Science Curriculum – High School

3012 Regents Biology

This course is a detailed study of many aspects of modern biology. Topics include cell biology, genetics, ecology, evolution, and human biology. A minimum of 20 hours of laboratory work with satisfactory reports is required to take the Regents exam.

3000 Honors Earth Science

Honors Earth Science is a detailed study of the Earth and its environment and is intended for those students who accelerated in science in eighth grade. All of the topics of the Regents Earth Science curriculum will be covered, but will be done so in greater depth. Students will be expected to learn material at a fast pace and will complete a number of research projects throughout the year, many of which will require data collection outside of school. A minimum of 20 hours of laboratory work with satisfactory reports is required to take the Regents exam.

3002 Regents Earth Science

This course is a detailed study of the Earth and its environment. Topics covered will include processes of change, Earth model and its energy requirements, geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy. A minimum of 20 hours of laboratory work with satisfactory reports is required to take the Regents exam.

3063 Environmental Earth Science

This course is a study of the Earth and its environment. This course is designed for students who need extended time to understand advanced scientific topics. The course is designed for students who do not wish to pursue further Regents level science courses. Topics will be covered in a project-based hands on manner with a focus on laboratory activities.

3032 Physiology

Anatomy and Physiology is intended to provide a firm comprehension of the human body to students who aspire to a career in a health profession such as medicine, nursing, and physical therapy. The course explores interrelationships between different organ systems and their homeostatic functions. Students pay special attention to cells, tissues, and biochemistry as they delve through the structure and function of each body system. Also, they perform a series of hands-on laboratory experiments including the dissections of a cat, rat, and the major organs of a sheep. As they develop an understanding of the intricacies of the human body, students will research and present the effects of a specific disease on the body’s organs and organ systems.

3102 Regents Chemistry

This is a preparatory course for those who may take additional science in college. The major emphasis is on chemical theory, atomic structure, bonding, kinetics and equilibrium, acids and bases, oxidation reduction and electrochemistry, organic chemistry and nuclear chemistry. A minimum of 20 hours of laboratory work with satisfactory reports is required to take the Regents exam.

3103 General Chemistry

This course is designed for students who need extended time to understand advanced scientific topics. Basic topics covered in this course include atomic structure, chemical reactions, solubilities and stoichiometry. There will be considerable laboratory work as part of this course. The course is designed for students who do not wish to pursue further Regents level science courses.

3111 Honors Chemistry

Honors Chemistry will cover the same topics as Regents Chemistry, but in greater depth and with more rigor. This course offers students the opportunity to develop problem solving and critical thinking skills necessary for success at the college level. Laboratory activities will require the application of higher level, argument-driven inquiry skills. A minimum of 20 hours of laboratory work with satisfactory reports is required to take the Regents exam.

3083 Integrated Science

This course is designed for students who need a third unit of science and have completed the prerequisites. The course will deal with a variety of topics such as forensics, food science, humans and disease, and gardening. There will be considerable laboratory work as part of this course.

3203 General Physics

Provides a background in physics suitable for a two-year college program needing a basic understanding of physics.

3202 Regents Physics

Regents Physics is a college preparatory course for students planning to pursue in college engineering, professional sciences, technical training, medical and health-related fields. This course provides an in-depth study of mechanics, wave theory, electricity, magnetism, atomic and nuclear physics. The NYS Physics Regents exam is optional and will not count towards the student’s overall grade in the course; however, if a student decides to take the Regents exam, the score will be reflected on the student’s transcript. A minimum of 20 hours of laboratory work with satisfactory reports is required to take the Regents exam.

3205 College Physics

College Physics is an algebra-based, college-level physics course that is affiliated with the curriculum of two undergraduate level courses offered at Siena College (General Physics 110 and General Physics 120). This is a survey course designed for Biology, Pre-Med, Environmental Science, and other similar college majors. Students will study topics such as mechanics, dynamics, thermodynamics, waves, electrostatics, optics, and nuclear physics. At the end of each semester, students will take a Siena final exam which will count towards 20% of their college transcript grade and 10% each towards their GHS course grade for the year. Each semester the students will have the ability to earn (4) Siena College credits at a cost of approximately $250. The NYS Physics Regents exam is optional and will not count towards the student’s overall grade in the course; however, if a student decides to take the Regents exam, the score will be reflected on the student’s transcript. A minimum of 20 hours of laboratory work with satisfactory reports is required to take the Regents exam.

3021 Syracuse University Project Advance Biology

SUPA Biology is the full year (two-semester) freshman biology course offered at Syracuse University (Bio 121, 123, 124 – General Biology I and II and Biology Lab). Students may earn eight credits by registering with the university and paying tuition at the current per credit hour rate ($115 per credit hour in 2021-2022). This course is a survey of biological concepts ranging from the molecular level to global ecology. First semester topics include the nature of science, life chemistry, cell structure and function, photosynthesis and respiration, genetics, and evolution. Second semester topics include: biodiversity, plant structure and function, human and comparative animal anatomy and function, ecology and evolu-tion. Extensive lab work is required, including dissections. The course includes inquiry-based exploration and practical application of concepts. It is highly recommended that students in this course enroll with the university. Students will have the option to take the AP Biology exam. (Approximate test fee $96)

3121 Advanced Placement Chemistry (SUPA Chemistry)

AP Chemistry is a college level course designed as a second chemistry course for high school students. Many topics in the course will be extensions of those studied in Regents Chemistry. Such topics as stoichiometry, chemical kinetics, and chemical thermodynamics will be studied in depth with a strong emphasis on mathematical models and problem solving. AP Chemistry is a concurrent full year (two semester) freshman chemistry course offered at Syracuse University and students may earn (8) college credits through the university by paying tuition at currently $115/credit hour. (CHE 106-107, CHE 116-117 – General Chemistry I and II and Chemistry Lab). Students in this course are highly recommended to register with the university. Students are expected to take the AP exam as part of this course. (Approximate test fee $96).

3200 (AP) Advanced Placement Physics 1 

AP Physics 1 is an algebra based physics course equivalent to a first-semester college course. The course is for students who are intending to pursue degrees in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or Chemistry. The course will focus on Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum), work, energy, power, mechanical waves, sound, and an introduction to electrical circuits. Throughout the school year, students will focus on developing deep understanding of the concepts through hands-on explorations of physics content and inquiry labs. Students are expected to take the AP exam as part of this course. (Approximate test fee $96). The NYS Physics Regents exam is optional and will not count towards the student’s overall grade in the course; however, if a student decides to take the Regents exam, the score will be reflected on the student’s transcript. A minimum of 20 hours of laboratory work with satisfactory reports is required to take the Regents exam.

3204 (AP) Advanced Placement Physics 2 

AP Physics 2 is an algebra based physics course equivalent to a second-semester college course. The course will continue the study that began in Physics 1 but will focus on fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, optics, atomic physics, and nuclear physics. Throughout the school year, students will focus on developing deep understanding of the concepts through hands-on explorations of physics content and inquiry labs. Students are expected to take the AP exam as part of this course. (Approximate test fee $96).

3211 Syracuse University Project Advance Forensics 

SUPA Forensics (Forensic Science, Chem 113) is the freshman level Forensic Science course offered at Syracuse University. Students may earn four credits by registering with the university and paying tuition. This course provides an introduction to understanding the science behind crime detection. Topics include crime scene investigation, glass, soil, hair, fibers, paint, serology, DNA, drugs and toxicology, fingerprinting, ballistics, arson and forgery. The lab exercises include techniques commonly employed in forensic investigations. This course will be especially advantageous for those interested in a career in forensic science, law enforcement or criminal justice. It is highly recommended that students enroll with the university.

3212 Space Exploration 

Space Exploration is a course focused on exploring the components of our Universe. Students will start the course by learning about our Solar System (the planets, moons of planets, and the Sun) and then will move to larger areas in space such as the exploration of the Milky Way Galaxy and other surrounding galaxies. Specific topics covered include electromagnetic radiation, properties of the planets in our Solar System, properties of the Sun, stellar evolution, plotting constellations, black holes and exploring other galaxies.

3076 Biotechnology 

What are GMOs and how do we genetically modify something? What are stem cells and why is there such a controversy surrounding them? This is biotechnology, and this industry is one of the largest growing fields in science. Biotechnology is the integration of biology, technology and engineering. Students will explore how drugs are developed, genetic engineering in food and crops, and medical applications. The course will be hands-on and will attempt to provide students with skills used in the biotech industry.

3077 Clean Energy Technologies 

In today’s ever-changing world, creating an environment that is sustainable for us is becoming increasingly important. Clean energy systems can help with this need. Wind turbines, solar cells, and geothermal heating/cooling systems are all examples of clean energy technology – all of which are changing the world and providing employment opportunities in the area. In this course, students will be exposed to what sustainability means, with regard to energy usage, and will explore the concept of energy and energy efficiency by learning about the many ways energy can be harvested. Topics include wind, solar, hydro, and nuclear energy. Each form of energy will be analyzed with regard to its efficiency, environmental impact, and economic cost, as well as the feasibility of each particular method, both locally and globally. This course utilizes a hands-on, project-based approach.

3078 Nursing 

In this course, students will learn about the profession of nursing and the skills needed in this medical field. Students will explore how their understanding of human biology is applied to health care in terms of diagnosis of ailments, treatment of symptoms, and the usage of medical technology. Hands-on skills will allow students to learn about the daily routines a nurse might encounter. Course work includes: the history of nursing, researching advanced degrees, nursing and medical ethics. Students will use their knowledge of biology and human body work through case studies in order to help develop thinking skills needed for nursing school.

3079 Physical Therapy 

Have you ever thought about becoming a physical therapist and wondered about the type of work involved? In this semester long class, students will learn about the profession of physical therapy and the different applications in the medical field from sports medicine, to rehabilitation from injury, to geriatric services. Students will apply what they have learned from Regents Biology about the human body to real life case studies and the therapies involved. Students will explore different techniques for physical therapy and how the practices affect the health of the patient.

3214 Meteorology 

“How does the weatherman determine it is going to rain in the afternoon two days from now?” “Why do hurricanes develop in late August?” In this course, students will explore how the atmosphere works in terms of weather and climate. This course will use basic chemistry and physical science to explain the principles and phenomena of the atmosphere. Students will study the science behind climate, day-to-day weather, issues in air pollution, as well as broadcast meteorology.

3215 Pharmaceutical Science 

Pharmaceutical Science is a semester course, where students will explore the growing field of pharmaceuticals and get a dose of the essential skills necessary for this growing career in the healthcare field. Students will investigate the fundamentals of pharmacy practice, drugs and their therapeutic effects on body systems, and pharmaceutical headlines. This hands-on and minds-on course will give students the opportunity to perform pharmaceutical experiments and calculations that will replicate on-the job scenarios and data analysis. Pharmaceutical Science is affiliated with Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences and students may earn a total of three (3) credits of ACPHS elective credit by paying tuition at the current rate of $100 per credit hour or a total of $300 (PSC 107 Introduction to Pharmaceutical Sciences). Students will gain relevant knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to provide safe and effective care in their professional careers as well as in their own personal lives.

3216 Nanotechnology 1: Intro to Material Science 

This course is a general introduction to the study of materials: metals, ceramics, polymers, and electronic materials. Students will learn about the basic molecular structures of materials. Students will investigate the relationship between bonding, structure (crystals and microstructure) and properties of these materials. The course will examine some elementary principles of thermodynamics as they apply to materials, mechanical properties of materials, and the electronic, optical, and magnetic properties of materials. Students will have the ability to earn SUNY Schenectady credit (at the cost of $64/credit hour) through this course. (NMT 150-3 credits)

3217 Nanotechnology 2: Intro to Nanoscale Materials 

This course introduces students to the field of nanoscale materials. Nanoscale materials have chemical and physical properties that are significantly different from those of bulk materials. This course examines the underlying principles of size-dependent properties and the processing and fabrication of these materials at the molecular level. This course will cover the synthesis and assembly of nanoscale materials based on top-down and bottom-up approaches. The application of nanodevices made from nanoscale materials will also be discussed. Students will have the ability to earn SUNY Schenectady credit (at the cost of $64/credit hour) through this course. (NMT 152-3 credits)

3080 Health Sciences 

In this full year course, students will focus on the application of science in the medical field. Students will begin with a study of the organ systems. This course will then shift to a focus on disease and illness where students will learn about symptomatology, diagnosis, and treatment. Students will do case studies where they will use the information to make medical diagnosis. Students will then transition to a study of nutrition and how foods interact with the body. The course will end with a study of medical careers and a research project focused on the topics of the year.

3218 Natural Disasters 

In this project based course, study will focus on natural disasters: earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tropical storms and blizzards. Students will explore the scientific cause, as well as the historical effects these events have had on human civilization, as well as investigate preparations that can be made to protect life and property in future events. Concepts will touch on Earth Science, Biology, History and Ethics.

3075 Bioethics 

This course will explore ethical issues and decision-making processes involved in biomedical science, as viewed from legal, medical, social, and philosophical perspectives. Students will learn to use ethical concepts to analyze and evaluate real-life cases, understand, articulate and defend philosophically and ethically sound positions, and engage critically and respectfully with opposing views. Students will utilize primary texts including philosophical essays, court decisions and opinion pieces. Examples of topics that will be discussed are: questions pertaining to the beginning and end of life, biotechnology and genetic experimentation, justice in health-care, responsibilities of physicians, environmental health, and other pertinent subjects. Real and hypothetical cases will be discussed.

3070 Science Research Seminar

This Science Research Seminar is a three year sequence of courses (typically begun in the sophomore year) in which students choose a topic and carry out an original research project on that topic. The student does ALL of what professional researchers do, from journal readings to finding a mentor, planning a project, and carrying it out to an appropriate research conclusion. As the work progresses, the student writes research papers, creates posters, and presents research findings at available competitions and symposia as determined appropriate by the instructor. During the student’s second and third years in the program, they may elect to take the course for college credit for a total of up to twelve credits at the State University of New York at Albany. All students are welcome in the program regardless of past academic history. The only prerequisite is that the student be a self motivated, hard worker.

Please click here to see a visual guide of the above mentioned Science courses.

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