Core Courses

Physics  

Grade 9      6 Credits 

This is an introductory, conceptual physics course that exposes students to the fundamental principles of a variety of topics including kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum, and waves. Students participate in a hands-on, inquiry-based approach to discovering the natural phenomena of the physical world. 

Physics Honors 

Grade 9      6 Credits 

Prerequisites: Refer to Honors course criteria 

This is an introductory, algebra-based physics course that includes the same topics as the general physics course. The pace is accelerated to allow for enrichment and more in-depth discovery of topics, including the mathematical analysis of physics topics. 

Chemistry 

Grades 10 – 11      6 Credits 

This course applies physics concepts to explain natural phenomena and the physical world. Topics include the atom and periodic table of elements, bonding, chemical reactions, thermochemistry, nuclear chemistry, and acids and bases. Students combine scientific and mathematical concepts to solve problems on all topics. 

Chemistry Honors 

Grades 10 – 11      6 Credits 

Prerequisite: Refer to Honors course criteria 

The honors course includes the same topics as the general chemistry course, with additional topics of moles, stoichiometry, and solutions. The pace is accelerated to allow for enrichment and more in-depth discovery of topics, including the mathematical analysis of chemistry topics. 

Biology 

Grades 9–12      6 Credits 

In this course, students build an understanding of modern biology based on their prior science learning. Students learn about the origins of life and the process of evolution through natural selection. They then progress to learn about molecular biology, cellular biology and processes, genetics, and ecology. This course serves as a solid foundation for Anatomy & Physiology and Marine Science.  

Biology Honors 

Grades 9 – 11      6 Credits 

Prerequisites: Refer to Honors course criteria  

Honors Biology provides a rigorous study of biology and is designed for students who have done excellent work in previous science classes. Topics include the structure of the cell and its development into complex organisms, evolution, genetic studies of trait inheritance and variation, and ecological studies examining the relationship of organisms and their environment. Students develop analytical and critical-thinking skills through lab activities.  

Environmental Science 

Grades 9 – 12      6 Credits 

The goal of this course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, identify and analyze environmental problems, both natural and human-made, evaluate the risks associated with these problems and examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them.