Science
Science Course Descriptions
PHYSICAL SCIENCE
Grade 9
This course provides an introduction to chemistry and physics topics such as the study of matter and the periodic table of elements as well as the study of forces, energy, magnetism, electricity, light and sound. Lab activities and teacher demonstrations support individual learning.
PHYSICAL SCIENCE (HONORS)
Grade 9
Prerequisite: Score of 5 points or more on the Honors rubric
Physical Science Honors is designed for the high-achieving and/or Gifted student with mastery of previous science and mathematical concepts that will prepare them for the faster pace and depth of this course. Honors courses feature deeper exploration of subject matter, complex analysis, independent research, critical thinking, and active participation in discussions, fostering a deeper understanding through challenging assignments and projects.
BIOLOGY*
Grade 10
A generalized study of molecules to living organisms and their environments. The course will include a study of evolution, genetics & heredity, ecosystems, and, if time permits, a broad overview of human body systems. All students will take the LEAP 2025 test in this subject.
BIOLOGY (HONORS)*
Grade 10
Prerequisite: Score of 5 points or more on the Honors rubric
This course is designed for the high-achieving and/or Gifted student with mastery of previous science concepts that will prepare them for the faster pace and depth of this course. Honors courses feature deeper exploration of subject matter, complex analysis, independent research, critical thinking, and active participation in discussions, fostering a deeper understanding through challenging assignments and projects. All students will take the LEAP 2025 test in this subject.
CHEMISTRY
Grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Enrolled in or completed Algebra II
This course will include measurement and quantitative analysis using dimensional analysis and the SI system, the language of Chemistry, the structure and properties of matter, atomic structure 16 and theory, properties of elements and their periodicity, use of the periodic table, chemical bonding, the nature of chemical reactions and representing reactions, the mole concept and stoichiometry, solutions, acids and bases, neutralization, thermochemistry, equilibrium, and nuclear chemistry.
DE CHEMISTRY (1010) +$
3 Hrs College Credit General Chem Credit will only count as an elective for Science Majors.
Grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Score of 5 points or more on the Honors rubric or SELU eligibility requirements. A minimum ACT score and GPA are required to take this course. Credit or concurrent enrollment in Algebra II.
Metric and temperature conversions, density, calorimetry, mixtures/compounds/ elements/chemical and physical properties, structure of the atom and electron configuration, periodic table, bonding, chemical formulas and nomenclature, moles, stoichiometry, chemical reactions, gas laws, and properties of gasses, liquids and solids. Fees are associated with this course. Possible college credit earned.
DE CHEMISTRY (1020) ^$
3 Hrs College Credit Grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: CHEM 1010; Score of 5 points or more on the Honors rubric or SELU eligibility requirements. A minimum ACT score and GPA are required to take this course. Credit or concurrent enrollment in Algebra II.
Covering topics such as: solutions, concentrations (% composition and molarity), acids/bases, pH, buffers, kinetics, equilibrium, solubility, oxidation/reduction, nuclear chemistry, and an introduction into organic chemistry and biochemistry. Fees are associated with this course. Possible college credit earned.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Grades 11 and 12
This course is the study of human interactions with the environment designed to provide students with a balanced approach to the diverse study of the environment. Emphasis in the course is the study of science and the development of thinking and decision-making skills. Students will improve their awareness of environmental problems we are facing now and will be facing in the future.
BIOLOGY II
Grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Credit in Biology I and currently enrolled in or completed Chemistry
This course is designed for high school students to gain a deeper understanding of biology or healthcare related fields. The course will cover the human body system in great detail. This class includes dissection labs.
DE BIOLOGY II (1510) +$
3 Hrs College Credit
This course will not satisfy Science credit for Science Majors, but could count as elective credit.
Grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Score of 5 points or more on the Honors rubric or SELU eligibility requirements. A minimum ACT score and GPA are required to take this course.
This is a challenging, fast-paced course taught at an advanced level. This course is designed for students who plan to pursue careers in biology or a healthcare related field. The course will cover microbiology topics. Fees are associated with this course. Possible college credit earned.
DE BIOLOGY II (1530) ^$
3 Hrs College Credit
This course will not satisfy Science credit for Science Majors, but could count as elective credit.
Grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: BIOL 1510; Score of 5 points or more on the Honors rubric or SELU eligibility requirements. A minimum ACT score and GPA are required to take this course.
This course includes a systematic study of the structure, function, evolution, ecology and relationships of organisms including viruses, bacteria, protists, fungi, plants, and animals. Fees are associated with this course. Possible college credit earned.
PHYSICS (HONORS)
Grade 12
Prerequisite: Must be concurrently enrolled in or have credit for Pre-Calc or Alg III.
This course is designed for the high-achieving and/or Gifted student and consists of an advanced study of force, motion, work, energy and its conservation, simple machines, and efficiency, power, fluids, and pressure magnetism, electricity, radiation, and wave phenomena including sound and light. This is a math/ laboratory-based course that deals with the application of the natural laws and with problem solving with emphasis on measurement using the SI system, dimensional analysis, and algebraic manipulation of Physics equations. Honors courses feature deeper exploration of subject matter, complex 17 analysis, independent research, critical thinking, and active participation in discussions, fostering a deeper understanding through challenging assignments and projects.
LAB ASSISTANT
Grade 12
1 Semester or 1 Year Elective
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation
Lab Assistant is an advanced level course for students interested in science. Students work independently to prepare lab solutions and materials, set up labs and assist during labs for a variety of science disciplines. Students will learn how to work with other students as they assist during the lab classes.
FORENSIC SCIENCE
Grades 11-12
Forensic Science is the application of science (chemistry, physics, and biology) to the criminal and civil laws that are enforced by police agencies in a criminal justice system. It includes the investigation of fingerprinting, fiber analysis, ballistics, arson, trace evidence analysis, poisons, drugs, blood spatters, and blood samples. Students are taught the proper collection, preservation, and laboratory analysis of various samples.
ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY
Grades 11 and 12
Prerequisite: Biology I Credit (B or better)
This course provides a comprehensive study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body. Topics include body organization; homeostasis; cytology; histology; and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous systems and special senses.