Course Descriptions
Science Department
Title: Biology
Grade: 10
Credits: 2.0
Biology is an introductory course that deals with all major areas of biological science, such as organ systems, gene expression, evolution/natural selection, heredity and ecology. Laboratory work will give students direct experience with the process which scientists use in obtaining their theories.
Title: Biology Honors
Grade: 10
Credits: 2.0
Biology Honors is designed to cover the same curricular areas as Biology but in more depth and at an accelerated pace. Emphasis is on gene expression, heredity, physiology, evolution, and ecology. Laboratory work enhances the student’s knowledge of classic experiments utilizing the scientific method of inquiry.
Title: Chemistry
Grade: 11
Credits: 2.0
Modern chemistry introduces the basic principles and concepts of chemistry in the context of laboratory experiments, textbook, computer, and exercise materials. The course includes a presentation of chemical theory and descriptive chemistry with emphasis on the elements and compounds. Equation, formula writing and mathematics for chemical calculations are emphasized. Laboratory periods allow students to explore the theories of chemistry and in doing so, recognize the relationship between theory and practice.
Title: Chemistry Honors
Grade: 11
Credits: 2.0
Chemistry Honors is designed to prepare the student to think abstractly. It is designed to teach the students to develop models in order to solve complex problems. A systematic approach is taken in the investigation of the atom, molecular structures and other chemical compositions. Laboratory periods supplement the lectures to allow the students to understand the intricacies of the subject.
Title: Advanced Placement (AP)Chemistry
Grade: 12
Credits: 2.0
This course is a continuation of Chemistry Honors from the junior year studies. A closer investigation of the atom, molecular bonding and solutions is paramount. Topics of gas laws, nuclear chemistry and stoichiometry are reviewed from the previous year’s work. The course work follows the recommended structure for AP Chemistry. College laboratory exercises supplement the lectures. The student is encouraged to take the AP Chemistry exam in the spring.
Title: Physics
Grade: 12
Credits: 2.0
This course is an exploration of the basic concepts and precepts behind the science of physics. The central theme of physics is the relationship between matter, energy, and the dynamics of motion. Emphasis will be placed on critical thinking and a careful analysis of why certain results occur. Extensive laboratory work will be used to test the students’ ideas. While conceptual development of the physics is the main emphasis, prediction of physical outcomes will require some mathematical problem solving skills. A recommended concurrent mathematics class is Calculus, or Intro to Calculus.
Title: Physics Honors
Grade: 12
Credits: 2.0
This course is an exploration of the basic concepts and precepts behind the science of physics, with an introduction to many of the aspects normally covered during a first-year college physics course. The central theme of Honors Physics is the relationship between matter, energy, and the dynamics of motion. Emphasis will be placed on critical thinking and a careful analysis of why certain results occur. Extensive laboratory work will be used to test the students’ ideas. Both conceptual development of the physics and a mathematical prediction of physical outcomes are emphasized. These require a strong foundation in techniques of mathematical problem solving, especially trigonometric analysis. Calculus is therefore a co-requisite of this class.
Title: Computer Aided Drafting (CAD)
Grade: 11, 12
Credits: 2.0
This is a two semester elective course. The class is a basic drafting course which is executed mainly on the computer. The class incorporates technical drawing with elements of architectural drafting and is an essential course for those interested in the fields of engineering and construction. Instructor Approval Required.