Biology

Grade Level: 9

This two semester course is a laboratory science which is designed as a general overview of basic biological principles including cytology, energetics, nucleic acids and cell division, genetics, evolution, taxonomy, microorganisms, plants and animals, and human biology. Instruction includes lectures, discussion, video, demonstrations, and laboratory lessons.

This course meets the U.C./C.S.U. (University California / California State University) “d” laboratory science requirement.

AP (Advanced Placement) Biology

Grade Level: 11-12 

Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics; a grade of B or higher in each recommended. Concurrent enrollment in Physics accepted.

AP Biology is the equivalent of 2 semesters of a college level biology course; taught in a rigorous high school setting. This course conforms to the standards instituted by the College Board for all AP courses and covers all of the topics in the AP Biology Course Description. These topics include biochemistry, cell structure and function, metabolism, genetics, D.N.A.  structure and inheritance, biotechnology, evolution, microbiology, classification of organisms, plants, animals, physiology and ecology. This class will prepare students for the A.P. Biology test which students will take at the end of the year.

This course meets the U.C./C.S.U. “d” laboratory science requirement.

Chemistry

Grade Level: 10-11 

Prerequisite: Algebra 1

Chemistry is a laboratory science course that deals with the materials of the universe and the changes that these materials undergo.  There is a great deal of laboratory work and mathematical calculations involved in this course.  All college-bound students as well as students planning a career in science, engineering, or health sciences should elect to take chemistry. 

This course meets the U.C./C.S.U. “d” laboratory science requirement.

AP Chemistry

Grade Level:  11-12

Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics; a grade of B or higher in each recommended. Concurrent enrollment in Physics accepted.

AP Chemistry is similar to a first year college course, and covers the material in Chemistry 1/2 in greater depth, as well as introducing several new topics.  Equilibrium, thermodynamics, and stoichiometry will be a major focus of this course.  This course requires independent laboratory work and mathematical calculations.  This class will prepare students for the A.P. Chemistry test which students will take at the end of the year. 

This course meets the U.C./C.S.U. “d” laboratory science requirement.

AP Environmental Science

Grade Level: 11-12

Prerequisite: U.C. “g” or “d” life science and physical science course with a grade of C or higher.

Advanced Placement Environmental Science (A.P.E.S.) is designed to be the equivalent of an introductory college course in environmental science.  At the college level, such a course may be offered through a variety of departments, including biology, geology, atmospheric science, environmental science, chemistry, and geography. The APES course has been developed to be a lab science course that stresses scientific principles while also providing opportunities to explore the many relevant social, political, economic and ethical issues. 

This course meets the U.C./C.S.U. “d” laboratory science requirement.

Physics

Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite:  Completion of Geometry.

Physics is the foundation of all sciences. Classical physics includes topics in the study of Newtonian mechanics, heat, properties of matter, sound, light, and electricity & magnetism. Modern physics includes topics in the study of nuclear reactors, relativity, particle physics, and astronomy.  Physics requires experimental design and mathematical calculations.

This course meets the U.C./C.S.U. “d” laboratory science requirement. 

AP Physics 1  

Grade Level: 10-12 

Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry, and Algebra 2

AP Physics covers Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum); work, energy, and power; and mechanical waves and sound.  It will also introduce electric circuits.  This is an algebra-based advanced course that is equivalent to a first semester college course in algebra-based physics. 

This course meets the U.C./C.S.U. “d” laboratory science requirement.