ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS
SCIENCE

Students will demonstrate the acquisition of a body of knowledge about:

  • The properties and structure of matter, forms and transfer of energy, and the physical and chemical interactions of matter and energy.
  • The processes of cellular life and the fundamental life systems.
  • The processes of the earth’s systems, and the structure and the dynamics of the earth and other celestial bodies.
  • The understanding of the connections among the science disciplines and the relationships of science and technology to other areas.
  • The understanding of the interrelationship between human activity and the natural environment.
Students will communicate effectively by:
  • Representing data and results in multiple way.
  • Reading critically, comprehending and questioning.
  • Speaking concisely
  • Writing clearly
  • Listening carefully and giving constructive feedback.
  • Framing questions so as to encourage inquiry.
Students will demonstrate the ability to think critically and to work cooperatively and independently to solve problems by:
  • Applying the scientific method
  • Applying scientific principles
  • Using traditional laboratory equipment and current technological tools.
Students will demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the rights and responsibilities necessary to learn, live and work in a culturally diverse and democratic society by:
  • Maintaining high standards of academic honesty.
  • Accepting responsibility for personal decisions and actions.
  • Exhibiting punctuality and regular attendance.
  • Completing assignments as scheduled.
  • Displaying appropriate classroom behavior.
bulletPHYSICAL SCIENCE #510
1 Credit – Grade 9
This multi-disciplinary science contains a balanced approach to the physical sciences. During the first half of the year, physical science topics dealing with the area of chemistry are discussed. In the second half of the year, various topics dealing with the area of physics are studied. The course is an excellent foundation in the Science Standards and prepares students for further study in science. Successful completion of this course by all grade 9 students is required in order to go to the next science level.
bulletPHYSICAL SCIENCE HONORS #512
1 Credit – Grade 9
This multi-disciplinary science contains a balanced approach to the physical sciences. During the first half-year, physical science topics dealing with the area of chemistry are studied. Honors Physical Science provides an excellent foundation in the Science Standards and prepares students for further study in science. Successful completion of Honors Physical Science will prepare the student for College Preparatory Biology or College Preparatory Chemistry or both in their sophomore year.
Prerequisite:
  • In order to be eligible for Honors Physical Science the student should be reading at or above grade level for the 9th grade, and be enrolled in Geometry. Any questions relating to students eligibility for this course should be directed to the high school Science Department Head.
bulletADVANCED PLACEMENT BIOLOGY #535
1 Credit – Grades 10-12
This honors course is part of the College Board Advanced Placement Program. It is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory biology course with laboratory, intended for science majors. The course aims to provide students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing science of biology. Students will gain an understanding of molecules and cells, heredity and evolution, and organisms and populations, as well as complete standard AP laboratory investigations. Only those students with a profound interest in biology and in pursuing further science education should choose to take this course. Students are expected to take the College Board Advanced Placement examinations.
Prerequisite: B- or Better in Honors Physical Science or CP Biology. Departmental Chair Approval.
bulletCOLLEGE PREPARATORY BIOLOGY – LAB SCIENCE #533
1 Credit – Grades 10-12
This course deals with the structure and function of all forms of life. Cellular biology and biochemistry, genetics, theories of evolution, taxonomy and ecology are stressed. The five kingdoms are surveyed and presented as a means of showing the diversity and unity of all life. Laboratory work, including dissections, is a required part of the course. High reading ability is essential for success. College Preparatory Biology is the first science in the basic science sequence recommended as a preparation for a four-year college.
Prerequisites:
  • Grade 10 – grade of C- or above in General Science
  • Enrollment in Algebra #407
  • Department Head approval
bulletGENERAL BIOLOGY – LAB SCIENCE #531
1 Credit – Grade 10 (recommended)
This course is designed to introduce the student to the living world around him/her. It aims to present material that will be relevant to an understanding of humans place in the world of nature. Units include ecology, cells, genetics, and the morphology of plants and animals. Recent developments in the field of biology are stressed.
This course is not open to those who have completed College Preparatory Biology.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Physical Science
bulletADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY – LAB SCIENCE #544
1 Credit – Grade 11-12
Advanced Placement Chemistry is designed to prepare qualified students for advanced work in chemistry at the college level. Basic concepts of inorganic chemistry are reviewed and explored at greater depth than in the first year course. New areas are introduced and previous topics are covered such as: nuclear chemistry, thermodynamics, equilibrium, electro-chemistry and gas laws. The primary focus of this course is mathematical problem solving in chemistry. All students taking this course will be required to take the Advanced Placement Exam.
Prerequisites:
  • College Prep Chemistry, Algebra II/Trigonometry with a grade of B- or above
  • Department Head approval
  • Enrollment may be limited. Selection by grade analysis will be used for final selection
** Students who are enrolled in this course may participate in Rhode Island College’s Early Enrollment Program. Students who choose this option can earn four college credits per semester. These credits are accepted by numerous colleges nationally. The cost may vary from year to year at RIC’s discretion.
bulletCOLLEGE PREPARATORY CHEMISTRY – LAB SCIENCE #543
1 Credit – Grades 10-12
This course is an intensive study of the fundamentals of chemistry; the structure of matter and chemical bonding is stressed. Laboratory experiments form an integral part of the course, in order to prepare the students for future work at the college level. A solid foundation in mathematics is essential for success.
This course is not open to those who have taken General Chemistry. College Preparatory Chemistry is the second in the basic science sequence recommended as preparation for a four-year college.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 #401 or Equivalent

Grade 10 – Grade of B- or above in Algebra #401 or Geometry #421 or equivalent. Students may attend summer school in order to better their math grade for entrance into College Preparatory Chemistry.
bulletCHEMISTRY IN THE COMMUNITY – LAB SCIENCE #541
1 Credit – Grades 10-12
This is a course that fulfills the college requirement for those students who do not plan to major in science in college. The two basic aims of this course are: to introduce students to the fundamental principles of chemistry and to show students how chemistry is applied to their lives and to society. The labs are designed to develop and illustrate the chemical concepts introduced in class.
The mathematics involved are less rigorous than those require for college preparatory chemistry. This course is not open to Grade 10 students.
Prerequisite: Minimum requirement – successful completion of applied Algebra 1 #400 or equivalent with concurrent enrollment in Algebra 1 #401.
bulletCRIMINALISTICS: AN INTRODUCTION TO FORENSIC SCIENCE #529
.5 Credit – Semester Course – Grades 10-12
This course provides a complete examination of the procedures, practices, and latest technologies employed in the modern crime laboratory – including DNA typing and important advancements in such areas as drug testing and arson investigation. Some background in biology and chemistry is recommended.
bulletEARTH SCIENCE – LAB SCIENCE #570
1 Credit – Grades 10-12
This course is an in depth study of the principles of astronomy, meteorology, oceanography, and geology. Geological Earth Science is emphasized. Laboratory exercises are an integral part of this course. Reading ability above grade level is essential for success.
Prerequisite:
  • Department Head approval needed
  • Enrollment may be limited. Selection by grade analysis will be used for final selection.
bulletADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS – LAB SCIENCE #555
1 Credit – Grade 12
This course offers a detailed study of mechanics and optics. Students anticipating careers in engineering or the mathematical sciences should take this course. There will be heavy emphasis on laboratory work, some of which will be computer assisted. Calculus will also be used in this course. All students will be required to do an independent research project. Students can be dropped from the course if their effort falls below and acceptable level as judged by the teacher and/or their grade falls below a B. All students taking this course will be required to take the Advanced Placement Exam.
Prerequisites:
  • A minimum grade of B in College Prep Physics
  • Students must also have completed calculus or be taking it concurrently with this course.
  • Department Head approval required. Enrollment may be limited. Selection by grade analysis will be used for final selection.
** Students who are enrolled in this course may participate in Rhode Island College’s Early Enrollment Program. Students who choose this option can earn four college credits per semester. These credits are accepted by numerous colleges nationally. The cost may vary from year to year at RIC’s discretion.
bulletCOLLEGE PREPARATORY PHYSICS – LAB SCIENCE #553
1 Credit – Grades 11-12
This course completes the basic science sequence for those students who are planning to attending a four-year college. It is especially needed by those students who intend to do college level work in mathematics, the physical sciences or the biological sciences. Topics studies include Newtonian mechanics with emphasis on conservation laws, some elements of thermodynamics, gravitational and electrostatic fields, an introduction to electric circuits and atomic theory is also included.
All students are required to submit weekly lab reports. In addition, a quarterly report on a topic of the student’s choice may be required. Superior students are encouraged to do independent research of their own choosing. Not open to students who have completed General Physics/Lab.
Prerequisites:
  • Algebra #401, Geometry #421
  • Trigonometry or 3 years of college preparation mathematics thru Algebra 2/Trigonometry
  • Department Head approval for special circumstances
bulletGENERAL PHYSICS – LAB SCIENCE #550
1 Credit – Grades 11 -12
General Physics is an introductory course intended for students who do not expect to focus on Science or Math in college. The emphasis in this course is on understanding the major concepts in physics. Written explanations are stressed on labs and tests. Topics discussed include motion, Newton’s Laws, waves, light, sound, and electricity.
This course is not open to those who have completed College Prep Physics.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 #401 or equivalent
bulletPHYSIOLOGY – LAB SCIENCE #561
1 Credit – Grade 12 (Grade 11 only after successful completion of Chemistry and seat available)
This course is an advanced approach to the study of the human body. Each organ system is studied in detail. Structure, function, and principles of health maintenance are emphasized. Physiology is especially helpful to students who are considering a career in medicine or health. A weekly lab enhances class material. Dissection is a required part of the course.
Prerequisite:
  • College Preparatory Biology with at least a C- grade
  • Grade analysis will be used for final selection of the students for the course. Enrollment may be limited.
bulletROBOTICS #581
.5 Credit – Semester Course – Grades 10-12
This course will focus on the engineering and design of Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). Content areas on history, current and future use will be explored. Additionally, areas of Structure, Materials, Propulsion Systems, Ballast Systems, Use of Sensors, and Electrical Schematics will be covered. This section will primarily focus on these technological aspects of the world of ROVs.
Prerequisites:
  • Successful completion of Physical Science
  • Previous science teacher recommendation
  • Department Head approval
bulletHORTICULTURE #591
.5 Credit – Semester Course – Grades 10 -12
This course will focus on introductory aspects of the plant sciences. Students will demonstrate proficiency in the classification and identification of specimens collected from field studies and will demonstrate knowledge of ornamental plant species, native plant species, lawn maintenance, perennials, annuals, evergreens, trees and vines. Students will also learn proper care and maintenance of plant species, as well as various propagation methods associated with horticulture.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Physical Science