This course is offered for students who have displayed higher order thinking skills in science as evidenced by the student’s performance in his or her previous course and on standardized assessments. In addition, the student must obtain the recommendation of his or her previous science teacher based on a high level of motivation. Though similar to that of the traditional class, curriculum for this class will be accelerated, permitting more advanced study and enrichment opportunities.

This is an inquiry-based course designed to introduce students to the basic concepts of biology. Students will use scientific skills to investigate various topics, including the characteristics and diversity of living things, cell structures and functions, plants, and heredity. Students will also be introduced to ecology topics, including ecosystem interactions and environmental health. Practical applications of these topics are demonstrated through units on gardening and composting.

This course is offered for students who have displayed talent in the subject area as evidenced by the student’s performance in his or her 7th grade science course. In addition, the student must obtain the recommendation of his or her science teacher. Curriculum for this class will be compacted. Advanced study of the topics will provide increased opportunities for enrichment and more complex math computations. A Science Fair project will be required by all students in this course.

This physical science course will introduce the major concepts of chemistry and physics. It relates knowledge of scientific skills to practical applications using basic scientific principles, problem solving and critical thinking through hands-on activities. Topics explored include properties and structure of matter, uses and conservation of energy, forces, motion, and simple machines.