Science
Course Descriptions

Earth Environmental Science

This course explores Earth’s geological and environmental systems and the impact of human interactions on these systems. Students engaged in activities that examine evidence and issues relevant to natural processes that affect our lives. Major topics include astronomy, geology, meteorology, and oceanography. 

 

Honors Earth Environmental Science

Prerequisite - Math 1 or a score of level IV or higher on 8th grade Science EOG and teacher recommendation

This course is designed to increase students’ awareness of the planet on which they live. Topics covered include scientific process skills, meteorology, geology, and astronomy, with emphasis on conservation of our natural resources and preservation of our physical environment. In-depth studies of selected topics involving advanced reading, writing assignments, and science projects are required. Honors level includes a more in-depth, rigorous study of the standards and will require students to think and engage with tasks at a higher level. Additional projects and assignments may be required.

 

Biology

Prerequisite - Earth Environmental Science

Biology is the basic study of concepts, principles, and theories that allow students to understand their natural environment. The topics covered include ecology, the cell, genetics, evolution, and the characteristics, distribution, behavior, reproduction, and survival of living things. Using the inquiry approach, emphasis is placed on problem solving through investigation, data collection, and the interpretation of results. This is a NC EOC course.

 

Honors Biology

Prerequisite - "B" or higher in Honors Earth Science or “A” in Earth Science and teacher recommendation

This course presents an in-depth study of biology topics. Using the inquiry approach, emphasis is placed on problem solving through investigation, data collection, and the interpretation of results. Requirements may include more advanced laboratory activities, research papers, or work-related projects within the field of science. This course is designed for students who intend to pursue advanced study in Biology. Honors level includes a more in-depth, rigorous study of the standards and will require students to think and engage with tasks at a higher level. Additional projects and assignments may be required.

 

Physical Science

Prerequisite - completed or enrolled in Math 2

This course focuses on an introductory study of chemistry and physics concepts, principles, and theories. Topics include atomic theory and matter, inorganic and organic chemistry, mechanics, electricity and magnetism, and energy. Using the inquiry approach, emphasis is placed on problem solving through investigation, observation, data collection, and interpretation of results.

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Honors Chemistry

Prerequisite - Math 3 and "B" or higher in Honors Biology or “A” in Biology and teacher recommendation

This course will include a more in-depth study of chemistry. Chemistry is the study of composition, structure and properties of substances and the changes they undergo. Topics include matter and energy, periodic properties of elements, phases of matter, stoichiometry, kinetic theory of matter, chemical reactions, measurement and calculations, and acids/bases. Lab exercises will be used to reinforce the discussions in a hands-on, practical way.  Additional topics include molecular structure, polar molecules, introduction to thermodynamics, and organic chemistry. The laboratory exercises will be more advanced. Honors level includes a more in-depth, rigorous study of the standards and will require students to think and engage with tasks at a higher level. Additional projects and assignments may be required.

 

College Science

Course descriptions for college courses can be found in the college catalog.