Science - Standard

Biology 1 is a laboratory-based course that includes the study of ecology, taxonomy, cellular chemistry, genetics, microbiology, and physiology. These areas are developed within a framework of principal biological theories with an emphasis on critical thinking. This course has an associated Standards of Learning test. Students will participate in this test to satisfy federal testing requirements.

Chemistry 1 emphasizes the qualitative and quantitative study of substances and the changes that occur in them. Students will investigate using various lab techniques and develop mathematical and problem-solving skills. A survey of concepts includes atomic structure, chemical bonding, formulas and equations, stoichiometry and other nomenclature based on molar relationships, phases of matter and the kinetic molecular theory, and the acid-base theory through Science and Engineering Practices (SEP). This course is intended for college preparatory and general education purposes. This course has an associated Standards of Learning (SOL) test. Students will participate in this test only if they have not yet earned a verified science credit for graduation.

Earth Science 1 is a laboratory-based course that provides students with an opportunity to explore the various physical phenomena that affect the earth. This course, which helps students become more aware of their surroundings through the study of astronomy, meteorology, oceanography, physical geology, and environmental resources. This course has an associated Standards of Learning (SOL) test. Students will participate in this test only if they have not yet earned a verified science credit for graduation.

This course is a laboratory-based course that provides students with an opportunity to build knowledge in Earth Science and Biology through the lens of environmental literacy and citizenship. This course develops skills through Scientific and Engineering Practices while addressing socio-scientific issues related to humans' impact on the environment, resource conservation, and legal and civic responsibility. This course may be counted toward high school graduation as either an Earth Science 1, Biology 1, or an elective science discipline credit. The Environmental Science course does not have an associated Standards of Learning (SOL) test.

Physics 1 is a standard first-year course that covers all topics required by the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) for physics. This course is lab-based. Students will engage with Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEP) to investigate Newtonian mechanics; wave phenomena; electricity and magnetism; thermodynamics; optical systems; and selected topics in modern physics. Students who desire to continue their study of physics upon completion of this course could enroll in AP Physics 1, AP Physics 2, or AP Physics C: Mechanics.