During the first half of the year the students study basic chemistry, emphasizing the periodic table, chemical bonding and chemical equations. Basic principles of physics are covered during the latter half of the year. Forces, gas laws, electricity and waves are some of the concepts that will be discussed. Laboratories are an integral part of this course. This course presents biology through the use of readings, discussions, field trips and laboratory investigations.
Students experience an inside view of how biologists study the living world.
Concentrations of study will include ecology, cell structure and function, genetics, evolution, micro-organisms, plants and animals. This course is offered to those students who have displayed an aptitude in science through lab work, critical thinking and understanding. Through a variety of lab work and class work students will explore ecology, molecular biology, cell structure and function, classical and molecular genetics, evolution and plants and animals. This course provides a solid background for the Advanced Placement Biology course offered in twelfth grade. Departmental permission is required.