Science Department

The Science Department provides a rigorous program in preparation for college-level coursework. 

From beginning classes for freshmen through elective courses in senior year, coursework emphasizes analytical problem solving and critical thinking and incorporates challenging laboratory activities and current technology.

  • Concurrent enrollment in two science courses requires approval from both the Science Department Chair.
  •  Due to the rigorous nature of Honors and AP Science courses, a teacher recommendation is recommended for enrollment in these courses. 
  • Prerequisite grade requirements must be maintained for both semesters to qualify.



Biology Coures

  • Biology or Biology H

    Grade 9 - Yearlong course

    This course covers the basics of biology, including cells, genetics, evolution, and ecosystems. Students will learn about the structures and functions of living things and how they interact with the environment. Honors students will engage in more challenging projects, deeper discussions, and more advanced experiments to build a stronger understanding of biological concepts.



  • AP Biology

    Grades 11-12 - Yearlong course

    This college-level course covers cellular biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology. Students will engage in advanced lab work and prepare for the AP exam. Honors students will engage in deeper analysis of complex biological systems, including independent research projects and more detailed laboratory experiments.


    Students enrolled in this course are required to take the AP examination in May. No final exam is administered in this course in the spring semester.


    Prerequisite:  Chemistry, Biology, and Algebra 1.

  • Human Anatomy and Physiology or Human Anatomy and Physiology H

    Grade 10-12 - Yearlong course

    Students will study the human body, including how organs and systems work together. Topics like the circulatory, respiratory, and digestive systems are covered, with virtual dissections and models. Honors students will delve into advanced topics like neurophysiology and endocrinology, and engage in more challenging research and experiments.


    Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology earning an A or B. Student has successfully completed Chemistry or is taking Chemistry concurrently.


  • Zoology

    Grade 11-12 - Semester course

    Students will delve into the fascinating world of animals, exploring their diversity, behavior, evolution, and ecological roles. Through engaging lessons, interactive activities, and hands-on projects, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the animal kingdom and its importance in the natural world.


    Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology earning an A or B..


Chemistry Coures

  • Chemistry or Chemistry H

    Grade 10-11 - Yearlong course

    In this course, students explore the properties of matter, chemical reactions, the periodic table, and how atoms interact. The course includes experiments and activities that explain chemical processes in everyday life. Honors students will dive deeper into more complex topics such as reaction rates, thermodynamics, and kinetics, with more detailed problem-solving and lab work.

  • AP Chemistry

    Grades 11-12 - Yearlong course

    AP Chemistry explores chemical reactions, atomic structure, and thermodynamics at a college level. Students will engage in hands-on experiments and problem-solving, preparing for the AP exam. Honors students will work with more complex chemical concepts, including advanced lab techniques and higher-level problem-solving.


    Students enrolled in this course are required to take the AP examination in May. No final exam is administered in this course in the spring semester.


    Students wishing to enroll in AP Chemistry must:

    • Have received an A in Chemistry or in  Physics or
    • Have received a B or higher in Chemistry H or in Physics H or 
    • Have received a B or higher in an AP science course.
    • Students enrolled in AP Chemistry must be concurrently enrolled in Algebra 3/Trigonometry  or higher.
  • Forensic Science or Forensic Science H

    Grade 11-12 - Semester course

    In this course, students apply science to investigate crimes, covering topics like fingerprinting, DNA analysis, and toxicology. Students will learn how forensic scientists solve real-world cases. Honors students will explore more complex forensic methods, such as forensic anthropology, ballistics, and case reconstruction, and participate in detailed investigations.



    Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry earning an A or B.


Physics Courses

  • Physics or Physics H

    Grade 11-12 - Yearlong course

    This course introduces students to the principles of physics, such as motion, forces, energy, and waves. Students will use experiments and simulations to understand how physical laws shape the world around us. Honors students will study more advanced topics like electricity, magnetism, and optics, solving complex problems and conducting in-depth investigations.



    Prerequisite: It is recommended that students have successfully completed Geometry.



  • AP Physics 1

    Grades 11-12 - Yearlong course

    AP Physics 1 covers foundational physics topics such as motion, forces, energy, and waves. Students will use experiments and mathematical models to understand physical concepts and prepare for the AP exam.  Students will engage in deeper theoretical analysis, working on more challenging problems and advanced experiments.


    Students enrolled in this course are required to take the AP examination in May. No final exam is administered in this course in the spring semester.


    Prerequisite: Receive a B or higher in Chemistry and a B or higher in Integrated Math 2


  • AP Physics 2

    Grades 11-12 - Yearlong course

    In AP Physics 2, students build on the basics learned in AP Physics 1, covering fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and electricity. The course prepares students for the AP Physics 2 exam through hands-on experiments and problem-solving.  Students will engage with more advanced topics and complex lab activities.


    Students enrolled in this course are required to take the AP examination in May. No final exam is administered in this course in the spring semester.




  • AP Physics C: Mechanics

    Grades 11-12 - Semester course

    AP Physics C: Mechanics focuses on topics like motion, forces, and energy. Students will apply advanced problem-solving techniques and conduct experiments to prepare for the AP Physics C: Mechanics exam. Honors students will tackle more complex theoretical problems and deepen their understanding through independent projects and research.



    Students enrolled in this course are required to take the AP examination in May. No final exam is administered in this course in the spring semester.


    Prerequisite: It is recommended that students have previously completed a Pre-Calculus or Calculus course.


  • AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism

    Grades 11-12 - Semester course

    This advanced AP course covers topics like electric fields, circuits, and magnetic forces. Students will engage in experiments and problem-solving activities, preparing for the AP Physics C: Electromagnetism exam.


    Students enrolled in this course are required to take the AP examination in May. No final exam is administered in this course in the spring semester.


    Prerequisite: It is recommended that students have a grade of "A" or "B" in AP Physics 1, or AP Physics C: Mechanics, and "A" or "B" in AP Calculus AB or BC.


Environmental and Earth/Space Science Courses

  • Environmental Science or Environmental Science H

    Grade 9-12 - Yearlong course

    This course explores human interactions with the environment, focusing on topics like pollution, conservation, and climate change. Students will learn about ecosystems and how to protect the planet. Honors students will examine more complex topics like renewable energy, sustainability, and global environmental policy, conducting advanced research and case studies.



    Prerequisite: It is recommended that students have successfully completed Biology and Chemistry.



  • AP Environmental Science

    Grades 11-12 - Yearlong course

    AP Environmental Science covers environmental issues such as ecosystems, pollution, sustainability, and climate change. Students will participate in fieldwork, case studies, and discussions, preparing for the AP Environmental Science exam.

    Students enrolled in this course are required to take the AP examination in May. No final exam is administered in this course in the spring semester.


    Prerequisite: Students successfully completed Biology and Chemistry earning an "A" or "B" and have completed Integrated Math 3 or Integrated Math 3 H earning an "A" or "B".


  • Astronomy or Astronomy H

    Grades 11-12 - Semester course

    Students will study the universe, including stars, planets, galaxies, and the solar system. The course includes learning about space exploration, the Big Bang, and virtual sky observations. Honors students will explore more advanced topics such as the life cycles of stars, black holes, and cosmology, and complete independent research projects.


    Prerequisite: Completion of one year of math and two years of science.


  • Oceanography or Oceanography H

    Grades 11-12 - Semester course

    Students will learn about the world’s oceans, marine life, ocean currents, and how oceans influence global weather patterns. The course includes virtual field trips and ocean research. Honors students will delve into marine ecology, conservation, and climate change, analyzing real-world oceanographic data and conducting research.


    Prerequisite: Completion of one year of math and two years of science.


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