Science

This laboratory-based general science course is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge for subsequent science classes. Topics of the course include: scientific method as inquiry through content that includes SI measurement, chemistry, biology, astronomy, and physics.

**NCAA Approved

Prerequisite: Placement based on high performance on the HSPT and concurrent enrollment in Geometry or higher level math class.

This accelerated, laboratory-based science course provides students with skills involving scientific method as inquiry through content that includes SI measurement, chemistry, biology, astronomy, and physics.

**NCAA Approved

Prerequisite: Physical Science credit earned.

Biology is a laboratory-oriented and Algebra-based course that covers the study of life. Topics include the nature of science, the chemistry of life, cell structure and function, cell reproduction, DNA structure and protein synthesis, genetics, photosynthesis and cellular respiration, ecology, and the evolution of life in its many forms. Students are expected to become proficient in the use of laboratory equipment and the procedures and use of methods of science to solve problems.

**NCAA Approved

Prerequisites: Honors Physical Science credit earned with B or higher and permissions of science instructor.

Honors Biology provides an accelerated and in-depth approach to the study of life. It is a laboratory-oriented and Algebra-based course that will include such topics as the nature of science, cell structure and function, cell reproduction, DNA structure and protein synthesis, genetics, biochemistry of photosynthesis and cellular respiration, ecology, and the evolution of life in its many forms. Students are expected to become proficient in the use of laboratory equipment and the procedures and use of methods of science to solve problems.

There will be a summer assignment in Honors Biology. Failure to complete the summer assignment will affect student’s grade.

Additional Information: Exceptions to the grade level requirement may be made for incoming Freshman who are above grade level and otherwise qualified. Requests for Honors Biology must include recommendations by previous math and science teachers. Requests will be reviewed by school staff utilizing standardized test scores and other academic information.

**NCAA Approved

Earth and Space Science is an investigative study of the Earth and its environment in space. Students will learn about local as well as foreign environments in an attempt to understand our human relationship with the natural world. During one semester the course content will fall largely within the realm of Geology. Special emphasis will be placed on the local area, its natural processes and natural history. A second semester of this course will emphasize atmospheric science and astronomy as we compare the Earth to other celestial bodies and the cosmos. A consideration of environmental and energy issues will weave throughout both semesters.

**NCAA Approved

Prerequisites: C or higher in Biology; B or higher in Algebra; concurrent enrollment in IAT or Algebra 2 and permission of science instructor.

Chemistry is a college prep science course that explores the world of elements, molecules and chemical reactions. This course is Algebra-based and will develop problem-solving skills through mathematical investigation of the atom in a laboratory setting. This course will include the concepts of nomenclature, the mole, stoichiometry, atomic theory, bonding, gas laws, phases of matter at an atomic level, solubility, and acids and bases.

**NCAA Approved

Prerequisites: Placement determined by Science Department; course fee for ALEKS.

This university level chemistry course covers much of the same content as SC1103 but at a greater depth. This course follows the university curriculum and uses the online system, ALEKS. Students have the opportunity to receive 5 credits through the University of Washington.

**NCAA Approved

Prerequisite: Biology credit earned with a C or higher, Chemistry with a C or higher, Algebra II with a C or higher or IAT with a B or higher; concurrent registration in Algebra II or a more advanced math course.

Physics is a laboratory-oriented and Algebra-based study of the relationship between matter and energy. Major emphasis is on mechanics and waves with thermodynamics and electricity as time permits. Quantum mechanics (also called modern physics) is taken in Chemistry and Honors Chemistry.

**NCAA Approved

Prerequisites: C in Chemistry or higher; B in Pre-Calculus and permission of science instructor.

This college level introduction focuses on mechanics. It is taught with an emphasis on algebraic applications of Newton’s equations and their connection to the world we live in. This course will prepare students for the AP Physics 1 Exam in the Spring and continuing learning in the field.

**NCAA Approved

Prerequisite: Junior or Senior Standing. Algebra 1 with a grade of B or better is required. Successful completion of Biology is required plus earned credit in either Chemistry or Physical Science. This course requires permission of science instructor.

This is a year-long, lab-based course bridging biology, chemistry, and technology in an occupational setting. This course fits the “school to work” criteria. This is a laboratory-oriented and Algebra-based course.

**NCAA Approved

Prerequisites: Biology credit earned with a grade of C or higher. This course requires permission of science instructor.

This year long laboratory-oriented and Algebra-based course will explore, in detail, the anatomy and physiology of the human body. Students will explore all systems of the human body, including the nervous, skeletal, muscular, integumentary, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, excretory, reproductive, endocrine, and immune systems.

**NCAA Approved

Prerequisites: Open to Juniors and Seniors; must have either completed Chemistry or be currently enrolled; application required.

Students will assist instructors in setting up labs, working on general Science daily duties. This is a general elective and does not count towards Science credits for graduation.