| Science Department Course Offerings |
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Biology is a required laboratory science course designed to explore the ecological relationships between living things and the environment. Students will study the diversity of living things, their adaptations, and proposed mechanisms of evolution. Students will study the structure of living things as well as the processes that all living things have in common. In addition, emphasis will be placed on the importance of biochemistry, molecular biology, and the dual role of DNA in the production of proteins and as a unit of heredity.
Throughout the course, students will gain insight into the collaborative nature of science through discussions of historically relevant ideas, contributions, and experiments.
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Chemistry I is a study of matter and the changes it undergoes. Students learn to observe, measure and classify the composition of matter, the changes matter undergoes, and the energy related to these changes. Additional topics include the mole, the basic measuring unit of chemistry, and the Gas Laws. This course, required for college-bound students, comes with a double laboratory of practical application.
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Physics I is designed to introduce the students to the subject of physics as a discipline. This course provides students with a working knowledge of the physical universe. The course will rely heavily on demonstrations and lab work to foster a student's understanding of the subject matter on the basis of observation and analysis.
The laws and theories of physics will be presented using mathematical formalism appropriate to the student's level and ability. The course will provide ample opportunity to develop problem solving skills and analytical reasoning while achieving an understanding and appreciation of the process and structure of physics. The course will cover selected topics at appropriate levels of difficulty in mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, and magnetism.
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Oceanography is offered as a science elective course and is designed to introduce the students to the study of the world ocean and its relationship to the geographical and geological features of the earth, the impact of the environment on ecological systems, and the meteorological phenomena.
Geographical studies include the distribution of land and water. Students will develop mapping skills by studying the major land masses and their geographic locations relative to the major oceans, seas, and rivers.
Ecological and biological studies include the diversity among living organisms and the relationships that exist between them relative to various environmental conditions. Emphasis is placed on the effects of various types of pollution on marine environments and food webs.
Geological studies include the major forced that have shaped the earth. Students will study the rock cycle, earthquake and volcanic activity, sea floor spreading, plate tectonics, and ocean crust formation.
Meteorological studies include the effects that chemical and physical oceanography have on the world climatic regions and wind systems. By studying the composition of sea water, the water cycle, waves, tides, and currents, students will understand the various weather and climatic patterns that exist throughout the world.
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AP Chemistry (Grades 11-12, teacher recommendation)
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Advanced Placement Chemistry is an intense, college level experience in preparation for the AP Chemistry exam. This course is designed for the student who has successfully completed one year in Chemistry I. Many of the same topics are explored and expanded to a greater depth. Additional topics not offered in Chemistry I but are required for college chemistry are covered. Double period laboratory experiences are an integral part of the program.
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Meteorology is an elective course. This course explores the processes that are responsible for weather and climate on Earth. We discuss and strive to understand the dynamics of atmospheric circulation and practice weather prediction. We also discuss heat exchange and energy transfer in order to understand weather prediction and climate change. |
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Human Physiology is an elective laboratory science course designed to study the structural and functional characteristics of the human body. Emphasis will be placed on integrating the major disciplines of science when discussing the biochemical and physical processes that are so vital to the survival of a living organism.
Students will familiarize themselves with the architecture of the human body and the relationship of various structures to one another. With the aid of charts and models and through selected laboratory activities and experiments, students will be able to visualize more clearly the integration of structure and function within an organ system.
Major topics of study include tissue types, the major systems, and the function of each system. Selected diseases and disorders affecting these systems will also be discussed.
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This course provides an opportunity for students to accelerate their study of biology with an introductory college level biology course, and to prepare for the May 2006 AP examination in Biology. The course uses a college level textbook and follows the College Board course outline. Laboratory work is extensive and will be included in each class session. Topics include: Molecular and Cellular Biology (biochemistry, cells, energy transformations), Genetics and Evolution (genetics, molecular genetics, evolution), Population Biology (plant biology and animal biology, including that of humans), and Ecology.
Prerequisites: Algebra I, high-school Biology, and a background in Chemistry. |
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