Science

AP Biology provides students with an introductory, college‑level foundation in biology, emphasizing inquiry‑based learning and critical and creative thinking. Students apply the scientific method—observation, hypothesis, experimentation, and analysis—to explore major biological concepts and modern global issues such as climate change, healthcare, sustainable energy, and biotechnology. Approximately 20% of the course consists of hands-on laboratory investigations covering topics like diffusion and osmosis, microscopy, mitosis and meiosis, bacterial transformation, and DNA gel electrophoresis. The course is selective and all students take the AP Biology Exam in May. Key skills include interpreting biological pathways, applying statistical models such as chi‑square, synthesizing information, and writing AP‑style.

Students in AP Chemistry develop a strong understanding of the fundamental concepts of matter and its changes while strengthening problem-solving and laboratory skills that prepare them for future academic and career pursuits. Designed to mirror a first-year college chemistry course, this class empowers students to discover their strengths, embrace academic challenges, and build clarity, purpose, and confidence as they prepare for the AP Chemistry Exam.

Students connect scientific concepts to real-world applications, recognizing chemistry’s relevance in everyday life. Structured around the nine AP units taught over two semesters, the course follows the AP Course and Exam Description and utilizes college-level textbooks and reference materials.

Grounded in our core values of community, accountability, togetherness, and support, students collaborate, take ownership of their learning, and contribute to a focused academic environment that promotes both individual growth and shared success.

AP Physics C is an Advanced Placement course that offers a calculus-based approach to physics, designed for 11th and 12th-grade students who have prior experience in physics. This course is structured to emulate a first-year college physics curriculum, providing students with a solid foundation in mechanical physics, which is essential for those pursuing careers in engineering and the sciences. 

Throughout the year, students will engage deeply with core concepts, utilizing calculus to analyze physical systems and solve complex problems. A significant aspect of the course is the preparation for the AP Physics C exam, equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel. 

In addition to theoretical learning, hands-on laboratory experiences play a crucial role in reinforcing concepts. The labs are thoughtfully designed to encourage experimentation and critical thinking, allowing students to observe and analyze real-world applications of the principles taught in class. Overall, AP Physics C aims to cultivate both a rigorous understanding of physics and a practical skill set that students will carry into their future academic endeavors.

Honors Biology examines life from molecules to ecosystems, focusing on mechanisms of homeostasis and evolution at an accelerated pace. The course aligns with NGSS and covers major themes such as biomolecules, cell biology and energy, heredity, evolution, and ecology. Students engage in laboratory‑based learning using microscopy, data analysis, and biotechnology tools.  Emphasis is placed on applying an “Honors mindset,” collaboration, critical thinking, and independent study as students shift from consumers of science to practitioners of scientific inquiry.  Skills developed include designing controlled experiments conducting statistical analysis, evaluating ethical and social aspects of biotechnology, and crafting strong science essays.

Chemistry is defined as the science that studies matter and the changes that matter undergoes. This science known as Chemistry is based on observation and experimentation and follows the scientific method for a greater understanding of the nature of matter and everything around us. Chemistry is present not only in an academic setting, but everything that surrounds us. Our materials, objects, food and the environment are filled with matter and a greater understanding for chemistry. A greater understanding of life.

Honors Chemistry will not only examine basic principles of chemistry and how it affects everything around us, but how different materials interact with one another. Students will understand the fundamental concepts of matter and its changes while also developing problem solving skills and Laboratory skills to prepare them for their future. Students will learn concepts that apply to their everyday life around them.

Honors Physics has two primary objectives that guide its curriculum. Firstly, it seeks to cultivate a deep understanding of the scientific principles that govern the physical universe, fostering curiosity and wonder about the natural world. Students will explore fundamental concepts such as motion, energy, and forces, delving into how these elements interact in various contexts.

Secondly, the course aims to equip students with the mathematical tools necessary to analyze and quantify these physical properties. By mastering relevant equations and formulas, students will learn to apply mathematical reasoning to solve problems and make predictions about real-world scenarios. This dual focus on conceptual knowledge and practical application prepares students to appreciate the intricacies of physics and engage with its mathematical foundations.

This Honors-level elective course explores the structure and function of the human body while examining major modern diseases that impact quality of life and longevity. Students investigate the biological foundations of cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, cancer, metabolic disease, and obesity through the lens of contemporary medicine, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence.

The course emphasizes the distinction between lifespan (living longer) and health span (living healthier for longer). Students analyze how AI, precision medicine, wearable technologies, genomics, and emerging therapeutics such as GLP-1 receptor agonists are transforming healthcare, disease prevention, diagnostics, and personalized treatment. Students will engage in case studies, scientific literature, medical imaging, bioethical debates, and current health technologies while developing critical thinking, research, and scientific communication skills.

This course is designed to be a rigorous, inquiry-based exploration of the living world. By engaging in CP-level coursework, students develop the academic stamina and self-advocacy skills essential for success in higher education. This course requires high motivation; students are expected to take ownership of their learning, completing individual assignments with precision and contributing equitably to collaborative laboratory investigations. Due to the depth of the curriculum and preparation for the Spring assessment, students should dedicate 1–2 hours of independent study and application outside of class daily.

This course introduces students to the principles of modern chemistry with an emphasis on analytical problem solving and quantitative reasoning. Students develop a strong conceptual foundation while learning to apply their understanding to real-world situations. Through engaging inquiry, data analysis, and collaborative work, students are encouraged to discover their strengths and embrace academic challenges.

Guided by our core values of community, accountability, togetherness, and support, the course fosters a respectful and collaborative learning environment. Students take ownership of their learning, work responsibly both independently and in teams, and contribute positively to a supportive classroom culture.

Topics include states of matter, atomic theory, periodic trends, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, intermolecular forces, gas laws, thermodynamics, kinetics and equilibrium, acids and bases, and oxidation–reduction reactions.

College Preparatory Physics is a course designed to be as rewarding as it is rigorous. By committing to CP-level coursework, you are developing the mathematical modeling and critical thinking skills essential for the demands of higher education. Physics is the study of how the universe works, from the smallest subatomic particles to the motion of galaxies. Because we move at a collegiate pace, success requires a high level of personal motivation and proactive responsibility.

This course provides a broad overview of major scientific disciplines allowing for students to discover their strengths in either chemistry, physics, and or biology. Through the study of foundational concepts students build and apply scientific vocabulary with clarity, purpose, and confidence.

Guided by our core values of community, accountability, togetherness, and support, the course fosters a respectful and collaborative learning environment.  Students take ownership of their learning, work responsibly both independently and in teams, and contribute positively to a supportive classroom culture.

By emphasizing both skill development and meaningful application, the course challenges students to embrace academic growth and develop the confidence needed for a future in scientific disciplines.