Science

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

 (1-27-17)

The science standards are designed to help realize a vision for education in the sciences and engineering in which students, over multiple years of school, actively engage in scientific and engineering practices and apply crosscutting concepts to deepen their understanding of the core ideas across all sciences. The learning experiences provided to students engage them with fundamental questions about the world and how scientists investigate and find answers to those questions. Students carry out scientific investigations and engineering design projects related to the disciplinary core ideas in biology, chemistry, and physics/physical science courses at all levels.

 

General Prerequisites for Honors and AP Courses - In order to register for an Honors and AP course, students must meet one of the following criteria:

~ A final grade of “B-”or better in the currently enrolled honors science course and teacher/supervisor recommendation  –OR–

~ A final grade of “A-”or better in the currently enrolled CPE science course and teacher/supervisor recommendation.

 

DISSECTION OPTION STATEMENT: Pursuant to New Jersey Statute 18A:35-4.25 (available in its entirety at: http://www.nj.gov/njded/aps/ccs/science/dissection/faq.htm), students have the right to decline to dissect, vivisect, incubate, capture or otherwise harm or destroy animals or any parts thereof as part of a course of instruction. If parents desire to exempt their students from participation in such activities, they must notify the school within 2 weeks of their student’s enrollment in the course. If students do not participate in a lab experience involving use of animals as described above, their grades will not be affected as long as they master the agreed-up learning objectives and expectations. In order to meet prescribed learning objectives and expectations, alternative means of instruction will be utilized. Acceptable alternatives to the activities include videos, models, computer programs, books and the use of manipulatives. If you have any questions regarding this notification or if you would like to exercise your right to exempt your student, please contact the Science Supervisor at your child’s school. Courses to which this statement applies, are noted by *DISSECTION OPTION* at the end of each course description.

 

INTEGRATED PHYSICAL SCIENCE CP

This College Preparatory laboratory-based course will provide students with a fundamental understanding of the physical sciences with special attention to specific student needs. Emphasis is placed on the development of study skills conducive to mastery of science content and related math applications. Topics of study include key concepts and principles in physics, chemistry, and space & earth science. Proficiency in science and engineering practices are developed through laboratory activities.

Co-requisite:  Algebra 1 CP or Integrated Algebra and Geometry CP

 

CHEMISTRY CP

This College Preparatory laboratory-based course provides a fundamental understanding of chemical principles and concepts. Students will explore the nature of matter and energy and how their interactions are essential to an understanding of the physical universe. This course provides students with an understanding of the states and properties of matter, the development of models of the atom, and the foundational principles of chemistry. The focus for this class is to help students make connections between chemistry concepts and their everyday world.

Prerequisite:  Algebra 1 CP or Integrated Algebra and Geometry CP

CHEMISTRY CPE

This College Preparatory Enhanced chemistry course provides the opportunity for students to acquire an in-depth study of chemical principles and concepts. It is designed to highlight the chemistry needed in future science studies. Students will analytically study chemistry principles and learn the problem-solving techniques that are widely used in science and related disciplines. Fundamental principles, including atomic structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, kinetic theory, gas laws, thermochemistry, and equilibrium are developed. The major concepts, basic vocabulary, and intellectual and laboratory skills expected in any college preparatory chemistry course are included. In addition to numerous laboratory experiences there is an emphasis on problem solving, physical and mathematical modeling, research methods and experimental techniques.

Prerequisite:  Algebra 1 CPE or Algebra 1 CP, and Biology CPE

Co-requisite:  Geometry CPE

 

CHEMISTRY H

This laboratory-based chemistry course provides the student with an opportunity to study how the properties of and interactions with matter are consequences of their structure. Fundamental principles, including atomic theory and structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, kinetic theory, gas laws, thermochemistry, equilibrium, kinetics, and thermodynamics are developed. The principles of chemistry are studied quantitatively and the student’s mathematical and analytical skills are strongly utilized throughout this problem-solving course. Extensive student laboratory work will progress to a high level independence in experimental reasoning and analysis.

Prerequisite: Algebra 1

Co-requisite: For Incoming Freshmen: Algebra 2 H, Algebra 2 CPE, or Geometry H;

For sophomores: Algebra 2 H, Algebra 2 CPE, Geometry H, or Geometry CPE

 

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY

The AP Chemistry course provides students with a foundation to support future advanced course work in chemistry. 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. This course requires that 25 percent of the instructional time provides students with opportunities to engage in laboratory investigations. This includes a minimum of 16 hands-on labs, at least six of which are inquiry based. It is expected that students in this course will take the AP exam in May.

Prerequisite:  Chemistry CPE or Chemistry H

 

BIOLOGY CP

This College Preparatory laboratory-based course provides a fundamental understanding of biological concepts. The process of scientific inquiry and the integration of concepts within life experiences are stressed through class activities and laboratory investigations. Students will gain an understanding of the structure, characteristics and basic needs of organisms and will investigate the diversity of life. This course meets all of the Next Generation Science Standards in Biology and prepares the students for the New Jersey Biology Competency Test (NJBCT).  *DISSECTION OPTION*

Co-requisite:  Algebra 1 CP

 

BIOLOGY CPE

This College Preparatory Enhanced course provides the student with an in-depth study of the life sciences. Biological principles and concepts are studied using the inductive approach and laboratory investigations allow students to explore the relationships between the principles and applications of biology. Topics of study are organized by interactions, foundation and interactions, development, and diversity of life. This course meets all of the Next Generation Science Standards in Biology and prepares the students for the New Jersey Biology Competency Test (NJBCT).

*DISSECTION OPTION*

Co-requisite:  Algebra 1 CPE or Geometry CPE

 

BIOLOGY H

This course highlights molecular biology and focuses on structures such as cells and genes, and on the processes that occur within. Extensive student laboratory work requires strong experimental reasoning and analysis skills. The rigorous treatment of biochemistry in this course requires that a student possess a strong commitment to the study of science. This course meets all of the Next Generation Science Standards in Biology and prepares the students for the New Jersey Biology Competency Test (NJBCT).  *DISSECTION OPTION*

Prerequisite:  Chemistry

 

ADVANCED PLACEMENT BIOLOGY

AP Biology is an introductory college-level biology course. 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. This course requires that 25 percent of the instructional time be spent in hands-on-laboratory work, with an emphasis on inquiry-based investigations that provide students with opportunities to apply the science practices. It is expected that students in this course will take the AP exam in May.

*DISSECTION OPTION*

Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry

 

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY CPE

This course provides students with an opportunity to increase their understanding of the principles of cytology, the fundamentals of biochemistry, human genetics, an overview of the major systems of the human body, and man’s relationship with the environment. Extensive laboratory work will allow the students to investigate the major concepts presented.  *DISSECTION OPTION*

Prerequisite:  Biology and Chemistry

 

CONCEPTUAL PHYSICS CP

This College Preparatory laboratory-based course provides a fundamental understanding of physics principles and concepts. Students will explore the nature of matter and energy and how their interactions are essential to an understanding of the physical universe. This course provides students with a strong conceptual understanding of the how and why things move, conservation laws, electricity and magnetism, and wave behaviors and applications. The focus for this class will be to help students make connections between their everyday world and the concepts of physics through a laboratory-based approach.

Prerequisite:  Algebra 1 CP and Geometry CP

 

PHYSICS CPE

This College Preparatory Enhanced physics course provides the opportunity for students to acquire an in-depth study of physics principles and concepts. It is designed to highlight the physics needed in future science studies. Students will analytically study physics principles and learn the problem- solving techniques that are widely used in science and related disciplines. Fundamental principles, including the study of motion, forces and energy, system interactions, electricity and magnetic effects, electromagnetic wave behaviors and applications are developed. The major concepts, basic vocabulary, and intellectual and laboratory skills expected in any college preparatory physics course are included. In addition to numerous laboratory experiences, there is an emphasis on problem solving, physical and mathematical modeling, research methods and experimental techniques.

Co-requisite:  Algebra 2 CPE

 

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS 1

AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as Newtonian mechanics (including rotational motion); work, energy, and power; mechanical waves and sound; and introductory, simple circuits. Through inquiry-based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills. This course requires that 25 percent of the instructional time will be spent doing inquiry-based investigations that provide students with opportunities to apply the science practices. It is expected that students in this course will take the AP exam in May.

Co-requisite:  Algebra 2 CPE

 

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS 2

AP Physics 2 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as fluid statics and dynamics; thermodynamics with kinetic energy; PV diagrams and probability; electrostatics; electrical circuits with capacitors; magnetic fields; electromagnetism; physical and geometric optics; and quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics. Through inquiry-based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills. This course requires that 25 percent of the instructional time be used for hands-on-laboratory work, with an emphasis on inquiry-based investigations that provide students with opportunities to apply the science practices. It is expected that students in this course will take the AP exam in May.

Prerequisite: Physics CPE or AP Physics 1;  Co-requisite: Precalculus CPE

 

SELECTED TOPICS IN PHYSICS H

This course is an extension of a first-year physics course. It is algebra-based and explores topics such as fluids, thermodynamics, optics, and modern physics through inquiry-based learning and hands-on laboratory work. This course provides an alternative to AP Physics 2 as an opportunity for students to extend their physics studies.

Prerequisite: AP Physics 1 or Physics CPE;  Co-requisite: Precalculus CPE

 

ADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS C  

This second-year physics course provides calculus-based college level instruction. There are investigations and discussion in advanced topics in mechanics, electricity, and magnetism. It is based upon the calculus “Course C syllabus” of the Advanced Placement Program of the College Board. It is expected that students will take the AP Physics Level C examination in May.

Prerequisite:  One year of any level Physics

Co-requisite: Calculus

  

ANIMAL STUDIES CP

This course develops the thesis that behavior in all animals has evolved as an adaptation of survival of the species. Behaviors that are universal among all animal species, including humans, are stressed and the mechanisms that species use to carry out the behaviors common to all are observed.   The diversity and interactions of animal life is explored and studied as are the cultural beliefs regarding an animal’s role in our society.   

 

ASTRONOMY CP

Space…the final frontier. This is an introduction to astronomy, mainly descriptive, with minimal mathematics.  Topics will include what the ancients noticed in the heavens:  characteristics and motions of the Earth, moon, planets and other objects of the solar system, sun, stars, and galaxies. Students will use tools for discovery: telescopes, spectra, radar, parallax, and other methods.  Current ideas about the origin, present state, and possible future of the universe will be presented. Aspects of telescope design are given. There will be demonstrations, hands-on activities, and individual projects and presentations. If a student desires, these projects can explore deeper mathematical and technical aspects of astronomy.

 

CONTEMPORARY ISSUES IN SCIENCE CP

This course investigates the science behind today’s headlines and is driven by student interests. Students will also complete independent and/or group research projects. Students discuss, research, and make presentations on timely topics from varied media sources.

 

ENTERTAINMENT & SCIENCE CP

This course is designed to explore the scientific concepts presented in modern entertainment such as film, theater, fiction, and music. The course will include the examination of current science-based documentaries, popular movies, and a variety of other media. Student research on related topics may include science fiction, stunts, lighting, superheroes, etc. Students will examine and evaluate information as it is presented in the media to analyze and form conclusions about accurate representation of science information. This course will include research, discussion, and several short projects.

Co-requisite:  Biology

 

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE CPE

Environmental science is an activity-based course designed to help students understand the interactions between the different elements of the environment. The course will also make the students aware of environmental problems on both local and global levels. The activities will include conventional laboratory exercises, workbook exercises, and projects. Several activities will be performed outdoors on the school grounds. The laboratory-based course will deal with environmental history, science systems, biodiversity, biogeography, ecology, population dynamics, use of resources, types of pollution and the disposal of waste. Due to the fact that environmental science is an integrated science, students must have satisfactorily completed a biology course and a chemistry course. Students will be evaluated through the use of examinations, lab work, lab behavior, written lab reports, and projects.  Students in this course may earn dual enrollment credit through Bergen Community College.

BCC BIO-108:  4 Credits

Co-requisite:  Physics.

 

FORENSIC SCIENCE CPE

This laboratory-based course provides an introduction to the science behind crime detection and analysis. Students take on the roles of crime scene investigators, scientists, and medical examiners to collect and evaluate evidence in a problem-solving environment. Scientific principles and investigative tools and methods from multiple disciplines of science and technology are utilized. The techniques used in evaluating physical evidence and laboratory techniques currently employed in forensic investigation are applied to the study of: Serology and blood pattern analysis, microscopic investigation, DNA technology, drug chemistry and toxicology, dentition, hair analysis, fiber comparisons, fingerprints, ballistics, forensic anthropology, entomology, forgery, and computer crimes.

Prerequisite:  Chemistry and Geometry

 

HORTICULTURE CP

This course is offered to all eleventh and twelfth grade students. The following topics will be examined through research, work outdoors and in the greenhouse, and student projects: plant propagation, greenhouse maintenance, growing special plants, study of soil, flower arranging, study of terraria, marketing florist products, plant identification and landscape design.  Students in this course may earn dual enrollment credit through Bergen Community College.

BCC HRT-102:  4 Credits

Co-requisite:  Biology

 

MARINE SYSTEMS / OCEANOGRAPHY CP

Marine and freshwater aquatic science extends the study of Biology and Chemistry to the living and non-living factors of the aquatic realm, which are explored through various freshwater and marine ecosystems such as streams, lakes, rivers, coral reefs, sandy shores, deep sea, open-ocean, and kelp forests. This laboratory-based course will explore these ecosystems by investigating the successful adaptations of aquatic life (fish/sharks, mammals, reptiles, birds, invertebrates, and plants) to withstand the non-living elements (currents, tides, ocean seafloor, and seawater composition) that form each ecosystem. The impact of humans on aquatic ecosystems and the necessity for marine conservation are also examined. Laboratory investigations and other hands-on activities are used to enhance understanding of topics. *DISSECTION OPTION*

Prerequisite:  Biology and Chemistry

 

SCIENCE SEMINAR H

This seminar-based course will explore scientific areas of student interest through investigation and research. Current findings in medicine, health, materials, energy, engineering, and creation of new products will be examined. Students will research real-world scientific problems through seminar style research, presentations, and thoughtful discussions.

Prerequisite:  Biology H

 

SPORTS SCIENCE CP

This course examines current trends in health and fitness as students explore real world situations, sports related science careers and the impact of diet, exercise, and injury management for athletes.  Special topics such as the development of food products, diet management for athletes, common sports injuries, prevention and equipment, and treatment options will be investigated.  The overall wellness for athletes in sport will be examined through the lens of science in sport.  

 

STEM CHALLENGE LAB CPE

Perform experiments like the great inventors of the past and challenge yourself to solve real-world problems in new situations.  Students will integrate STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) skills to make and create models and inventions like the scientific pioneers and work on STEM challenges of their own through engineering and design projects.  

 

UNIVERSITY PROGRAM:  SCIENCE, MEDICINE, AND RESEARCH

 

NINTH GRADE

UP - SAT BIOLOGY H

The topics covered in the course are identical to the Biology H course. However, University Program students will emphasize extended laboratory investigations and learning assessments linked to the SAT College Board Biology Examination, which will be taken in June by all students in this class. There is a special emphasis on developmental Biology and molecular principles. *DISSECTION OPTION*

 

TENTH GRADE

UP - SAT CHEMISTRY H

This course introduces the same knowledge, skills, and experiences as the Chemistry H course. Additional time is allotted for topics and labs which are unique to the SAT Chemistry curriculum, such as laboratory preparation of gasses and identification of industrial chemicals and processes. Time is also given for practice with question formats from the SAT Chemistry test, which will be taken in June by all students in this class.

 

TENTH GRADE

UP - HUMAN ANATOMY H

Students will examine the structure and functions of various systems of the human body. This includes the skeletal, reproductive, muscular, digestive, respiratory, nervous and circulatory systems. In addition, the human life cycle will be examined considering psychological tasks, biological changes, typical diseases and medical issues. *DISSECTION OPTION*

 

ELEVENTH GRADE

UPADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS 1

AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as Newtonian mechanics (including rotational motion); work, energy, and power; mechanical waves and sound; and introductory, simple circuits. Through inquiry-based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills. This course requires that 25 percent of the instructional time will be spent in hands-on laboratory work, with an emphasis on inquiry-based investigations that provide students with opportunities to apply the science practices. It is expected that students in this course will take the AP exam in May.

 

ELEVENTH GRADE

UP - BIOMECHANICS H

This course focuses on concepts related to the macrophysics end of the human body.  Basic anatomical concepts and physiological data will be used with a quantitative analysis of how the body works.  This course will include basic medical and physics terminology to study the mechanics of the static body, the body in motion, mechanical properties of the materials of the body, acoustics and sound waves in hearing and speaking, and optics of eyes and vision. 

ELEVENTH GRADE

UP SCIENCE RESEARCH SUPA H (SUPA URP-150)

This course develops the skills and methods needed to successfully conduct academic research. Review and training in the research process, specialized equipment (computer lab probes, spectrophotometers, etc.), and statistical data analysis is presented during the first half of the course. The research process is reinforced by investigative labs summarized by lab reports using academic writing. The second half of the course focuses on critical reading and presentation skills. Trips to area college science fairs are scheduled. A mini research topic is assigned, culminating in students presenting their project to the school community and/or public via both poster and information sessions. This course may be taken as part of the Dual Enrollment program through Syracuse University.  SUPA Credit:  4 Credits

 

TWELFTH GRADE

UP - MEDICAL ISSUES H

Case studies in medical law and medical ethics will be examined. There will be frequent debates on current issues such as genetic screening and engineering, prolonging life by artificial means, and informed consent before medical research or operations.  Position papers will be required after major issues are summarized and opinions are compared and contrasted.

 

UNIVERSITY PROGRAM:  ENGINEERING AND DESIGN

 

NINTH GRADE

UP - BIOLOGY H

This course highlights molecular biology and focuses on structures such as cells and genes, and on the processes that occur within. Extensive student laboratory work requires strong experimental reasoning and analysis skills. The rigorous treatment of biochemistry in this course requires that a student possess a strong commitment to the study of science.   *DISSECTION OPTION*

 

NINTH GRADE

UP - ENGINEERING RESEARCH METHODS HR THODS HARCH THODS

Students will explore the skills and practices used by scientists and engineers through science laboratory work and by designing solutions to engineering problems.  Mathematical, graphical, statistical, and analytical skills are emphasized in the context of physical science concepts and principles.  The laboratory work will introduce measuring tools and instrumentation used by scientists and engineers and technical writing will be emphasized.

 

NINTH GRADE

UP - INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN H

This course teaches problem-solving skills using a design development process. Students will be introduced to CAD (computer aided drafting) with special emphasis placed on problem solving and product design development. Skills acquired in this course will be applied to future courses.

 

TENTH GRADE

UP - CHEMISTRY H

This laboratory-based chemistry course provides the student with an opportunity to study how the properties of and interactions with matter are consequences of their structure. The principles of chemistry are studied quantitatively and the student’s mathematical and analytical skills are strongly utilized throughout this problem-solving course. Extensive student laboratory work will progress to a high level independence in experimental reasoning and analysis. Topics in this course will emphasize problem solving activities and engineering applications in chemistry.

 

TENTH GRADE

UP – ENGINEERING, MATH, AND COMPUTER APPLICATIONS H

In this course, students will study mathematics, statistics, and computer skills and apply them to scientific and engineering applications.  Students will extend their knowledge of mathematical concepts to real-world engineering challenges.  Extensive use of Microsoft Excel will allow them to organize data in a professional way, as well as analyze data to seek patterns and relationships. Basic programming knowledge will be introduced by using both Excel’s pre-made functions, as well as an introduction to the programming language Python. Programming will focus on the use of common Python data types, loops, and conditional statements. Computer data collection and math analysis will be central to this program.  

 

TENTH GRADE

UP - MATERIALS AND PROCESSES H

In this course students will be working with various basic machining tools and explore the areas of plastics and composites as well as wood and metallurgy. Students will be introduced to the “eight-step designing loop” through the use of technology learning activities (TLA). Laboratory work and problem-solving activities will include working with lightweight metals, woods, and plastics. Students will be introduced to the mass production process both in and out of the classroom. Field trips to local manufacturing plants are also a part of this program. This applied methods course is related to both physics and engineering.

 

ELEVENTH GRADE

UPADVANCED PLACEMENT PHYSICS 1

AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as Newtonian mechanics (including rotational motion); work, energy, and power; mechanical waves and sound; and introductory, simple circuits. Through inquiry-based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills. This course requires that 25 percent of the instructional time will be spent doing inquiry-based investigations that provide students with opportunities to apply the science practices. It is expected that students in this course will take the AP exam in May.

 

ELEVENTH GRADE

UP - PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING H

This course highlights the various professions of engineering. Students will realize that the role of engineers is to apply their knowledge of science and technology to meet societal needs and solve its problems. The course will give students exposure to engineering methods, engineering problem solving concepts, and the basic tools of engineering. The engineering profession is examined, along with the approach to problem solving, the tools of engineering, and constraints on the engineering practice. Special emphasis will be placed on the engineering design process as well as engineering economics. Guest speakers will be a part of this program as well as laboratory-based activities.

 

ELEVENTH GRADE

UPDIGITAL ELECTRONICS H

This project-based course is designed to give students an introduction to electronics and basic theory. Students will be introduced to basic electronics technology through hands-on project work in the examination of analog and digital devices and circuits that are used to build computers and other digital equipment. The purpose of this course is to provide students with a sound understanding of digital principles and practices.

 

ELEVENTH GRADE

UP - COMPUTER SCIENCE FOR ENGINEERS H

This course is designed so students will code fluently in Python, a high level, object-oriented, interpreted programming language, in order to gain skills relevant to science, mathematics, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. Students will learn basic Python syntax and debugging skills and the building blocks of algorithms: sequence, selection, and iteration. They will use functions to make their code reusable, modular, and easier to understand. And they will learn to use a variety of data structures, including strings, lists, tuples, and dictionaries to store and manipulate large amounts of information. Programming will be used to solve a wide variety of engineering problems and applications. This class involves integration with UP Digital Electronics to complete a final engineering project that combines skills learned in both classes.

 

TWELFTH GRADE

UP - ENGINEERING RESEARCH SEMINAR H

This University Program may require independent effort and independent study outside the school building. Students will complete a research design project in an area of choice and/or become involved in an academic design competition.  Some projects and/or design competition may require students to work in small teams of 2 and 3 students. Students will be expected to have contact with mentor engineers, complete a written log and/or journal of their research/project work and present their project for an evaluation.

 

TWELFTH GRADE

UP – SELECTED TOPICS IN PHYSICS H

This course is algebra-based and explores topics essential to engineering, such as fluids, thermodynamics, optics, and modern physics. It is intended as an extension of AP Physics 1 studies and will complement the AP Physics C curriculum. This course also provides an alternative to AP Physics 2 as an opportunity for students to extend their physics studies.

Prerequisite:  AP Physics 1 or Physics CPE; Co-requisite:  Precalculus CPE