Science Courses
Twenty credits (4 semesters) of Science are required for graduation. Ten credits must be Life Science and ten must be Physical Science. Enrolling in designated courses in the Home Economics and Agricultural Departments may complete the Science requirements.
Our science courses are designed to organize the body of science knowledge into subject areas and to teach methods of science that will be used to broaden our student’s knowledge during their lifetimes. We live in an ever-changing world and our students will need to be prepared to meet new challenges with a solid, basic education. These courses in science will give students analytical skills that will enable them to advance, absorb new discoveries, and be a critical thinker in a modern society. All courses are aligned with California academic content standards or national standards. 9th – 10th Grade Courses
9th – 10th Grade Courses
Biology
Y Year (10 credits) UC / CSU (d)
Prerequisite: Ninth graders must have a “B” or better in Algebra 1, “B” or better in 7/8 grade science classes. Tenth grade students must have passed Earth Science and have a “C” or better in Algebra 1 or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 1. This course provides a basic understanding of cell biology, genetics, ecology, evolution and physiology. Students will experience Biology through a variety of assignments and labs. Lab activities promote technical lab competence, utilize the scientific process of research and reporting, as well as teach and reinforce scientific and biological concepts. Biology lab attendance and completion of lab reports is required. This course will help students to understand basic Biology concepts.
Astronomy
Semester (5 credits)
This is a companion class for 9th grade Physical Science that will expand on the Earth Science Astronomy standards. Students will study the formation of the solar system and the universe in more detail including the relationship between the planets and new advances in the search for planets outside our solar system. Such topics as the dramatic effect of asteroid impacts on the evolution of life on earth, the formation of heavy elements during the Big Bang, life cycle of starsincluding our Sun, and the possibilities of interplanetary space exploration will be covered.
9th – 12th Grade Courses
Physical Science
Year (10 credits) UC / CSU (g)
Earth science provides a close look at the Earth and its place in the universe. Students will study astronomy, meteorology and geology. Earth science will introduce students to some lab equipment, lab procedures, and safety. This course will focus upon organization and preparation for future science classes.
10th – 12th Grade Courses
Zoology / Botany
Year (10 credits) UC / CSU (d)
Prerequisite: Students must have completed Biology with a “C” or better or instructor’s approval This lab-based elective course will go beyond the basic biology standards with specific focus upon the physiology and anatomy of the plant and animal kingdoms. Students will perform labs involving dissections, specimen collections, taxonomy, and cell processes. Various research projects, presentations, and group work experiences will be required in the class. First semester will be spent on zoology and the second semester on botany. Out-of-class experiences are required in both semesters. This course is designed to further a student’s interest in biology and should be taken before or after chemistry.
Chemistry
Year (10 credits) UC / CSU (d)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology with a “C” or better. “C” or better in Algebra 1.
This course offers students an opportunity to learn about the chemical nature of the world in which they live. Students will explore the physical and chemical properties of solids, liquids and gasses, chemical change, the characteristics of solutions and the structure of matter as well as specific lab techniques and safety. Chemistry involves many labs and activities. Lab attendance and write ups are required. Chemistry will prepare students for college level work and upper division science classes.
Marine Biology
Semester (5 credits) For 2018-2019 : Year (10 Credits)
This course will study the oceans, specifically as bodies of water; their effects on climate; habitat for plant and animal organisms; increased emphasis on archaea and non-photosynthetic organisms,effects on water distribution on rotation of Earth,specific activities on formation of hurricanes(cyclones and typhoons), exploring the sea floor and the chemistry of ocean water will be utilized as well as historical and modern oceanographic studies, including exploits of ancient mariners.
11th – 12th Grade Courses
Physiology / Anatomy
Year (10 credits) UC / CSU (d)
Prerequisite: “B” or better in Biology and Chemistry, recommendation of chemistry and/or biology teacher. 11th and 12th grade students only.
This course focuses on the anatomy and physiology of the human body. Students will perform experiments in respiration, circulation, digestion, and other body systems. Students will work frequently with microscopes and dissections. This course is recommended for students who want to go to college and pursue careers in medicine, health, physical education, or other life sciences. As an alternative to physics, this class furthers students’ understanding of the human body and will help prepare them for college.
Physics
Year (10 credits) UC / CSU (d)
Prerequisite: “C” or better in both biology and/or chemistry. “C” or better in Algebra 2 or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2 with teacher approval.
Chemistry is not required for this course however, it is better to take chemistry first. This culminating science class focuses upon the principles and laws of physics. Students will study natural forces, energy, waves, optics, and electromagnetism. Labs and projects are an important part of this class. Students who take this course will be even more prepared for a 4-year college because they will use math and science at a very high level. Physics is a course recommended for students considering a college major in engineering, architecture, or mathematics.
Biology AP
Year (10 credits) UC / CSU (d)
Prerequisite: “B” or better in biology. “C” or better in Chemistry or concurrent enrollment with teacher approval. Students must be in 11th or 12th grade. Note: Honors/AP application required. Course may not be dropped.
AP Biology is a second high school biology course that will broaden and enhance a student’s level of science knowledge and further prepare them for college. The course is designed to offer students topics in Biology that are covered in a university freshman level course. Highly motivated students in the AP Biology class will be required to actively participate in lectures and laboratory activities as well as rigorous and challenging reading assignments on a daily basis`. Exams cover 3-4 chapters in the text and generally occur every two to three weeks. Lab activities specified by the College Board, and additional labs chosen by the teacher, are conducted to give a fair representation of a university-level biology course.
Chemistry Honors
Year (10 credits) UC / CSU (d)
Prerequisite: Must have a 3.25 GPA, completion of Biology with a “B” or better, successful completion of Algebra 2 with a “B” or better, or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2. Note: Honors/AP application required. Course may not be dropped.
Honors Chemistry is an accelerated version of the regular chemistry class. Students will learn all of the chemistry standards but in greater depth and at an accelerated pace. Labs, projects, and tests make up the majority of the grade. There is a required summer assignment. This course will help to prepare students to move on to AP Biology or AP physics. This course is designed to further the interest of students in science and introduce them to the honor/AP program.
Physics B AP
Year (10 credits) UC / CSU (d)
Prerequisite: Eleventh and 12th grade students with a “C” or better in chemistry. Students must have a “B” or better in pre-calculus, or concurrent enrollment in pre-calculus with instructor’s approval. Note: Honors/AP application required. Course may not be dropped.
Physics Advanced Placement is a designed to teach the basics of physics at a college level. Students will learn about mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, waves, optics, and modern physics. Students will be required to increase their logic skills, problem-solving skills, and analytical abilities. A strong math background will help a student be more successful. Students will take the AP Physics test in the spring. Overall, this is one of the most challenging courses taught at the high school level, but it is a wonderful opportunity for students to become more prepared for college, and will expose them to further science career options.
