Science
Science is the systematic study of everything that can be examined, tested or verified. Because different branches of science shape the way we understand our planet, other living things and ourselves, we need to see all of these topics in a way that makes sense of God’s creation. A goal in all our classes is that students see God as the Creator and Sustainer of all of creation. This overarching belief affects our view of existing knowledge and new discoveries. Students are encouraged to use a variety of discovery methods: research in the lab and in the field, reading and responding to the textbooks and journals, written reports and analyses and discussions with peers and instructors.
PHYSICAL SCIENCE: Physical Science is a one-semester introductory course to scientific principles with specific focus on physics and chemistry concepts. This course will present an overview of the definition of science, writing scientific conclusions, and scientific careers. Foundational science skills such as scientific notation and dimensional analysis will be reviewed in preparation for the SAT, and integrated within the content of physics while learning about forces and motion. Foundational chemistry concepts such as the structure of an atom, properties of matter, and the periodic table will also be reviewed.
Prerequisite: 8th Grade Science
ASTRONOMY: This course focuses on the study of the Earth’s structure, processes, and place within the universe. Topics covered include structure of the Earth, surface features, geologic time, the atmosphere, the solar system, Earth-moon system, and the life cycle of stars. Throughout the semester students will explore these topics through readings, laboratories, videos, and projects.
Prerequisite: Physical Science
BIOLOGY: Biology is designed to give students an understanding of the broad principles involved in the science of life. Students will have the opportunity to study topics such as ecology, cells, genetics, and the origins of life. Students explore these topics through classroom discussions, demonstrations, and inquiry-based laboratory activities.
CHEMISTRY: Chemistry is designed to give students a basic understanding of the broad principles involved in inorganic chemistry. Students will explore these topics through classroom discussions, demonstrations, and laboratory activities. Topics include the structure and composition of atoms, the periodic table, thermochemistry, behavior of gases, and interactions between different types of chemicals.
PHYSICS: Physics is a two-semester course designed to provide students with an understanding of the natural forces at work in the world. Some of the topics covered include motion, forces, energy, wave behavior, light, and optics. Students will be involved in lab work and projects along with typical class work.
Prerequisites: Previous or current enrollment in Algebra 2
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY: Anatomy is a two-semester course that takes an in-depth look at the structure and systems of the wonderful bodies God made for us. The course covers an introduction to the body and cell function and then looks at different systems in the body. Systems covered include, but are not limited to, the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. Students will have the opportunity to learn through readings, videos, lecture, models, activities, and projects.
Prerequisite: Biology
AP BIOLOGY: AP Biology is a year-long course equivalent to a college-level introductory biology course. This class includes a series of labs and lectures through which students will learn about the theories and mechanisms of evolution, the inner workings of the cell, biological systems, and ecology. AP Biology offers students the opportunity to earn college credit by taking the AP exam at the end of the year.
Prerequisites: Biology, previous or current enrollment in Chemistry & Pre-Calculus.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE: This course explores marine environments, natural cycles, interdependence in the ocean, pollution, and conservation. We will learn about specific habitats, nutrient cycles, food relationships, symbiotic relationships and much more. Students will analyze the impact of humans in relation to pollution and conservation in the ocean as well as get to learn about specific marine organisms.
JOURNALISM (Life Science in the Movies): This course is designed to give students the chance to explore how the sciences are presented in film. We will explore questions such as the following: Does the film industry present science accurately? Is there a hidden agenda in a particular film? How should we properly steward God’s Creation? We will watch films relating to medicine, the environment, technology, and space. Students will discuss and reflect on the themes presented in the films through discussions, worksheets, reflections, research assignments, projects, and quizzes.
