In this course, students will study life, beginning with cellular organization, the Chemistry of Biology, Cell Division, Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology, Ecology, and culminating with Human Biology. Emphasis is placed on the student doing much outside reading and critical thinking. Students should expect to experience more labs, and cover materials more in depth.
Through this laboratory course students will develop an appreciation of the natural world with a study of the scientific method, the metric system, the origin of life, cells, heredity, the plant and animal kingdoms, bacteria and diseases.
Prerequisites: 80% in Biology Honors and 80% in Algebra I Honors (or Algebra II Honors) OR 90% in Biology and 90% in Algebra I (or Algebra II).
In this full-year course, students will develop a workable knowledge of the names and properties of the common elements and compounds they form, states of matter, atomic theory, chemical bonding, acid-base theory, and equilibrium. Students will develop the ability to apply concepts learned in class to the lab environment. A workable knowledge of algebra is necessary for success in this course. Students can expect to cover additional material in preparation for the potential of AP Chemistry.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology.
This year-long course will enable students who plan to pursue careers in fields other than engineering or medicine to recognize the impact of chemistry on society by addressing chemistry related technology issues such as the mathematics of science, as well as the topics of water supplies, chemical resources, petroleum, food, nuclear chemistry, air, climate, health and the chemical industry. Students will understand core concepts and apply them to societal issues.
Prerequisites: 70% in Biology AND 70% in Algebra II (or 80% in Algebra I).
Students in this full-year course will learn the names and properties of the common elements and compounds they form, states of matter, atomic theory, chemical bonding, acid-base theory, equilibrium. Students will also predict chemical reactions and learn stoichiometry. The course integrates laboratory experiences with classroom theory. A workable knowledge of algebra is necessary.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Biology and Geometry.
This full-year course presents physical concepts of motion, mechanics, momentum, and energy. Students will use equations and vector analysis as guides to thinking. The student will development an understanding of the scientific laws and rules that apply to the physical world through qualitative analysis. Students will relate physics concepts to the world they experience every day. A working knowledge of right triangle trigonometry is required.
» Students will be required to purchase their own materials for an end of year project.
Prerequisites: 80% in Chemistry Honors AND 80% in Algebra II Honors AND 80% in English Honors.
AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as Newtonian mechanics (including rotational motion), work, energy and power, mechanical waves and sound, and introductory simple circuits. Through inquiry-based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills. This course requires that 25 percent of the instructional time will be spent in hands-on laboratory work, with an emphasis on inquiry-based investigations that provide students with opportunities to apply the science practices. Use of iPads will be required for some labs and technology will be used extensively to support instruction in the form of computer-based simulations, on-line homework and an e-text, among other methods.
» A fee is charged for the AP exam.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Biology, Chemistry, and Geometry AND 80% in Algebra II.
This laboratory class will enable the student to develop knowledge of the following topics: Newtonian mechanics, fluid mechanics, heat, thermodynamics, and sound. An emphasis is placed on the application of forces and energy in the physical world. Use of iPads will be required for some labs and technology will be used extensively to support instruction.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Biology, Chemistry and Physics
Forensic Science is the application of science to the law. Forensic Science offers the knowledge and technology needed for the definition, enforcement, and clarification of the use of evidence in criminal and civil cases.
The focus of the course will be on problem-solving. Students will be expected to work with their classmates to theorize, experiment, research forensic methodologies, synthesize information, and make conclusions based on their own evidence.
Forensic Science is a laboratory-driven class involving scientific investigations using microscopy, comparative analysis techniques, spot tests, qualitative analysis, mass comparisons, and other qualitative and quantitative examinations. Writing will be an integral part of the course, with students being expected to communicate laboratory reports, results, and conclusions and analyze case studies.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra I and Chemistry, and corequisite of Physics and Geometry
Astronomy will allow students to expand their scientific and technological knowledge in an exciting and ever-developing field. Students will investigate the relationship between the Earth and the Moon, our Sun and solar system, meteoroids, asteroids, comets, and the characteristics of the Milky Way Galaxy and other galaxies. Students will further learn about cosmology and the history and possible ends of the universe. Recent developments in astronomy will be incorporated, especially relating to the James Webb Space Telescope.
Prerequisites: 80% in Biology Honors AND 80% in Chemistry Honors.
In this one semester course students will learn the physical properties of carbon compounds such as alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alcohol, phenyls, ethers, esters, carbohydrates, lipids and proteins. Students will develop a workable knowledge in order to succeed in a premedical curriculum in college.
Prerequisites: 80% in Biology Honors AND 80% in Chemistry Honors.
Anatomy and Physiology Honors is an advanced, high school elective course designed to prepare students for college courses in the medical or health fields, as well as those students simply interested in the anatomy and physiology of the human body. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the structure, organization, and function of the human body, its various systems, and how they work together alongside its impact on diseases in certain systems. Topics covered include body organization, histology, integumentary, skeletal, muscular, respiratory, circulatory, digestive, excretory, reproductive, nervous systems, and special senses. Laboratory experiments and dissections are an integral part of this course. Students enrolled in this course have the option to register for college credit through the University of Detroit Mercy.
Prerequisites: Grades 11-12: 80% in Biology Honors, Chemistry Honors, AND Algebra II Honors. Grade 10: 93% in Biology Honors AND Algebra I Honors or Algebra II Honors, must be concurrently enrolled in Chemistry Honors.
This college level course is for independent learners. In it the student explores advanced topics in cell biology, genetics and evolution, ecology, and plant and animal physiology. Numerous lab investigations permit students opportunities to become acquainted with advanced laboratory techniques. Class materials, information, activities, and expectations prepare students to take the Biology Advanced Placement Exam. College credit may be awarded for high scores.
» Due to extensive time requirements for this course, classes begin at 7:15 a.m., three days weekly until early May. One weekend is required to conduct biotechnology labs.
» A fee is charged for the AP exam.
Prerequisites: 80% in Honors Chemistry AND 80% in Algebra II Honors.
The topics students will explore in depth are: 1) structure of matter, 2) kinetic theory of gasses, 3) chemical equilibria, 4) chemical kinetics, and 5) basic concepts of thermodynamics. The laboratory is an integral part of the course. The experiments will be both qualitative and quantitative using modern instrumentation. The course will contribute to the development of the student’s abilities to think clearly and to express ideas orally and in writing with clarity and logic. Students are provided with the materials, information and skills necessary to prepare for the Chemistry Advanced Placement Exam. Students will be well-prepared for introductory college chemistry courses.
» Due to the extensive laboratory requirements for this course, classes will begin at 7:15 a.m. at least 3 days weekly.
» Students will also be required to participate in lab work on an independent basis with teacher supervision.
» A fee is charged for the AP exam.
Prerequisites: 80% in AP Physics 1.
AP Physics 2 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as fluid statics and dynamics, thermodynamics with kinetic theory, PV diagrams and probability, electrostatics electrical circuits with capacitors, magnetic fields, electromagnetism, physical and geometric optics, and quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics. Through inquiry-based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills. This course requires that 25 percent of the instructional time will be spent in hands-on laboratory work, with an emphasis on inquiry-based investigations that provide students with opportunities to apply the science practices. Use of iPads will be required for some labs and technology will be used extensively to support instruction in the form of computer-based simulations on-line homework and an e-text, among other methods.
» Due to extensive time requirements for this course, classes begin at 7:15 a.m., three days weekly until early May.
» A fee is charged for the AP exam.
Mary Beth Klawender, Chair – Ex. 2236
Bo Chumiecki – Ex. 2235
Joe Kalczynski ’96 – Ex. 2292
James Higdon ’10 – Ex. 2291
Ryan Hess – Ex. 2231
Kara Waltz – Ex. 2237
Noelle Ochoa – Ex. 2238
