Science
The Science Department’s goal is to ensure our graduates are well equipped to pursue science at the college level, to succeed in science-related careers, and to be scientifi cally literate global citizens. After the graduation requirements have been fulfi lled, students are strongly encouraged to continue their science education by choosing from the rich selections offered.
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2 Semesters (1 Credit)
Grade Levels: 9
Prerequisite: None
Biology will investigate biological principles and concepts with the opportunity to explore the topics of cells, genetics, evolution, ecology, and life processes through lab exercises, computer-interactive lessons, lectures, and research. Skills emphasized include organizing and interpreting information and data, web-based research, reading for science context, and writing clearly to convey information. Bioethical issues will be woven throughout the course, which will illustrate the pressing relevance of basic biological knowledge and current biological research to our understanding of the world around us.
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2 Semesters (1 Credit)
Grade Levels: 9
Prerequisite: Accelerated or Honors Algebra I
The Honors Biology course is a first-year biology course that provides a more in-depth exploration of biological principles and concepts (as described in Biology above) with the opportunity for more inquiry-based experiments. As in the Biology course, varied teaching strategies are utilized, but students are required to take a more independent approach to their own learning because the breadth and depth of the course is expectedly more extensive than the regular Biology course. Honors Biology is strongly recommended for students planning to take AP Biology.
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2 Semesters (1 Credit)
Grade Levels: 10, 11
Prerequisite: Algebra I
Chemistry is not just something we read about; it is something we do! The overarching goal of the course is to prepare the student for whatever comes next for her, be it another science course at GPS or in college or life beyond school. Laboratory experiences and demonstrations bring the concepts into the hands of the students whenever appropriate. Students work with hands-on and virtual models to visualize abstract concepts and use probeware and other software to collect and interpret data and report findings. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are stressed as are real-world implications. The course, at times, utilizes video podcasts of lecture and practice material, leaving more in-class time for hands-on work and individual and group problem solving.
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2 Semesters (1 Credit)
Grade Levels: 10
Prerequisite: Accelerated or Honors Geometry
The Honors Chemistry course is also a survey of the field of chemistry. The curriculum is broader, deeper, has a faster pace than the course above and places more emphasis on independence and abstract thinking. Each Honors Chemistry student will perform individual research with the goal of producing and presenting her experimental investigation in a formal format for scientific review. Honors Chemistry is strongly recommended for students planning to take AP Chemistry.
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1 Semester (0.5 Credit)
Grade Levels: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Biology; Corequisite: Chemistry
Students who enjoy shows like CSI, NCIS, or Bones will get a firsthand look at the techniques used to investigate real crimes and allow them to distinguish fact from Hollywood fiction. Emphasis is put on solving case studies using problem-solving skills, group work, and logical thinking. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, fingerprinting, hair identification, blood spatter, and DNA analysis. Because of its multidisciplinary nature, this class is open to students who have had Biology and who have had (or are currently enrolled in) Chemistry.
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1 Semester (0.5 Credit)
Grade Levels: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Biology; Corequisite: Chemistry.
Marine Science explores many areas including but not limited to the history of the study of the oceans, the physical environment in marine systems, ocean currents, wave action, satellite monitoring of oceans, various marine invertebrate anatomy and life cycles, algae, plants, human impact on marine systems, sustainable use of the oceans, and the diverse ecology of a coral reef. Classes will include lectures, labs, projects, tests, and field trips or remote learning with career professionals.
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2 Semesters (1 Credit)
Grade Levels: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry
In Anatomy and Physiology, students learn about the anatomy and physiology of the human body and the problems and pathologies that can occur. As each system is explored, relevant health issues related to each of the body systems are studied. Students need to be aware that lab work includes dissection of a cat (or other suitable mammal), sheep brain and heart, and bovine eye.
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2 Semesters (1 Credit)
Grade Levels: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry
Is it possible for humans to live on this earth without causing serious problems to the environment? This yearlong lab course is project-based and allows the lab-based activities to revolve around the GPS Garden. We will study the impact of a growing human population on the natural world with the challenge of achieving healthy sustainability. Pollution, biodiversity, energy sources, the economics of conservation, and preservation are just a few of the topics covered. Collaboration, case studies, and presentations are used in this course and should change your understanding of our natural world.
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1 Semester (0.5 Credit)
Grade Levels: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry
Thought, learning, perception, reasoning, and language are all cognitive abilities powered by the soft squishy gray stuff inside our skulls. After an introduction to neurons and the brain, in Neuroscience we'll examine several aspects of human cognition and look at the neurophysiology that underlies them. We'll also discuss methods used to study these areas, read some current research, and navigate the wilds of the science library.
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2 Semesters (1 Credit)
Grade Levels: 11, 12
Corequisites: Algebra II or higher
Physics is known as the science of energy, and this course explores energy and its related concepts in a quantitative way. Topics include kinematics, mechanics, dynamics, electricity, momentum and rotation. Experiences include a visit to the Coolidge Park Carousel to study circular motion, a project to construct a table lamp, and a project to build and launch a rocket.
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2 Semesters (1 Credit)
Grade Levels: 11, 12
Corequisites: Accelerated Precalculus or higher
Honors Physics is a robust algebra-based course covering basic physical principles in classical physics. Subject matter includes kinematics, mechanics, dynamics, electricity, momentum and rotation. Algebra skills are required for problem-solving, and computer skills to acquire and analyze data from experiments are utilized. Students will find satisfaction with the practical application of mathematics in this lab course. Experiences include a visit to the Coolidge Park Carousel to study circular motion, a project to construct a table lamp, and a project to build and launch a rocket.
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2 Semesters (1 Credit)
Grade Levels: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry
AP Biology is a college-level, general biology survey course. Objectives are to provide students with a conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to critically deal with the rapidly changing science of biology. Laboratory exercises are designed to teach the process of science and promote understanding of the procedure for collecting and analyzing data through inquiry-based experiments. Students should be able to learn independently, be responsible, and be willing to accept a challenge.
Recommended criteria: A grade of B+ or higher in Honors Biology/Chemistry or A- or higher in Biology/Chemistry.
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2 Semesters (1 Credit)
Grade Levels: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Chemistry, Algebra II; Corequisite: Precalculus or Calculus
The AP Chemistry course is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first year of college. Students will obtain an understanding of chemistry foundations to support additional learning in chemistry. This course will develop critical thinking skills and the ability for students to clearly express their ideas and understandings in chemistry. The subject matter will be more detailed and complex and the amount of work and time you spend on the course will be greater than what is expected in regular level courses.Students must be skilled in mathematics and have a strong reading ability. Students should be prepared to spend time beyond classroom hours in preparation for the course and exam, be highly responsible, and be willing to accept a challenge.
Recommended criteria: A grade of B+ or higher in Honors Chemistry or A- or higher in Chemistry.
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2 Semesters (1 Credit)
Grade Levels: 11-12
Prerequisite: Chemistry or Honors Chemistry
The AP Environmental Science course will utilize a project-based learning approach that utilizes multiple projects throughout the academic year. Research from the AP College Board has shown that students who engage in project-based learning are more likely to earn a higher score than those that do not engage in project-based learning approaches in AP courses. Specifically, students will use scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies to understand the interrelationships of the natural world with the revolving theme around sustainability. The course helps students identify and analyze natural and human-induced environmental problems. It enables them to learn how to assess risks associated with these problems and evaluate alternative solutions for resolving and preventing them by focusing on this simple course driving question: How can we rethink our use of the world’s resources?
Recommended Criteria: A grade of B or higher in the biology and chemistry classes.
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This semester elective allows students to explore current topics in science while using the concepts and skills developed in earlier science courses. Student experiences include, but are not limited to, case studies, research, problem-based lessons, labs, and presentations. The primary goal is to critically analyze the news stories of the day using sound scientific principles. Specific topics will be student-driven after an initial introduction. 1/2 credit (NOT a Lab Course)/1 semester. Grades 11-12. Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry. Offered: In 2021-22 and again in 2023-2024.
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2 Semesters (1 Credit)
Grade Levels: 11-12
Prerequisite: Honors Physics or Physics; Corequisite: AP Calculus
AP Physics C (Mechanics) provides a calculus-based problem-solving and laboratory introduction to the basic principles of classical mechanics. Classical mechanics is concerned with the motion of objects. Specific topics will include kinematics equations and their development, Newton’s laws, work and energy, momentum, rotational motion, and gravitation. Students should be prepared to spend time beyond the classroom hours in preparation for the course and exam, be responsible, and be willing to accept a challenge.
Recommended criteria: Students who have completed AP Calculus AB or BC with a B+ or higher (no previous physics) OR students who earned a B+ or higher in Honors Physics or an A- or higher in physics.
Reed Solly
