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Science
Course Descriptions

Biology - year - 9
A survey course of life and life processes at all levels of organization. Course study includes the development of cell theory, study of cell structures, taxonomy, systems of the body, genetics, evolution, plants, and environmental studies. Laboratory activities and classroom Smartboard technology complement the classroom experience.


Honors Biology - year- 9
Prerequisite: Performance on the entrance exam.
An entry level, one-year course in the honors program in science. Course material is covered in an accelerated format covering the major concepts in both Biology I and II. Concepts include: chemistry of living systems, cytology, taxonomy, comparative anatomy, plant studies, genetics and evolution. Laboratory activities and Smartboard technology enhance the classroom experience and prepare the students for AP Biology. Selected outside readings will complement this accelerated course.


Biology 2 - year - 10
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology I or Honors Biology
A year-long laboratory course designed to provide students with a molecular and evolutionary understanding of Biology. This course emphasizes the role of DNA and genetics in living systems and develops and in-depth look into taxonomy and life processes. . Taxonomic groups are integrated by analyzing comparative and contrasting features between species and revealing patterns. Strong reading skills required.


AP Biology - year - 11 - 12
Prerequisite: An "A" or "B" in current science Honors course and the recommendation of the teacher.
An advanced elective course in Biology will provide students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge and analytical skills necessary to successfully complete a first year University Biology course, as well as to succeed on the AP examination. Coursework will focus on the major study areas of cellular theory, populations, genetics, and evolution. A molecular approach to the subject will be emphasized. All students must sit for the Advanced Placement exam in Biology offered in May. Required labs complement classroom theory and are a necessary component to passing the A.P. Exam. Students will need to be available to schedule a few afternoon labs until 4:00 p.m. Purchase of Lab Manual required. Strong motivation, independent work habits, excellent reading and and analytical skills required.


Chemistry - year - 11
Pre-requisite: Successful completion of Biology 2.
An entry level course in inorganic chemistry. Structure and properties of the elements are studied both qualitatively and quantitatively. Course study included the following main concepts: matter and energy, nomenclature, electronic configuration, bonding, molecular geometry, balancing equations, gas laws, acid-base reactions, and organic chemistry. Theory is reinforced by classroom Smartboard technology and laboratory work illustrating both the principles of chemistry and safe laboratory techniques.


Honors Chemistry 2/Organic Chemistry - year - 11 - 12
Pre-requisite: An "A" or B" in Honors Chemistry or an "A" in Chemistry and the recommendation of the teacher.
An advanced, one year course designed to provide students with the necessary concepts and skills to successfully enter a first year University Chemistry course. Chemistry I concepts are reviewed with emphasis on the following additional topics: stoichiometry, thermodynamics, equilibrium, kinetics, acid-base chemistry and electrochemistry. Organic Chemistry topics include a study of the structure, preparation and reactions of major alkane, alkene , alkyne and aromatic compounds along with a comprehensive study of all major functional groups. This course is open to juniors enrolled in physics or seniors who are enrolled in or have already taken physics.


Physics - year - 11 - 12
Pre-requiste: A "C" or better in Chemistry or Honors Chemistry and the recommendation of the teacher as well as a "C" or better in current Mathematics class.
An entry level course in physics. This one-year course covers the study of matter's interaction and change. Studies will focus on Newtonian mechanics and problem solving techniques. Course study includes the following main concepts: forces and energy, electricity and light. Laboratory activities, demonstrations, and Smartboard technology complement the classroom experience. Physics is strongly recommended for all students considering entering engineering and science related fields.


Honors Physics - year 11 - 12
Pre-requisite: An "A" or "B" in Honors Chemistry and the recommendation of the teacher or an "A" in Chemistry and the recommendation of the teacher. Successful completion of Geometry and an "A" or "B" in current math course.
A one year course in the honors program in science. Course material is covered in an accelerated format to cover the following topics: Newtonian mechanics, velocity, acceleration, force, work, energy, electricity, circuit, and light. Selected outside readings complement this accelerated course. Strong motivation and math skills required


AP Physics - year 12
Pre-requisite:An "A" or "B" in Honors Physics and the recommendation of the teacher. as well as an "A" or "B" in current math course.
An advanced, non-calculus college level physics course that provides students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge and analytical skills necessary to complete a first year University physics course as well as to succeed on the AP examination. A systematic and analytic approach will be emphasized in both understanding theory and problem solving. All students must sit for the Advanced Placement exam in Physics offered in May. Required labs complement classroom theory and are a necessary component to passing the A.P. Exam. Certain laboratory sessions may need to be scheduled after school. Strong motivation, independent work habits and excellent reading skills required.


Human Anatomy and Physiology - year 11 - 12
Pre-requisite: Successful completion of the Biology sequence and a "C" or better in current Science course and the recommendation of the teacher.
A one-year course covering the structural organization and physiology of the human body. Studies will focus on systems involved in support, movement, integration, coordination, processing, transport, and reproduction. Animal dissections will be an integral part of the course. This in an excellent course for those considering pre-med or related fields. Dual enrollment available for qualified students. Strong motivation and excellent reading skills required.

Purchase of Lab Manual and "Anatomy Coloring Book" Required.


Honors Human Anatomy and Physiology - year 11 - 12
Pre-requisite: Successful completion of the Biology sequence and an "A" in current regular science course or and "A" or "B" in current Honors science course and the recommendation of the teacher.
A one-year course covering the structural organization and physiology of the human body in an accelerated and in-depth level with an emphasis on physiology. Animal dissections will be an integral part of the course. This in an excellent course for those considering pre-med or related fields. Dual enrollment available for qualified students. Strong motivation and excellent reading skills required.

Purchase of Lab Manual and "Anatomy Coloring Book" Required.


Marine Biology - semester - 11 - 12
Pre-requisite: Successful completion of the Biology sequence and a "C" or better in current science class and the recommendation of the teacher.
A semester course designed to foster a greater understanding of ocean life with its diversity of habitats, adaptations and inter-relationships. Topics include and in-depth study of ocean ecology, marine populations and communities, marine geology and global environmental impacts on marine life. Laboratories and classroom Smartboard technology bring learning to life and give students perspective into this unique aspect of life.

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