Science

Biology

Grades 9 - 12 (year): G, CSU, UC (D)

Prerequisites: none

A lab science that explores major topics of the life sciences, including all/some of the following: biochemistry (molecules important to life), cell structure, cellular activities (how cells obtain/lose molecules, how cells divide, etc.), molecular biology (how DNA works), bioenergetics (how cells obtain/use energy/ATP), genetics (gene action, crosses, genetic engineering), plants, animals, disease and immunity, reproduction, ecology, evolution.

Biology (Advanced Placement)

Grades: 11-12 (year)

Strong Recommendation: Complete biology and chemistry with

This course, taught in a two-period block, is equivalent to a freshman college course in General Biology. The application of laboratory skills, including interpretation of data and the development of hypotheses, is a major component of this course. This elective college-level course is recommended for students intending to pursue a career in the biological sciences. This course prepares the student to take the College Board Advanced Placement Exam for college credit.

Biotechnology

Grades 11-12 (year): G, CSU, UC (D)

Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry with a “C-” or better

A laboratory course which teaches students the industrial use of biological systems and processes. Techniques currently used by biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies will be introduced--such as gene cloning and amplification, transformation, DNA fingerprinting, gene splicing, gene therapy, bioassays, and chromatography.

Chemistry

Grades 10-12 (year): G, CSU, UC (D)

Prerequisites: Completion of Algebra 1 (or equivalent), plus two years of high school science, all with grades of “C-” or better

Chemistry is an experimental science concerning the fundamental nature of matter. Major topics include interactions of matter in chemical processes, and matter--energy relationships. The positive and negative environmental and societal consequences of the uses of chemicals are also explored. This course is recommended as a science elective particularly for students interested in chemistry, chemical engineering, biochemistry, medical-related fields, or environmental science.

Chemistry (Advanced Placement)

Prerequisites: English, Math, Science GPA of 3.0 or better. Algebra II (or equivalent) completed or concurrent. Except for truly outstanding students, it is recommended that this course follow one year of high school chemistry. Students enrolling in the course in the spring will receive a summer packet covering basic principles of chemistry. Upon their return in the fall, the student will be tested on the packet during the first week of class.

This course, taught in a two-period block, is equivalent to a freshman college course in General Chemistry. This course includes the major concepts and principles of chemistry. Laboratory investigations emphasize basic chemical principles and mathematical relationships. This course prepares the student to take the College Board Advanced Placement Exam for college credit.

Environmental Science (Advanced Placement)

Prerequisites: Completion of Algebra 1 (or equivalent), plus two years of high school lab science, all with grades of “C-” or better

This course will touch on topics related to various disciplines. While it is a rigorous science course that stresses scientific principles and analysis, which includes a laboratory component, it will also emphasize the study of environmental issues from a sociological and political perspective.

Forensic Science

Grades 11, 12 (year): E, UC (D)

Prerequisites: 2 years of Biology, Chemistry, and /or Physics w/ a “C-” or better

Co-requisites: English II & Algebra II w/ a “C-” or better

Forensics is the science that examines evidence and solves crimes for presentation in a court of law. The students will be taught the theory, concepts and applications of a full-service crime laboratory. These include DNA analysis, fingerprints, blood spatter, Firearms, Forensic anthropology, document examination, photography, toxicology, serial killers/criminal profiling, insect collection/entomology unit etc. Students will analyze various physical evidences, reconstruct crime scenes, and present the results in mock trials. Besides from participating in many hand-on activities, students will go on various field trips such as the Crime Lab to explore the Forensic Science career field. To be prepared for Forensic Science it is strongly recommended that students have a basic understanding of the principles of chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, and familiarity with computer applications.

Marine Biology

Grades 10 - 12 (year): G, CSU, UC (D)

Prerequisites: Biology (with a "C" or above), Algebra 1

Co-requisites: Geometry or higher level math

This course is designed to introduce students to the fascinating and complex interactions of life found in the ocean. Basic biological, chemical, and ecological concepts will be reviewed. Students will study the diversity of marine animals including protozoa, invertebrates and vertebrates. Students will explore ocean communities. The relationship of humans and the sea will be studied in terms of ocean exploration, resources, pollution, and environmental change. The course will include many hands-on activities including dissections, field studies, sketching, and presentations and aquatic habitat maintenance.

Physics

Grades 10-12 (year): G, CSU, UC (d)

Prerequisites: Completion of two years of high school science, all with grades of “C-” or better, and completion of or concurrent with Algebra 2 or equivalent

A laboratory science course in which energy and its interaction with matter (primarily at the macroscopic level) are studied. Major topics include the forces of nature, motion, wave properties, electricity and magnetism. Considerable emphasis is placed on quantitative investigations and relationships. This course is recommended as a science elective, particularly for students interested in Physics, Engineering, or space sciences.

Physics (Advanced Placement)

Prerequisites: English, Math, Science GPA of 3.0 or better. Completion of or concurrent enrollment in Math Analysis

The Physics AP course is a one-year, 10-unit class. It is designed to meet the standards and equivalency of a first year college physics class, as well as the Physics B examination administered by the College Board. The course deals with the principles and processes of physics and emphasizes the importance of physics in everyday life as well as its crucial role in our modern technological society.

Physiology

Grades 10 - 12 (year): G, CSU, UC (D)

Prerequisites: “C-” or better in Biology

Physiology is a lab science that explores the systems of the human body through its structures and processes. Students will learn about bones, muscles, nerves, circulation, breathing, digestion, waste removal, hormones, and reproduction. Animal organs are dissected and compared to human parts. Projects and model construction are examples of learning activities. This class is for anyone particularly interested in the body and strongly recommended for students who are considering a career in the health sciences.