Through classroom, field, and laboratory activities, the science offerings enable students to gain new knowledge in the earth, life, and physical sciences, to think in new ways, to apply scientific knowledge to everyday situations, to consider varied attitudes and values in science, and to strengthen their problem-solving, communication, and decision-making skills. If you need additional information contact Kathy A. Turner in the Office of Instructional Services at KathyA.Turner@vbschools.com.
To meet graduation requirements for a standard diploma, students must complete
three credits in science selected from at least two different science disciplines. To
meet the requirements of an advanced studies diploma, students must complete four
credits in science selected from at least three different science disciplines. The
science disciplines include Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Included
in the physics discipline is the two-year program Physics of Technology I and II.
Students must complete both Physics Technology I and II in sequence in order to
receive an elective credit and a physics credit. For course information and additional
requirements, please refer to the Physics of Technology course description in the
Technology Education section.
Note: * Students may choose Biology or Environmental Science. They may NOT receive credit for both, even if one is taken as an elective.
Earth Science (SC 4210)
One credit, One year, Grades 9-12
This course involves the study of the features and forces of our planet and its place in
the universe. It includes topics in astronomy, geology, meteorology, oceanography,
and physical geography. Environmental concerns, energy, earth processes, and the
influence of science, technology, and society are significant parts of the program.
Biology (SC 4310)
One credit, One year, Grades 9-12
Biology involves the study of life and focuses on the basic characteristics and
interactions of plants, animals, and microorganisms in our environment. Topics include
the history of biology, the cell and cell processes, genetics and heredity, cycles in
nature, photosynthesis and respiration, ecology, and continuity of life.
Environmental Science (SC 4315)
One credit, One year, Grades 9-12
Environmental Science involves the study of living organisms, including man, and their
relationship to each other and to the world around them. Topics include the cell,
heredity, structures of organisms, cycles in nature, populations, communities and
ecosystems, pollution, and technology. Students investigate current issues related to
the state of the environment and the interactions of science, technology, and society.
The course meets the Virginia Standards of Learning for Biology.
Chemistry (SC 4410)
One credit, One year, Grades 10-12
Prerequisite or co-requisite: Algebra II
Prerequisite or co-requisite: Algebra II
Chemistry involves the study of the structure, composition, properties, and reactions of
matter. Topics include laboratory safety and techniques, history of atomic theory,
periodicity of elements, balancing of equations, bonding of atoms to form
compounds, chemical reactions, gas laws, acid/base theory, kinetic theory of heat, nuclear
chemistry, and chemistry's relation to other areas of science.
Physics (SC 4510)
One credit, One year, Grades 11-12
Prerequisite or co-requisite: Algebra II
Prerequisite or co-requisite: Algebra II
This course involves the study of properties and interactions of matter and energy.
Problem-solving skills are stressed throughout the course as students investigate such
topics as the historical development of physics, force and motion, work, heat, sound,
light, electricity, magnetism, physics, and applications in everyday activities.
Oceanography (SC 4250)
One credit, One year, Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: Earth Science
Oceanography is the study of the physical, chemical, geological, and biological
aspects of the oceans. Topics include oceanographic instruments, the chemistry of
seawater, ocean sediments, weather and climate, waves, tides and currents, life in the
oceans, habitats, maritime heritage, and current issues created by the interaction of
science and technology.
Advanced Placement Environmental Science (SC 4270)
One credit, One year, Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: Biology
Advanced Placement Environmental Science is designed to be equivalent to a college-level introductory environmental science course, in accord with requirements of the College Board. The goals of this course are 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. Topics that are covered in this course include interdependence of earth systems, human population dynamics, natural resources, environmental quality, global changes, environmental management, and scientific analysis. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in May.
Advanced Placement Biology (SC 4340)
One credit, One year, Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry
Advanced Placement Biology is designed to be equivalent to a college-level introductory biology course, in accord with requirements of the College Board. The two main goals are to help students develop a conceptual framework for modern biology and to help students gain an appreciation of science as a process. Topics that are covered in this course include molecules and cells, heredity and evolution, and organisms and populations. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in May.
Advanced Placement Chemistry (SC 4440)
One credit, One year, Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: Chemistry
Advanced Placement Chemistry is designed to be equivalent to a college-level introductory chemistry course, in accord with requirements of the College Board. The goals of this course are to provide students with a deep understanding of the fundamentals of chemistry, to develop competence in solving chemical problems, and to develop students' abilities to think clearly and express their ideas orally and in writing with clarity and logic. Topics that are covered in this course include structure of matter, states of matter, chemical reactions, and descriptive chemistry. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in May.
Advanced Placement Physics B (SC 4540)
One credit, One year, Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: Algebra II/Trigonometry
Advanced Placement Physics is designed to be equivalent to a college-level introductory physics course, in accord with requirements of the College Board. The goals of this course are to understand and interpret physical information (verbal, mathematical, and graphical), to describe and explain the sequence of steps in the analysis of a physical problem, to use basic mathematical reasoning in a physical situation or problem, and to perform experiments and interpret results. The topics that are covered in this course include Newtonian mechanics, thermal physics, electricity and magnetism, waves and optics, and nuclear physics. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in May.
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