A good science background is essential in our technology-oriented society and workplace. The goal of the North Carolina Standard Course of Study for Science is to achieve scientific literacy, "the knowledge and understanding of scientific concepts and processes required for scientific decision making, participation in civic and cultural affairs, and economic productivity. Students have the opportunity to learn science by receiving direct instruction, by reading journals, textbooks and supplemental materials, by solving standards-based problems, and by doing laboratory experiments and investigations.  

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Students are encouraged to take a science class each year, not only to enhance future college admissions, but also to gain a better understanding of the world around them, however they are only required to take three courses. Throughout their science courses students will learn practical application of chemistry and physics concepts by studying structure and organization of matter, energy, forces, and other practical applications of science to everyday living. They will continue to learn the principles of life, cellular functions, interrelationships in plant and animal kingdoms, body processes, and ecology in Biology.  As they continue taking science classes, students will be able to choose from various courses such as Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, AP Biology, Physical Science, and Anatomy.

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Physical Science 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 10-12 

   Weight: S 

   Prerequisite: 

Learn practical application of chemistry and physics concepts by studying structure and organization of matter, energy, forces, and other practical applications of science to everyday living. 

 

Biology 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 9-10 

   Weight: S 

   Prerequisite: English I 

Learn the principles of life, cellular functions, interrelationships in plant and animal kingdoms, body processes, and ecology. Participate in lab activities. 

 

Biology Honors 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 9-10 

   Weight: H 

   Prerequisite: English I & Teacher recommendation 

 Learn the principles of life, cellular functions, interrelationships in plant and animal kingdoms, body processes, and ecology. Exhibit the highest work standards possible, including extensive independent study and personal motivation.

 

Advanced Placement Biology 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 11-12 

   Weight: AP 

   Prerequisite: Recommended for students with a “B” or better average in Biology and Chemistry 

Study three main areas: a) molecules and cells (25 percent); b) genetics and evolution (25 percent); and c) organisms and populations (50 percent). Participate in laboratory experiences that will constitute about one-fourth to one-third of the course content. Earn college credit by successfully completing all prescribed work and by earning a high score on the AP exam. 

 

Anatomy 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 11-12 

   Weight: S 

   Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry recommended

Study the structure and function of the human from the molecular level to the level of the whole organism. Participate in lab that includes work with the microscope and fetal pig dissection.

 

Anatomy Honors 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 11-12 

   Weight: H 

   Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry recommended 

Study the structure and function of the human body from the molecular level to the level of the whole organism. Participate in laboratories, conduct independent research, and complete an outside science project. 

 

Biology II 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 11-12 

   Weight: H 

   Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry 

Study hypotheses formation, experimentation, collection and analysis of data, and the literature of biology. Apply skills learned to experiments in microbiology, animal behavior, plant and animal physiology participate in laboratory work and make use of technology in scientific research. Participate in an in-depth study of the scientific method and its relation to the science of biology. 

 

Chemistry 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 11-12 

   Weight: S 

   Prerequisite: Biology & Alg. I

Study the classification and changes in matter, descriptive chemistry, periodic properties of elements, stoichiometry kinetic molecular theory, chemical reactions, thermodynamics, acids, bases, and salts. Participate in laboratory experiments and problem solving. 

 

Chemistry Honors 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 11-12 

   Weight: H 

   Prerequisite: Biology & Algebra I

Study classification and changes in matter, descriptive chemistry, periodic properties of elements, stoichiometry kinetic molecular theory, chemical reactions, thermodynamics, acids, bases, and salts. Complete a major project, cover special topics, and proceed at an advanced pace and more depth. 

 

Chemistry II Honors 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 11-12 

   Weight: H 

   Prerequisite: C or better in Chemistry I, Algebra II

Study the principles of chemistry beyond those covered in Chemistry I. Learn solutions, electrolytes, organic, acid-based chemistry, chemical kinetics, and nuclear chemistry. Participate in lab work and an independent project using the Internet. 

 

Advanced Placement Chemistry 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 11-12 

   Weight: AP 

   Prerequisite: Chemistry Honors and Algebra II recommended

Study the atomic structure, atomic theory, chemical bonding, nuclear chemistry, gases, liquids, solids, solutions, chemical reactions, and descriptive chemistry. Participate in lengthy laboratory experiments and maintain a lab notebook. Experiments are usually 2 to 3 hours in length. 

 

Earth Science 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 9-12 

   Weight: S 

   Prerequisite: None 

Learn the function of the earth’s system with emphasis placed on matter, energy, crustal dynamics, environmental awareness, materials and the cycles that circulate energy and material through the earth system. 

 

Earth Science Honors 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 9 

   Weight: H 

   Prerequisite: None 

Investigate all areas of earth science, including plate tectonics, and the lithosphere. Conduct investigations to better understand how the earth relates to the solar system and the rest of the universe. Conduct outside investigations and complete outside readings. 

 

Occupational Science I, II 

   Credit: 1 per course 

   Grade: 9-12 

   Weight: R 

   Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation 

Occupational Science I, II are a series of courses that focus on science and health related issues. Occupational Science I will explore personal health and well being, learn safety and first aid procedures, and study topics of illnesses, substance abuse and nutrition. Occupational Science II will focus on family life topics that include changes with puberty, relationships and family planning. 

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Advanced Placement Environmental Science 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 11-12 

   Weight: AP 

   Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry, completed or enrolled in Algebra II 

Study scientific analysis, interdependence of Earth’s systems, human population dynamics, renewable and nonrenewable resources, environmental quality, global changes and their consequences, environment and society, and choices for the future. Participate in laboratory experiences that constitute one fourth to one-third of the course. Earn college credit by successfully completing all prescribed work and by earning a score of 3 or higher on the AP exam. 

 

Physics 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 11-12 

   Weight: S 

   Prerequisite: Algebra II 

Study the physical relationships of matter and energy. Topics include mechanics, kinetic theory and properties of matter, thermodynamics, wave mechanics, electricity and magnetism. Practice problem solving in this course. 

 

Advanced Placement Physics 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 11-12 

   Weight: AP 

   Prerequisite: Algebra II Honors 

Study the topics determined by the Advanced Placement Physics syllabus including Newtonian mechanics, heat, kinetic theory, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, waves, optics, quantum physics, nuclear physics, and special relativity. 

 

Physics Honors 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 12 

   Weight: H 

   Prerequisite: Algebra II 

Study the physical relationships of matter and energy. Topics include mechanics, kinetic theory and properties of matter, thermodynamics, wave mechanics, electricity, and magnetism. Practice problem solving in this course. Complete a major project.

 

Astronomy 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 10-12 

   Weight: S 

   Prerequisite: Algebra II 

Investigate the processes used to form models to explain the cosmos. Students will conduct investigations, observe the heavens, and practice mathematical computations. Study how stars evolved and how their evolution affects the interstellar medium. Complete and outside science project for the science fair. 

 

Astronomy Honors 

   Credit: 1 

   Grade: 10-12 

   Weight: H 

   Prerequisite: Algebra II and instructor approval 

Investigate the processes used to form models to explain the cosmos at the Honors level. Students will conduct investigations, observe the heavens, and practice mathematical computations. Study how stars evolved and how their evolution affects the interstellar medium. Complete an outside science project for the science fair.