Science Department

(a-g) / Graduation Requirement
10 Credits
Grade Level: 11-12
Grade Restrictions: None
Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in Integrated Math 1
(Satisfies Physical Science Graduation Requirement)
This course explores the foundation of Earth Science in the following related fields: Geology (with emphasis on CA Geology), Meteorology, Oceanography, and Astronomy. These units are designed to increase the students’ understanding of the physical universe as it affects their lives. Realizing the diversity of students’ interests and abilities, activities and lessons are designed to develop critical thinking, attitudes of independent inquiry and problem solving skills through the use of textbook, computer labs, videos, computer-based models, and hands-on activities. The students will be engaged in cooperative learning in doing lab investigations and unit projects. Throughout the course the students are expected to develop skills and confidence in designing lab experiments, writing lab reports and oral presentations.

(a-g) / Graduation Requirement
10 Credits
Grade Level: 9
Grade Restrictions: 9th Grade Only
Prerequisites: Physical Science with a grade of “B” or better (can be completed in Middle School)
(Satisfies Biology Science Graduation Requirement and University of California Life Science “a-g” requirement)
Molecular Biology is an enriched alternative approach to college preparatory biology, which uses inquiry methods to present biology as an experimental science. This course requires students to construct their understanding of concepts starting from the laboratory experience. Students in this course develop their abilities to observe, think and communicate scientifically through inquiry-based, open-ended laboratory investigations. The breadth of content covered in this course is the same as the traditional approach but the focus is on biology at the molecular level. Molecular Biology challenges students to think abstractly and requires that they produce formal, written reports of their investigations in the laboratory.

(a-g) / Graduation Requirement
10 Credits
Grade Level: 10-12
Grade Restrictions: 10th Grade or Above
Prerequisites: Biology / Molecular Biology with a “C” or better / Integrated Math 1 with a “C” or better
(Satisfies Physical Science Graduation Requirement and UC/CSU Physical Science “a-g” requirement)
This is an inorganic chemistry course designed for the college-bound student interested in scientific study. It is a year-long course that satisfies a physical science requirement for graduation as well as meeting the a-g requirements for college. The majority of the curriculum will focus on inorganic topics of study including atomic and molecular structure, chemical bonds, conservation of matter, gases, reaction rates, thermodynamics, nuclear and organic chemistry, and an introduction to biochemistry. Approximately 25% of class time is devoted to laboratory work emphasizing appropriate lab procedures, investigations and inquiry-based learning.

(a-g) / Graduation Requirement
10 Credits
Grade Level: 11-12
Grade Restrictions: 11th – 12th Grade Only
Prerequisites: Must have completed Integrated Math I & II with a “C” or better in both semesters / Currently enrolled in Integrated Math III or higher
(Satisfies Physical Science Graduation Requirement and UC/CSU Physical Science “a-g” requirement)
Physics is a year-long course, which examines motion, forces, energy, heat, waves, electricity and more. The physics field ranges from the far reaches of the universe to the insides of atoms. This course covers not only the body of knowledge that we call physics but also stresses the history of and the ongoing research into the adventure we call science. The course emphasizes laboratory work and exploration by students. We can hope for best results if we clearly present how science works and the processes and methods which expand scientific knowledge.