Science

COURSE NUMBER: SC303

Graduation Credit: Life Science

UC/CSU CREDIT: (d) Laboratory Science

This course will provide students with the introductory concepts necessary for college biological science courses. It is a study of scientific method, biochemistry, cells, DNA, cell division, genetics, evolution, ecology and physiology.  It will be driven by laboratory investigations.   

Placement Criteria:  Multiple Measures  

• Most recent IEP recommendations 

COURSE NUMBER: SC356  (course video) (Español)   AP/Honors Commitment Pledge (Español)

Graduation Credit: Physical Science

UC/CSU CREDIT: (d) Laboratory Science

This course is designed for college-bound students who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in mathematics and science.  The course includes laboratory work where the students will develop skills in efficient data collection, analysis and reasoning.  Topics include atomic theory, matter and energy, gas laws, bonding, solutions, kinetics and equilibrium, acids and bases, and electrochemistry. AP Chemistry is based on a first-year college chemistry course.  The Advanced Placement test is given in May.  Students enrolled in this course will be expected to take the Advanced Placement exam.  Only grades of “C” or better will be weighted.

Placement Criteria: Multiple Measures  

• Grade in Previous Science Class  
• Teacher Recommendation

COURSE NUMBER: SC350

Graduation Credit: Physical Science

UC/CSU CREDIT: (d) Laboratory Science

This course introduces the student to fundamental chemical concepts such as atomic structure, gas laws, and acid-base reactions. The student has an opportunity to explore molecular and atomic structures and behavior, substantially supported by laboratory activities. Strong algebraic skills are necessary in this course.  There will be a fee for broken glassware.  

Placement Criteria:  Multiple Measures  

• Most recent IEP recommendations  

COURSE NUMBER: SC363 (course video)   AP/Honors Commitment Pledge (Español)

Graduation Credit: Physical Science

UC/CSU CREDIT: (d) Laboratory Science

The study of the interaction of matter, energy, and the fundamental forces of nature. This course provides a systematic introduction to the principles of physics and emphasizes the development of problem solving ability in preparation for the National Advanced Placement Physics exam. The course of study is modeled on a one year college level course, providing a foundation in physics for students planning a college major in science or engineering. Areas of study include light, sound, motion, electricity, magnetism, atomic structure, nuclear reactions, gravity, and heat. Emphasis is placed on applied mathematics, laboratory work, and computer modeling. Solid mathematical ability (algebra, geometry, and introductory trigonometry) are necessary prerequisites. Only grades of “C” or better will be weighted.

Placement Criteria: Multiple Measures  

• Grade in Previous Science Class  
• Teacher Recommendation

COURSE NUMBER: SC362

Graduation Credit: Physical Science

UC/CSU CREDIT: (d) Laboratory Science

This is a laboratory course investigating forces, work and energy, and matter. Topics covered will include: the laws of motion; forces in nature (gravitational, electric, and magnetic); heat; wave motion; sound; and light.  

Placement Criteria:  Multiple Measures  

• Most recent IEP recommendations  

COURSE NUMBER: SC317 (course video)   AP/Honors Commitment Pledge (Español)

Graduation Credit: Life Science

UC/CSU CREDIT: (d) Laboratory Science

In this Advanced Placement, college-level course, students will explore interrelationships in the natural world and the environmental challenges facing us today. The class focuses on the scientific background knowledge needed to analyze issues in water and air quality, energy use, hazardous materials, climate changes, etc. Students will perform experiments and field ecology work. Students with good study and writing skills and an interest in environmental issues can succeed in this course even if it is their first AP course. Highly recommended that students have a passing grade in Biology and Chemistry or Physics.  Only grades of “C” or better will be weighted. 

Placement Criteria: Multiple Measures  

• Grade in Previous Science Class  
• Teacher Recommendation

COURSE NUMBER: MA214 (course video)   AP/Honors Commitment Pledge (Español)

GRADUATION CREDIT: (g) Elective

UC/CSU CREDIT: (d) Science

AP Computer Science Principles is a one-year, college level, non- calculus based introduction to the central ideas of Computer Science. The course introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world. The AP Program designed AP Computer Science Principles with the goal of creating leaders in computer science fields and attracting and engaging those who are traditionally underrepresented with essential computing tools and multidisciplinary opportunities.

Placement Criteria:  Multiple Measures  

• Grade of A or B in P Math 1
• Knowledge of basic algebra and experience in problem solving
• Overall comfort and competence with written communication
• Proficient or Advanced on Most Recent MI
• Teacher Recommendation  

COURSE NUMBER: SC306

Graduation Credit: Life Science

UC/CSU CREDIT: None

This course meets the state and district requirements for Life Science and is taught using various modalities to meet the needs of the students.  The course provides an overview of the nature of life as well as the structure and function of living organisms and their relationships to the environment.  Practice in using the scientific method is accomplished through laboratory experiences.  

This is for students with Individualized Educational Plans (IEP)

COURSE NUMBER: SC327

Graduation Credit: Physical Science

UC/CSU CREDIT: None

This course meets the state and district requirements for Physical Science and is taught using various modalities to meet the needs of the students.

This is for students with Individualized Educational Plans (IEP)

COURSE NUMBER: CTE851

Graduation Credit: Life Science

UC/CSU CREDIT: (d) Laboratory Science or (g) Elective

Medical Science is an academically challenging laboratory science course that examines anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and medical terminology while applying scientific knowledge and research to the study of the human body and its diseases. Students will focus on the physiological, biological, and structural details of the human body, including a rigorous study of the body systems. Students will apply scientific methodologies (inquiry, developing hypotheses, gathering factual information, evaluating data, and drawing conclusions) to the practices employed by medical professionals. Medical terminology will be integrated as students understand each of the body systems. Students will exceed core academic knowledge and demonstrate critical thinking skills as they apply knowledge to laboratory experimentation, real-life scenarios, medical case studies, and physiological and pathological disorders. A variety of resources will be accessed (Internet, medical journals and books, and medical professionals) for the purpose of creating written and oral presentations that demonstrate students’ knowledge and application of scientific principles.  

Career Pathway: Medical Biology ⇒ Human Anatomy and Medicine

COURSE NUMBER: CTE859

Graduation Credit: Elective Credit

UC/CSU CREDIT: (g) Elective Credit

P CTE Human Anatomy and Medicine is an academically challenging advanced science course for students in grades eleven and twelve who are pursuing a career in the medical health field requiring post-secondary education. It is a continuance of Medical Science I and builds on a common set of skills and knowledge necessary for all health care employees. A variety of resources will be accessed (Internet, medical journals and books, and medical professionals) for the purpose of creating written and oral presentations that demonstrate students’ knowledge and application of scientific principles. P CTE Human Anatomy and Medicine instructs students in Human Biology, Medical Ethics and Legal Questions, Bioethics, patient and Family Interaction, Medication Administration, Infection control, Lab Techniques and Procedures, and Workplace Safety. Students will complete a career portfolio and participate in work-based and outreach experiences including job shadowing, research and discovery experiences, and volunteer or community service related to the health career field of choice.  

Career Pathway: Medical Biology ⇒ Human Anatomy and Medicine

Prerequisite: Medical Biology