Science Courses
2021-2022 Course Catalog
Physical Sciences Courses
Astrophysics
Grade Level: 11-12
Length: YEAR
Class Fee: $10
Prerequisite: Successful completion (C or better) of Physics or similar 1st-year physics course and Algebra 1
This course has an emphasis on physics and chemistry and introduces students to the nature and workings of the Sun, stars, neutron stars, black holes, interstellar gas, galaxies, quasars, plus structure and origins of the universe. It covers the Big Bang: the age, size, and structure of the universe; and the origin of the elements and of stars, galaxies, the solar system, and life.
NCAA, HEAR
Chemistry
Grade Level: 10-12
Length: YEAR
Class Fee: $15
Prerequisite: Passing grade in Algebra I
Chemistry is a math-based science dealing with the composition and behavior of matter. Emphasis is on modern theory and applications of chemistry through laboratory work and problem-solving exercises. This course provides the fundamentals necessary to pursue any science-related career. Lab activities are required.
NCAA, HEAR
Honors Chemistry
Grade Level: 10-12
Length: YEAR
Class Fee: $15
Prerequisite: C or better in Algebra I
This lab-based course is a rigorous first-year chemistry course to prepare students for AP Chemistry and/or a college-level chemistry (concurrent enrollment) course. The course gives students a solid basis in the following key areas fo chemistry: atomic structure, chemical bonding and chemical kinetics, equilibrium solutions, stoichiometry, electrochemistry, thermochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. These concepts are enhanced with challenging model problems, labs, and assessments. Our goal is to teach students to be good problem-solvers and to apply their knowledge of chemistry to their everyday lives.
NCAA, HEAR
Earth Science
Grade Level: 10-12
Length: YEAR
Class Fee: $15
Prerequisite: None
Earth science is designed to introduce students to environmental processes and the influence of human activities upon them. Topics include ecological concepts, population, growth, natural resources, and a focus on current environmental problems from scientific, social, political, and economic perspectives. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of environmental/ecological interrelationships and of contemporary environmental/ecological issues. Lab activities are required.
NCAA, HEAR
Physical Science
Grade Level: 9-12
Length: YEAR
Class Fee: $10
Prerequisite: None
Physical science is designed to introduce students to the many wonders of the physical world through the following units of study: Nature of Science, Forces and Motion, Energy, Geology, Meteorology, Astronomy, The Periodic Table, and Chemical Reactions. Lab activities are required.
NCAA, HEAR
Physics (Linear Physics)
Grade Level: 9*-12
Length: YEAR
Class Fee: $10
Prerequisite: C or better in Algebra I
*with transcript review and instructor approval
Physics involves the study of the forces and laws of nature affecting linear reactions of matter, such as equilibrium, motion, momentum, and the relationships between matter and energy. The course is a 1-dimensional study of physics and includes Newtonian mechanics, circular motion, gravitation, energy, work, power, momentum, and waves (light and sound). This class is considered a "1st-year' foundational physics course and is recommended to be taken prior to Honors Physics (2nd-year Physics). It is a laboratory class and participation in experiments is required.
NCAA, HEAR
Honors Physics (2D Physics)
Grade Level: 11-12
Length: YEAR
Class Fee: $10
Prerequisite: C or better in Algebra I and Geometry (can be taken concurrently). Recommended to take Physics prior to this, but not required.
This lab-based course is a rigorous 2nd-year physics course to prepare students for AP Physics C - Mechanics and/or college-level (concurrent enrollment) physics or engineering courses. It is expected students enrolling in this course be highly motivated and have a strong interest in pursuing a physics or engineering related field such as pre-med, engineering, astrophysics, geophysics, biomechanics, or other related physical sciences. The course surveys key areas in two dimensions including Newtonian mechanics, fluid mechanics, and waves and optics. These concepts are enhanced with challenging model problems, labs, and assessments. Our goal is to teach students to be good problem-solvers and to apply their knowledge of physics to their everyday lives. Syllabus.
NCAA, HEAR
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