Science

Standard Diploma Credits Advanced Studies Diploma Credits
Laboratory Sciences 3 Laboratory Sciences 3
Students must earn at least 3 science credits that include courses from 2 different science disciplines: Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.    Students must earn at least 4 science credits that include courses from 3 different science discipline: Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics  

The goal of the Frederick County Science program is to develop scientific literacy and that all high school students are able to use and apply scientific knowledge. These courses focus provide students opportunities to explore scientific concepts and explanations of natural phenomena, test those explanations, and communicate their findings both in oral and written forms. Through this process, students develop a deep understanding of science that combines knowledge and facts with reasoning and critical thinking.

 

 

Highly motivated students have the option of enrolling in Advanced Placement science courses, and/or dual enrollment science courses. Important theories and applications from the science field and elements of experimental design and data analysis are stressed in all courses. Teachers of any course may require an independent or group project.

Students taking Advanced Placement Biology, Advanced Placement Chemistry and Advanced Placement Physics C, will be required to enroll in topics in Advanced Placement lab courses for ½ credit.

Although the same material is presented in all classes in a given subject area, differences in learning style, achievement in previous science courses, and differing career and educational goals are reflected in the various course offerings.

Courses

AP Biology: 4370X

Credits 1.0
This course is the equivalent of a college introductory biology course and contains rigorous requirements in terms of the range and depth of topics presented, the kind of laboratory work done by students and the time and effort of students. Students enrolling in this course must also enroll in topics in Advanced Placement Science (4370L). Students cultivate their understanding of biology through inquiry-based investigations as they explore the following topics: evolution, cellular processes - energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology and interactions. The Advanced Placement course outline is followed, and students are prepared to be successful on the AP exam for possible college credit. If a laboratory investigation includes an animal dissection, an alternative assignment will be provided to students objecting to this activity. See Guidelines for Placement of Students in Honors/AP/Dual Enrolled Classes.

AP Chemistry: Theory With Applications: 4470X

Credits 1.0
AP Chemistry is a second-year course designed for those students who plan to major in a science or related field at the college level. Students enrolling in this course must also enroll in topics in Advanced Placement Science (4470L). The AP course outline is followed and students are prepared to be successful on the Advanced Placement exam for possible college credit. Through inquiry-based learning, students develop critical thinking and reasoning skills. Students cultivate their understanding of chemistry and science practices as they explore topics such as: atomic structure, intermolecular forces and bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics, and equilibrium. See Guidelines for Placement of Students in Honors/AP/Dual Enrolled Classes.

AP Environmental Science: 4270X

Credits 1.0
This course is the equivalent of a one-semester, introductory college course in environmental science, through which students engage with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. This course requires students to identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Environmental science is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from geology, biology, environmental studies, environmental science, chemistry, and geography. See Guidelines for Placement of Students in Honors/AP/Dual Enrolled Classes.

AP Physics 1: 4573X

Credits 1.0
This is the first year of a two year course sequence designed to cover all of the topics presented in a first year Algebra based college Physics course. Emphasis is placed on mathematical development of concepts; therefore, a stronger mathematics background is required for success. The course covers Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum); work, energy, and power; mechanical waves and sound. It will also introduce electric circuits. Students demonstrating outstanding achievement in this course will be prepared for the Advanced Placement Physics 1 exam for possible college credit. Co-enrollment in a Topics in Advanced Placement Science course is not required. See Guidelines for Placement of Students in Honors/AP/Dual Enrolled Classes.

AP Physics 2: 4574X

Credits 1.0
This is the second year of a two year course sequence designed to cover all of the topics presented in a first year Algebra based college Physics course. Emphasis is placed on mathematical development of concepts; therefore, a stronger mathematics background is required for success. The course covers fluid mechanics; thermodynamics; electricity and magnetism; optics; atomic and nuclear physics. Students demonstrating outstanding achievement in this course will be prepared for the Advanced Placement Physics 2 exam for possible college credit. Co-enrollment in a Topics in Advanced Placement Science course is not required. See Guidelines for Placement of Students in Honors/AP/Dual Enrolled Classes.

AP Physics C: Theory With Applications: 4571X

Credits 1.0
AP Physics is a calculus-based second year course. It provides a strong science foundation for students who are college bound. Students enrolling in this course must also enroll in Topics in Advanced Placement Science (4570L). The Advanced Placement course outline for Physics C, which emphasizes Newtonian mechanics and electricity and magnetism, is followed. Students are prepared to be successful on the AP Physics C examination for possible college credit. See Guidelines for Placement of Students in Honors/AP/Dual Enrolled Classes.

Biology I: Theory With Applications: 4310

Credits 1.0
Biology I is a laboratory-based course that includes the study of ecology, taxonomy, cellular chemistry, genetics, microbiology, and physiology. These areas are developed within a framework of principal biological theories with an emphasis on critical thinking and science process skills. This course has an associated Standards of Learning (SOL) test. Students will participate in this test to satisfy federal testing requirements.

Biology II: Theory With Applications: 4330

Credits 1.0

This is an elective biology course that focuses on body structures and their functions. Topics will include, but may not be limited to, anatomy, functions of the human body, injuries and illnesses. Lab exercises will include dissections and use of microscopes. This course may utilize animal dissection techniques as an instructional strategy. Students who conscientiously object to these exercises will participate in division-approved activities that provide comparable learning experiences. Students will be encouraged to apply to their own lives the updated and timely information presented in this class. There will be no SOL test upon completion of this course. Note: Students will not receive credit for both Biology II: Survey of Human Systems and Anatomy and Physiology.

Chemistry I: Theory With Applications: 4410

Credits 1.0
Chemistry I emphasizes the qualitative and quantitative study of substances and the changes that occur in them. Students will investigate using various lab techniques and apply mathematical and problem-solving skills. A survey of concepts includes atomic structure, chemical bonding, formulas and equations, stoichiometry and other calculations based on molar relationships, phases of matter and the kinetic molecular theory, the acid-base theory, and simple organic chemistry. This course has an associated Standards of Learning (SOL) test. Students will participate in this test only when they have not yet earned verified science credit for graduation.

Earth & Space Science I: Theory With Applications: 4210

Credits 1.0
Earth Science I is a laboratory-based course that provides students with an opportunity to explore the various physical phenomena that affect the earth. This course, which encompasses research design concepts, helps students become more aware of their surroundings through the study of astronomy, space science, meteorology, oceanography, physical geology, and environmental resources. This course has an associated Standards of Learning (SOL) test. Students will participate in this test only when they have not yet earned verified science credit for graduation.

Environmental Science: 4280

Credits 1.0
This course is an introductory laboratory-based course that provides students with an opportunity to build foundational knowledge in Earth Science and Biology through the lens of environmental literacy and citizenship. This course focuses on both the physical world and the living systems while addressing socio-scientific issues related to humans' impact on the environment, resource conservation, and legal and civic responsibility. This course may be counted toward high school graduation as either an Earth Science I, Biology I, or an elective science discipline credit. The Environmental Science course does not have an associated Standards of Learning (SOL) test.

Honors Anatomy & Physiology I: 4330X

Credits 1.0
This is a rigorous elective biological science course that consists of a detailed study of the anatomy of the human body and the functions of its systems. The biochemistry of each system is emphasized. Required laboratory applications include in-depth analysis of the various systems. This course may utilize animal dissection techniques as an instructional strategy. Students who conscientiously object to these exercises will participate in division-approved activities that provide comparable learning experiences. This course is designed for students who have an interest in entering a health-related field generally requiring a four-year college degree. Note: Students will not receive credit for both Biology II: Survey of Human Systems and Anatomy and Physiology I. This course is the equivalent of a college anatomy and physiology course. See Guidelines for Placement of Students in Honors/AP/Dual Enrolled Classes.

Honors Anatomy & Physiology II: 4320X

Credits 1.0
This course builds upon Anatomy and Physiology I and focuses on the integration of anatomy and physiology of cells, tissues, organs and systems of the human body. Integrates concepts of chemistry, physics and pathology. This course is the equivalent of a college anatomy and physiology course. See Guidelines for Placement of Students in Honors/AP/Dual Enrolled Classes.

Honors Biology I: Theory With Applications: 4310X

Credits 1.0
Honors Biology is designed to give students a foundation in biological concepts as well as the opportunity to apply principles of experimental design in laboratory settings and on a required student project. This course presents the same topics taught in Biology I but with extensions to each curriculum objective. This course has an associated Standards of Learning (SOL) test. Students will participate in this test to satisfy federal testing requirements. See Guidelines for Placement of Students in Honors/AP/Dual Enrolled Classes.

Honors Chemistry I: Theory With Applications: 4410X

Credits 1.0
This course is designed to challenge the more advanced students and is taught at an accelerated pace. The content of this course includes the following: matter and energy, atomic structure, bonding, periodic table, mathematics of chemistry, kinetics and equilibrium, acids and bases, redox and electrochemistry, organic chemistry, applications of chemical properties, nuclear chemistry, and laboratory activities. All content objectives are extended and enriched. A strong math background in which the student has acquired competence in formula writing and solving equations is essential for success. This course has an associated Standards of Learning (SOL) test. Students will participate in this test only when they have not yet earned verified science credit for graduation. See Guidelines for Placement of Students in Honors/AP/Dual Enrolled Classes.

Honors Earth & Space Science I: Theory With Applications: 4210X

Credits 1.0
Honors Earth & Space Science I is a lab-based course designed to give students a foundation in earth science concepts as well as the opportunity to apply principles of experimental design in laboratory settings and on a required student project.This course includes the study of geology, oceanography, meteorology, astronomy, and space science but with extensions to each curriculum objective. This course has an associated Standards of Learning (SOL) test. Students will participate in this test only when they have not yet earned verified science credit for graduation. See Guidelines for Placement of Students in Honors/AP/Dual Enrolled Classes.

Physics I: Theory With Applications: 4510

Credits 1.0
Physics I is a standard first-year course that covers all topics required by the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) for physics. This course is fast-paced, and students are expected to have strong study and mathematical skills. Students will utilize mathematical calculations while applying scientific methodology to investigate Newtonian mechanics; fluids (hydrostatics and hydrodynamics); wave phenomena; electricity and magnetism; thermodynamics; and selected topics in modern physics. Students will be instructed on how to design, conduct, analyze, and interpret data and present results collected from investigations. Written, detailed laboratory reports are required. Students who desire to continue their study of physics upon completion of this course could enroll in AP Physics 1, AP Physics 2, or AP Physics C: Theory with Application.

Topics in Advanced Placement Science: AP Biology: 4370L

Credits 0.5
This course supports learner objectives for AP biology and will include important content from that course. Although hands on laboratory investigations are an integral part of this course, direct instruction, student projects, assessments and other activities may also be included. This class will meet for a total of 70 hours of instruction during the school year and grades taken in this class will be combined with those from AP Biology (4430X) and reported for that class. All students enrolling in AP Biology (4370X) must also enroll in this course.

Topics in Advanced Placement Science: AP Chemistry: 4470L

Credits 0.5
This course supports learner objectives for AP Chemistry and will include important content from that course. Although hands on laboratory investigations are an integral part of this course, direct instruction, student projects, assessments and other activities may also be included. This class will meet for a total of 70 hours of instruction during the school year and grades taken in this class will be combined with those from AP Chemistry (4470X) and reported for that class. All students enrolling in AP Chemistry (4470X) must also enroll in this course.

Topics in Advanced Placement Science: AP Physics (C): 4571L

Credits 0.5
This course supports learner objectives for AP Physics C and will include important content from that course. Although hands on laboratory investigations are an integral part of this course, direct instruction, student projects, assessments and other activities may also be included. This class will meet for a total of 70 hours of instruction during the school year and grades taken in this class will be combined with those from AP Physics C (4571X) and reported for that class. All students enrolling in AP Physics C (4571X) must also enroll in this course.