SCIENCE

The New York State assessments in Science are given at the prescribed times.

461 - GENERAL SCIENCE 6

Prerequisite: none
Weight = 1.00
Grade Level: 6
Final Examination: none

Topics covered in General Science 6 include chemical interactions, forces and motion, changes through geologic time, ecosystems, and astronomy. Through hands-on activities, the students will be active in observing and inferring science concepts and using numbers to record and interpret data. The students will also use computer technology to perform observational studies and to complete assignments.

471 - LIFE SCIENCE / HEALTH

Prerequisite: none
Weight = 1.00
Grade Level: 7
Final Examination: department-developed exam

The major emphasis of Life Science is on our relationship with other living organisms. The course deals with a gradual progression through all of the kingdoms of life. The student learns an appreciation for the inner working of all organisms including himself. Included in the life science course are some of the following topics: genetics, evolution, ecology, mental health, nutrition, stress, problem-solving, communication, peer pressure, the systems of the body, growth reproduction, personal hygiene, physical fitness, consumer protection, basic first aid, drug awareness, Community and the Environment. The course includes approximately ten formal written laboratory investigations. These include dissection, field studies, and nutrient testing. There are also many informal lab activities.

481 - PHYSICAL SCIENCE

Prerequisite: none
Weight = 1.00
Grade Level: 8
Final Examination: department-developed exam

Physical Science is presented to all eighth grade students. The year is divided into two sections. The first semester is called Introduction to Chemistry. It takes the student from the introduction of matter to complex chemical reactions. This section makes use of many hands-on experiments involving element identification, acid-base reactions, etc. The second half is called Introduction to Physics. Energy, force and motion are the prime areas covered. Experiments in electricity, motion, and the use of all six simple machines are explored during this section.

484 - PHYSICAL SCIENCE/H

Prerequisite: 90+ in Life Science and Math 7A and teacher recommendation
Weight = 1.04
Grade Level: 8
Final Examination: department-developed exam

The content of this honors level course is similar to 481. However, due to the math and science ability of the students, the course pace is much faster and topics are covered must more in depth.

NOTE: Students must maintain an 85+ average in order to remain in this class.

413 - LIVING ENVIRONMENT (lab requirement)

Prerequisite: none
Credit: 1
Weight = 1.00
Grade Level: 9
Final Examination: NYS Regents exam in Living Environment in June

Living Environment explores a variety of topics which are essential in understanding our complex and changing environment. The investigation into these topics is facilitated by related laboratory exercises. Some of the central themes include unity and diversity, photosynthesis, human physiology, homeostasis, reproduction and development, transmission of traits (genetics), evolution, and ecology.

415 - BIOLOGY/H (lab requirement)

Prerequisite: 90+ in Earth Science and teacher recommendation
Credit: 1
Weight = 1.08
Grade Level: 9
Final Examination: NYS Regents exam in Living Environment in June

The content of this honors level course is similar to 421. However, due to the math and science ability of the students, the course goes much faster and topics are covered must more in depth.

NOTE: Students must maintain an 85+ average in order to remain in this class.

425 - CHEMISTRY (lab requirement)

Prerequisite: 80+ in Living Environment and passing grade on Living Environment regents exam
Credit: 1
Weight = 1.04
Grade Level: 10
Final Examination: NYS Regents exam in Physical Setting Chemistry

This course provides a strong foundation in theoretical and descriptive chemistry. The New York State Regents course outline The Physical Environment: Chemistry is used as the starting point for subjects covered. Material studied is expanded to get each student ready to successfully complete the course and to give each student the background needed to begin the study of chemistry in college. Laboratory experiments are an integral part of the course. Reports written for each experiment and the problem solving that is studied foster the development of critical thinking skills. The major topics studied include: matter and energy, atomic theory and structure, the periodic law, chemical bonding, nomenclature and formula writing, chemical equations and stoichiometry, phases of matter, chemical reactions, organic chemistry, and nuclear chemistry.

433 - GENERAL CHEMISTRY

Prerequisite: none
Duration: full year
Credit: 1
Weight = 1.00
Grade Level: 10
Final Examination: teacher-developed exam

This course does not fulfill the science requirement for the NYS advanced designation diploma. General Chemistry is an introductory course focusing on the basic principles of chemistry. Some of the key topics covered include the separation of matter, atomic theory and structure, the periodic table, ionic and covalent bonding, chemical formulas and equations, chemical reactions, acids and bases, organic chemistry, food chemistry, and nuclear chemistry. The investigation into these topics is facilitated by related laboratory investigations and a formal lab report is required for each experiment.

426 - CHEMISTRY/H (lab requirement)

Prerequisite:85+ in Living Environment/ H and teacher recommendation

Duration: full year
Credit: 1
Weight = 1.08
Grade Level: 10
Final Examination: NYS Regents exam in Physical Setting Chemistry

A strong foundation in theoretical and descriptive chemistry, particularly the quantitative aspects of the subject, is given in this course. Material covered includes all parts of the science of chemistry which are needed to provide students with an exceptional background to be ready to study college chemistry. The content of this honors level course is similar to 4300. However, due to the math and science ability of the students, the course goes much faster and topics are covered must more in depth.

NOTE: Students must maintain an 85+ average in order to remain in this class.

435 - Environmental Science

Duration: full year
Credit: 1
Weight = 1.00
Grade Level: 11
Final Examination: teacher-developed exam

Environmental Science provides students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and man-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Environmental science is a multidisciplinary science.

428 - AP Environmental Science

Duration: full year
Credit: 1
Weight = 1.12
Grade Level: 11
Final Examination: teacher-developed exam

The goal of the AP Environmental Science course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Environmental science is interdisciplinary; it embraces a wide variety of topics from different areas of study. Yet there are several major unifying constructs, or themes, that cut across the many topics included in the study of environmental science.

454/455 - PHYSICS (lab requirement) This course is taught at HVCC

Prerequisite: successful completion of Chemistry and Algebra 2/Trigonometry with passing grades on both

the Chemistry and Algebra 2/Trigonometry regents exams This course in physics uses various methods of problem solving techniques and critical thinking methods as well as hands-on laboratory experience to enable students to understand a broad range of topics in physics. Problem solving techniques include the use of basic mathematical approaches to find solutions. An understanding of algebra and basic right triangle trigonometry are required. Students are also expected to be able to verbally express the methods used in reaching a solution to problems presented in class. The course of study includes: problem solving techniques (including graphing, dimensional analysis, and statistical analysis of data), linear motion and two-dimensional motion, Newton's laws of motion, conservation of momentum, work, power, conservation of energy, static electricity and electrical potential, electric circuits, magnetism and electromagnetism, wave properties, properties of sound and light, and a broad overview of modern physics.

440 - Science 12

Prerequisite: none
Credit: 1
Weight = 1.00
Grade Level: 12
Final Examination: teacher-developed exam

Topics include Newton's laws; the properties of matter; heat, sound, and light energy; electricity. Students will also learn some basics in engineering. The major emphasis is concept development through laboratory experiences and concept reinforcement through application activities. There is more of an emphasis on the concepts of physics than on mathematical models and relationships.

444 - ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY/H

Prerequisite: 85+ in Living Environment/ H and Chemistry/H, and teacher recommendation
Credit: 1
Weight = 1.12
Grade Level: 12
Final Examination: teacher-developed exam

This honors level course is a detailed study of the structure and function of the human body. It is designed for students who are interested in pursuing careers in the health and life sciences. Topics covered include: chemical organization, cells, tissues, as well as the major systems of the body - integument, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive. A strong emphasis is placed on homeostasis and the development of disease. The course is especially designed for those students contemplating a career in the health field.