Satisfies requirement for a physical science course. Teacher recommendation required as well as approval of instructor. Completion of Chemistry is recommended. Concurrent enrollment in Trigonometry would be helpful but is not required. The course emphasizes a conceptual understanding of the basic principles of physics through labs, discussion, group work and the use of various computer software applications.
Problem solving is also an important component of the course.
First and second quarter focus on mechanics, including one and two-dimensional motion, circular motion, Newton's laws, vectors, gravitation, momentum, energy, and conservation laws. Third quarter topics are static electricity, electric circuits, magnetism, and electromagnetism. This is a laboratory and research course covering cellular biology, genetics, human anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, and evolution. This course is intended for the student interested in an advanced level biology course. One year, two credits.