Senior High Science Courses

Biology (9th or 10th Grade)

Biology allows students to develop and apply communication skills using the scientific method, participating in group-based laboratory activities, and developing oral presentation skills. Special emphasis will be placed on the components of cells, photosynthesis and plant growth, genetics and concepts of heredity, taxonomy and classification systems, invertebrate vs. vertebrate organisms, and ecosystems. Laboratory sessions are designed to enhance the student's understanding of material covered, which includes dissections of key organisms that represent various phyla studied. (1 Credit)

Pre-AP Chemistry (10th Grade)

Chemistry is a study of the basic principles for understanding inorganic chemistry. Major topics include measurement, matter and energy, substances, nomenclature, chemical reactions, chemical composition, chemical quantities, atomic theory, chemical bonding, gases, liquids and solids, solutions, acids and bases, chemical equilibrium, oxidation and reduction reactions, electrochemistry, and an introduction to nuclear and organic chemistry. Laboratory exercises are designed to give the student strong laboratory skills and to reinforce principles learned in the classroom. (1 Credit)

AP Chemistry (11th Grade)

This course is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first college year. For some students, this course enables them to undertake, as freshmen, second-year work in the chemistry sequence at their institution or to register for courses in other fields where general chemistry is a prerequisite. For other students, the AP Chemistry course fulfills the laboratory science requirement and frees time for other courses. (1 Credit)

Physics (11th or 12th Grade)

Physics is the study of our physical surroundings, including our world and beyond. Since God created the heavens and the earth (Gen 2:1), and since He reveals himself to us in creation (Psalm 19; Romans 1:18-20; 1 Tim 4:4), the study of our physical environment helps us to know God and to draw closer to Him. With this spirit, we embark on our study of physics, using scientific method and mathematical tools to better understand our universe and its creator, but recognizing that this methodology has its limitations. The class will be based on problem solving and hands-on demonstrations/labs. (1 Credit)

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th or 12th Grade)

The Human Anatomy & Physiology course is a college preparatory course that studies the human body using a systems approach. Laboratory exercises include dissection (primarily cat) and physiological studies that reinforce principles learned in lecture. (1 Credit)