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Science
Science Course Descriptions PDF Print E-mail

Science 1/2C  (Grades 9-12)

This lab based course focuses on the forces that shape our environment.  We will analyze how science relates to our daily lives.  The impact and how we deal with earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, toxic waste accidents, society’s use of hazardous materials and other disasters will be investigated.  Dangers, preventive maintenance and TLC (Tender Loving Care) strategies and solutions for maintaining and improving a healthy body and planet will be developed.  We will practice critical thinking and problem solving skills and explore career opportunities. Prerequisite: 1st yr. science students-academically motivated students that are concurrently enrolled in Algebra 1/2C or higher, 2nd & 3rd yr. science students must have successfully completed 1 full yr. of science.  Course meets the physical science graduation requirement and may be used as a 3rd yr. science.

Biology 1/ 2 (College Prep) (Grades 10-12)

A two-semester course of study that surveys the life science topics including cell biology, genetics, human physiology, evolution and ecology.  As much as 40% of the course work is devoted to laboratory experiences and simulation activities.  This laboratory-oriented class meets the Life Science graduation requirement for the Grossmont District and counts as one year of laboratory science for university/college admission.

Biology 1/ 2 (Honors) (Grades 10-12)

A two-semester course of study that surveys the life science topics including cell biology, genetics, human physiology, evolution, and ecology.  As much as 40% of the course work is devoted to laboratory experiences and simulation activities.  The honors level course includes additional experimental and research requirements.  A community college textbook is used.  This laboratory-oriented class meets the Life Science graduation requirement for the Grossmont District and counts as one year of laboratory science for university/college admission.
Recommendation:  The pace, depth and detail require a self-directed and motivated student.

Advanced Placement Biology 1/2  (Grades 11-12)

This course is offered on an every other year basis.  The next offering will be during the 2008-2009 school year.
A two-semester course, which follows the curriculum, outlined by the College Board to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Exam in Biology.  This test may provide a student with college or university credit.  Topics include molecular biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, plants and human physiology.  This class counts as one year of laboratory science for graduation from the Grossmont District and for university/college admission.  
Prerequisites: Completion of/or concurrent enrollment in Chemistry or Physics.

Advanced Placement Environmental Science 1/2  (Grades 11-12)

This course will be offered on an every other year basis.  The next offering will be during the 2007-2008 school year.
A two-semester course is intended to present a survey of the field of environmental science.  It follows the curriculum outlined by the College Board to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Exam in Environmental science.  This test may provide a student with college or university credit.  Topics include global population, ecological principles and applications, energy, land use and management, water use and management, climatology, geology, global issues and politics of science.  This class counts as one year of elective laboratory science for university/college admission.
Prerequisites:  Completion of two years of science.

Chemistry 1/2 (College Prep) (Grades 10-12)

A two-semester course of study in general chemistry that includes the concepts of atomic and molecular structure, chemical nomenclature, reactions, thermodynamics, bonding & periodic law, and equilibrium.  Laboratory and problem-solving skills are emphasized.  This laboratory-oriented class meets the Physical Science graduation requirement for the Grossmont District and counts as one year of laboratory science for university/college admission.
Prerequisites:  Completion of Algebra I with a C grade or better.  It is recommended that students be concurrently enrolled in advanced math such as Algebra II.

Chemistry 1/2 (Honors) (Grades 10-12)

A two-semester laboratory science course planned for the academically talented.  It is a study of matter pertaining to its composition and changes that occur in composition.  There is more detailed and mathematical treatment than in the 1C course.  The same content is covered, and when time allows an introduction to qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis is given.  This course will meet the Physical Science graduation requirement, as well as the UC “d” and “g” requirements.

Advanced Placement Chemistry 1/2 (Grades 10-12)

A two-semester laboratory science course designed to provide the capable student with the opportunity to take part in a college/university level course while attending high school.  The curriculum is consistent with the Advanced Placement Course Description published by the College Board.  This course will meet the Physical Science graduation requirement, as well as the UC “d” and “g” requirements.  Prerequisite:  The AP Chemistry course is designed to be taken only after the successful completion of the first course in high school chemistry and a recommending grade in Algebra 1C or Algebra 1H.

Physics 1/2 (College Prep) (Grades 10-12)

A two-semester course of study that includes the concepts of motion and forces, energy, waves and electromagnetic phenomena.  Basic engineering skills, along with design and construction of experimental equipment are covered.  This laboratory-oriented class meets the Physical Science graduation requirement for the Grossmont District and counts as one year of laboratory science for university/college admission.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra I with a C grade or better, and completion or concurrent enrollment in Algebra II.

Physics 1/2 (Honors) (Grades 10-12)

A two-semester course of study that includes the concepts of motion and forces, energy, waves, and electromagnetic phenomena.  Basic engineering skills, along with design and construction of experimental equipment are covered.  Honors moves at a faster pace than the college-prep level, and covers more content in greater detail. This laboratory-oriented class meets the Physical Science graduation requirement for the Grossmont District and counts as one year of laboratory science for university/college admission.
Prerequisites:  Successful completion of Algebra I with a C grade or better, and completion or concurrent enrollment in Algebra II.

Physiology 1/2 (Honors)  (Grades 10-12)

A two-semester course which is part of the Health Careers Pathways program.  This class will provide an in-depth study of human anatomy and physiology, and students will be required to participate in lab experiences. This course DOES NOT FULFILL the Life Science or Physical Science graduation requirement, however, it does meet the UC “d” and “g” requirements.

Lab Assistant 1-4  (Grades 10-12)

A course designed for students who have demonstrated unusual capabilities in science and wish to assist the instructors in preparing and conducting a variety of lab experiences as an assistant to the instructor.  This course DOES NOT FULFILL the science graduation requirement.

Health Occupations Careers Block  (Grades 9-10)

The Health Occupations Career/Biology Block is a two period block designed for students interested in exploring the Health Occupations and Medical Fields. The course curriculum covers State and National Standards in Biology, Health care Essentials and Physical Science.  Lab practicals for hands-on experience, guest lectures, job shadowing and 40 hours of volunteer service performed at Alvarado Hospital will be part of the student’s experience.  Students will also have the opportunity to meet the CPR/First aid requirement and obtain their CPR/First Aid AED Red Cross certification.  This course fulfills the one-year Life Science graduation requirement for the Grossmont District.  Students will receive 25 credits: 10 credits of Biology 1H, 10 credits of Health Care Essentials or Physiology 1H and 5 credits of science elective.
2 options are available:
    (1)  A one-year fast track program (with out PE credit) or
    (2)  a 2 year program (which includes PE credit).    
Prerequisite: The two-hour block and job shadow/volunteer work in the community demands motivation, commitment and maturity.