AP PHYSICS 1
This course prepares students for the Advanced Placement Examination in Physics 1 an algebra-based, introductory college-level course that would be taught in one semester at a university.  Students cultivate their understanding of physics through inquiry-based investigations.  The topics covered in this course are Kinematics, Dynamics, Circular Motion and Gravitation, Energy, Momentum, Simple Harmonic Motion, Torque, and Rotational Motion.  Upon completion of this course, students should be able to use representations and models to communicate scientific phenomena and solve scientific problems. They will also learn to plan and implement data collection strategies and analyze the collected data to answer particular scientific questions.  At the end of the year, the students will also be able to use scientific explanations and theories to write an argument for a specific conclusion, in addition to using mathematical arguments.   The minimum math requirement for this course is the completion of  Pre-Calculus. This year-long course is offered to students who are interested in Physics but are not interested in taking AP Physics C. 

Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry; Co-requisite: Precalculus

This course follows the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Science and Engineering Practices for High School Physical Sciences. Chemistry I examines fundamental chemistry concepts with the expectation that they apply the concepts in both quantitative and qualitative problem solving. In Chemistry I the structure, properties, and behavior of matter are investigated. Topics include atomic theory of matter, atomic structure, periodic properties, bonding/intermolecular forces, molecular geometry, phases of matter, chemical equations and reactions, stoichiometry, gas laws, and the kinetic molecular theory. Lecture, demonstration, group collaboration and problem solving activities, and laboratory exercises are used to present concepts as students learn to apply the scientific method to chemical problems and real-world situations.

Civil and Structural Engineering
Civil engineering is the application of physical and scientific principles for solving the problems of society.  This would include road, bridge, and dam design and construction as well as drainage and plumbing systems.  Structural engineering – a specialty within the field of civil engineering — focuses on the framework of structures (buildings and supportive structures), and on designing those structures to withstand the stresses and pressures of their environment and remain safe, stable, and secure throughout their use. This course will also integrate concepts of materials science within the industry.

Drugs and Behavior  
Given the prevalence of drugs in our society, both recreational and prescribed drugs, this is a topic that impacts everyone. If we are to understand ourselves and our behavior, we must participate in the study of drugs and the nervous system. We will begin the course with a brief overview of the structure and function of the nervous system and how it communicates with electrical and chemical signals. Next, we will explore the basic principles of how drugs and our bodies interact (pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics). Then we will analyze several broad categories of drugs that affect behavior, including sedative-hypnotics, opioids, psychostimulants, psychedelics, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and mood stabilizers. For each drug class, we will explore concepts such as the psychoactive effects of the drugs, their common side effects, conditions intended to be treated by medically prescribed drugs, the chemical structure of the drugs themselves, their mechanisms of action, and key principles guiding our current understanding in each area.

Entering students must have demonstrated ability and interest in science during their eighth grade science course. The students should possess at least general knowledge of the atomic and molecular structure of matter.

Prerequisites – Biology I, Chemistry I, and Physics I

Open to students who have completed the science requirement of physics, chemistry, and biology. This course explores the anatomy and physiology of the human body at many levels from the molecular/chemical to the gross anatomy. The course content will include the following major body systems: nervous, circulatory, musculoskeletal, immune, respiratory, digestive, excretory, integumentary, and endocrine systems. The students will read and respond to current articles that address both personal and societal health issues. 

A hands-on approach to examining mechanical systems, their design, and their efficiencies.  Included will be a study of fasteners, materials science, energy transfer,  and the design of power-producing machines, such as electric generators, internal combustion engines, and steam and gas turbines, as well as power-using machines, such as refrigeration and air-conditioning systems. 

This course is designed to introduce you to the field of behavioral neuroscience or biological psychology, that is, the relationship between behavioral processes and behavior one exhibits. To do this, we will examine the structure and function of the nervous system focusing a large part on the organization of the brain. Topics we will explore include sleeping, drinking, and eating, as well as, behaviors involving learning, memory, emotion, language, communication, and mental disorders. We will also cover the modification of behaviors through evolution, experience, and development.

This elective will examine psychological theories and research related to achieving peak performance in sport. By taking this course, you will increase your understanding of how psychological factors influence involvement and performance. In addition, you will learn how participation in sport influences your own psychological makeup. Lastly, you will develop skills and knowledge about sport psychology that you can apply as an athlete