Physical Science, Physical Science Honors

Physical Science is designed to create a foundation for further study in the areas of chemistry and physics. Terms are introduced and activities designed to expose the student to the basic concepts of scientific inquiry and the International System of Measurement. The chemistry portion of the course provides the students with an understanding of matter and elements, the structure of atoms, and chemical bonds and reactions. The physics portion of the course continues to reinforce the scientific method of investigation while incorporating formulas, terms and calculations used to answer questions about motion and forces, work and energy, heat and temperature, waves, sound, light and electricity. Physical Science can be used to bring students from various backgrounds to a solid starting point for the study of future science courses.

Biology I, Biology I Honors

This is a required course whose purpose is to examine the many different aspects of life. The objectives of this course include gaining an understanding of the complexity and organization of living things, their classification and distribution in the world, and the interactions between living things and their environment. Topics covered include the characteristics of life, the cell, biochemistry and energy, genetics, classification and distribution, and principles of ecology.

Biology II, Biology II Honors

This course is designed for students thinking of medical or paramedical careers or for students who desire more than an elementary introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the body. Students will learn the names and functions of each of the organs in the systems of the human body and will gain an appreciation for the ways in which each of the body's systems interact. Emphasis is placed on health-related college majors and curricula as well as other allied health professions.

AP Biology

Advanced Placement Biology includes topics regularly covered in a college biology course. This course is designed to be taken by students who have taken a first course in high school biology and one in high school chemistry as well. Its purpose is to provide students with a conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to deal with the rapidly changing science of biology. Students are required to take the College Board Exam in May.

Chemistry I, Chemistry I Honors

This science course deals with the composition of all matter and the changes in composition which matter undergoes. Facts are gathered and arranged in meaningful patterns which reveal regularities that lead to an understanding of nature. This course includes the fundamental concepts of inorganic chemistry and a brief introduction to organic chemistry. Topics covered include measurement, basic concepts of matter, structure of the atom, periodic classification of the elements, the structure of compounds, chemical nomenclature, calculations involving elements and compounds, chemical equations, gases, liquids, solids, acids and bases.

AP Chemistry

This is a rigorous course that is designed to give high school students the same experience as the freshmen level college chemistry courses. The emphasis of this course will be on problem solving and critical thinking skills. Lecture topics include the structure of matter, kinetic theory of gases, chemical equilibrium, chemical kinetics, and the basic concepts of thermodynamics. Weekly laboratory experiments will play a major role in the reinforcing and understanding of the concepts covered in class. Students are required to take the College Board Exam in May.

Physics, Physics Honors

Physics is designed to provide students with an understanding of the relationships between matter and energy and attempts to explain the ways in which the universe operates. It includes units on measurement, mechanics, energy, heat, electricity, magnetism, and waves. It emphasizes practical applications through a conceptual approach. The Honors course takes a more mathematical approach.

Earth Science

This course includes geological studies, astronomy, meteorology, and the dynamics of the Earth. Through Earth Science, students gain an appreciation of the dynamics of the Earth and the Earth's relationship to the rest of the universe. Topics covered include the universe, basic astronomy, Earth's matter and origin, history, meteorology, oceanography,and earth history.

Environmental Science

Environmental Science is intended to make students aware of the problems facing the environment as well as alternative measures to solve these problems. The content of the course is presented within the framework of physical, biological and chemical principles. The course uses basic scientific principles to study the processes of the environment; to examine changes within the environment; to identify natural and man-made events that contribute to changes in the environment; and to isolate the political, legal, economic, and social aspects of the environment. Students experience the practical use of environmental testing by participating in the G.L.O.B.E. and Canal Watch projects.

Independent Study Course Offerings

Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry Honors

This is a one-semester study of the chemistry of the atmosphere, atmospheric pollution, atmospheric changes, water pollution and solid waste problems. Students perform field experiments and observations and maintain a catalog of current events topics related to the chemistry of the environment.

Genetics Honors

A one-semester course providing students with an opportunity to review basic inheritance of traits and to apply this knowledge in predicting the results of complex inheritance patterns, including genetic interactions. Students also research modern findings in DNA & genetic engineering.

Marine Science Honors

Marine Science is an integrated science that introduces students to the study of the ocean. It includes units on the history and methodology of the study of the ocean, marine biology (the study of life in the sea), oceanography (the study of the chemistry, physics and geology of the ocean), and the interactions of the physical and biological characteristics of the ocean and how they affect marine ecology.