Coming 2014–2015: Advanced Science Courses

Each advanced science course is one semester long and, except where noted, can be taken in any order. Each advanced science course is an honors course and will be noted as such on student transcripts. The additional quality points for honors courses will increase a student’s high school GPA. (See information regarding GPA and honors courses here.) Honors Biology and Honors Chemistry are prerequisite to all advanced science courses. The Guidance Office may waive these prerequisites in unusual circumstances.

Introductory Physics (Honors)

Presents in-depth investigations into motion, vector analysis, and forces. Presents topics conceptually through observation of physical phenomena and mathematical analysis. Demonstrations, laboratory activities and self-directed applications promote problem-solving skills. Seeks to foster an appreciation and awe for God’s wisdom and power as displayed throughout creation.

  • TI-83 or TI-84 graphing calculator recommended
  • Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry, Honors Biology, and Honors Chemistry
  • Students may take Algebra II concurrently with Introductory Physics
  • Offered only first semester

Intermediate Physics (Honors)

Presents in-depth investigations into energy, sound, thermodynamics, fluids, magnetism, electricity, electronics, and optics. Introduces modern physics. Presents topics conceptually through observation of physical phenomena and mathematical analysis. Demonstrations, laboratory activities and self-directed applications promote problem-solving skills. Seeks to foster an appreciation and awe for God’s wisdom and power as displayed throughout creation.

  • TI-83 or TI-84 graphing calculator recommended
  • Prerequisite: Introductory Physics
  • Students may take Algebra II concurrently with Intermediate Physics
  • Offered only second semester.

Biotechnology (Honors)

Presents an in-depth study of the relationship of a Bible-believing Christian to the realm and claims of modern science.  Addresses the topic of cellular structures and processes. Includes an emphasis on DNA science and its impact on present and future culture and Christian ethics. Hands-on laboratory experiences with electrophoresis of DNA are supplemented with computerized exercises.

  • Prerequisites: Honors Biology, and Honors Chemistry
  • Generally offered first semester.
  • Not offered every year

Genetics and Christian Ethics (Honors)

Presents study of traditional and modern genetics with hands-on laboratory experiences in genetic engineering supplemented with computerized exercises. Relationship between genetics and evolutionary theory, with an emphasis on the Intelligent Design movement, is covered in depth. Bible-based ethics and modern secular positions/ethics, as they relate to present and future genetic manipulations, are addressed; and students will be encouraged to analyze, take positions, defend those positions and counter opposing arguments related to contemporary genetic issues.

  • Generally offered second semester.
  • Prerequisites: Honors Biology, and Honors Chemistry
  • Biotechnology is a suggested prerequisite.
  • Not offered every year