Science Academic Courses
Science Academic Courses
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3 credits are required for graduation
Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12 1 credit 1 credit 1 credit 1 credit General Science 9 with Lab Biology I Chemistry Chemistry Honors General Science 9 with Lab Honors Biology I Honors Chemistry Honors Chemistry Topics in General Science Topics in General Science Physics Physics Honors Physics Honors Physics General Physics – UConn ECE General Physics – UConn ECE Chemistry 1128Q – UConn ECE Principles of Biology I – UConn ECE Chemistry 1127Q – UConn ECE Astronomy Environmental Science AP Environmental Science Forensics Anatomy and Physiology Biotechnology – UConn ECE Chemistry 1128Q – UConn ECE Chemistry 1127Q – UConn ECE -
General Science 9 (SC115) (1 credit)
(NCAA Approved Course) NGSS Assessment
General Science 9 with Lab develops students' scientific inquiry by integrating the sciences, with a focus on preparing students for future science coursework.
This course builds on concepts and principles of chemistry, environmental science, and physics. The application of scientific concepts to trade experiences reinforces the curriculum.
Topics include chemical reactions, energy transfers in life processes, and biochemistry.
Students will form hypotheses, design experiments, use technology, analyze data, and draw conclusions.
Course content reflects the Connecticut Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Assessment.
Honors General Science 9 (SC116) (1 credit)
(NCAA Approved Course) See Section XV for Honors/Advanced Level Selection Criteria
The honors section is a more rigorous application of General Science 9 with Lab.
Topics are covered in greater depth and include additional hands-on laboratory work.
Individual student research topics in physical science are emphasized throughout the course.
Topics in General Science (SC310) (1 credit)
(NCAA Approved Course)
Advanced Topics in General Science allows students to continue exploring aspects of chemistry, physics, and Earth and space science while applying data collection, analysis, and interpretation skills related to these scientific concepts.
Based on the Next Generation Science Standards, the course is organized around three related disciplines: Earth and Space Science, Physical Science, and Engineering, Technology, and Applications of Science.
This framework includes science and engineering practices, disciplinary core ideas, crosscutting concepts, and the performance expectations that will be assessed on the Next Generation Science Assessment.
Students are expected to complete several inquiry-based projects throughout the year.
Chemistry (SC610) (1 credit)
(NCAA Approved Course)
This laboratory course builds upon knowledge developed in previous integrated science courses.
Students are introduced to topics including atomic structure, chemical bonding, energy changes, stoichiometry, periodicity, properties of gases, solutions, acid-base theory, electrochemistry, organic chemistry, and biochemistry.
Students investigate the properties, composition, and structure of matter and the laws governing the combination of elements and chemical reactions.
The application of scientific concepts to trade experiences reinforces the curriculum.
Students apply their knowledge of chemistry through problem-solving activities using science-specific technologies and standard laboratory equipment.
Honors Chemistry (SC615) (1 credit)
Prerequisite: Currently enrolled in or completed Algebra II and a grade of 95 in Biology or 85 in Honors Biology
(NCAA Approved Course) See Section XV for Honors/Advanced Level Selection Criteria
Honors Chemistry is a laboratory- and mathematics-oriented science course.
Basic classical concepts are emphasized in this college preparatory course.
Topics include measurement, atomic and molecular structure and theory, periodic law, chemical bonding, formulas, equations and stoichiometry, gases, liquids, solids, solutions, chemical reactions (acid-base and redox), nuclear chemistry, and organic chemistry.
Forensics (SC620) (1 credit)
(NCAA Approved Course)
This course challenges students through topics such as fingerprinting, DNA analysis, blood typing and blood spatter analysis, trajectories for ballistics and blood spatter, comparative anatomy, chemical analysis of drugs, poisons and trace evidence, and the dynamics of physics.
Students learn about careers in forensic science and participate in mock investigations while serving in expert roles to solve crimes.
Students develop teamwork skills as they rotate through investigative roles throughout the year.
Training is provided in the analysis of data and chemical and biological evidence.
Physics (SC625) (1 credit)
Prerequisite: Currently enrolled in or completed Algebra II
(NCAA Approved Course)
Using a laboratory approach, students investigate Newton's laws, classical mechanics, universal gravitation, astronomy, electricity and electrical forces, and the electromagnetic spectrum.
The application of scientific concepts to trade experiences reinforces the curriculum.
Through laboratory experiences, students develop an understanding of the relationship between physics and the operation of simple and complex technological devices.
Honors Physics (SC626) (1 credit)
(NCAA Approved Course) See Section XV for Honors/Advanced Level Selection Criteria
In this more comprehensive laboratory course, students gain an in-depth understanding and appreciation of the physical world through both qualitative and quantitative study of physics.
The application of scientific concepts to trade experiences reinforces the curriculum.
Honors Physics emphasizes mathematical analysis and problem-solving.
Prerequisites include successful completion of Algebra II or concurrent enrollment in Algebra II with instructor approval.
Biology I (SC635) (1 credit)
(NCAA Approved Course)
Following the Connecticut Science Framework 3 and 4, Biology I/Foundations of Life Science 10 with Lab continues students' scientific inquiry training in preparation for the NGSS Assessment.
Building upon previous biological knowledge, the course includes cell chemistry, biotechnology, genetics, evolution, and biodiversity.
Students continue forming hypotheses, designing experiments, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions while expanding their understanding of the content standards.
Honors Biology I (SC636) (1 credit)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I and a grade of 95 in General Science or 85 in Honors General Science 9
(NCAA Approved Course) See Section XV for Honors/Advanced Level Selection Criteria
The honors section is a more rigorous application of Biology I/Foundations of Life Science 10 with Lab.
Topics are covered in greater depth and include additional hands-on laboratory work.
Individual student research topics in life science are emphasized throughout the course.
AP Biology (SC639) (1 credit)
AP Biology is an introductory college-level biology course.
Students cultivate their understanding of biology through inquiry-based investigations while exploring evolution, cellular processes, energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology, and biological interactions.
Anatomy and Physiology (SC641) (1 credit)
(NCAA Approved Course)
This course introduces students to the structure and function of the human body.
Students develop a strong foundation in human anatomy and physiology through the study of diseases, medical conditions, and the ways organ systems maintain homeostasis.
Learning activities include problem-solving, hands-on activities, laboratory experiments, and projects.
Students use microscopes, human models, and prepared slides to study the body's systems.
Biotechnology – UConn ECE (SC652) (1 credit)
Prerequisite: None
The goal of this course is to prepare students of all backgrounds to understand the basic scientific principles, methodologies, and applications used in modern biotechnology.
The course also encourages discussion of the impact and public perception of biotechnology while exploring ethical and other controversial issues related to biotechnology.
General Physics – UConn ECE (SC655) (1 credit)
(NCAA Approved Course) See Section XV for Honors/Advanced Level Selection Criteria
This college-level course for advanced learners explores the basic facts and principles of physics.
The laboratory component provides fundamental training in precise measurement techniques.
To be successful in this course, students should be independent, self-motivated, and prepared to participate in seminar-style discussions.
Students who enroll in the UConn Early College Experience (ECE) program and successfully complete this course are eligible to earn four (4) UConn college credits for General Physics (PHYS 1201Q).
Principles of Biology – UConn ECE (SC657) (1 credit)
(NCAA Approved Course) See Section XV for Honors/Advanced Level Selection Criteria
This college-level course for advanced learners provides a rigorous, laboratory-based study of living organisms.
To be successful in this course, students should be independent, self-motivated, and prepared to participate in challenging discussions, laboratory activities, and online learning.
Students who enroll in the UConn Early College Experience (ECE) program and successfully complete this course are eligible to earn four (4) UConn college credits for Principles of Biology.
Environmental Science (SC660) (1 credit)
(NCAA Approved Course)
Environmental Science surveys key topics including the application of the scientific process to environmental analysis, ecology, energy flow, ecological systems, Earth systems, and atmospheric, land, and water science.
Emphasis is placed on human interaction with the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere.
Students also study natural resource management and analyze private and governmental decisions involving the environment.
Astronomy (SC661) (1 credit)
This course introduces students to the study of the solar system, stars, galaxies, nebulae, and newly discovered celestial bodies.
Students examine the history, properties, relationships, and origins of the universe to develop a greater understanding of astronomy.
Research, online programs, and independent study are integral components of the course.
Laboratory activities are included.
Chemistry 1128Q – UConn ECE (SC662) (1 credit)
(NCAA Approved Course)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of basic Algebra is recommended. Students must pass Chemistry SC664 with a grade of C or higher to continue to Chemistry SC662.
Topics include equilibrium, thermodynamics, nuclear chemistry, and kinetics.
Students also study the properties of familiar elements and their compounds, as well as equilibrium in solutions and reactions of common cations and anions through laboratory investigations.
Chemistry 1127Q – UConn ECE (SC664) (1 credit)
(NCAA Approved Course)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of basic Algebra is recommended. Students must pass Chemistry SC664 with a grade of C or higher to continue to Chemistry SC662.
This course is designed to provide a foundation for advanced chemistry coursework.
Topics include atomic theory and the laws governing the physical and chemical behavior of gases, liquids, solids, and solutions.
The laboratory component emphasizes quantitative measurements that demonstrate the laws of chemical combination.
AP Environmental Science (SC672) (1 credit)
(NCAA Approved Course)
This course is equivalent to an introductory college-level environmental science course.
Students explore and investigate the relationships within the natural world while analyzing both natural and human-made environmental problems.
Laboratory investigations and fieldwork are integral components of the course.