Physical Science is a survey of concepts relating to matter and energy.  Students gain exposure to many of the fundamental laws and theories of chemistry and physics.  Many of these concepts are explored in laboratory investigations and described mathematically. 

 

Biology is the scientific study of living systems.  Laboratory investigations are used to explore biological concepts including the nature of life, the continuity of life, the diversity of life, and ecological relationships.  The Honors version of this course is an in-depth study of biology, which involves research and individual laboratory work.  The topics include: energy of life, cell structure and function, reproduction, genetics, adaptation, classification, psychobiology, environment and biology, dissection and comparative anatomy.  Biology Honors is designed to develop the student's ability to observe and understand the living world.

 

Prerequisite: Biology I, Algebra II, Chemistry

Biology II covers the same concepts as Biology I, but it differs in that concepts are covered at a more rapid pace, more detailed knowledge is required, and greater depth of understanding is required.  Biochemistry of respiration and photosynthesis is stressed.  Advanced Biology Honors is for students who do not wish to continue to AP Biology.

 

Prerequisite: Biology II Honors

AP Biology is a college freshman biology course designed for the academically involved student to be able to gain competence and receive college credit in the biological sciences.  Studies include molecular and cellular biology, organismal biology, principles of ecology, evolution, behavior and social behavior.  All students are expected to take the AP examination.  Colleges may award credit to a student based on the AP exam.

 

This science curriculum focuses on the function of the earth's systems.  Emphasis is placed on matter, energy, crustal dynamics, environmental awareness, materials availability, and the cycles that circulate energy and material through the earth system.  The Honors version of this course differs in that concepts are covered at a more rapid pace, more detailed knowledge is required, and greater depth of understanding is needed.

 

Prerequisite: Chemistry Honors, Biology II Honors, Earth Science Honors

This course is paired with AP Environmental Science to help students understand the factual knowledge and analytical skills for the AP Environmental Science exam. 

 

Prerequisite: Advanced Environmental Science Topics Honors

The AP Environmental Science course is designed to be the equivalent of one-semester college introductory environmental science.  Topics include earth systems, population dynamics, natural resources, and global changes.

 

Prerequisite: Algebra I and Biology I

Chemistry provides a thorough study of the structure and properties of matter.  Laboratory investigations are used to explore chemical principles.  Most chemical concepts are expressed quantitatively; therefore, good math skills are necessary.  The Honors version of this course differs in that concepts are covered at a more rapid pace, more detailed knowledge is required, and greater depth of understanding is required.

 

Prerequisite: Chemistry I, Algebra II

Chemistry II Honors builds on those concepts acquired in Chemistry I and expands them into the areas of solution stiochiometry, thermo chemistry, molecular geometry, intermolecular forces, colligative properties and acid base equilibria.  Tests are comprehensive and include essay and free response.

 

Prerequisite: Chemistry II Honors

The material presented in this course will include the topics normally found in first year college chemistry and follows the advanced placement curriculum for chemistry.  All students are expected to take the AP examination.  Colleges may award credit to a student based on the AP exam.

 

Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus

Physics provides a thorough investigation of the behavior and structure of matter, including the sudy of motion, heat, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, and nuclear physics.  Laboratory investigations are used to explore these concepts.  Physics is a quantitative science that requires good skills in algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.

 

Prerequisite: Physics I Honors

This course provides a systematic introduction to the main principles of physics and emphasizes the development of conceptual understanding and problem-solving ability using algebra and trigonometry.  It includes topics in both classical and modern physics.  All students are expected to take the AP examination.  Colleges may award credit to a student based on the AP exam.

 

Prerequisites: Algebra I and Chemistry

Astronomy involves the study of the planets, stars, deep-sky objects and universe. Tthe historical and current science of astronomy will be studied.  Emphasis will be placed on observational astronomy and the origins and future of the cosmos.  This course will be media intensive utilizing videotapes, slides, computer simulations and astronomy periodicals.  Students will need to keep detailed notes.  Astronomy requires weekly observation lab sessions, as well as after-school, night, and early morning viewing.  A separate laboratory observation notebook will be required.

 

Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry

This course provides a study of anatomical terminology and body systems with an emphasis on vertebrate dissection and the function of human body systems.