Academics > Course Descriptions > Science
312 Intro. Physical Science
CP1 – Introductory Physical Science
Grade 9
Credit 1
This is an inquiry-based course in which students develop, through experimentation, the basic connections of the atomic model of matter and basic theories of chemistry and physics. Since it is empirically driven, this course gives students an idea of what the process of scientific inquiry is all about. The course takes “student(s) through a series of experiments and analyses that amounts to an abridged account of the development of chemistry and physics.” (The Textbook Letter, Vol. 10, No. 4) The experimental techniques used in this course help develop measurement, observation, and higher order thinking skills.
PREREQUISITE:
Concurrent placement in CP1 Algebra 1 (412) or CP1 Geometry (422). Placement is based on HSPT and elementary/middle school transcripts.
313 Phys Sci
CP2 – Physical Science
Grade 9
Credit 1
This course investigates the basic scientific principles at work in the physical world and integrates this understanding with other scientific and academic disciplines. The course stresses the interconnectedness of basic scientific principles with other sciences and with other areas of human life and study.
PREREQUISITE:
Concurrent placement in Alg/Geom.1 (414/415).
320 Honors Biology
H – Honors Biology
Grade 9
Credit 1
Honors Biology introduces the student to the central concepts of biology, including topics such as the chemical basis of life, the structure of the cell, ecological relationships, principles of genetics, and the evolutionary processes that link the Earth’s diverse organisms. Laboratory activities are a key part of the course and will reinforce the conceptual framework developed in the classroom.
PREREQUISITE:
Concurrent placement in 411 Adv. Alg. (Honors) or 420 Geometry (Honors). Placement is based on HSPT and elementary/ middle school transcripts.
322 Biology
CP1 – Biology
Grade 10
Credit 1
This biology course consists of units pertaining to the scientific method, inquiry and scientific ways of knowing, biodiversity, chemical basis of life, cellular basis of life, unity and diversity of plant and animal life including dissection, and studies of the origin of life.
PREREQUISITE:
Concurrent placement in Geometry (422).
323 Biology
CP2 – Biology
Grade 10
Credit 1
This course is a basic approach to the study of life science. It aims at a simplified and clear exposition of basic biological concepts and vocabulary. This course will aid students in understanding the application of biology to everyday life and in the study of related sciences.
PREREQUISITE:
Concurrent placement in Alg/Geom2 (424).
331, 332 Chemistry
H, CP1 – Chemistry
Grade 11 and 12
Credit 1
This course introduces students to the basic concepts of chemistry, provides laboratory experience, and teaches critical-thinking and problem-solving skills that are valuable in themselves and that demonstrate the relevance of chemistry to everyday life.
PREREQUISITE:
H – Concurrent placement in Alg.2 (431) or above.
333 Practical Chemistry
CP2 – Chemistry
Grades 11 and 12
Credit 1
This course covers the practical applications of the science of chemistry in everyday life. The curriculum follows a less theoretical approach than that found in more traditional chemistry courses. It attempts to provide an understanding of basic atomic and molecular interactions, and an application of how these interactions are utilized and manipulated to create many of the marvelous chemicals we use every day. The manifestations of chemistry in physical and biological systems may also be considered.
PREREQUISITE:
Placement in CP2 math. Successful completion of Biology.
341 Physics
H – Physics
Grade 12
Credit 1
Through reading, discussion, and laboratory experiments, students are introduced to a basic understanding of kinematics, dynamics, work, energy, waves, light, sound, electricity, magnetism, and quantum theory.
PREREQUISITE:
Concurrent registration in Calculus or Pre-Calculus. Grade of B or above in Chemistry.
351/352 H. Anat. & Phy.
CP1* – Human Anatomy & Physiology
Grades 11 and 12
Credit 1
Students study the structure and function of the organ systems of the human body, including the nervous, skeletal, muscular, digestive, circulatory, endocrine systems, and others. Issues relating to health, medicine, and nutrition are an integral part of the course.
PREREQUISITE:
Successful completion of either 320 or 322 and 331 or 332
* May be taken for honors credit with approval of instructor.
Fee of $35.00 for course materials.
367 Environmental Science
CP1 – Environmental Science
Grades 11, 12
Credit: 1
This course is a study of interactions of living organisms with one another and their physical environment. Students will apply scientific knowledge to devise various solutions to environmental questions and issues. Topics will include the human influence on weather, water quality, air quality, animal populations, erosion, and energy resources.
