Course Descriptions

Environmental Science (5 Credits)
Meets Science Graduation Requirements 
Year: 9, 10, 11, 12
In this course the study of human interactions and conservation techniques in dealing with environmental issues is explored. Application of the forms and transfer of energy are made to these environmental science topics. Students are involved in laboratory work using the scientific method.

Environmental Science CP (5 Credits)
Meets Science Graduation Requirements 
Year: 9, 10, 11, 12
In this course the study of human interactions and conservation techniques in dealing with environmental issues is explored. Application of the forms and transfer of energy are made to these environmental science topics. Students are involved in laboratory work using the scientific method.

AP Environmental Science (6 Credits)
Meets Science Graduation Requirements 
AP Exam Fee Required
Year: 11, 12
The course will utilize a systems approach to follow the flow of matter and energy throughout the earth’s biosphere and the earth’s hydrologic, geologic and atmosphere systems. Students will investigate how human impact causes alteration and disruption within the earth’s systems. Special focus will be given to the use of technology including remote sensing, geographic information systems, and global positioning systems as research tools to aid in the assessment of human impact on the systems of the earth.

Biology (5 Credits)
Meets Biology Graduation Requirement 
Year: 10
This lab science course involves the study of plants, animals, and the basic principles of life, and laboratory science. Most topics are approached by organismal identification, classification, and comparison.

Biology CP (5 Credits)
Meets Biology Graduation Requirement 
Year: 10, 11
This lab science course involves the study of plants, animals, and the basic principles of life, and laboratory science. Most topics are approached by organismal identification, classification, and comparison.

Biology Honors (6 Credits)
Meets Biology Graduation Requirement 
Year: 9, 10, 11
This is an advanced lab science study of biology where the molecular and cellular basis of life and evolutionary basis are emphasized along with extensive laboratory work. The broad themes also include the study and comparison of systems in living organisms, organism identification, classification, and comparison.

AP Biology (7 Credits)
Meets Biology Graduation Requirement 
*Linked with AP Science/Math Labs or Period 0 P.E. – See P.E. Department for more details
AP Exam Fee Required
Year: 11, 12
This is a first-year college level course in biology with the content and the lab program comparable to college work. Students who achieve a grade on the AP exam which is acceptable to the college of their choice may receive college credit for biology at that college.

Research in Biology Honors (3 Credits)
During this unique experience for students enrolled in AP Biology or AP Environmental Science, students will be challenged to complete scientific research in molecular biology in collaboration with a local university.

Physical Science CP (5 Credits)
Meets Science Graduation Requirement 
Year: 11, 12
This course will encourage students to make sense of new evidence and revise their thinking to accommodate it by building true understanding of the course material instead of relying on prior knowledge, assumptions, and misconceptions. Students enrolled in the course will engage, explore, explain, elaborate, and evaluate useful models of structure and properties of matter and the mechanisms of its interactions. In addition, students enrolled in this course are expected to: (1) gain an understanding of the history of chemistry and physics, (2) explore the uses of chemistry and physics in various careers, (3) investigate chemical and physical questions and problems related to personal needs and societal issues, and (4) learn and practice laboratory safety. This course also includes mathematical problem solving.
Conceptual Chemistry: Conceptual Chemistry is a one semester course based on regular laboratory investigations of matter, chemical reactions, and the role of energy in those reactions.
Conceptual Physics: Conceptual Physics is a one semester course based on regular laboratory investigations of motion and stability, energy, and waves.

Chemistry CP (5 Credits)
Meets Science Graduation Requirement 
Year: 10, 11, 12
This intermediate study of modern chemistry includes matter, element, compounds, chemical reactions, lab work, and newer concepts in chemistry.

Chemistry Honors (6 Credits)
Meets Science Graduation Requirement 
Year: 10, 11, 12
This is an advanced study of matter, elements, compounds, chemical reactions, and newer concepts in chemistry. This course takes a theoretical and mathematical approach to chemistry and provides the student with extensive laboratory experience.

AP Chemistry (7 Credits)
Meets Science Graduation Requirement 
*Linked with AP Science/Math Labs or Period 0 P.E. – See P.E. Department for more details
AP Exam Fee Required
Year: 11, 12
This is a first-year college level course in chemistry with the content and lab program comparable to a college course. Students who achieve a grade on the AP exam which is acceptable to the college of their choice may receive college credit for chemistry at that college. More independent problem solving, advanced math, and a strong motivation toward science are required for chemistry AP students.

Physics CP (5 Credits)
Meets Science Graduation Requirement 
Year: 9, 11, 12
This course is taught from the modern, traditional, and applied points of view. The regular physics course includes electricity, nuclear energy, mechanics, light, heat, sound, and magnetism. The course emphasizes the application of Algebra I to physics concepts. A special section is offered to freshmen which utilizes a modified “Physics Union Mathematics” approach.

Physics Honors (6 Credits)
Meets Science Graduation Requirement 
Year: 11, 12
Physics is the study of the natural laws that govern the universe. This course is a 6 credit lab science course. Students will be exposed to topics in both conceptual and mathematical terms: mechanic, thermal physics, waves, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics.

AP Physics 1 (7 Credits)
Meets Science Graduation Requirement 
*Linked with AP Science/Math Labs or Period 0 P.E. – See P.E. Department for more details
AP Exam Fee Required
Year: 11, 12
The equivalent of a first semester college physics class which covers Newtonian Physics, work, power, energy, mechanical waves, sound and an introduction to electrical circuits.


AP Physics C (7 Credits)
*Linked with AP Science/Math Labs or Period 0 P.E. – See P.E. Department for more details
AP Exam Fee Required
Year: 12
A one-year calculus-based introductory physics high school course equivalent to a university first-year calculus-based physics course for science and engineering majors. Topics studied include vectors, coordinate systems, kinematics (motion in one- and two-dimensions), dynamics (forces, Newton's Laws of Motion), work and energy, linear momentum, circular motion, gravitation, rotational equilibrium and rotational dynamics, angular momentum, and simple harmonic motion electrostatics (including Gauss' Law), capacitors and dielectrics, electric circuits (including RC circuits), magnetic fields (including the Biot-Savart Law and Ampere's Law), and electromagnetism (including inductance [LR and LC circuits], as well as Maxwell's Equations).

STEM Lab Honors (1 Credit)
During this unique experience for students enrolled in AP Physics and Calculus, students will be challenged to develop solutions to problems and design, engineer and build through the instruction of a mathematics teacher and a technology education teacher.

Anatomy & Physiology CP (5 Credits)
Year: 11, 12
A study of the human body & diseases which will review potential careers in medicine and health careers.

Anatomy & Physiology Honors*** (5 Credits)
Year: 11, 12
The course content of human anatomy and physiology is designed for individuals preparing for more advanced study in biology, pursuing an in-depth knowledge of their own bodies, and/or preparing to enter health-related professions. Much time is devoted to studies of specific parts and systems of the body, emphasizing that each part of the body is dependent for its survival and proper functioning upon the coordinated functioning of all the other body systems. Human anatomy and physiology are taught through class discussions, laboratory activities, specimen manipulation and dissection, field activities, computer simulation and speakers.

Horticulture CP^^ (5 Credits)
Year: 12
Horticulture is the art and science of cultivating fruits, flowers, and vegetables to benefit people. In this class we will learn about the diverse uses and career applications of plants in our lives; we will learn about plants themselves, and we will design, develop, prepare, plant, water, and weed several gardens and plantings around the school grounds. Field trips and outdoor planting are required.

Horticulture Honors^^ (5 Credits)
Year: 12
An advanced version of Horticulture CP.


Geological Science (5 Credits)
Meets Science Graduation Requirement 
Year: 11, 12
This course covers geological processes and forces that control the earth’s terrain, geological chemistry, geological history, oceanography, and the earth’s atmosphere. Lab work is an integral part of the program.

Astronomy CP (5 Credits)
Meets Science Graduation Requirement 
Year: 11, 12
This course is an introduction to the basic principles of the science of astronomy, such as the measure of time and motion as discovered by observers of the sky and the identification and charting of stars and constellations. Methods of observation and interpretation of the sky, the sun’s family of planets and other bodies will be studied. A greater understanding will be sought about our planet as a unique, but not unusual, member of our universe. Theories of modern cosmology and the latest efforts in space exploration will be studied. The district planetarium will be used as a lab resource.

Exploring Environmental Issues CP (5 Credits)
Year:
The purpose of this course is to have students gain knowledge and understanding of ecological interrelationships in the world and the effect on the environment. The program is activity oriented, permitting the students to develop the skills and knowledge needed to make decisions about the environment in which they live. In addition, the course develops consumer awareness which enables the student to make rational decisions with respect to products that are purchased and consumed.

Forensic Science (2.5 Credits)
*Half year course paired with Criminal Law (Social Studies Department)
Year: 11, 12
The course will introduce the history of forensic science and how physics, chemistry and biology all play a part in forensics and crime scene analysis. A variety of topics will be studied, some include: walking through a crime scene, evidence collection, blood splatter, finger printing tools, DNA analysis, impression evidence, ballistics, the importance of an autopsy and anatomy in solving crimes, arson, laboratory techniques, fiber comparison, and the various types of technology used to solve crimes of all degrees. Laboratory exercises will include techniques commonly employed in forensic investigations. Along with the scientific aspect of Forensic science, careers, educational options, and criminal law will be touched upon.
 
***FDU Eligible
^^May not earn NCAA Credit