Department Goals:
  1. Promote student appreciation for science and its connection to human invention.

  2. Teach students the facts, terminology, concepts, principles and problem-solving approaches involving scientific events.

  3. Foster innate student curiosity and cultivate a “wanting to get involved” with the use of hands-on science activities.

  4. Develop student intellectual inquiry and critical thinking skills through the use of scientific problems and natural phenomena.

Core Curriculum, Electives, and Advanced Offerings

6 months ago

The Living Earth
The Living Earth is a one-year laboratory biology course which covers a wide range of topics including Ecosystem Interactions and Energy, History of Earth’s Atmosphere: Photosynthesis and Respiration, Evidence of Evolution, Inheritance of Traits, Structure, Function, and Growth (from cells to organisms), and Ecosystem Stability & the Response to Climate Change. Biology is a traditional course that stresses student responsibility by using the lab as the major teaching technique.  Biology meets “D” life science requirement of the University of California and the RHS life science requirement for graduation. There are no prerequisites.

Teacher(s) - Brenna Gagnon, Chelsey Seiler, Corey Crawford, Arlene Peck

Biology - The Living Earth

Chemistry in the Earth System
Chemistry is a one-year laboratory course for students using a thematic approach to the study of matter and chemical reactions. An emphasis is placed on student laboratory and hands-on activities. Topics including Combustion; Heat and Energy in the Earth System; Atoms, Elements, and Molecules; Chemical Reactions; Chemistry of Climate Change; and Dynamics of Chemical Reactions and Ocean Acidification will be covered using a high school level text.  Chemistry meets “D” physical science requirement of the University of California and the RHS physical science requirement for graduation. Prerequisites - Grade of C or better in Biology and Math I 

Teacher(s) - Chelsey Seiler, Corey Manring, Sylvia Munson

Chemistry in the Earth System

Physics
Hands-on laboratory experience is the primary means of communicating physical concepts. The content is geared to produce a genuine understanding of the physical laws fundamental to all sciences. Physics concepts are introduced in their most logical sequence. Students are rarely asked to memorize details; rather they are led to understand the basis for each major physics concept.  Physics meets “D” physical science requirement of the University of California and the RHS physical science requirement for graduation. Prerequisite - Math II with a grade of “B” or better. Chemistry is not a prerequisite.

Teacher(s) - Sylvia Munson

Physics Hands-on laboratory

Anatomy and Physiology
In this course, we study the systems of the human body. A major emphasis is the relationship between the structure of each body part and its physiology or how it functions. Extensive studies are devoted to the human skeleton and muscles as well as to comparative anatomy dissections. Prerequisite - Living Earth.

Teacher(s) - Chelsey Seiler

Anatomy and Physiology

AP Biology
AP Biology is a lecture-oriented college-level class. Students should schedule time for extensive and independent study outside the classroom (homework and lab activities). Students are expected to take the AP Biology exam in May to demonstrate their knowledge of the subject. Subjects covered: cellular biology, energetics, molecular biology, genetics, ecology, and evolution. Prerequisite - Living Earth.

Teacher(s) - Brenna Gagnon

AP Biology

AP Chemistry
This course is designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement exam in Chemistry. It is for the disciplined student who is willing to study extensively out of class time. Topics including stoichiometry, atomic theory, thermodynamics, bonding, solutions, neutralization, and electrochemistry will be covered using a college level text. Laboratory work will be an integral part of the course.  Prerequisites - Grade of A or B in Chemistry and Math II.

Teacher(s) - (not offered 2023-2024)

AP Chemistry

AP Environmental Science
Advanced Placement Environmental Science is a lecture and lab-oriented college-level study of the environment. This fast-paced class requires extensive individual and group work, projects, and presentations. Students are expected to take the AP Environmental Science exam in May to demonstrate their knowledge of the subject. Topics covered: air and water quality, bio-resources, ecology, endangered species, energy resources, climate change, and environmental management.  Prerequisite - Living Earth.

Teacher(s) - Arlene Peck

AP Environmental Science


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