COURSE TITLE: Physical Science
GRADEL LEVEL: 9, 10, 11, 12
PREREQUISITE: NONE
CREDIT(S):1 unit
Physical Science instruction is based on principles and concepts of astronomy, geology, and physics. Through the study of physical science, a better understanding of the methods of scientific investigation will be developed. A major concern is the development of the awareness of the interrelation of matter and energy and of the laws, which govern their relationship. Skill in the use of symbolisms of mathematical and chemical equations basic to scientific thinking is emphasized.
COURSE TITLE: Earth Science/Geology
GRADE LEVEL: 10, 11, 12
PREREQUISITE: None
CREDIT(S):1 Unit
The study of Earth Science /Geology furnishes an introduction t the nature and structure of the earth and its immediate neighborhood in space. The content of the course includes elementary geology, physical geography, meteorology, and astronomy. Geology is a study of the origin, and structure of the earth as recorded in rocks and landforms, and of forces and processes operating to produce the planet’s physical features. Through the study of earth science, basic skills, attitudes and habits of thinking, which are essential in the recognition and solution of problems, are developed.
COURSE TITLE: Environmental Biology
GRADE LEVEL:10, 11, 12
PREREQUISITE: None
CREDIT(S): 1 Unit
This course is a study of people’s relationship to, and impact on, the environment. The course covers all P.A.S.S. Biology objectives.
CURRENT TITLE: Biology
GRADE LEVEL: 9 ,10
PREREQUISITE: None
CREDIT(S): 1 Unit
The study of biology deals with life in relation to the physical and biological environment. The major concern in this study is to develop concepts of the biological world through an understanding of the basic principles, which govern life on earth. Students will develop the ability to analyze, organize, and evaluate scientific data; skill in techniques and methods of work as applied in biological science; problem solving skills; and an orientation to biological sciences in relation to other sciences and other curriculum areas. Students are encouraged to do a research paper and / or a science project.
COURSE TITLE: Pre-AP Biology
GRADE LEVEL: 9, 10
PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Algebra I or concurrent
enrollment; Teacher approval
CREDIT(S):1 Unit
Pre-AP Biology offers a disciplined approach to problem solving and critical thinking activities designed to prepare students for A.P. Biology. Topics of study include biological chemistry, cells, energy transformations, molecular genetics, heredity, evolution, organisms and populations, ecology, and biogeochemical cycles.
COURSE TITLE: Chemistry I
GRADE LEVEL: 9, 10, 11, 12
PREREQUISITE: Algebra
I
CREDIT(S): 1 Unit
The study of Chemistry I emphasizes the recognition of scientific methods, the use of the periodic chart as an import tool of the study of chemistry, the use of mathematics as the language and tool of science; and the development of skills, techniques, and attitudes related to laboratory procedures and activities. The content of the beginning chemistry course includes: laboratory safety, atomic structure, atomic bonding, inorganic nomenclature, equations, stoichiometry, solutions, gas laws, and oxidation-reduction. Organic chemistry may be included.
COURSE TITLE: Zoology
GRADE LEVEL: 11, 12
PREPREQUISITE: Biology
CREDIT(S): ½ Unit
This course helps students gain an understanding of the animal kingdom and learn the basic characteristics of the major groups of organisms classified in this category. Evolution is presented. Emphasis is given to the importance of various kinds of animal life in their general environment.
COURSE TITLE: Botany
GRADE LEVEL(S):11., 12
PREREQUISITE: Biology
CREDIT(S): ½ Unit
Botany is a course, which includes a study of the plant kingdom. These four conceptual frameworks are emphasized: taxonomy, physiology, anatomy, and ecology. The course also includes a brief study of bacteria, algae, and fungi. Some field identification of native plants will be required. Emphasis is placed upon the importance of plants and their relationship to their habitats.
COURSE TITLE: Physics I
GRADE LEVEL(S):11, 12
PREREQUISITE: Algebra II, Geometry, concurrent enrollment in Pre-Calculus or Calculus
CREDIT(S):1 Unit
The study of physics leads to the understanding of the fundamental concepts of the nature of matter and energy and their interrelationship. It includes consideration of the ways in which energy may be changed, controlled, and converted into useful work. A major concern of this course is the study of the physical laws by means of developing skill, habits of thinking, and attitudes through laboratory activity. The methods of measurement should pervade the study of physics. Mathematics is the indispensable tool of physics. Students are required to do research paper and/or science project. Topics covered include motion, acceleration, forces, vectors, momentum, work, energy, simple machines, waves, sound, light, and electricity.
COURSE TITLE: Physiology
GRADE LEVEL(S): 10, 11, 12
PREREQUISITE: Biology
CREDIT(S): 1 Unit
Physiology is the study of the structures and functions of the human body and the principles of human behavior. Consideration is given to physiological concepts through the study of structure and function of body systems and how they interact. Comparative dissections will be done.
COURSE TITLE: AP Environmental Science
GRADE LEVEL(S): 11, 12
PREREQUISITE: Biology, Chemistry, and Instructor Approval
CREDIT(S): 1 Unit
The environmental science AP course provides students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/ or preventing them. The student may earn college credit for successful scoring on the Advanced Placement Examination.
COURSE TITLE: AP Chemistry II
GRADE LEVEL(S): 11, 12
PREREQUISITE: 1st year high school Chemistry, Algebra II
CREDIT: 1 Unit
AP Chemistry is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry curse taken during the first college year. Students will attain an understanding of chemistry fundamentals and a reasonable competence in solving chemical problems. A broader range of topics covered and more in-depth laboratory work require students to spend time outside the class in independent study.
COURSE TITLE: AP Biology
GRADE LEVEL(S): 11, 12
PREREQUISITE: Biology, Chemistry, ITBS score above 65th percentile, and Instructor approval
CREDIT(S): 1 Unit
The Biology II AP/IB/SL course helps students develop a conceptual framework for modern biology. Primary emphasis is on developing an understanding of concepts rather than on memorizing terms and technical details. Essential to this conceptual understanding are the following: a grasp of science as a process rather than an accumulation of facts: personal experience in scientific inquiry: recognition of unifying themes that integrate the major topics of biology, and application of biological knowledge and critical thinking to environmental and social concerns. Students may earn college credit for successful scoring on the Advanced Placement or the International Baccalaureate Examinations
COURSE TITLE: AP Physics II B
GRADE LEVEL(S): 11, 12
PREREQUISITE: Physics I, completion or concurrent enrollment in Pre-Calculus or Calculus and Instructor approval.
CREDIT(S): 1 Unit