Science
Science Graduation Requirement
Science graduation requirements include 1 year of Biology or Biology Honors plus one additional year of science.
*Please keep in mind, additional science courses may be required for college admission.
Anatomy and Physiology Honors – 0262H & 0263H
Grades: 11, 12 Length: Two Semesters Credits: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology I and Chemistry I.
Description: Physiology is a detailed and more in‐depth study of the structures and functions of the human body. It is structured as a high performance course in utilizing a college textbook. This course is strongly recommended for students going into medicine or other health related fields. This course may include two - three field trips to Washington University Medical School, Logan College of Chiropractic, and the SLU Cadaver Lab. Field trips will require extra cost. Dissection is part of the class, and participation is required.
Biology 1 – 0475T
This course is a graduation requirement.
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Length: 2 Semesters Credits: 1
Description: This course will introduce the student to living organisms and their role in nature. Students will experience hands-on laboratory activities and lecture presentations. The following major units of study will be covered: the science process, characteristics of life, measurements and graphing, genetics, evolution, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, cell reproduction, and ecology. This course is required for graduation.
Biology 1 Honors – 0479T
Grades: 9 Length: 2 Semesters Credits: 1
Prerequisite: Science grades, placement assessments and teacher recommendations are considered for this course.
Description: This course is an accelerated introductory biology course. Curriculum covers the structure and processes of living things. Students will study basic biochemistry, molecular and Mendelian genetics, evolution, human impact, populations and ecology but emphasis will be on application and critical thinking. The course is set up to improve standardized testing (ACT and SAT) and prepare students for all upper level science classes. Students will use case studies (real world research) and labs to enrich the course. One field trip is required for the spring ecology unit. It is recommended to have a high interest in science, possess high order thinking skills and self-motivation to enroll in this course.
Biology II Honors – SLU Dual Credit - 0476H
Grades: 11, 12 Length: 2 Semesters Credits:1
Prerequisite: 3.0 GPA, Successful completion of Biology 1 or Biology 1 Honors, Chemistry 1 or Chemistry 1 Honors.
Dual Credit: St. Louis University – BIOL 1240 Principles of Biology 1 and BIOL 1245 Principles of Biology Lab 1
Description: This course is the equivalent of a biology-majors introductory lecture and lab class at the college level. The dual credit is through SLU and is 4 credit hours, costing $300 total. Lab experiments and lectures will provide an in depth study of cells, genetics, organic molecules, evolution, and ecology. Fee: $10 per year. Fee waivers available upon need. It is recommended to have a high interest in science, medicine and be self-motivated to take this course.
Chemistry 1 - 04850
Grades: 10, 11, 12 Length: 2 Semesters Credits: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 and Biology 1.
Description: A scientific calculator will be required for this course. Chemistry 1 is an introductory course that will study modern chemical theory and practices. Students will learn through lectures, discussions, demonstrations, and lab experiments. Emphasis is placed on achieving problem‐solving skills, proper lab techniques, and safety. It is recommended (but not required) to have taken Geometry or have a concurrent enrollment with Geometry.
Chemistry 1 Honors – 04870 & 04880
Grades: 10, 11, 12 Length: 2 Semesters Credits: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Biology 1 and Algebra 1.
Description: A scientific calculator is required for this course. This course will introduce the student to modern chemical theory and practice. Students will have the opportunity to develop a true understanding of chemical concepts through lectures, class discussions, and lab experiments. Students will be taught safe and proper laboratory techniques and procedures. Considerable time will be devoted to the development of problem solving skills and nomenclature, in order to prepare students for Chemistry 2 or college level chemistry. It is recommended (but not required) to have taken Geometry, Algebra 2 or have a concurrent enrollment with these courses or another higher level math course.
Chemistry 2 Honors – AP – SLU Dual Credit -0489H
Grades: 11, 12 Length: 2 Semesters Credits: 1
Dual Credit: St. Louis University – Chemistry 1110/1115 and Chemistry 1120/1125
SLU charges $300 for 4 credit hours ($75 per credit hour)
Dual Credit Prerequisite - Eligible to take Pre-Calc H or higher as well as a 3.0 GPA
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Chemistry 1 or Chemistry 1 Honors, Algebra 2, Geometry.
Description: This is a college chemistry course intended to prepare students for careers in natural science, health science, and engineering. Special emphasis is placed on problem solving, laboratory experiments, and analytical thinking. Laboratory experiments and lectures will provide in-depth study of the periodic table, nomenclature, atomic structure, bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, and equilibrium. This course includes a summer assignment that is to be completed by the first day of school. A scientific calculator is required for this course along with a composition notebook. It is recommended (but not required) to be enrolled in Algebra 3 or a higher level math course concurrently.
Earth Science - 04910
Grades: 11, 12 Length: 1 Semester Credits: 1/2
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology 1, IPS, or Chemistry.
Description: This elective course will study the processes (internal & external) that have formed the Earth and the systems that continue to shape its features. This course will include lectures as well as hands-on lab activities. Students will be expected to research and present several examples of work during this one semester long course. Topics covered may include: Satellites, remote sensing & mapping, tectonics, deformation, earthquakes & volcanoes, rocks, minerals and rock cycle, weathering, erosion, and landforms, geological time scale and dating techniques, and economic Geology and exploration. Fee: $5 for materials. Fee waivers available based on need. It is recommended that students have an above average interest in learning about the physical process taking place on our planet.
Environmental Science - 04900
Grades: 11, 12 Length: 1 Semester Credits: 1/2
Dual Credit: LCCC – BIOL 145 - 3 credit hours - LCCC charges $30 for dual credit for this class.
Prerequisite: LCCC Prerequisites include: 11th grade- Accuplacer Score of 250 or
12th grade- ACT Reading (18), SAT Reading (25) or 2.7 GPA
C or better in High School Biology
District Prerequisites include: Completion of Biology 1, Chemistry 1 or IPS.
Description: Introduces students to natural resources (eg. forests, soils, fisheries, wildlife) and environmental sciences. The class emphasizes renewable natural resources, ecological concepts, biodiversity, pollution, and natural resource management and provides a scientific basis for understanding contemporary issues and the sustainable management of natural resources. College level reading and writing is expected. It is recommended to have an above average interest in science and environmental issues.
Field Ecology - 04950
Grades: 12 Length: 1 Semester Credits: 1
Dual Credit: LCCC – BIOL 138 Ecological Principles - 3 credit hours - LCCC charges $30 for dual credit in this class.
Prerequisite: District Prerequisites include: Completion of Chemistry 1 or IPS. To receive dual credit, additional prerequisites may apply.
Description: This course meets two hours daily. Students participate in field-based research projects in terrestrial and aquatic environments. Emphasis and Philosophy of Field Ecology:
Participation in active field research studies
Examination of local habitats and ecosystems
Incorporation of different sciences (biology, chemistry, geography, etc.) into an interdisciplinary environmental science.
Incorporation of modern technology (computers, GPS, GIS, chemical test kits) into research.
Discussions and research of environmental issues.
This course requires both individual academic work and participation in group projects/studies. Approximately 30-40% of class periods will be held outdoors studying terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in varying weather conditions. AHS Fee: $20.00 to cover field trip expenses. Fee waivers available based on need. This is a course based on field research. Approximately one‐third of the course is held outdoors. Students must be willing to participate in all class activities in various weather conditions.
Introduction to Physical Science – Chemistry (IPS – A) - 05152
Grades: 10, 11, 12 Length: 1 Semester Credits: 1/2
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology 1 and Algebra 1.
Description: This is a laboratory course in which students will work in groups doing experiments in chemistry to help understand concepts such as mass, volume, density, boiling points, and melting points. Students will also learn to identify and use, safely and correctly, laboratory equipment. This “hands‐on” approach will assist the students as they are learning about elements and compounds. In addition, the course involves solving mathematical problems and graphing which involves mathematical skills learned in Algebra 1 Concepts A or Algebra 1. It is recommended (but not required) for students to be taking Algebra 1 or a higher level math course.
Introduction to Physical Science – Physics (IPS – B) - 05154
Grades: 10, 11, 12 Length: 1 Semester Credits: 1/2
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology 1 and Algebra 1.
Description: This is a laboratory course in which students will work in groups doing experiments in physics to help understand concepts such as motion, forces, time, temperature, light, electricity, and magnetism. Students will also learn to identify and use, safely and correctly, laboratory equipment. This “hands-on” approach will assist the students as they are learning about physics. In addition, the course involves solving mathematical problems and graphing which involves mathematical skills learned in Algebra 1 Concepts A or Algebra 1. It is recommended (but not required) for students to be taking Algebra 1 or a higher level math course.
Meteorology and Astronomy - 04920
Grades: 10, 11, 12 Length: 1 Semester Credits: 1/2
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology 1 and IPS or Chemistry.
Description: This elective lab course will study the structure and composition of the atmosphere, the elements of weather and climate, weather patterns and storms, and Oceanography relating to weather systems. Additionally, the course will study the Earth’s relationship to the Sun, moon and other bodies in our Solar System as well as Earth’s place in the Cosmos. Students will experience field studies, and laboratory work in this course along with class work. It is recommended that students electing to take this course are motivated to learn more about meteorology and astronomy.
Physics 1 - 05210
Grades: 11, 12 Length: 2 Semesters Credits: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology 1, Chemistry 1 and Geometry. Concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2, Algebra 3 or Pre-Calculus Honors.
Description: This course introduces students to the physical relationship between matter and energy. It is designed to teach students the link between science, technology, engineering and math. Students will have the opportunity to learn in the lab setting by performing classic physics experiments involving motion, energy, collisions and waves. Students will also design, evaluate and refine engineering systems to create real world solutions. Physics students learn essential problem solving skills that are necessary for anyone entering science, engineering or technology fields. Field trips will be provided and may require extra cost.
Physics 1 Honors AP - 05250
Grades: 11, 12 Length: 2 Semesters Credits: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology 1 and Chemistry 1 or Chemistry 1 Honors. Concurrent enrollment or completion of Algebra 2 Honors, Pre-Calculus or higher.
Description: AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of Physics through inquiry-based investigations as they explore topics such as Newtonian mechanics
(including rotational motion), work, energy and power, mechanical waves and sound, and introductory simple circuits. The course structure and pace are designed to take the Physics 1 AP test at the end of the year as well as prepare students for Physics 2. Field trips will be provided and may require extra cost.
Physics 2 Honors A-AP – 0517M
Grades: 12 Length: 1 Semester (Fall only) Credits: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Physics 1 Honors AP and Algebra 2. Concurrent enrollment in Pre-Calculus Honors, Calculus AB Honors AP, or Calculus BC Honors AP.
Description: This course meets for the entire 4th hour lunch period. In this course, students will study matter, energy, and the relationship between mass and energy. Students will experience hands-on college–level laboratory activities, and lecture presentations. Problem solving and increasing problem solving ability will be emphasized. Students will be encouraged to take the College Board Advanced Placement Physics 2 test in the spring.
Physics 2 Honors B – AP – 0518M Physics 2 Honors C - AP- 0578M
Grades: 12 Length: 1 Semester ( Spring only) Credits: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Physics 1 Honors AP and Algebra 2. Concurrent enrollment in Pre-Calculus Honors, Calculus AB Honors AP, or Calculus BC Honors AP.
Description: This course meets for the entire 4th hour lunch period. In this course, students will study matter, energy, and the relationship between mass and energy. Students will experience hands-on, college‐level laboratory activities, and lecture presentations. Problem solving and increasing problem solving ability will be emphasized. A field trip will be offered. Students will have the option to take either the non-calculus course (0518M) which will prepare them for the College Board Advanced Placement Physics 1 test in the spring, OR they can take the calculus course 0578M which will prepare them for the College Board Advanced Placement Physics C Mechanics test in the spring. Field trips may require extra cost.
Zoology Honors- 04800
Grades: 11, 12 Length: 1 Semester Credits: 1/2
Dual Credit: LCCC – BIOL 135 - 4 credit hours - LCCC charges $40 for this Dual Credit
Prerequisite: District Prerequisites include: Completion of Chemistry 1 or IPS. To receive dual credit, additional prerequisites may apply.
Description: This elective lab course will study diversity of animal life including adaptations, behavior, and anatomy and physiology of all animal phyla (mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and multiple invertebrate phyla). Students will experience field trips, field studies, and laboratory work in this course along with class work. Dissection of animals and behavior labs are part of this class and are mandatory for all students. There is a $5.00 lab fee for this course. Fee waivers available based on need.