CORE SCIENCE COURSES
Introduction to Physics I
0.5 credit
Grade 9
Scientists discover the world around
them using the science of physics.
Students will acquire scientific research
skills through hands-on experiences
that will include accurate measurement
using traditional and computer-based
methods, experimental design, trend
prediction, graphing, data analysis,
and the writing of lab reports. Students
will study kinematics: speed, velocity,
acceleration, forces, free fall, gravity and
Newton’s Laws of Motion. While using
the metric system and employing the
scientific method, students will develop
writing skills, critical and creative
thinking skills, and communication
skills. Students will learn how to apply
physics concepts to understand how the
world works.
Introduction to Chemistry I
0.5 credit
Grade 9
What is our world made of? Students
will continue building scientific research
skills as they discover the nature
of matter. Students will explore the
classification of matter, physical and
chemical changes, atomic theory, trends
of the periodic table and basic chemical
bonding. Students will continue to
develop writing skills, problem-solving
skills and communication skills through
labs, projects, and activities. Students
will learn how to use their knowledge of
basic chemistry concepts to understand
the chemical world around them and
how chemistry is directly connected to
their daily lives.
Introduction to Chemistry II
0.5 credit
Grade 10
Through this course students will gain
further knowledge of particles of matter
and their behavior through performing
several laboratory experiments. Students
will discover conservation of matter and
energy, kinetic molecular theory, states
of matter, phase changes, gas laws, trends
in the periodic table, chemical reactions,
and the potential effects of atmospheric
composition on climate change.
Introduction to Biology I
0.5 credit
Grade 10
What makes something “living”? How
do living things operate? Students
28
will discover and explore the unique
chemistry of living things. The course is
focused on cell and molecular biology.
Students will study biochemistry,
characteristics of life, cell anatomy
and physiology, cell transport, cell
reproduction, cell energetics, and
molecular genetics. Laboratory work
will include microscope work; class work
will include note-taking skills as well as
scientific writing.
Introduction to Biology II
0.5 credit
Grade 11
How did our living earth develop and
evolve? How did life diversify and
what drives this continuous change?
How do all forms of life coexist? Why
do we appear and