Academics

Grade 9
425

This course concentrates on the Living Environment curriculum which examines the interaction of species with the environment at the ecological level and the study of Modern Genetics. Scientific inquiry and laboratory experiences are central to this course.

Grade 9
428

This course approaches the Living Environment curriculum at a more advanced level, preparing the students for both the Living Environment Regents and the SAT Subject Test in Biology. Students will be encouraged to take the SAT Subject Test in Biology.

Pre-requisite: Teacher recommendation

Grade 10, 11, 12
430

Chemistry is the quantitative and qualitative study of matter and energy.  Included is an overview of kinetics, atomic theory, organic chemistry and modern applications. This course follows the New York State Regents syllabus and incorporates required laboratory exercises. Students will take the NYS Regents examination in Physical Setting/Chemistry in June.

Prerequisite: Living Environment Regents Exam

Grade 10, 11, 12
438

This advanced chemistry course focuses on the quantitative and qualitative study of matter and energy. Included is an in-depth study of kinetics, atomic theory, organic chemistry, and modern applications. This course follows the New York State Regents syllabus and incorporates laboratory exercises.  In addition to taking the NYS Regents examination, students will be encouraged to take the SAT Subject Test in Chemistry.

Pre-requisite: Living Environment Regents Exam and teacher recommendation

Grade 11, 12
440

This course presents a modern view of physics with a concentration on fundamental theories and laboratory investigations. The Physics program covers the following areas: mechanics, wave phenomena, electricity, magnetism, solid state physics, and atomic and nuclear physics. This course follows the New York State Syllabus and allows for Regents credit through the Regents examination and required laboratory exercises.

Co-requisite: Students must concurrently take Algebra 2 or an equivalent course.

Grade 11, 12
447

This advanced course presents an in-depth study of physics with a concentration on fundamental theories and laboratory investigations. This program studies topics in mechanics, wave phenomena, electricity, magnetism, solid state physics, and atomic and nuclear physics. Mastery of mathematical applications is required. This course follows the NYS Regents syllabus.  In addition to taking the NYS Regents examination, students will be encouraged to take the SAT Subject Test in Physics.

Co-requisite: Students must concurrently take Algebra 2 or an equivalent course.

Pre-requisite: Teacher recommendation.

Grade 11, 12
455

This course includes the study of the functions of systems of the human body. In addition, a laboratory component that focuses on learning common medical/nursing terminology and the study of diseases is required. This course is recommended for students interested in the fields of nursing, physical therapy, sports medicine, occupational therapy, and related disciplines.

Qualifying students may take this course for St. John’s University credit.

Co-requisite for Juniors: Chemistry or Physics

Pre-requisite: Teacher recommendation.

Grade 11, 12
481

Forensics is the integration of science and the law. Students will learn to incorporate scientific and laboratory techniques to solve simulated legal problems.

Qualifying students may take this course for St. John’s University credit.

Co-requisite for Juniors: Chemistry or Physics

Pre-requisite: Teacher recommendation.

Grade 10, 11, 12
465

This course is the equivalent of a required first-year college Biology course with a curriculum set by the College Board. Topics include cell chemistry, bioenergetics, plant and animal physiology, cell structure and reproduction, and modern genetics. Included are mandatory laboratory units.

The AP Exam is mandatory.

Qualifying students may take this course for St. John’s University credit.  

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

Grade 10, 11, 12
475

This is the equivalent of a required first-year college Chemistry course with a curriculum set by the College Board. This course will cover topics such as the arrangement of atoms, chemical and physical properties of materials, changes in matter, rates of chemical reactions, and laws of thermodynamics.  Included are mandatory laboratory units.

The AP Exam is mandatory.

Qualifying students may take this course for St. John’s University credit.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

Grade 11, 12
477

This new course focuses on the interconnections between the various strands and units contained in the course syllabus and how each contributes to the “Big Ideas” that provide a core foundation for this science course. Problem solving techniques and strategies are fine-tuned throughout the year, and students are continually tasked with connecting physics applications learned in different units to synthesize solutions to complex problems. The emphasis is on theoretical topics, critical thinking, and problem solving all of which makes this class challenging. Mathematics is used to illuminate physical situations, and so students must be strong in both math and science to be successful in this course. Conceptual understanding of the material is a requirement for success. Students will be expected to write justifications and explanations of physics concepts. Students have the opportunity to work cooperatively to solve challenging problems and to present their solutions to the class.

The AP Exam is mandatory.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

Co-requisite: Students must concurrently take Algebra 2 or an equivalent course.

Grade 11, 12
487

This course focuses on exploring and investigating the interrelationships of the natural world. You will analyze environmental problems, both natural and human-made, along with taking part in laboratory investigations and a potential field work project. Topics of this course include ecosystems, biodiversity, population growth, earth systems, energy resources, land and water use, atmospheric pollution, aquatic and terrestrial pollution, and global climate change.

The AP exam is mandatory.

Pre-requisites: Biology course and teacher recommendation