This course is designed to promote science process skills through study of properties of matter, atomic theory, chemical symbols, stoichiometry (reactions), periodic table, energy, mechanics, waves and energy transfer, electricity and magnetism.  Reference, research skills, and safety are additional instructional components within this course.  There is a state-mandated End-of-Course test for Physical Science.

This course is a fundamental survey of Biology. It is a study of scientific inquiry, biochemistry, cellular structure and function, heredity, organic variation, diversity of life, and ecology.  Laboratory experiments are an integral part of the course requirements.   This course introduces science process skills and laboratory safety, research, nature of biology, cellular biology, genetics, evolution, and classification.  There is a state-mandated End-of-Course test for Biology.

Chemistry includes the structure and composition of all substances and the changes that may occur within these substances.  The main topics include states of matter, atomic structure, chemical composition, reactions, dimensional analysis, acids and bases, and solutions. The overall outcome of chemistry is to develop skills in analytical critical thinking involving logical and quantitative relationships. Laboratory experiments are an integral part of the course requirements.

Covers basic mechanics (linear motion, Newton's laws, static forces, circular and angular motion, conservation of momentum and energy, applications of basic mechanics), kinetic theory (phases of matter, information retrieval), thermodynamics (characteristics, conservation), wave mechanics (general properties, sound, light, applications of wave mechanics), electricity (electrostatics, direct current, magnetism, alternating currents, applications of electricity), particle physics (quantum theory, subatomic and fundamental structure, applications of particle physics), and reference, research skills, lab safety, and process skills. Emphasizes particle physics, nuclear physics and special relativity.

This lab-based course will focus on crime scene examination which includes analysis of fingerprints, hair, fiber, glass, soil and chemical evidence. Additionally, theory and laboratory skills of modern DNA, dentistry and serology forensics will be studied. Analytical thinking is an integral part of solving crimes. Consequently, other academic areas are also included in this class. The basis of many of the forensic units and labs includes Chemistry Applications, Pharmacology and Biotechnology.

Earth Systems Science is designed to continue student investigations that began in K-8 Earth Science and Life Science curricula and investigate the connections among Earth’s systems through Earth history. These systems – the atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, and biosphere – interact through time to produce the Earth’s landscapes, ecology, and resources. This course develops the explanations of phenomena fundamental to the sciences of geology and physical geography, including the early history of the Earth, plate tectonics, landform evolution, the Earth’s geologic record, weather and climate, and the history of life on Earth. Instruction should focus on inquiry and development of scientific explanations, rather than mere descriptions of phenomena. Case studies, laboratory exercises, maps, and data analysis should be integrated into units. Special attention should be paid to topics of current interest (e.g., recent earthquakes, tsunamis, global warming, price of resources) and to potential careers in the geosciences.

The primary objective of this course is to provide the student with an opportunity to learn about the human body and its functions. The student will also be provided the opportunity to apply anatomical concepts and physiological functions to practical experiments. This course deals with an in-depth study of the body as a whole including the cell, integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, digestive, respiratory, circulatory, urinary, and the reproductive systems. Laboratory experiments are an integral part of the course requirements.  Students who have completed HCS 203-204 have already earned credit for Human Anatomy/ Physiology are not eligible to take this course.

This course focuses on archaebacteria, prokaryotes, eukaryotes, and viruses.  Students will study historical microbiology, growth and identification of bacteria, control of microbial growth, pathogenic microbiology, food and dairy microbiology, and soil and water microbiology.  Students will utilize scientific inquiry to solve problems related to disease, bioterrorism, biotechnology and ecology.

This course introduces the basic principles of genetics. Classical genetics topics include: cell division, sexual reproduction, Mendel’s Laws of Heredity, the chromosomal basis of inheritance, the molecular basis of inheritance, gene to protein, gene expression and control, and recombinant DNA.  Students will acquire a basic understanding of the applications of molecular tools to the identification of isolated populations, the detection of kin, and the reconstruction of phylogenetic relationships. Topics like the human genome project and forensic applications of genetic knowledge will also be explored.

Environmental Science is designed as an integrated and global approach to science and technology. The concepts in this course focus on the links between living things, their surroundings, and the total environment of the planet. The scientific principles and related technology will assist the student in understanding the relationships between local, national, and global environmental issues. The intent of the course is to help individuals become informed, get involved, and care for one’s self and the environment.

Introduces astronomy; covers science process skills, laboratory safety, measurements and motions, celestial clock, the moon, solar system, stars, the sun, Milky Way and other galaxies, cosmology, reference, and research skills.

This course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory Biology course and to prepare a student to take the Advanced Placement Qualifying exam in the spring. The course is divided into three general areas: 25% Molecules and Cells, 25% Genetics and Evolution, and 50% Organisms and Populations. The percentages indicate the weight of each topic on the AP College Board exam. In addition, the twelve laboratory activities required by the AP College Board will be conducted.