Science Courses

Physical Science	1 Credit (Year)
This course provides experience in laboratory work and the use of scientific concepts. It is a good foundation for future chemistry and physics courses. Topics: metric measurements, motion, work, atomic structure, forces, energy, chemical equations, and reactions. Open to 9th grade students.
General Biology	1 Credit (Year)
Biology is a required course for science. It is concerned with living organisms and their life processes, which are enhanced by laboratory experiments. Topics: chemistry, biochemistry, cytology, molecular biology, genetics, microbiology, taxonomy, a survey of the plant and animal kingdoms and an introduction to human biology. Open to invited 9th grade and all 10th grade students.
Chemistry	1 Credit (Year)
This course is an introduction to Inorganic Chemistry – models of the atom, chemical symbols, reactions, reaction rates, equilibrium, acid base theory and electrochemistry. The course prepares students for further study in science. Open to 10th and 11th grade students. Prerequisites: Biology and Geometry C+ average or higher in all mathematics and science courses Biology teacher’s approval
Honors Chemistry	1 Credit (Year)
Honors Chemistry demands a higher degree of self-discipline, organizational skills, and independent study skills. Approximately 50% more material will be covered compared to the general chemistry course. Laboratory exercises require a higher degree of awareness of the scientific method, the ability to collect and analyze more complex sets of data and to communicate results verbally and in writing beyond an average level of clarity. Work outside the classroom requires on average 45 minutes per night. The course will more than adequately prepare students to pursue science in earnest and to continue at the college level in chemistry with confidence. Open to 10th and 11th grade students. Prerequisites: A– or higher in Biology in each grading period and semester exam Biology teacher’s approval Departmental approval
A.P. Biology	1 Credit (Year)
A.P. Biology is a college level course with a college text and advanced laboratory work. Students should be academically prepared for the pace and rigor of college work and willing to make the appropriate time commitment. Topics include biochemistry, cells, energetics, heredity, molecular genetics, biotechnology, evolution, taxonomy, monerans and protists, plants and plant physiology, animals, human systems and ecology. Students who complete this course may take the A.P. exam for possible college credit. Open to 11th and 12th grade students. Requirements: Students and parents must sign a statement stating they understand this course requires an extra 80 minutes of class time on average per week. An early start may be required by instructor. There will be required work the summer prior to the start of the course. Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in Math Analysis or above Completion of Chemistry Overall GPA of a 3.7 A– or higher in all Math and Science classes Departmental Approval
Physics	1 Credit (Year)
The class requires an above average level of independent learning and self-discipline in order to pursue and persevere with higher order thinking skills. It also requires an above average amount of time to successfully complete the course requirements. The first semester covers mechanics of all types of motion. The third quarter covers wave theory, sound, light, and optics. The fourth quarter covers electricity, circuits, magnetism and nuclear physics. Open to 11th and 12th grade students. Requirements: Minimum 45 minutes of daily study outside of the classroom. Prerequisites: B+ average in Math Analysis or Concurrent enrollment in Math Analysis B+ average or higher in all mathematics and science courses Departmental Approval
Anatomy & Physiology	0.5 Credit (S1)
This course is designed to increase the student’s awareness of the human body and its functions. Topics include: the organ systems, the integration of form and function, homeostasis, ability to overcome disease, and the physiology of athletic performance. Lab and dissection of a vertebrate. Open to 11th and 12th grade students.
Environmental Science	0.5 Credit (S2)
This course teaches the key components of ecology and environmental science. Throughout this course students examine the ethical issues facing the environment by looking at past practices and current issues. To develop a perspective and concern for the environment, students will investigate everyday activities that affect ecology, energy, water, atmosphere, and land. The Environmental Science course at STA is not available to Visitation Students. Open to 11th and 12th grade students.
Astronomy	0.5 Credit (S1)
This course requires one evening (dark sky) observation in the vicinity of Visitation School. Students must provide their own transportation. Topics include: stars, solar system, coordinate systems, and life on other planets. Numerous (20-30) independent observation days and/or nighttime are also required. Full-page write ups with diagrams and detailed explanations and one major project are required. Open to 11th and 12th grade students. Prerequisite: Geometry
Genetics	0.5 Credit (S2)
This course explores hereditary patterns and current research in the field of genetics. Using humans as their primary organism, students explore DNA, chromosomes, inheritance patterns and the mutations that can occur during fetal development and later in life. By using current research, students acquire an understanding of prenatal diagnosis, genetic counseling, the effects of the environment on our genetic formation, and the ethical decisions facing this constantly changing field. Open to 11th and 12th grade students.