Science Courses

Natural Science -- H12/H13

A general science course where reading assignments are minimal and arithmetic skills are not emphasized. Techniques of scientific observation and structured laboratory activities are employed.

General Physical Science -- H14

A one semester laboratory course involving interpretation of data, metrics, chemistry, earth science, and physics. Should be preceded or followed by Life Science. This four-year sequence includes biology, chemistry, and physics.

Life Science -- H16

A one semester laboratory course where the study of the environment is stressed with special emphasis on the development and solution of environmental problems. Topics include biomes, energy, pollution and waste management. An additional focus includes the diversity of living organisms and their interrelationships. Should be preceded or followed by Physical Science. The four-year sequence includes biology, chemistry, and physics.

Biology -- H52/H53

A lab course which provides a basic understanding of living systems. Topics include scientific method, cells, plants, evolution, and anatomy and physiology ofthe human organism. organisms.

Biology Honors -- H54/H55

An accelerated laboratory course for the highly motivated and academically talented student. Topics include scientific method, cells, biochemistry, energy exchange, D.N.A., heredity, population genetics, five kingdoms of living things, evolution, mammalian anatomy and physiology, and ecological concepts.

Red track or honors math, as well as 11th grade reading level, is expected if the student is to be successful in the honors and advanced placement courses that follow in this sequence.

Advanced Biology -- H56/H57

This Advanced Placement (AP) course encompasses the topics evaluated by the AP Exam is designed to be the equivalent of a biology course usually taken during the first year of college. Major areas of study will be molecular/cell biology, organismal biology and population biology. Students are expected to work independently using a college level textbook, with several comprehensive laboratory experiences. At the conclusion of this course, it is possible for students to obtain college credit by passing the AP Examination in biology.

Chemistry -- H62/H63

The concepts of chemistry are developed from laboratory experience of the students. Observations are made with the purpose of finding generalization of chemical systems which are then interpreted using an atomic model. Among the topics discussed are chemical symbols and equations, reactions in solutions, energy changes, equilibrium, atomic structure and bonding, acids and bases, and oxidation and reduction.

Chemistry Honors -- H64/H65

Honors chemistry is designed for the science major. It is a rigorous course in general chemistry. Quantitative aspects of chemistry are stressed and there is a heavy emphasis on problem solving. Students are expected to have a strong background in mathematics. Topics include Stoichiometry, atomic structure, chemical bonding, kinetics, acid-based chemistry and oxidation-reduction reactions.

Advanced Chemistry -- H6/H67

This Advanced Placement (AP) course is designed to be the equivalent of the general Chemistry course usually taken during the first year of college. Problem solving is stressed and students are expected to work independently using a college level textbook. Laboratory work is an integral part of the classroom experience. At the conclusion of this course, it is possible for students to obtain college credit by passing the AP Examination in chemistry.

Physics -- H72/H73

Basic concepts in physics are presented in a descriptive manner. The course is designed for students having general interests and is less mathematical in its approach than Honors. Topics include mechanics, wave phenomena, electricity and nuclear physics. Many types of learning activities are provided for the student.

Physics Honors -- H74/H75

The Honors Physics course is for the student who anticipates a career in science or engineering. The topics will be similar to physics, but emphasis will be placed upon mathematical methods of problem solving as well as analyzing experimental data. Concurrent registration Algebra II/Trigonometry or College Algebra Trig is suggested.

Advanced Physics -- H76/H77

This Advanced Placement (AP) course encompasses the topics evaluated by the AP Exam and is designed to be the equivalent of a physics course usually taken during the first year of college. Major areas of study will be mechanics, wave phenomena, electricity, and nuclear physics. This course prepares students who plan to major in engineering, chemistry, physics, or pre-medicine in college. At the conclusion of this course, it is possible for students to obtain college credit by passing the AP Examination in physics.

Independent Study in Science -- H99

The District guidelines for Independent Study must be met in order to enroll in this course. The student is responsible for working out an appropriate program with an instructor and submitting it to the Division Chairperson for approval.