Physical Science

Grade(s): 9

Credit: 1

Semesters: 2

Prerequisite: None

Description: Physical Science will include a background study of the basic concepts needed for both Chemistry and Physics. The area of Physics will include the following units: (1) Prediction and explaining motion, (2) Forces and acceleration, (3) Work, (4) Energy, (5) Electricity and magnetism, (6) Light and sound waves. The area of Chemistry will include the following units: (1) Structure and properties of matter, (2) Acids and bases, (3) Chemical reactions, (4) Metals and nonmetals, (5) Radioactivity, (6) Energy alternatives.

Honors Physical Science

Grade(s): 9

Credit: 1

Semesters: 2

Prerequisite: None

Description: Honors Physical Science is the science course that deals with the study of concepts in both Chemistry and Physics. In Chemistry, topics include: classifying matter; structure, function, and properties of matter; atomic theory; periodicity of elements; chemical reactions and reaction rates; solutions, acids, bases, and salts; nuclear reactions and changes. The Physics area topics include: motion and forces; work; energy and energy changes; and types of energy (heat, waves, sound, light, electricity and magnetism). There will also be study in the area of Earth and space science including the solar system and universe; our planet Earth and its resources. The class will have a very strong laboratory component and will develop critical thinking skills through the analysis of labs and classwork.

Biology

Grade(s): 10

Credit: 1

Semesters: 2

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Physical Science

Description: Biology will consist of units pertaining to the following: scientific method, inquiry and scientific ways of knowing, biodiversity, chemical basis of life, cellular basis of life, microscopy and microbiology, unity and diversity of plant and animal life including dissection, comparative studies of the origins of life. One half of the course consists of laboratory exercises that are either discovery oriented or concept reinforcement.

Honors Biology

Grade(s): 10

Credit: 1

Semesters: 2

Prerequisite: Completion of Honors Physical Science with at least a “B” average.

Description:  Biology will consist of units pertaining to the following: scientific method, inquiry and scientific ways of knowing, biodiversity, chemical basis of life, cellular basis of life, microscopy and microbiology, unity and diversity of plant and animal life including dissection, comparative studies of the origins of life. One half of the course consists of laboratory exercises that are either discovery oriented or concept reinforcement.

Chemistry

Grade(s): 11-12

Credit: 1

Semesters: 2

Prerequisite: Completion of Physical Science and Biology

Description: Chemistry is a physical science that investigates and attempts to explain the composition, structure, properties, and changes of matter. This includes the physical and chemical behavior of virtually everything that is found in the world. This is accomplished through laboratory investigations, lecture and discussion sessions, homework, and independent study. Developing explanations of nature and applying these to new and different situations is emphasized.

Honors Chemistry

Grade(s): 11-12

Credit: 1

Semesters: 2

Prerequisite: Completion of Honors Physical Science and Honors Biology with at least a “B” average.

Description: Chemistry is a physical science that investigates and attempts to explain the composition, structure, properties, and changes of matter. This includes the physical and chemical behavior of virtually everything that is found in the world. This is accomplished through laboratory investigations, lecture and discussion sessions, homework, and independent study. Developing explanations of nature and applying these to new and different situations is emphasized.

Honors Physics

Grade(s): 12

Credit: 1

Semesters: 2

Prerequisite: Completion of Honors Algebra II/Trigonometry or Honors Pre-Calculus and Honors Chemistry

Description: Physics is the physical science which discovers and attempts to explain the rules of nature that govern how everything in the universe behaves. The writing and application of mathematical descriptions of these rules is usually desired. Explaining natural phenomena and applying concepts to new situations is emphasized.

Anatomy and Physiology

Grade(s): 11-12

Credit: 1

Semesters: 2

Prerequisite: Completion of Biology and Chemistry with a minimum grade of a “B” average and/or teacher recommendation

Description: Anatomy and Physiology is an exploration of the human body and how it is constructed and operates. The class will cover topics such as Cell structure, cavities of the human body, directional terms, tissues, and blood. We will also learn about the systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive. We will use dissection, lecture, and group activities to discover the function and importance of learning about the human body.