Honors Earth Science
Earth Science is a robust course that explores Earth's composition, structure, processes, and history; its atmosphere, freshwater, and oceans; and its environment in space. Students are encouraged to look at Earth science from both personal and worldly perspectives and to analyze the social implications of the topics covered. Laboratory experiments introduce students to different lab techniques while building their skills in critical thinking, inquiry, and observation. Topics include an exploration of the major cycles that affect every aspect of life, including weather, climate, air movement, tectonics, volcanic eruptions, rocks, minerals, geologic history, Earth's environment, sustainability, and energy resources.

The content is based on the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) standards and is aligned to state standards. (back)

Honors Physical Science
Physical Science is a thorough course that provides students with an understanding of the nature and structure of matter, the characteristics of energy, and the societal implications of physical science concepts. Using the scientific method — observation, data collection, analysis, hypothesis, and conclusion — students are encouraged to extend their knowledge through the development of scientific explanations, hypotheses, and conclusions. Topics include an introduction to kinematics, including gravity and two-dimensional motion; force; momentum; waves; electricity; atoms; the Periodic Table of Elements; molecular bonding; chemical reactivity; gases; and an introduction to nuclear energy.

The content is based on the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) standards and is aligned to state standards.
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Honors Biology
Biology is an in-depth course that furthers mastery of scientific skills, fosters a deep understanding of key concepts, and promotes the application of the scientific method to biological topics.
The course begins with an introduction to the nature of science and biology, including the major themes of structure and function, matter and energy flow, systems, and interconnectedness of life. Students then apply those themes to the structure and function of the cell, cellular metabolism, and biogeochemical cycles. Building on this foundation, students explore the connections and interactions between living things by studying genetics, ecosystems and natural selection, and evolution. The course ends with an applied look at human biology.
Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science.

Biology students are frequently asked to respond to scientific problems and issues via written assignments. Moreover, Exploration activities challenge Honors students to deconstruct scientific claims, analyze scientific articles, and suggest follow-up experiments or topics for further research.

The content is based on the National Science Education Standards (NSES) and is aligned to state standards.
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Honors Chemistry
Chemistry offers a curriculum that emphasizes students’ understanding of fundamental chemistry concepts while helping them acquire tools to be conversant in a society highly influenced by science and technology. 
The course provides students with opportunities to learn and practice critical scientific skills within the context of relevant scientific questions. Topics include the nature of science, the importance of chemistry to society, atomic structure, bonding in matter, chemical reactions, redox reactions, electrochemistry, phases of matter, equilibrium and kinetics, acids and bases, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, nuclear reactions, organic chemistry, and alternative energy. 

Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts. Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science.

Throughout this course, students are given an opportunity to understand how chemistry concepts are applied in technology and engineering. Journal and Practice activities provide additional opportunities for students to apply concepts learned in the Studies and practice their writing skills. Exploration activities challenge students to deconstruct scientific claims, analyze scientific articles, and suggest follow-up experiments or topics for further research.

The content is based on the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Project 2061 benchmarks and the National Science Education Standards and is aligned with state standards.
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