The Science Department consists of a wide variety of both required courses for seventh and eighth grade students as well as required courses for grades 9-12. These courses are listed below, along with their course descriptions.

Students wishing to take courses beyond those which are required should consult with the science teachers and/or their guidance counselor to determine their eligibility for these courses. Most courses are taken in sequence so that students do not find themselves in academic difficulty as a result of taking a course that is too advanced.

Seventh Grade Honors Life Science - 1 Credit - Life science students are introduced to the study of biology. The major topics that will be covered are cellular biology, zoology, botany and technology. Students will apply their knowledge by doing laboratory activities using microscopes, dissecting animals and preparing botanical collections. Cooperative learning will be a major part of seventh grade science. Students are required to do supplemental readings and activities. A higher level of questioning is used and students are required to answer higher level thinking questions for class discussions, homework and on tests.

Eighth Grade Earth and Space Science - 1 Credit - This course is designed to familiarize students with the concepts and skills associated with Earth and Space Science. The activities and projects will enable students to investigate the far reaches of space, the depths of the ocean, the exterior and interior of the earth and, in general, better understand the planet on which they live.

Eighth Grade Honors Earth and Space Science - 1 Credit - This course is designed to familiarize students with the concepts and skills associated with Earth and Space Science. During the course of study students will be required to investigate topics and present formal reports using charts, posters and other materials. The activities and projects will enable students to investigate the far reaches of space, the depths of the ocean, the exterior and interior of the earth and, in general, better understand the planet on which they live.

Astronomy/Meteorology – 1 Credit - This course is designed to instruct students in the fundamental concepts of Astronomy along with the dynamics of Meteorology. This class will use observations, activities, and projects to help students comprehend the scientific ideas and theories associated with space and to grasp the processes of the earth’s dynamic atmospheric systems.

General Biology – 1 Credit - This course is designed to compare and contrast the differences and similarities found among living things. The course will cover structural, functional, chemical, genetic and evolutionary characteristics.

Biology I - 1 Credit - This course is the study of life that will focus on the structural and functional similarities and differences found among living things. It will describe and explain the chemical and structural basis of living things, how genetic information is inherited and expressed. This course will cover the mechanisms of the Theory of Evolution.

Honors Biology - 1 Credit - Similar description to biology. The material will be covered at a faster pace. The course will also look at current issues facing biological sciences. This course is weighted at 1.08 percent of grade achieved.

Biology II - 1 Credit - This course is a more advanced level of biology. It will take a deeper approach to the relationships between structure and function at all levels of organization, gene inheritance and expression at a molecular level, evolution and current issues in biological sciences.

Environmental Science - 1 Credit - The activities and projects of this course will enable students to understand the interactions of man, animals and plants with their environment. The course concentrates on the State of Pennsylvania and parts of the northeast United States. State standards are followed on topics the include Pennsylvania's water systems, agriculture, environmental laws, and environmental health; its pest management programs and its natural resources. The course will also touch on energy conservation and energy alternatives. Current environmental topics, such as global warming, will be discussed on a weekly basis. Limited laboratory work and use of the greenhouse will be included.

Honors Environmental Science - 1 Credit - The activities and projects of this course will enable students to understand the ecological and chemical interactions of man, animals and plants with their environment. The course concentrates on the State of Pennsylvania and parts of the northeast United States. State standards are followed on topics the include Pennsylvania's water systems, agriculture, environmental laws, and environmental health; its pest management programs and its natural resources. Detailed emphasis will also be placed on energy conservation and energy alternatives. Current environmental topics will be discussed on a weekly basis. Laboratory work and field trips are included in the program. Certain industries and their effects on the environment, include pollution versus economic prosperity and conservation, will also be discussed. This course is weighted at 1.08 percent of grade achieved.

Geo Science – 1 Credit - GeoScience is designed to give students a greater understanding of the world around them through a unique amalgamation of Geology with Geography. Students will learn the natural processes that shape the Earth, how humans have altered it, and how to navigate their way around it. The class will focus on projects, activities, and debates to make topics relevant to students’ lives.

Honors Chemistry - 1 Credit - Prerequisite - Algebra I and Geometry. This general chemistry course is accelerated to meet the needs of the highly motivated academic student. The traditional topics of chemistry will be covered with an emphasis on mathematics and problem solving. This course is weighted at 1.08 percent of grade achieved.

Honors Chemistry II – 1 Credit - Prerequisite – Honors Chemistry I. This general chemistry course is a continuation of Honors Chemistry I. Traditional chemistry topics will be covered with an emphasis on mathematics and problem solving, using laboratory work for reinforcement of the topics. This course is weighted at 1.08 percent of grade achieved.

Physics - 1 Credit - Prerequisite - Algebra I, Geometry, and enrolled in Algebra II. The classical topics in physics will be covered with a strong emphasis on mathematical problem solving. These topics will include energy, vectors, velocity and acceleration, concurrent and parallel forces, motion and momentum, waves, and electrostatics.

Honors Physics I - 1 Credit - Prerequisite - Algebra I, Geometry, and enrolled in Algebra II. This course is designed for the college-bound student who will need a background in classical physics. With supportive experimentation, much emphasis is placed on the mathematical approach in understanding the topics. Topics to be covered include energy, vectors, velocity and acceleration, concurrent and parallel forces, motion and momentum, waves and electrostatics. This course is weighted at 1.08 percent of grade achieved.

Honors Anatomy and Physiology - 1 Credit - Prerequisite - Biology, Chemistry, and it is recommended to have a grade of 85 or better in a previous science class. Advanced Science is for senior students who have both "interest" and ability in the science area. Emphasis will be on a biochemical/anatomical approach to the biological sciences. This course is weighted at 1.08 percent of grade achieved. This course may be considered for credit at Keystone College as part of our Dual Enrollment Agreement.