Academics
Science
Physical Science
The purpose of this course is to provide an investigative study of the basic concepts of physics, chemistry and earth space science. The content should include: classification and interaction of matter, atomic structure, periodic table, forms of energy, electricity and magnetism, meteorology, geology, astronomy and formation of the solar systems, the interaction of all earth processes and the earth’s energy resources.
Physical Science Honors
The purpose of this course is to provide an investigative study of the basic concepts of
physics, chemistry and earth space science. The content should include: classification and
interaction of matter, atomic structure, periodic table, forms of energy, electricity and
magnetism, meteorology, geology, astronomy and formation of the solar systems, the
interaction of all earth processes and the earth’s energy resources.
Biology 1
The purpose of this course is to provide students with general exploratory experiences and activities in the fundamental concepts of life. Course content includes scientific method, scientific measurement, laboratory safety and use of apparatus, cell biology, cell reproduction and basic principles of genetics.
Biology 1 Honors
This course is intended for highly motivated, college-bound students. Topics include the study of biochemistry, cell biology, cell reproduction, genetics, microbiology, invertebrate and vertebrate anatomy and physiology. The course includes extensive laboratory experiences including dissection.
Chemistry 1 Honors
The purpose of this course is to provide students with a rigorous study of the composition, properties and changes associated with matter. Course content includes atomic structure, bonding, the periodic table, formulas, stoichiometry, phase changes, solutions, acids, bases and salts and nuclear chemistry.
Advanced Placement Chemistry
This course is intended for students who plan to major in science or a science-related field
such as engineering or medicine. Topics include physical and organic chemistry, biochemistry
and analytical chemistry. The course includes extensive laboratory experiences. The
College Board AP Chemistry curriculum which is the equivalent of a first year college
chemistry course.
Advanced Placement Environmental Science
The purpose of this course is to study the interaction of man with the environment. The
content should include: scientific analysis, fundamental principles and concepts about the
interdependence of earth’s systems, population dynamics and distribution, ownership and
use degradation of renewable and nonrenewable resources, environmental quality, global
changes and their consequences, environment and society trade-offs and decision making
choices for the future.
Advanced Placement Biology
The purpose of this course is to provide a study of the facts, principles, and processes of biology and the collection, interpretation, and formulation of hypotheses from available data. The course is broken up into three major components; Molecules and Cells 25%, Heredity and Evolution 25%, and Organisms and Populations 50 percent. This course will follow the College Board curriculum for AP Biology which is the equivalent of a introductory course for Biology majors in college.
Physics 1
Physics I Honors is recommended for all college-bound students to broaden their science
background knowledge and to improve their problem-solving skills. It is especially recommended
for those who plan to major in science, engineering, medicine or other technical
fields. Course topics include but are not limited to: mechanics (the study of motion
and forces) energy gravity, electromagnetism and heat. The course content is presented
through lecture/discussion, demonstrations, video and extensive laboratory experiences.
Physics 2 Honors
This course is recommended for all college-bound students who plan to major in science or a science-related field such as medicine or engineering. Topics include but are not limited to: wave mechanics, sound, light and optics, radiation, nuclear physics, relativity, quantum mechanics, fluid mechanics, and AC / DC circuits. Course content is presented through lecture /discussion, demonstrations, video, and extensive laboratory experiences.
AP Physics B
Advanced Placement Physics is an in-depth study of those topics covered in Physics Honors
I & II that will be included on the AP Physics B exam. Topics include : Newtonian mechanics,
thermal physics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics and atomic and
nuclear physics. Special emphasis will be placed on problem-solving techniques and on the
collection and analysis of data using both traditional methods and computers. Course
material will be presented through lecture/discussion, demonstrations, lab activities and
video presentations. Considerable time and effort will be devoted to doing practice problems
and practice exams in preparation for the AP exam. AP Physics may not be used as a
substitute for Physics II and students must complete or be enrolled in Physics II.
Anatomy and Physiology Honors
The purpose of this course is to provide students with exploratory and advanced activities in the structure and function of the components of the human body. Course content includes cellular processes and tissues, the skeletal, muscular, nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. This course is strongly recommended for college bound students interested in the biological sciences. Dissection of fetal pig, using gloves for safety purposes is required.
Ecology
The purpose of this course is to provide students with a study of the natural mutual relationships between organisms and other factors comprising their environment. Course content includes food chains and webs, biotic and abiotic factors in the environment, energy relationships, biogeological cycles, populations and ecosystems, endangered species, pollution, man’s impact on the environment and the use of resources.
Zoology
The purpose of this course is to enable students to develop in-depth knowledge of the animal kingdom. Area of study may include terminology, taxonomy, cell structure, as well as animal relationships, habits and behaviors.
Marine Science 1
This course is designed to give students an overview of the sciences connected with marine
life. Areas covered include natural resources from the sea, tides and current topography,
marine ecology, chemical and physical characteristics of sea water, taxonomy and ocean
exploration. Emphasis is on the habitats and interactions of plants and animals.
Marine Science 2 Honors
The purpose of this course is to provide the student with a survey of the marine biome.
Course content includes physical oceanography, marine geology, the diversity of marine
organisms, marine plant and animal life, marine ecology and man and the marine community.
This course includes extensive laboratory experiences including dissection. Use of
gloves for safety purposes is required.