Science Department Course Descriptions

Earth Science (SC 4210)
One credit
One year
Grades 9-12
Earth Science introduces students to the features and forces of our planet and its place in the universe. The course includes topics in astronomy, geology, meteorology, oceanography, and physical geography. Field trips, laboratory investigations, and other classroom activities permit the students to interrelate these topics and to relate their personal experiences to the larger sphere of their surroundings. Environmental concerns, energy, earth processes, and the influence of science, technology, and society are significant parts of the program.

Biology(SC 4310)
One credit
One year
Grades 9-12
Biology is the study of life-the basic characteristics and functions of living organisms and their place in our environment. Laboratory and field investigations are the primary means for developing problem-solving skills and for developing knowledge and understanding of biological concepts. Topics include the history of biology; the cell and cell processes; genetics and heredity; cycles in nature; photosynthesis and respiration; ecology; plants, animals, and microorganisms; continuity of life; and the interactions of science, technology, and society. Ninth-grade biology should be considered an option for accelerated students only.

Environmental Science (SC 4315)
One credit
One year
Grades 10-12
Environmental Science is the study of living organisms, including man, and their relationship to each other and to the world around them. Laboratory and field investigations are the primary means for developing problem-solving skills. Topics include the cell, heredity, structures of organisms, cycles in nature, populations, communities and ecosystems, pollution, and technology. Students investigate current issues related to the state of the environment and to the interactions of science, technology, and society. The course meets the Virginia Standards of Learning for Biology.

Chemistry (SC 4410)
One credit
One year
Grades 10-12
Prerequisite or prequisite: Algebra II
Chemistry is the study of the structure, composition,. Properties, and reactions of matter. Laboratory investigations are the primary means for developing the major concepts and principles of chemistry. Chemistry provides students with a solid foundation for future study and with an understanding and appreciation for the nature of matter and for the interactions of science, technology, and society.

Physics (SC 4510)
One credit
One year
Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: Algebra II/Trigonometry
Physics is a laboratory-oriented course in which students investigate the interactions of matter and energy. Laboratory investigations are the primary means for developing problem-solving skills and the major concepts and principles of physics. Students also explore the relationships of physics to their interests, to career opportunities, and to the historical contributions of science. Topics include force and motion, work, heat, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, and applications in everyday activities.

Oceanography (SC 4250)
One credit
One year
Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: Earth Science
Oceanography is a laboratory-oriented course in which students are involved in an in-depth study of the physical, chemical, geological, and biological aspects of the oceans. Field studies and investigations of local, regional, and national issues and concerns are required components of the course. Students also explore the relationships of oceanography to their interests, to career opportunities, and to the historical contributions of science. Topics include oceanographic instruments; the chemistry of sea water; ocean sediments; weather and climate; waves, tides, and currents; life in the oceans; habitats; maritime heritage; and current issues created by the interaction of science and technology.

Advanced Placement Biology (SC 4340)
One credit
One year
Grades 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry
Advanced Placement Biology is a college-level course that examines the principles of biology in detail. This course is designed in accord with requirements of the College Board, and students are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination at the end of the course.

Advanced Placement Chemistry (SC 4440)
One credit
One year
Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: Chemistry
Advanced Placement Chemistry is a college-level course that deals with advanced concepts in chemistry. The course is designed in accord with requirements of the College Board, and students are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination at the end of the course.

Advanced Placement Physics B (SC 4540)
One credit
One year
Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: Algebra II/Trigonometry
Advanced Placement Physics is a college-level course that deals with advanced concepts in physics. The course is designed in accord with requirements of the College Board, and students are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination at the end of the course.

Advanced Placement Environmental Science
One credit
One year
Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: Chemistry
The course is designed in accord with requirements of the College Board, and students are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination at the end of the course.