Show All Hide All

General Science

Grade: 9
Credits: 5
This course is for students who want to develop the skills necessary to excel in advanced science classes at the high school level. The course teaches the problem solving and critical thinking abilities essential for science literacy. An emphasis on fine-tuning laboratory skills means students spend a large portion of their time doing hands-on activities in the science labs. This course fulfills one semester of elective science credit for Presentation High School.

Biology I

Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Credits: 10
Prerequisite: For freshman, the composite score must be above 75% on the national high school placement test.
This is a one year course that explores the variety of life on Earth while focusing on fundamental principles of Biological Science. The major topics include Ecology, Cell Biology, Genetics and Human Anatomy and Physiology. Individual units incorporate a variety of laboratory and interactive computer experiences as well as group activities. This course fulfills both the Presentation High School and the U.C. requirement for a laboratory science.

Honors Biology I

Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12
Credits: 10
Prerequisite: Incoming Freshmen: composite NHSPT test score above 75% and passing grade on the Honors Biology Placement test. Current Freshmen: 3.0 overall GPA and passing score on the Honors Biology Placement test.
Biology I Honors is a one year course that promotes an understanding of the biological concepts and principles from an ecological perspective. The topics covered are similar to those in Biology I, but are explored in more depth. Eligibility is based on a placement test which will evaluate basic science skills, graphing procedures and scientific reading comprehension. This course fulfills both the Presentation High School and the U.C. requirement for a laboratory science.

Biology II

Grade: 10, 11, 12
Credits: 10
Prerequisite: 1.7 GPA. in Biology I
This course is a biochemical approach to the study of living things. Theories of evolution and genetic continuity will be examined in depth. Students will also explore current topics in biology and biotechnology while completing three intensive laboratory-based units involving biotechnology, genetic engineering, and forensic science. This course fulfills both the Presentation High School and the U.C. requirement for a laboratory science.

AP Biology

Grade: 10, 11, 12
Credits: 10
Prerequisite: 3.0 overall GPA; 3.3 g.p.a. in Biology I
This course is an in-depth biochemical study of life processes and their evolution. This course includes 12 college board-approved AP labs that supplement the topics being taught. This class is designed to prepare students for the AP biology exam, however it is not mandatory that students take the exam as part of the course. This course is recommended for students planning to major in biological sciences or pursue a career in medicine. This course fulfills both the Presentation High School and the U.C. requirement for a laboratory science.

Chemistry

Grade: 10, 11, 12
Credits: 10
Prerequisite: Completion of Geometry
This is a laboratory course in the study of inorganic chemistry. The principles of chemistry are learned through films, lectures, handouts and problem solving. Laboratory investigations are an integral part of the program. Chemistry is recommended for all college prep students. This course fulfills both the Presentation High School and the U.C. requirement for a laboratory physical science.

Honors Chemistry

Grade: 10, 11, 12
Credits: 10
Prerequisite: 3.0 overall g.p.a; 3.3 g.p.a. in Algebra and Geometry
This is a fast-paced laboratory course which includes an in depth study of inorganic chemistry. Problem solving skills are emphasized. This class is recommended for students planning to major in Math, Science or Engineering. This course fulfills both the Presentation High School and the U.C. requirement for a laboratory physical science.

Physics

Grade: 10, 11, 12
Credits: 10
Prerequisite: 2.3 g.p.a. in Algebra, Geometry and Algebra II
This is a laboratory course in the study of mechanics of the solids and fluids, electricity, magnetism, light and wave theory. Lectures, problem solving and laboratory experiments are used to help the student understand the material in depth. This course is recommended for all college prep students. This course fulfills both the Presentation High School and the U.C. requirement for a laboratory physical science.

Honors Physics

Grade: 10, 11, 12
Credits: 10
Prerequisite: Trigonometry or Precalculus OR concurrent enrollment in Honors Precalculus; 3.0 overall GPA.; 3.3 GPA. in Mathematics
This course is intended for the exceptional student in Math and Science. It accomplishes all of the goals of Physics but in greater depth. Students will be required to complete additional labs and projects. This course is recommended for those who plan to major in Engineering, Math and Science. This course fulfills both the Presentation High School and the U.C. requirement for a physical laboratory science.

AP Physics

Grade: 10, 11, 12
Credits: 10
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in, or completion of, AP Calculus BC; completion of Chemistry with an A or Honors Chemistry with a B both semesters. Eligibility may also be subject to teacher recommendation and/or department chair approval.
Physics AP "B" is a one-year algebra-based course designed to cover the material found in a typical first-year college physics course for life-science and pre-medicine majors. Topics covered will include: mechanics; waves, sound, and light; electricity and magnetism; and thermodynamics. The course will move at a rapid pace and is designed to prepare students with strong ability and motivation in math and science for college-level physical science courses. Students will be expected to do independent study and work packets in preparation for the AP test. This course fulfills the Presentation, UC and CSU requirements for a laboratory physical science.

Bioethics

Grade: 11, 12
Credits: 5
Students will be exploring a number of topics from the fields of medicine, biotechnology and environmental science. Some of these topics will include; genetic testing, gene therapy, cloning, fetal tissue research, the use of transgenic animals, as well as development projects versus biodiversity. We will examine the ethical and moral questions and issues surrounding these topics from a variety of viewpoints. This class will involve research, discussion and debate. Students in this course will be looking at the role science plays in personal, social, economic and political realms. This course fulfills one semester of elective science credit for Presentation High School.

AP Environmental Science

Grade: 11 and 12 only
Credits: 10
Offered: Year long class
Prerequisites: 3.0 GPA in science; 3.0 Overall GPA; completion of, or concurrent enrollment in, Chemistry.
The Advanced Placement Environmental Science course explores the multidisciplinary science of the environment and examines the causes, consequences, and possible solutions for environmental issues from around the world. The course is designed to be the equivalent of a one semester, introductory college course in environmental science, and as such the expectations placed on students are greater than those of introductory high school science courses. AP Environmental Science is unique in that it stresses not only scientific knowledge and skills, but also emphasizes the study of environmental issues from sociological and political perspectives. Topics covered include ecosystem health, species diversity, consumption of natural resources, pollution issues, alternative energy sources, climate change, and the concept of sustainability. The course will include laboratory and field experiences to provide students with important opportunities to test concepts and principles that are introduced in the classroom, to explore specific problems with a depth not easily achieved otherwise, and to gain an awareness of the importance of confounding variables that exist in the “real world.” An emphasis is placed on students using critical thinking and analytical skills to make a positive impact on the environment.

Human Anatomy and Physiology A

Grade: 11, 12
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: Taken concurrently with or after a third year of science.
This course is an in-depth examination of the human body and its processes. The curriculum will integrate the organ systems into larger systems to gain an understanding of how the body works in concert to produce this interesting living organism. Topics will include Histology, Skeletal, Muscular, Nervous, Cardiovascular, and Immune Systems. Lab will include dissections as well as a visit to see a few cadavers during the semester. This class is recommended for students with an interest in medicine or biological research and should be taken in addition to (and not in lieu of) Chemistry and Physics. This course fulfills both the Presentation High School and the U.C. requirement for a laboratory science.

Human Anatomy and Physiology B

Grade: 11, 12
Credits: 5
Prerequisites: 2.7 g.p.a. in Human Anatomy and Physiology A
This course continues the coursework begun in Human Anatomy and Physiology A. Topics will include the Endocrine, Respiratory, Digestive, Urinary and Reproductive Systems as well as units in Nutrition and Embryology. Lab will include dissections as well as a visit to see a few cadavers during the semester. This class is recommended for students with an interest in medicine or biological research and should be taken in addition to (and not in lieu of) Chemistry and Physics. This course fulfills both the Presentation High School and the U.C. requirement for a laboratory science.

Integrated Science and Technology Seminar

Grade: 11, 12
Credits: 2 (Pass/Fail)
Prerequisite: By application in late spring. Preference will be given to seniors and students who have completed three years of science.
This independent study course explores how Biology, Chemistry and Physics combine with the principles of Engineering to produce the technology that exists in our world today. The class will also allow students to begin networking with programs around the area that serve future engineers. Students will be expected to attend every class as well as two field trips and one PHS Math/Science Colloquium during the year.