/demonstration course. It introduces the basic sciences used by law enforcement to solve crimes. This means analyzing trace evidence left at the crime scene using well established scientific methods to establish a link between the crime scene, victim(s) and suspects. Topics covered are gun shot residues, firearms, explosives, fingerprints, DNA profiling and arson.

Introduction to Engineering CP

Grade 11-12
This course is designed for students who are seriously considering a career in engineering and wish to learn more about the nature and challenges of the engineering profession. Students will study a brief history of engineering, the many branches of engineering and career paths for each, and the professional responsibilities and legal framework for engineering practice. Case histories of various programs, like the NASA space shuttle, will be examined, stressing how engineers learn from failure. Suggestions on how to be a successful engineering student will be offered.