Science

List of 20 items.

• Biology I

  Biology I
  (1 credit; open to class 9-10)
  
  This course provides a scaffolded, inquiry-based learning environment that investigates living systems. Core concepts such as structure and function from molecular to organismal level, genetic inheritance, and evolution. Learning objectives are achieved in this course through modeling, group discussions, and laboratory experiments. Labs emphasize experimental design and investigation, which helps to form data-driven arguments, and use of scientific language. Lab skills acquired in this course include microscopy, DNA fingerprinting, use of indicators, and probeware.

• Biology I (H)

  Biology I (H)
  (1 credit; open to Class 9-10)
  
  In this course students will learn about organic molecules, molecular biology, how cells and individuals maintain homeostasis, how cells and individuals reproduce and how populations evolve. Human organ systems and applications of biotechnology are woven into these broader themes. The learning objectives for this course are explored through modelling and group discussion. Labs emphasize experimental design, basic statistical methods, and investigation. Students are expected to independently read, analyze and draw conclusions from texts and their own original lab work. Assessments are developed to allow students to show their deep understanding of the subject and their developing skills in analysis.

• Chemistry I

  Chemistry I
  (1 credit; open to Class 10-11; prerequisite: Biology I)
  
  In this course, students work to develop an understanding of states and structure of matter, gases, intermolecular forces, chemical quantities, chemical reactions, periodicity, bonding, aqueous chemistry, electrochemistry, strong acid-base reactions and conceptual thermochemistry. Mathematical models and methods are utilized but conceptual understanding is prioritized. The learning objectives for this course are explored through modelling and group discussion. Students will learn how to safely conduct themselves in the lab setting as well as how to accurately and appropriately collect data. Analysis, results and conclusions are then communicated and assessed by peers and by the instructor.  Support will be given to help students develop their inquiry (solving problems through scientific investigation) skills. Assessment includes tests, presentations and projects, which are closely linked to instruction.

• Chemistry I (H)

  Chemistry I (H)
  (1 credit; open to Class 10-11; prerequisite: Biology I)
  
  In this course, students work to develop a strong conceptual and mathematical understanding of states and structure of matter, gases, intermolecular forces, chemical quantities, chemical reactions, periodicity, bonding, aqueous chemistry, electrochemistry, kinetics, equilibrium, strong/weak acid-base reactions and thermodynamics. The learning objectives for this  course are generated during group discussion after an  introductory lab experience or activity. Labs involve critical thinking (the ability to carry out systematic thought processes in making decisions and solving problems) and inquiry (solving problems through scientific investigation). Assessment will include questions in which students apply their conceptual and mathematical understanding of material to novel situations.
  
  

• Physics I

  Physics I
  (1 credit; open to Class 11-12; prerequisite: Biology I)
  
  In this course, students work to develop an understanding of waves, optics, mechanics, electricity, and nuclear physics. Topics are addressed in a different order than AP Physics 1 to support students’ developing mathematical skills. The learning objectives for this course are explained using physical and mathematical (non-calculus) models. Students gain hands-on experience in these areas with labs and projects that demonstrate practical applications of the course topics. Labs are used to develop specific skills which students then utilize in self-designed investigations. Assessments include quizzes and projects, which allow students to demonstrate their theoretical and practical understanding of the material.

• AP Physics 1

  AP Physics 1
  (1 credit; open to Class 11-12; prerequisite: Biology I; open to class 10 - prerequisite of Biology, concurrently enrolled in AP Calculus BC)
  
  In this course, students work to develop an understanding of mechanics (linear and rotational), waves, optics, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics. The learning objectives for this course utilize multiple representational mathematical (non-calculus) models to describe phenomena; students will be expected to construct their own mathematical models and represent them in graphs and diagrams. Students perform frequent open-ended lab activities to guide them in developing their understanding. Investigations (student-designed experiments) allow for the demonstration and testing of their understanding and
  mathematical models. Assessments include questions in which students apply their conceptual and mathematical understanding of the material to novel situations. (Formerly known as Physics I (H), this course changed names in 2022-23.)

• AP Physics 2

  AP Physics 2
  (1 credit; open to class 11-12; prerequisite: Physics I or
  AP Physics 1)
  
  In this course, students complete inquiry-based in-class activities and laboratory work to investigate phenomena in the areas of thermodynamics, electric force, field, and potential, electric circuits, magnetism and electromagnetic induction, geometric and physical optics, and quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics. The course will use representations and models to engage in questioning, perform data analysis, solve problems, and communicate solutions about natural systems. Assessments include questions in which students apply their conceptual and mathematical understanding of the
  material to novel situations.

• Astronomy

  Astronomy
  (1 credit; open to class 11- 12; prerequisites: prior or
  concurrent enrollment in Physics I)
  
  The structure and evolution of planets, stars, galaxies, and the universe, as well as the methods of astronomy, are emphasized. Cosmology and its aftermath, the question of how things came to be the way they are, is a major recurring thread of the course. The course ends by exploring exobiology (alien life). (This course not available in 2025-2026.)
  

• Scientific Methods and Public Policy

  Scientific Methods and Public Policy
  (1 credit; open to Class 12; prerequisite: Biology I,
  Chemistry I, Physics I)
  
  This year-long lab-based science course focuses on current issues and advances in science and technology. Students investigate the scientific methods and evidence on which public policy is based. Topics will include water, energy sources, climate change and sustainability. For each topic we will consider myths, reality and solutions as well as policy decisions. Each unit will involve readings, group presentations, lab work, creative reflections, group assignments, written work and debates or projects. Students will be assessed on their knowledge of the scientific principles through quizzes and papers. Laboratory work will include water quality assessment, air quality monitoring, energy use analysis, and carbon dioxide and ice in relation to climate change. In the first semester students will research a “Science Policy Controversy” and write an assessment on the current understanding and their recommendations for public policy. The final exam will consist of a project to design real world solutions to concepts studied in class.

• Anatomy & Physiology (H)

  Anatomy & Physiology (H)
  (1 credit; open to Class 11-12*; prerequisites: Biology I and Chemistry I)
  
  This course focuses on the structure and function of the human body through the study of tissues, homeostasis, the relationships among systems, and the study of disease. A study of all major human organ systems includes an emphasis on microscopic and macroscopic laboratory activities. Labs include examination of cells and tissues, dissection of the rat and major organs, investigation of case studies, and practice the scientific process in experimental design. Anatomical terminology is practiced throughout the course. Students learn from professionals through guest speakers and field trips. The course is designed for juniors or seniors with an interest in medicine and the allied health fields. The laboratory experience includes a student-designed end-of-year project. (*Priority enrollment for Class 12 students.)

• Neuroscience I (H)

  Neuroscience I (H)
  (1/2 credit; fall or spring semester; open to Class 11-12*; prerequisite: Biology I)
  
  This one semester, lab-based, advanced biology course will focus on the study of the human nervous system, with an emphasis on understanding the functions of the cells in the nervous system, how the nervous system allows for sensory input and motor output, brain structure and function, pathology, as well as brain plasticity. Understanding of these concepts will be enhanced by a lab curriculum that includes dissections, microscope studies, EMG’s, EEG’s, cranial nerve tests, sensory labs, study of diseases through case studies, field trips, and speakers. (*Priority enrollment for Class 12 students.)

• Neuroscience II (H)

  Neuroscience II (H)
  (1 credit; spring semester only; open to Class 11-12*; Prerequisite: Neuroscience I (H))
  
  Neuroscience II (H) is a group project, research-based course, and will focus on the study of the human brain through the understanding of brain disease and disorders, and how nutrition and lifestyle affect brain development, mood, learning, and health. Building on the foundations from Neuroscience I (H), the course will investigate the role of sleep, hormones, and how the  environment affects plasticity, learning, and memory.  Understanding of these concepts will be enhanced by analyzing journal articles, designing experiments, and guest speakers. (*Priority enrollment for Class 12 students.)

• Marine Science (H)

  Marine Science (H)
  (1 credit; open to class 11-12; prerequisite Biology I
  and Chemistry I)
  
  This course focuses on life in marine ecosystems and how they are involved in complex issues of global climate change. The course will focus on ocean structure, phylogenetics, survival adaptations, and environmental challenges. Labs will include the examination of organisms through dissections, analyzing physical and chemical components of watersheds through modeling, and water quality testing through sampling. Terminology from biology and chemistry in addition to a variety of lab technology will be used throughout the course. Student learning will be enhanced through fieldwork and field trips. This course is designed for juniors and seniors with an interest in an in-depth understanding of the role our watersheds and their ecosystems play in the greater health of the preservation of our environment. (*Priority enrollment for Class 12 students.) (This course not available in 2025-2026.)

• Organic Chemistry (H)

  Organic Chemistry (H)
  (1 credit; open to Class 11-12*; prerequisites: Biology I and Chemistry I)
  
  The topics covered in this course will assist students who go on to take a college-level organic chemistry course. This course is recommended for students considering science-related careers in chemistry, biology, medicine, biochemistry, chemical and biochemical engineering, and pharmacology, among others. The course is designed to help students see the role of organic chemicals in their lives. In this course, students are introduced to organic substances: nomenclature, structure, physical and chemical properties, and reactions. Students work in groups to develop organic problem solving strategies. The laboratory portion of the course is designed to develop macro- and micro-scale laboratory techniques as they relate to experiments involving organic materials. Prior or concurrent enrollment in a physics course is highly recommended but not required. (*Priority enrollment for Class 12 students.)
  
  (This course will not be available in 2023-2024.)

• AP Biology

  AP Biology
  (1 credit; open to Class 11-12*; prerequisites: Biology I and Chemistry I) 
  
  This course generally follows the Advanced Placement syllabus, with particular emphasis on molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, proteomics, evolution and experimental design.  Laboratory work is extensive and includes microscopy, column chromatography, protein and DNA electrophoresis, bacterial transformation, culturing and staining, and spectrophotometry. Prior or concurrent enrollment in a physics course is highly recommended but not required. (*Priority enrollment for Class 12 students.)
  
  

• AP Chemistry

  AP Chemistry
  (1 credit; open to class 11-12*; prerequisites: Biology I and Chemistry I)
  
  AP Chemistry is a course geared toward highly motivated students with interests in chemical and physical sciences. Building on concepts covered in Chemistry I and Chemistry I (H), this course provides students the opportunity to improve and expand upon their skills in science practices and knowledge about chemistry. The AP Chemistry course focuses on a model of instruction which promotes enduring, conceptual understandings and the content that supports them. This is accomplished through inquiry-based learning of essential concepts which helps students develop reasoning skills necessary to engage in the science practices
  used throughout the course. These include designing a plan for collecting data, analyzing data, applying mathematical routines and connecting concepts in and across domains. Experiments are investigative in nature, and students will spend approximately half of the course time working in the laboratory. Prior or concurrent enrollment in a first year Physics course is highly recommended but not required. (*Priority enrollment for Class 12 students.)

• AP Physics C: Mechanics/Electromagnetism

  AP Physics C: Mechanics/Electromagnetism
  (1 credit, open to class 11-12*; prerequisite: Physics 1 (H). Prior or concurrent enrollment in AP Calculus BC is required. Concurrent enrollment in AP Calculus AB with approval of Department Chair.)
  
  This second-year physics course is the equivalent of two semesters of calculus-based college physics for science majors. Physics content is strongly integrated with its mathematical description; laboratory investigations and analysis are at the level of college physics courses. Topics in classical mechanics include linear and rotational motion, forces, work/energy, momentum, gravitation and harmonic motion. Topics in Electromagnetism include an in-depth theoretical and quantitative treatment of electric fields, voltage, resistance and current; DC circuits with resistors and capacitors; magnetic fields and forces, circuits with inductance and the generation of electricity. All topics are covered in greater depth and with more detailed analytical and laboratory content than in AP Physics 1. At the end of the year, students are prepared for both the AP Physics C: Mechanics and E & M exams. (*Priority enrollment for Class 12 students.)

• AP Environmental Science

  AP Environmental Science
  (1 credit; open to Class 11-12*; prerequisites: Biology I and Chemistry I)
  
  

  This course is designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester, introductory college course in environmental science. It is an interdisciplinary course that provides the students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze causes of risks associated with natural and human-made environmental problems, and to examine the alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. At the end of this course, students should be prepared to take the AP Environmental Exam. (*Priority enrollment for Class 12 students.)
  
  

• Applied Physics (H)

  Applied Physics (H)
  (1 credit; open to class 11-12; prerequisite: Physics I/AP Physics 1 or Integrated Engineering Systems/Engineering Applications of Computer Science)
  
  This advanced project-based course approaches engineering topics from a physics perspective. Students explore various engineering disciplines, using the Engineering Design Process, to create solutions to complex problems. They collaborate on a variety of required class projects as well as individual projects that will allow them to explore topics of interest in depth. The course’s major emphasis is for students to explore emerging technologies. The required projects are based on advanced mechanics, electromagnetism, electronics and robotics. 

• Scientific Research and Design I, II, and III

  Scientific Research and Design I, II, and III
  (1⁄2 credit for each year of participation; open to Class 10-12; prerequisite: Biology I)
  
  This course offers students an opportunity to perform independent scientific research. An interview with the Department Head or SRD teacher is suggested prior to enrollment. Students will first identify a topic for research and read scientific literature to learn what has already been done in the area. Students must write a summary paper and present their research to the SRD faculty and students each grading period. Students will be encouraged to enter their research into competitions. Grades for this course will be assigned on a Pass/Fail basis. (This course meets once per rotation.)