SCIENCE

The mission of the secondary science program is to empower all students to become scientifically literate, curious, and responsible global citizens. The goal of science education is to cultivate individuals who understand and apply scientific knowledge and processes to make informed decisions. It inspires curiosity, critical thinking, and a positive attitude toward solving real-world problems while fostering an appreciation for the impact of science and technology on society and the natural world.

Science is not just a collection of facts or tools—it is a dynamic and creative process of inquiry. Effective science education equips students with the skills to ask meaningful questions and seek evidence-based answers. A robust science curriculum integrates scientific principles with logical thinking, emphasizing hands-on learning, problem-solving, and inquiry-based approaches through laboratory experiences and diverse activities.

By engaging in a thoughtfully sequenced and developmentally appropriate program, students gain the ability to think critically, work both independently and collaboratively, and make responsible decisions. This fosters an understanding of the interconnectedness of science, technology, and the shared responsibility to protect and enhance life on Earth.

All science courses align with NGSS and/or AP standards, ensuring rigorous and relevant learning experiences.

The courses below are available in the grade levels indicated. Please see the full description of each course in the Program of Studies for specific course credits, prerequisites, and details.

Grade 9

Grade 10

Grade 11

Grade 12

Full Year

Integrated Science ¹(P)
Honors Integrated Science¹(P)

Full Year Courses:

Biology² (L)
Honors Biology² (L)
AP Biology²(L) (ECE)

Full Year Courses:

Chemistry (P)
AP Chemistry (P)
Anatomy and Physiology (L)
AP Environmental Science (ECE)
Chemistry and Physical Science (P)
Oceanography and Marine Science (ECE)

Full Year Courses:
Physics (P)
AP Physics IP) (ECE)
AP Physics I+II (P) (ECE) - Conard Only
AP Environmental Science (ECE)
Anatomy and Physiology (L)
Chemistry and Physical Science (P)
Oceanography and Marine Science (ECE)
AP Physics C (P) - Hall only

Semester Courses for Grades 11 - 12:

-Catastrophic Events
-Environmental Science

These credits must include one credit of Life Science (L) and one credit of Physical Science (P). Courses without the (L) or (P) designation are science elective classes.

¹. This course MUST be taken in Grade 9. Science Supervisor approval is required for students to take this course in Grades 10, 11, or 12.

². This course MUST be taken in Grade 10. Science Supervisor approval is required for students to take this course in Grades 9, 11, or 12.

Advanced Placement Biology

1.5 Credits; 7 periods per week
Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

Graduation Category: STEM/Science

This course is an accelerated, in-depth introductory college biology course that covers key topics in biology. Students will study the chemistry of life, including water's importance and the role of macromolecules like proteins and lipids. They will explore cell structure and function, cellular processes like energy transfer, and how cells grow, reproduce, and communicate. The course also covers how traits are inherited, how genes are expressed and regulated, and the principles of evolution and natural selection. Students also examine ecological concepts, focusing on how organisms interact within ecosystems.

Advanced Placement Biology prepares students for the annual AP Examination, a College Board program that enables high-achieving students to complete college-level studies while in high school. Students who perform well on the exam may earn college credit or advanced placement at participating colleges. Participation in the AP Exam is a course expectation. UConn credits are available for eligible students as part of the UConn Early College Experience (ECE) program.

Advanced Placement Chemistry

1.5 Credits; 7 periods per week
Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: Algebra II

Graduation Category: STEM/Science

This course is the equivalent of an introductory university-level chemistry course. It is a challenging, accelerated and in-depth presentation of the topics discussed in chemistry. There is a strong emphasis on theory and descriptive chemistry. The analytical portion of the course requires that students have strong mathematical skills, especially in Algebra II (L1). The Advanced Placement program prepares students to take the Advanced Placement Chemistry exam administered by the College Board. Success on this exam may lead to college credit. Participation in the Advanced Placement exam is an expectation of this course.

Advanced Placement Environmental Science

1.5 Credits; 7 periods per week
Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: Integrated Science, Biology and Algebra II

Graduation Category: STEM/Science

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 or preventing them. The following themes provide a foundation for the structure of the AP Environmental Science course:

Science is a process.
Energy conversions underlie all ecological processes.
The earth itself is one interconnected system.
Humans alter natural systems.
Environmental problems have a cultural and social context.
Human survival depends on developing practices that will achieve sustainable systems.

UConn credits are available for eligible students as part of the UConn Early College Experience (ECE) Program.

Advanced Placement Physics I

1.5 Credits; 7 periods per week
Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: AP Precalculus

Graduation Category: STEM/Science

AP Physics 1 is equivalent to the first semester of a college introductory, algebra-based physics course. AP Physics 1 addresses the topics of kinematics, Newton's laws of motion; torque; rotational motion and angular momentum; gravitation and circular motion; work, energy, and power; linear momentum, and an introduction to fluids. Participation in the Physics I Advanced Placement Exam is an expectation for this full-year, two lab period per week course. UConn credits may be available for eligible students as part of the UConn Early College Experience (ECE) Program.

Advanced Placement Physics I and II

1.5 Credits; 7 periods per week
Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: AP Precalculus, Concurrent registration in Calculus is recommended
Graduation Category: STEM/Science

AP Physics 1 and 2 is the equivalent of a two-semester (full-year) college introductory, algebra-based physics course. AP Physics 1 and 2 address all topics in AP Physics 1 as well as the following: mechanical waves and sound; thermodynamics with kinetic theory and PV diagrams and probability; electrostatics; electrical circuits; magnetic fields; electromagnetism; physical and geometric optics; and topics in modern physics.

Participation in the Advanced Placement Physics 1 Exam and the Advanced Placement Physics 2 Exam are part of the expectations for this full-year, two lab period per week course. UConn credits may be available for eligible students as part of the UConn Early College Experience (ECE) Program.

Advanced Placement Physics C - Hall Only

1.5 Credits; 7 periods per week
Grades 11-12
Prerequisites: Calculus (concurrent registration in Calculus AB or BC is required. BC is preferred);
Graduation Category: STEM/Science

AP Physics C is equivalent to a 2-semester college calculus-based physics course, typically for science and engineering majors. AP Physics C is composed of two 1-semester courses: Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism. Physics C Mechanics covers the topics of Newton’s law of motion; work, energy and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation; oscillations and gravitation. Physics C Electricity & Magnetism covers the topics of electrostatics, conductors, capacitors and dielectrics, electric circuits, magnetic fields, electromagnetism and modern physics.

Participation in the Physics C Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism Advanced Placement Exams is an expectation for this full year, two lab period per week course.

Anatomy and Physiology

1 Credit; 5 periods per week
Grades 11-12 (Grade 11 with permission of Department Supervisor)
Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry or Chemistry and Physical Science (can be taken concurrently)
Graduation Category: STEM/Science

Anatomy and Physiology is an elective lab-based course for students interested in the following fields: medical sciences, physical and occupational therapy, exercise physiology, dance, physical education, human health topics. The course will emphasize core topics in biochemistry, histology and human body systems (i.e., the digestive, circulatory/lymphatic, respiratory, muscular, skeletal, integumentary, nervous, excretory, immune and endocrine systems) and societal issues associated with the field of anatomy and physiology.

In addition to a physiological study of each system, analysis of diseases, malfunctions, and homeostatic imbalances of each system will be studied. Medical tools and pharmaceutical information may be studied where appropriate in each system. The effect of exercise, dieting, smoking, drug and alcohol use and other health-related topics will be examined. Dissections are integrated into coursework.

Biology

1.5 Credits; 7 periods per week
Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: None
Graduation Category: STEM/Science

This course focuses on developing critical skills such as problem-solving, innovation, critical thinking, and reasoning while emphasizing the structure and function of living organisms, from simple single-celled life forms to complex multicellular systems, with a particular focus on the relationship between the structure and function of the human body. The course includes hands-on laboratory investigations. Students will learn to represent and analyze data, draw evidence-based conclusions, and defend their findings. Topics covered include the relationship between organism structures and their functions, the connection between DNA, chromosomes, and cellular division in passing traits across generations, and the role of energy in the cycling of matter within organisms and ecosystems. Students will also investigate the importance of biodiversity in ecosystems, how animal behavior influences survival and species continuity, and the principles of natural selection and evolutionary processes that shape species over time. Through engaging investigations, students will deepen their understanding of these concepts and build their ability to think scientifically. This course is designed to prepare students for the NGSS assessment in Grade 11.

Catastrophic Events

.5 Credits; 5 periods per week
Grades 11-12 (Grade 11 with permission of Department Supervisor)
Prerequisite: None
Graduation Category: STEM/Science

This lab-based course will focus on the causes and hazards associated with profound catastrophic events that impact humanity. The curriculum will explore topics such as hurricanes, earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis, global pandemics, radiation exposure, and major pollution events. Students will study the nature, causes, and impacts of these events. They will apply science and engineering practices to explore solutions that may help to reduce environmental effects.

Chemistry

1.5 Credits; 7 periods per week
Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: One credit Algebra II

Graduation Category: STEM/Science

This course presents to students an explanation of the structure, composition, physical and chemical properties and behavior of the materials that make up the world in which we live. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving and the ability to make predictions about the behavior of matter. Inquiry is emphasized in class discussions and in many of the lab activities. Students will learn the skills necessary for the communication of chemical ideas within technical and scientific occupations and will be prepared to take future college courses in chemistry. It is strongly recommended that only students who have successfully completed Algebra II (L2) enroll in this course. This course is designed to prepare students for the NGSS assessment in Grade 11.

Chemistry and Physical Science

1 Credit; 5 periods per week
Grades 11-12
Prerequisites: Biology (any level) and Algebra I (any level)

Graduation Category: STEM/Science

This lab-based course emphasizes cross-cutting concepts, science and engineering practices, and disciplinary core ideas in physics and chemistry. Physics topics include forces and the laws of motion, kinematics, energy transformations, and waves. Chemistry topics include atomic structure, periodic trends, chemical interactions, and thermodynamics. Upon completion, students will demonstrate an understanding of the physical environment and
apply scientific principles and processes. Students who have already earned credit for a Chemistry or Physics course will not receive credit for this course. This course is designed to prepare students for the NGSS assessment in Grade 11.

Integrated Science

1 Credit; 5 periods per week
Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: None

Graduation Category: STEM/Science

Students enrolled in this lab-based course will study the composition and dynamics of how energy moves through Earth's systems and the universe. The areas of astronomy, geology, meteorology, climatology, and natural resources will be explored. Astronomy includes the formation of stars, solar systems, and the habitability of planets. Geology focuses on the formation of Earth and how energy shapes and molds our living planet. In meteorology and climatology, students examine how unbalanced energy in our atmosphere leads to weather patterns and climate change. The course culminates with an exploration of sustainability, emphasizing humanity’s reliance on natural resources and our impact on their availability. This course is designed to prepare students for the NGSS assessment in Grade 11.

Environmental Science

.5 Credit; 5 periods per week
Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: One credit Biology (any level)

Graduation Category: STEM/Science

Students in Environmental Science gain a deeper understanding of the causes of environmental problems and strategies for their mitigation. They use creativity and problem-solving skills to explore adaptive solutions to humanity's resource needs. Topics include threats to biodiversity and conservation strategies, energy production, resource consumption, and sustainability. This course enhances students' understanding of the biosphere and how it can be preserved for future generations

Honors Biology

1.5 Credits; 7 periods per week
Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation

Graduation Category: STEM/Science

This course emphasizes the development of critical skills such as problem-solving, innovation, critical thinking, and reasoning, while exploring the structure and function of living organisms—from simple single-celled life forms to complex multicellular systems—with a particular focus on the human body. The course includes hands-on laboratory investigations, where students will learn to represent and analyze data, draw evidence-based conclusions, and defend their findings. Topics covered include the relationship between organism structures and their functions, the connection between DNA, chromosomes, and cellular division in passing traits across generations, and the role of energy in the cycling of matter within organisms and ecosystems. Students will also examine the importance of biodiversity in ecosystems, how animal behavior influences survival and species continuity, and the principles of natural selection and evolutionary processes shaping species over time. Through engaging investigations, students will deepen their understanding of these concepts and strengthen their ability to think scientifically. This course covers a greater depth and breadth of material than the standard program. It is recommended that students enrolling in Honors Biology have earned an A or B in Honors Integrated Science or an A in Integrated Science.

Honors Integrated Science

1 Credit; 5 periods per week
Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: Algebra 1 L2 (can be taken concurrently)
Graduation Category: STEM/Science

Students enrolled in this honors, lab-based course will engage in an in-depth study of the composition and dynamics of energy flow through Earth's systems and the universe. They will explore the fields of astronomy, geology, meteorology, climatology, and natural resource management with an emphasis on analytical thinking and complex problem-solving. Astronomy includes the formation of stars, solar systems, and the habitability of planets. Geology focuses on the formation of Earth and how energy shapes and molds our living planet. In meteorology and climatology, students examine how unbalanced energy in our atmosphere leads to weather patterns and climate change. The course culminates with an exploration of sustainability, emphasizing humanity’s reliance on natural resources and our impact on their availability. The depth and breadth of the material will be greater than in the standard course. This course is designed to prepare students for the NGSS assessment in Grade 11.

Oceanography and Marine Science

1 Credit; 5 periods per week
Grades 11 and 12
Prerequisites: Integrated Science and Biology
Graduation Category: STEM/Science

This is an elective lab-based course in which students explore the geology, chemistry and biology of the ocean, as well as the marine technologies used to explore ocean habitats. Laboratory experiments, hands-on experience in marine aquarium care will be a part of the course. UCONN credits are available for eligible students as part of the UCONN Early College Experience (ECE) Program.

Physics

1.5 Credits; 7 periods per week
Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: One credit Algebra II

Graduation Category: STEM/Science

Physics is the study of energy, matter, and their relationships. In the first semester, students explore energy related to the position or movement of solid objects, including topics such as motion, forces, gravity, vectors, momentum, potential and kinetic energy, work, and power. In the second semester,
students study waves—including mechanical, sound, and light waves—along with static electricity, electrical currents, circuits, and magnetism. This course emphasizes the use of mathematics to solve problems, with significant time spent in the laboratory applying science skills to real data to develop
the concepts on which the course is based. It is strongly recommended that students enrolling in this course have earned a grade of C or higher in Algebra II (L2) or an A or higher in Algebra II (L3).