Science Department
Our Science Department consists of both Middle and High School Science. The goal of the Science Department is to present science as a rational and systematic observation, identification, description, experimental investigation, and theoretical explanation of natural phenomena.
Courses
| Course | Course Description |
|---|---|
| Biology
Honors and College Prep offered |
In this course, scholars will gain an understanding of the biological principles that govern our world; become independent, reflective learners capable of engaging in a variety of learning activities; and experience the mastery of scientific content anytime and anywhere by engaging with the instructor and innovative course materials. |
| Chemistry
Honors and College Prep offered Prerequisites: Algebra I and Biology I |
Chemistry is an upper level science course in theories and concepts of modern chemistry. This course is designed to prepare scholars for college chemistry. Topics will be presented to increase awareness and understanding of the role of chemistry in everyday life and environmental issues. Topics covered include: atomic structure, nuclear chemistry, periodic trends, chemical bonding, types of chemical reactions, Stoichiometry, acids and bases, states of matter, gas laws, and thermodynamics, rates of reactions, and equilibrium. The laboratory work will develop scholars’ reasoning power and the ability to apply chemical principles, as well as acquaint scholars with chemical laboratory techniques. A strong background in math is encouraged. |
| Physics
Honors and College Prep offered Prerequisite: Algebra II |
This course explores the nature of motion, force, energy, matter, heat, sound, optics, light, electricity, and magnetism. The course content is supported by regular, meaningful laboratory investigations. The development of laboratory skills and the reporting of experimental results is stressed. Scholars learn how to apply math skills in experimental measurement and data analysis. A strong background in math is encouraged. |
| Earth Science | Earth Science is an introductory Earth Science course designed to provide scholars with the skills necessary to successfully complete more advanced secondary and post-secondary science courses in the field. In this course, we will explore the Earth’s history, its position in the universe, and the forces that shape the Earth’s surface and our environment. It is a laboratory science course, with labs that are completed in the virtual environment. |
| Environmental Science | Environmental Studies CP is an upper-level science course designed to provide scholars with an introduction to the pressing environmental issues of our time. We will examine both the science behind the issues and the social, political and economic reasons behind the responses to the issues. Much of the class will be discussion-based. Scholars will be expected to complete the required readings on time, participate in class discussions, and complete projects. |
| Forensic Science | Forensic Science CP is a multidisciplinary course that includes concepts of chemistry, zoology, anatomy, genetics, physics, medicine, mathematics and statistics, sociology, psychology, communications, and law, in order to help solve crimes. The ultimate goal for scholars enrolled in this course is for them to become confident that they can make sense of complex problems involving numerical data, evidence, uncertainty, and logical reasoning. |
| Marine Science | This marine science course is designed to meet the needs of the scholar who wishes to obtain an in-depth awareness of coastal and marine systems. The course will include a study of the physical, chemical and geological aspects of oceanography, marine biology, the coastal environment and the interrelationships among the disciplines. |
| Zoology | This course provides an introduction to the classification, relationships, structure, and function of major animal phyla. Emphasis is on levels of organization, reproduction and development, comparative systems, and a survey of selected phyla. Upon completion, scholars should be able to demonstrate comprehension of animal form and function, including comparative systems of selected groups. Laboratory exercises include microscope observations and dissections to reinforce topics discussed in lecture. |
| AP Biology | AP Biology is an introductory college-level biology course. Scholars cultivate their understanding of biology through inquiry-based investigations as they explore the following topics: evolution, cellular processes—energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology, and interactions. |
| AP Psychology
(Note – we list this both under Science and Social Studies as we teach it with a science focus. It is a Social Studies credit.) |
This course introduces scholars to the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. While considering the psychologists and studies that have shaped the field, scholars explore and apply psychological theories, key concepts, and phenomena associated with such topics as the biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and cognition, motivation, developmental psychology, testing and individual differences, treatment of abnormal behavior, and social psychology. Throughout the course, scholars employ psychological research methods, including ethical considerations, as they use the scientific method, analyze bias, evaluate claims and evidence, and effectively communicate ideas. |
| AP Chemistry | The AP Chemistry course provides scholars with a college-level foundation to support future advanced course work in chemistry. Scholars cultivate their understanding of chemistry through inquiry-based investigations, as they explore topics such as: atomic structure, intermolecular forces and bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics, and equilibrium. Created by the AP Chemistry Development Committee, the course curriculum is compatible with many Chemistry courses in colleges and universities. |
