High School Science Department

Biology
The study of life covers major topics from the Intelligent Design perspective. The major topics are Science and the God of Life; the Chemistry of Life; Cytology: the Introduction of Cells; Cellular Processes; Genetics; Classification of Organisms; Microbiology; Botany, Zoology; and Human Anatomy/ Physiology. Students will participate in a strong laboratory component to this course. Finally, students will discover and appreciate the complexity and wonder of God’s created order.

Chemistry
Emphasis is given to matter, energy, and chemical elements; units of measurement; heat and temperature; solving quantitative problems; the atomic model; quantum numbers and atomic orbitals; the periodic table; bonding; chemical names and formulas; chemical equations; types of chemical reactions; stoichometry; representative gases; the kinetic theory of matter; physical characteristics and molecular composition of gases; liquids and solids; solutions; ionic compounds; acids and bases; reaction energy and kinetic energy; equilibrium; oxidation; carbon and hydrocarbons; biochemistry; metals; sulfur and its compounds; halogens; and nuclear chemistry. There is a strong laboratory component to this class.

Environmental Science
This class explores the environment and the existing challenges that our eco-systems face. The study will consider ways we can properly manage our environment as good stewards of God’s gift. Attention is given to the interplay of geography, biology and geochemistry in environmental studies. The course incorporates both laboratory investigations and field studies.

Marine Biology
The course introduces the physical elements of the ocean with attention to tidal and wave processes, currents, and ocean basins. Learning then proceeds to marine ecosystems. Students become familiar with the physiological functions and behaviors of marine plants, algae, kelp, starfishes, sponges, jellies, and major marine organisms. Field work and laboratory dissections are required. Emphasis is placed on environmental stewardship as we care for and manage God’s creation. Biology is a prerequisite to this class.

Physical Science
This laboratory based course explores general science providing an introduction to chemistry and physics. Unit studies include science methods; standards of measurement; motion and forces; graphing; speed; gravity; acceleration and momentum; energy; machines; the nature and classification of matter; atomic structure and the periodic table; chemical bonds; elements and their properties; organic and biological compounds; materials; solutions; chemical reactions; acids, bases, and salts; waves and sounds; light; mirrors and lenses; electricity and energy sources; magnetism and its uses; electronics and computers; radioactivity and nuclear reactions; and energy sources. Algebra I must be taken before or concurrent with this class.

Physics
A laboratory study which teaches the science of energy; measurement and problem solving; velocity and acceleration; concurrent and parallel forces; two-dimensional and periodic motion; conservation of energy and momentum; and phases of matter. Course pre-requisite is Chemistry, Geometry and Algebra II.