Science

Course Descriptions:

AP PHYSICS

 This course follows the curriculum set forth by the College Board and is equivalent to a first semester algebra-based Physics course.  Students will require a strong algebra background and knowledge of right triangle sine, cosine, and tangent ratios to be successful in this course.  Topics include kinematics, Newton’s Laws of motion, torque, rotational motion and angular momentum, gravitation and circular motion, work, energy, power, linear momentum, and fluids.  There will be a focus on inquiry-based laboratory activities which challenge students to design and carry out experiments targeting certain learning objectives. Enrollment is limited to juniors and seniors who are at least in Algebra II/Trigonometry. No calculus is required. 

CP PHYSICS

This is a general physics course with a problem-solving component requiring an Algebra 2 level of mathematics preparation and will include basic trigonometry (taught in the course). The topics to be covered in the first semester are Measurements, Mechanics, and Circular and Rotational Motion. The topics to be covered in the second semester are Electricity and Magnetism, Wave Motion, Thermodynamics and Modern Physics. 

EARTH SCIENCE (General Level)

This course covers the basics of Earth Science, including earth systems, minerals, rocks, energy, weathering, plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, fossils, oceans, and astronomy. The class is designed to maximize labs and activities, and very little math is required. Earth Science is offered as an alternative to chemistry in the junior year and fulfills the graduation requirement for physical science. It is only offered at the general level and does not fulfill CSU or UC science requirements. Students looking for an earth science-based class that is accepted by CSUs and UCs should consider enrolling in AP Environmental Science.