Advanced Placement Biology

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology Honors, Chemistry Honors with a B or higher, and AP Instructor approval

Advanced Placement Biology will provide students with a college level course in biology and will prepare the student to seek credit and/or appropriate placement in college biology courses. Topics will include but not be limited to: molecular and cellular biology, organismal biology, and population biology. Laboratory activities that include the use of the scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus, and safety are an integral part of this course.

SPECIAL NOTE: This course has a highly suggested summer assignment.

Advanced Placement Chemistry

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology Honors, Chemistry Honors, and Algebra 2 Honors with B or higher, and AP instructor approval.

Advanced Placement Chemistry will provide students with a college level course in chemistry and will prepare the student to seek credit and/or appropriate placement in college chemistry courses. Topics will include but not be limited to: structure of matter, states of matter, chemical reactions, and descriptive chemistry. Laboratory activities that include the use of the scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus, and safety are an integral part of this course.

SPECIAL NOTE: This course has a highly suggested summer assignment.

 

Advanced Placement Environmental Science

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion with a B or higher in Biology Honors, Chemistry Honors, and Algebra 1 Honors; AP instructor approval also required.

Advanced Placement Environmental Science will provide students with a college level course in environmental science and will prepare students to seek credit and/or appropriate placement in college environmental science courses. Topics will include but not be limited to: ecosystem dynamics, biodiversity, dimensions and causes of population growth, natural cycles, pollution, and resources. Laboratory activities that include the use of the scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus, and safety are an integral part of this course.

SPECIAL NOTE: This course has a highly suggested summer assignment.

Advanced Placement Physics (C)

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 11-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology Honors, Chemistry Honors,  AP Physics 1, AP Calculus as a co-requisite and AP Instructor approval.

Advanced Placement Physics C is made up of two courses — Physics C: Mechanics and Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism, each corresponding to approximately a semester of college work. Physics C: Mechanics should provide instruction in each of the following six content areas: kinematics; Newton’s laws of motion; work, energy and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation; and oscillations and gravitation. Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism should provide instruction in each of the following five content areas: electrostatics; conductors, capacitors and dielectrics; electric circuits; magnetic fields; and electromagnetism.

Advanced Placement Physics 1

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology Honors, Chemistry Honors, Physics Honors,  Algebra 2 Honors with a B or higher and AP Instructor approval.

AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as Newtonian mechanics (including rotational motion); work, energy, and power; mechanical waves and sound; and introductory, simple circuits. Through inquiry based learning. Students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills.

Advanced Placement Physics 2

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 11-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology Honors, Chemistry Honors, AP Physics 1, Algebra 2 Honors with a B or higher, and AP Instructor approval.

AP Physics 2 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as fluid statics and dynamics; thermodynamics with kinetic theory; PV diagrams and probability; electrostatics; electrical circuits with capacitors; magnetic fields; electromagnetism; physical and geometric optics; and quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics. Through inquiry-based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills.

AICE Biology AS Level              

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology Honors, Chemistry Honors with a B or higher, and AICE Biology Instructor approval.

The Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) Biology will provide opportunities to students for general exploratory experiences and activities in the fundamental concepts of life. Topics will include but not be limited to: the scientific method, laboratory apparatus usage and safety, biochemistry, cell biology, DNA, botany, and human anatomy and physiology. This course will follow the Cambridge prescribed curriculum for AICE Biology. Laboratory activities that include the use of the scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus and safety are an integral part of this course. The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for literacy are infused through instructional practices that ensure reading from a wide range of informational texts and provide extensive research and writing opportunities, while the mathematical practices focus on applying critical thinking and logical reasoning skills.

AICE Environmental Management AS Level

Credit:  1.0

Grade Level:  10-12

PREREQUISITE:  Successful completion with a B or higher in both Biology Honors and Chemistry Honors; successful completion of ONE of the following:  AICE General Paper, AP English Language or AICE English Language and AICE instructor’s approval required.

This AS syllabus covers environmental issues and their management, especially the human aspect.  Through their studies, learners gain an understanding of environmental resources and their human exploitation, and the goal of sustainable environmental management.  Learners also consider a range of case study material which can feature local, regional or global examples.

AICE Global Perspective / Science A

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 11-12

PREREQUISITE:  Successful completion (A or B) of AICE Global Perspective AS Level and AICE instructor approval.

This course builds upon the research and analytical skills developed in the AS Level of Global Perspectives & Research. Working independently, the student designs, conducts, reports, and evaluates an original research study.

SPECIAL NOTE: This course section is ONLY for students participating in the Science Fair. 

 

AICE Global Perspective / Science AS

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion with a grade of B or higher in Biology Honors and Chemistry Honors and AICE instructor approval.

Through the study of global issues students will explore different and controversial perspectives. Emphasis on thinking and reasoning skills as well as public speaking and communication skills. Students will develop writing and research skills that will enable them to obtain information, evaluate the reliability and usefulness of this information, and construct their own arguments. This course meets all AICE Global Perspectives requirements. In addition, each student will do an individual Research Project.

SPECIAL NOTE: Participation in the Science Fair is required.

AICE Marine Science A Level

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 11-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of AICE Marine AS level and AICE Marine Instructor’s approval.

The Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) Marine Science concentrates on the scientific study of the sea and its ecosystems. Topics will include but not limited to the relationship between habitat and the distribution of primary producers, factors affecting the rate of photosynthesis, respiration, gaseous exchange and transport systems, osmoregulation, life cycles of marine animals, need for sustainable fisheries, monitoring of fish stocks, methods of stock management and the enforcement of restrictions, methods of rehabilitating depleted stocks, processes for intensive and extensive aquaculture, the requirements and impacts of aquaculture, ecological impacts of industrial activities, accumulation of toxins in food chains, global warming and its impact, ecological effects of shipwrecks, conservation, ecotourism, biotechnology,  genes, promoters and phenotypes, advantages and dangers of genetic engineering. This course will follow the Cambridge prescribed curriculum for AICE Marine Science. Laboratory activities that include the use of scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus and safety are an integral part of this course.

The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for literacy are infused through instructional practices that ensure reading from a wide range of informational texts and provide extensive research and writing opportunities, while the mathematical practices focus on applying critical thinking and logical reasoning skills.

AICE Marine Science AS Level

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology and an A or higher in Chemistry 1 or a B or higher in Pre-Chemistry Honors. In addition, successful completion of one of the following: AICE General Paper, AP English Language or AICE English language; and AICE instructor’s approval.

The Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) Marine Science concentrates on the scientific study of the sea and its ecosystems. Topics will include but not limited to the scientific method, marine ecosystems and biodiversity, energetics of marine ecosystems, nutrient cycles in marine ecosystems, coral reefs and lagoons, the ocean floor and the coast, and physical and chemical oceanography. This course will follow the Cambridge prescribed curriculum for AICE Marine Science. Laboratory activities that include the use of scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus and safety are an integral part of this course.

The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for literacy are infused through instructional practices that ensure reading from a wide range of informational texts and provide extensive research and writing opportunities, while the mathematical practices focus on applying critical thinking and logical reasoning skills.

Anatomy and Physiology

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 11-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology and Chemistry

Anatomy and Physiology will provide the students with general exploratory and activities in structures and functions of the components of the human body. Topics will include but not limited to: anatomical terminology, cells and tissues, systems of the body, disease and inheritance, molecular structure and primary functions of the four major components of biological macromolecules and the roles of enzymes as catalysts.  Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

Anatomy and Physiology Honors

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion Biology 1, Chemistry 1, and teacher recommendation

While the content focus of this course is consistent with the Anatomy and Physiology course, students will explore these concepts in greater depth. In general, the academic pace and rigor will be greatly increased for honors level course work. Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National

Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

Astronomy Solar / Galactic

Credit: 1.0   (Elective Credit Only)

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Pre-Chemistry Honors, Chemistry 1, or Chemistry 1 Honors or successful completion of Biology Honors with a C+ or above in Algebra 1 and teacher recommendation.

This course studies relationships among the sun, moon, and Earth as well as understanding the formation of the solar system, and other astronomical phenomena.  This course studies the importance of the scientific process to include the development of theories and laws that relate to states of matter, atomic theory, energy transfer, nuclear reactions, electromagnetism, electromagnetic radiation, gravitational forces, and light.  The future of space exploration and Florida’s economy and culture will be of focus.

SPECIAL NOTE:  This class does not fulfill the Science requirement for graduation.  This class is ELECTIVE CREDIT ONLY. 

Astronomy Solar / Galactic Honors

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology, Pre-Chemistry Honors or Chemistry, and Geometry 1 with a B or higher and teacher recommendation.

While the content focus of this course is consistent with the Astronomy Solar/Galactic course, students will explore these concepts in greater depth. In general, the academic pace and rigor will be greatly increased for honors level course work. Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data

 Biology 1

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Environmental Science or Environmental Science Honors

Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

Biology 1 Honors

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 9-12

PREREQUISITE:  Successful completion of an advanced science class with a B or higher, a reading score of 4 or 5, and teacher recommendation

While the content focus of this course is consistent with the Biology I course, students will explore these concepts in greater depth. In general, the academic pace and rigor will be greatly increased for honors level course work. Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

Chemistry 1

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology 1 or Biology 1 Honors and C+ or above in Algebra 1.

Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

Chemistry 1 Honors

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 9-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology 1 Honors with a B+ or higher, successful completion of Algebra 1 Honors with B or higher, and teacher recommendation

While the content focus of this course is consistent with the Chemistry I course, students will explore these concepts in greater depth. In general, the academic pace and rigor will be greatly increased for honors level course work. Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

Environmental Science

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 9

PREREQUISITE: None

Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

Environmental Science Honors

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 9

PREREQUISITE:  Reading level of 3, 4, or 5, grade of C or higher in 8^th grade Science , and teacher recommendation

This course is designed as an interdisciplinary course to provide students with scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to identify and analyze environmental problems and to evaluate risks and alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them.  Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course.  School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p.3).  Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations.  Learners should understand measurement error; and have skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (NRC, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007). Honors and Advanced Level Course Note: Academic rigor is more than simply assigning to students a greater quantity of work. Through the application, analysis, evaluation, and creation of complex ideas that are often abstract and multi-faceted, students are challenged to think and collaborate critically on the content they are learning.

Experimental Science 1 - Robotics Honors

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 9

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of 8^th Grade Science Honors B or higher, Algebra 1 Honors B or higher.

 

Experimental Science 2 - Robotics Honors

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of 9^th Grade Science Honors B or higher, Algebra 1 Honors B or higher.

 

Experimental Science 3 - Robotics Honors

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 11

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Chemistry B or higher, Algebra 1 Honors B or higher.

 

Experimental Science 4 - Robotics Honors

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Chemistry B or higher, Algebra 1 Honors B or higher.

In addition to the course related benchmarks, this course requires additional science content that must include benchmarks from at least one other Body of Knowledge. The additional benchmarks must include rigor appropriate for Level 3 courses. Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

SPECIAL NOTE: All four levels of this course are elective credit only.

Forensic Science 1 LH - Local Honors

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology Honors & Chemistry Honors.

Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

Marine Science 1

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful Completion of Biology, and Chemistry 1 or Pre-Chemistry Honors.

This course provides an overview of the unique characteristics of the marine environment by exploring the physical and biological characteristics of seawater. Topics will include but not limited to the ocean’s present and potential resources, marine biology interactions with technology and society, the interrelationships between organisms and the ocean environment, changes in ecosystems and large-scale environmental impacts resulting from human activity. Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

Marine Science Honors

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology, Chemistry and teacher recommendation

While the content focus of this course is consistent with the Marine Science I course, students will explore these concepts in greater depth. In general, the academic pace and rigor will be greatly increased for honors level course work. Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

Physical Science

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology 1, Chemistry 1, or Pre-Chemistry Honors.

Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

Physics

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology I, Chemistry I, Algebra 1 with B or higher and teacher recommendation

Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

Physics Honors

Credit: 1.0

Grade Level: 10-12

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion with a B or higher in Biology Honors, Chemistry Honors (or an A in Chemistry 1) and Algebra 2 Honors and teacher recommendation

While the content focus of this course is consistent with the Physics I course, students will explore these concepts in greater depth.  In general, the academic pace and rigor will be greatly increased for honors level course work. Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p. 3). Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations. Learners should understand measurement error; and have the skills to aggregate, interpret, and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007).

Pre-Chemistry Honors / Physical Science Honors

Credit:  1.0

Grade Level:  9-10

PREREQUISITE:  Successful completion of Biology Honors B or higher, Algebra 1 Honors B+ or higher and teacher recommendation.

While the content focus of this course is consistent with the Physical Science course, students will explore these concepts in greater depth.  In general, the academic pace and rigor will be greatly increased for honors level course work.  Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and safety procedures are an integral part of this course.  School laboratory investigations (labs) are defined by the National Research Council (NRC) as an experience in the laboratory, classroom, or the field that provides students with opportunities to interact directly with natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection techniques, and models (NRC, 2006, p.3).  Laboratory investigations in the high school classroom should help all students develop a growing understanding of the complexity and ambiguity of empirical work, as well as the skills to calibrate and troubleshoot equipment used to make observations.  Learners should understand measurement error and have the skills to aggregate, interpret and present the resulting data (National Research Council, 2006, p.77; NSTA, 2007)

Zoology

Credit:  1.0   (Elective Credit Only)

Grade Level:  10-12

PREREQUISITE:  Biology 1 with a B or higher and one of the following:  Chemistry Honors,  Chemistry 1 (B or higher), Pre-Chemistry (C or higher); teacher recommendation required.

This course includes a heavy focus on the morphology and physiology of the animalia kingdom and their taxonomical relationships.  A thorough study of evolution supported by the fossil record, comparative anatomy and embryology, biogeography, molecular biology, and observed evolutionary change is included.  Representative members of vertebrate and invertebrate phyla and chordate classes are studied using examples.  The mechanisms of evolutionary change such as natural selection, genetic drift, and gene flow will be studied.  The interaction of biotic and abiotic factors in ecosystems, loss of biodiversity, non-native species, human activity, ecological food webs, and the interrelated processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration are of key emphasis.

SPECIAL NOTE:  Student must have fulfilled the 3 Science classes for graduation prior to taking this class, or take the 3^rd Science class concurrently with this class.

SPECIAL NOTE:  This class does not fulfill the Science requirement for graduation.  This class is ELECTIVE CREDIT ONLY.