Earth Science is designed as a survey course touching major areas of earth science. More importantly, this course stresses concepts from earth science that are significant to all Christians. Science instruction will provide opportunities for students to observe, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information about our world.
Life Science is designed to enhance the student’s understanding of life science as well as gain knowledge of God’s complex and awesome creation. Through observations, experiments and in depth studies, the student will gain a background in life sciences that will serve as a solid foundation for high school Biology.
UC approved “g” elective
Conceptual Physics is interdisciplinary, covering concepts of matter, chemistry, heat, mechanics, electricity, magnetism, sound, light, and astronomy. The emphasis is on a conceptual understanding of the material although mathematical applications are introduced. Students are guided through the series of concepts with labs, lectures, discussions, readings, quizzes, demonstrations, and writing assignments.
Co-requisite: Algebra I B
Biology is a survey course composed of readings, discussions, written assignments, lectures, lab studies, individual and group presentations, multimedia presentations and lessons. The course curriculum is divided into three unit studies: (1) Biology: The Science of Life; (2) Organisms; and (3) The Human Body. In the first unit, relationships between God, man, and science are investigated. Various views on origins are compared and contrasted. The interconnectedness of life and the total environment is emphasized. In the second unit, students study classification, kingdoms are investigated, and life processes are studied. In the final unit, the study of human anatomy and physiology is coordinated with related topics such as diet, exercise, development and the maturing process. Classroom studies are augmented by one or two field trips, usually to the Nimbus Dam Fish Hatchery on the American River and to the Monterey Bay Aquarium where students tour and perform labs conducted by the aquarium personnel.
Prerequisite: Conceptual Physics
UC approved “d” Lab Science
Biology AP is designed to be the equivalent of a two-semester college introductory biology course. The kind of textbook used, the range and depth of topics covered, the kind of lab work done by students, and the time and effort required of students distinguishes this course as college-level biology. Students will study three general areas: (1) molecules and cells, (2) heredity and evolution, and (3) organisms and populations.
Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry or Chemistry Honors recommended
UC approved “d” Lab Science
Chemistry is the branch of science that deals with the study of the composition, structure, and properties of matter and the changes that matter undergoes. The course begins with a general overview of the subject and its relationship to the Bible, then proceeds to develop relevant mathematical concepts. Much attention is given to the development of man's concept of the atom over the past 200 years and to the Periodic Table and chemical bonding. Second semester is devoted to such topics as stoichiometry, thermodynamics, gases, solutions, kinetics, chemical equilibrium, acids and bases, and nuclear chemistry. Relevant and interesting laboratory experiences supplement the course material, as do teacher demonstrations.
Prerequisite: Algebra I and Biology, concurrent Algebra II
UC approved “d” Lab Science
Chemistry Honors is taught with a similar scope and sequence to the regular Chemistry sections, with a heavier emphasis on mathematical applications, more advanced concepts, and lab work.
Prerequisite: Algebra I and Biology, concurrent Algebra II
UC approved “d” Lab Science
Physics is interdisciplinary, covering concepts of matter, chemistry, heat, mechanics, electricity, magnetism, sound, light, and astronomy. The course contains quantitative problem solving at less complex levels than the AP Physics course. Only an understanding of algebra is needed for successful completion of the course. Students are guided through the series of concepts with labs, lectures, discussions, readings, quizzes, demonstrations, and writing assignments.
Prerequisite: Algebra II, Biology, Chemistry
UC approved “d” Lab Science
Physics AP is centered on quantitative problem solving to prepare students for the AP Physics exam given in the spring of each year. The concepts of calculus are introduced but only an understanding of algebra is needed for successful completion of the course. Students are expected to take the AP Physics B exam in May.
Prerequisite: Algebra II, Biology, Chemistry
UC approved “d” Lab Science
Marine Biology is designed to guide the student through a study of major marine habitats of the world, present the diversity of marine plants and animals, trace important life cycles, and explore the variety of relationships that exist among marine organisms, the environment, and humans. This course may help a student gain a deeper appreciation for God as the creator and sustainer of the fantastically diverse life forms of the marine habitat and may help the student to grow in wisdom as a manager of God’s resources. The course is composed of readings, discussions, lectures, student research projects, individual and group presentations, development and maintenance of classroom aquariums, lab studies, multimedia information, and two field trips.
Prerequisite: Biology
UC approved “d” Lab Science
Anatomy and Physiology is a second year biology course for students interested in biology, medicine, and related professions. Students will be introduced to many lab experiences that will help them to understand both the human body and the importance of correct laboratory procedures.
Prerequisite: Biology
UC approved “g” Elective