Science

Biology (1 Credit)

Biology is a freshman level course that covers in-depth topics such as the scientific method, the cell along with its organelles and their microscopic structures and functions, cellular processes such as reproduction, respiration and photosynthesis, genetics, heredity, and evolution. While biology is a natural science, we also emphasize, in the spirit of Jesuit education, the social, ethical, and environmental impacts of biological research at a local, as well as a global level. Each cycle, students are required to complete major laboratory experiments or conduct group assignments in which data collection and analysis are required. In addition to these laboratory experiments, the instructor will conduct in-class demonstrations to expose students to more advanced laboratory techniques and practices.

Biology Honors (1 Credit)

Biology Honors progresses at an accelerated pace with more in depth coverage of the chemistry behind cellular processes such as photosynthesis, cellular respiration, protein synthesis, DNA/RNA replication, and human genetics. This course takes full advantage of cross-curricular opportunities by exploring and incorporating major principles of chemistry, physics, and mathematics in living systems, both during lecture and laboratory activities. During laboratory activities, which occur more frequently, students use more advanced techniques such as preparing buffers, transferring solutions using micropipettes, and preparing and running electrophoresis gels.

AP Biology (1 Credit)

This course is designed to fulfill the requirements of college level biology. It includes class work, contracts, traditional and independent laboratory investigations, and outside assignments. The student must be able to do independent work. The offering of this course will be contingent on receiving a sufficient number of qualified candidates. Prerequisites: At least an 85 average in Chemistry Honors or Biology Honors; or a 92 in Biology and Chemistry; and approval by the department chair. Attendance at the AP Fair is required.

Chemistry (1 Credit)

This is a traditional chemistry course using atomic and molecular structure to describe and explain how matter behaves and how the composition of substances governs their interactions. Students will enhance their knowledge of scientific thinking and the course will cover the structure and interactions of matter. Topics include: atomic structure, chemical reactions and equations, phases of matter, bonding, temperature, stoichiometry, acids and bases, and interactions between energy and matter.

Chemistry Honors (1 Credit)

This course covers the content in Chemistry and pursues more indepth coverage of several subjects, including quantum mechanical chemistry, applications of chemical processes in other branches of science and industry, nuclear chemistry, and deeper focus on research methodology as it pertains to chemistry. Prerequisites: Successful completion of Biology Honors with at least an 85 average or a 92 average in Biology and the recommendation of his Biology teacher.

AP Chemistry (1 Credit)

The AP Chemistry course provides students with a college-level foundation to support future advanced coursework in chemistry. Much of the coursework will include laboratory and inquirybased investigations. Students will continue to explore topics learned in Chemistry and Chemistry Honors, such as: atomic structure, intermolecular forces and bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics, and equilibrium. The course explores core scientific principles, theories, and processes that cut across traditional boundaries and provide a broad way of thinking about the particulate nature of matter underlying the observations students make about the physical world. The offering of this course will be contingent on receiving a sufficient number of qualified candidates. Prerequisites: Successful completion of Chemistry Honors with at least an 85 average or a 92 or above in Chemistry; successful completion of Algebra 2/Trigonometry; completion of a summer assignment; and approval by the department chair. Attendance at the AP Fair is required.

Physics (1 Credit)

In physics, students observe objects and processes and describe them mathematically. Topics covered include mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, and optics. Laboratory experiments are computer based and integrate the formal learning process. A facility with numbers is helpful; the ability to use algebra is essential. Co-requisite: Algebra 2/Trigonometry.

AP Physics 1 (1 Credit)

AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as Newtonian mechanics (including rotational motion); work, energy, and power; mechanical waves and sound; and introductory simple circuits. Through inquiry-based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills. Students who have taken Chemistry Honors are encouraged to take this course. The offering of this course will be contingent on receiving a sufficient number of qualified candidates. Prerequisites: 85 or above in Chemistry Honors or 92 or above in Physics; successful completion of algebra honors and geometry honors with an 85 or above. The completion of a summer assignment; attendance at two after-school class sessions; and approval by the department chair. Attendance at the AP Fair is required.

AP Physics 2 (1 Credit)

AP Physics 2 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as fluid statics and dynamics; thermodynamics with kinetic theory; PV diagrams and probability; electrostatics; electrical circuits with capacitors; magnetic fields; electromagnetism; physical and geometric optics; and quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics. Through inquirybased learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills. The offering of this course will be contingent on receiving a sufficient number of qualified candidates. Prerequisites: 85 in AP Physics 1; completion of a summer assignment; and approval by the department chair. Attendance at the AP Fair is required.

Anatomy & Physiology (1 Credit)

Anatomy & Physiology, an introductory college-level course, is a science elective available to juniors and seniors. Students study anatomical terms, cells, tissues, homeostasis, and the human body in health and disease. The course covers the anatomy and physiology of each body system. In addition to laboratory dissection and computerized virtual dissection simulation, class activities include the analysis of case studies and identification of illustrative anatomy on diagrams.

Astronomy and Astrobiology (1 Credit)

This is an introductory-level science elective course available to juniors and seniors. This course will explore the universe focusing specifically on celestial bodies (stars, planets, asteroids and comets), their specific properties or processes and their interactions. The first half of this course will focus on habitability in our solar system and the factors that contribute to Earth’s habitability. The second half of this course will apply the principles of habitability to the study of exoplanets. This course will develop analytical thinking and inquiry skills while students explore habitability throughout our universe. Field trips to the Hayden Planetarium and New York Hall of Science will supplement in-class discussions.

Forensics and Criminalistics (1 Credit)

Forensics and Criminalistics is a year-long introductory-level lab science elective open to juniors and seniors. In this course, the students will be introduced to what a forensic scientist does and practice the techniques associated with securing and processing a crime scene and the study of criminals. Students will become familiar with the collection, identification, and documentation of various types of evidence including blood, glass, fingerprints, handwriting, human remains, soil, and impressions. The first half of the course will cover forensic science, and the second half of the course will cover criminal science. Prerequisites: Students applying to Forensics and Criminalistics must demonstrate a successful completion of Biology/ Biology Honors, Chemistry/ Chemistry Honors, and Algebra II Trig/Algebra II Trig Honors.

Microbiology (1 Credit)

This is a college level course on microbial biology consisting of both lecture and laboratory. The course will cover eukaryotic and prokaryotic microbes and viruses but will emphasize bacteria. The majority of this course will deal with learning and mastering the laboratory techniques used by universities and hospitals in bacterial identification and will culminate with students presenting their personal research concerning two unknown bacterial samples that were given to them at the beginning of the course. This will provide the students with a conceptual and experimental background in microbiology and is aimed at those rising junior and senior students that have a strong desire to enter into the world of health science and/or laboratory science research fields.