Academics

 

 

 

SCIENCE

Integrated Physics and Chemistry (1 credit): IPC is an introduction to the nature of science and the scientific method, basic chemistry, and physics. Content centers on descriptive terminology with supporting concepts, and is reinforced by lab activities and demonstrations. Knowledge of pre-algebra is essential.

Biology I (1 credit): General Biology is offered primarily to freshmen and sophomores. Emphasis is placed on lecture, discussion, research, current events, and laboratory work. The major plant and animal phyla and their major systems are covered. General Science, Junior High or High School, is a desirable prerequisite for General Biology.

Biology AP (1 credit): This course is a dual-credit course, awarding the successful student 4 college credit hours of College Biology. It includes those topics regularly covered in an accelerated freshman college biology course. College biology differs significantly from high school biology in the technical level of the textbook used, the range and depth of topics covered, the kinds of laboratory activities performed, and the time and effort required of students. However, this course also covers AP requirements, should a student opt to take the AP Exam (Pre-requisite Biology-H, Chemistry-H, or permission of instructor)

Physiology and Anatomy (1 credit): This course is an elective course designed for students of junior or senior standing. The course is primarily devoted to the study of the ten major systems of the human body. Emphasis is placed on lecture, discussion, laboratory, research, and current events. A course in general biology and chemistry is highly recommended as desirable prerequisites.

Chemistry (1 credit): This course is designed to prepare the student for a college course in general chemistry. Emphasis is placed on understanding scientific reasoning, developing skills to solve problems by the "scientific method," and the safe use and handling of laboratory equipment and chemicals. Time is also devoted to helping the student develop other skills useful in college such as note-taking, classroom presentation, and researching material for reports.

Physics (1 credit): Physics is the study of matter and energy and their intraconversions. It is normally offered to juniors and seniors who have completed at least two years of mathematics. Three years of mathematics are recommended. Class-work consists of lecture, demonstration, and problem solving. Concurrent enrollment in pre-calculus is highly recommended. (Prerequisite Algebra II)

Astronomy (1 credit): This elective course is a descriptive study of the historical and modern developments in astronomy that pertain to the solar system, stellar and galactic astronomy. The course traces the historical growth of modern astronomy, and emphasizes the observed characteristics of the planets, stars, and galaxies, as well as the theories that account for them. Students will conduct labs, viewing the night sky with the school’s observatory, and utilize computer technology to enhance learning.





 
   
                              2801 Ranch Road 12          San Marcos, Texas 78666          Tel: 512.353.2400