Science Courses

Biology explores life processes, organism development, and environmental relationships. Students study scientific principles, biochemistry, cells, classification, genetics and ecology through inquiry-based labs and technology. Topics are explored in a hands-on, guided inquiry approach using problem solving skills and technology. Laboratory activities investigate the topics covered in the course. All freshmen must participate in the KCIC, proposing inventions to solve local problems and competing for awards. Biology is required unless placed in Advanced Biology.

Prerequisites: Placement based on grades and assessments
Grade: 9
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

This course explores biology at cellular and molecular levels through a hands-on, flipped classroom approach emphasizing the scientific method. Students study energy, classification, cell structure, heredity, photosynthesis, respiration, and reproduction while developing strong technology and self-directed learning skills. All freshmen participate in the Kansas City Invention Convention (KCIC), a STEM competition where teams design solutions to real community problems and compete for state, regional, and national awards.

This course introduces students to forensic science through a flipped classroom model and hands-on crime scene analysis. Learners will practice modified forensic techniques while investigating trace evidence from simulated crime scenes, developing observation skills and deductive reasoning. Topics may include fiber and hair analysis, blood typing, and latent fingerprints. After completing clue-based units, students collaborate to apply learned techniques in creating a CSI-style video, reinforcing scientific inquiry and teamwork.

Prerequisites: None
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Course Length: One semester
Credit: One-half science credit

This course introduces forensic science through a flipped classroom and hands-on crime scene analysis. Students learn vocabulary, lab procedures, and perform modified forensic techniques while investigating trace evidence. Topics may include glass analysis, soil and water contamination, bite marks, DNA electrophoresis, entomology, and toxicology. Students also research forensic careers and complete a final project presenting a True Crime case. Note: Forensic Biology I is not required for this course.

Prerequisites: None
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Course Length: One semester
Credit: One-half science credit

This course deals with basic concepts of atomic structure, periodic table, formula writing, balancing equations, bonding, mole concept, solutions and gas laws. Laboratory techniques and quantitative analysis will be introduced and practiced throughout the course.

Prerequisites: 85% in Algebra I or completion of Geometry
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

This course deals with more in-depth concepts of atomic structure, periodic table, formula writing, balancing equations, bonding, mole concept, solutions and gas laws. Laboratory work will emphasize techniques of qualitative and quantitative analysis.

Prerequisites: 90% in Algebra I or 85% in Advanced Algebra I
Grade: 10, 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

Students explore motion, Newton’s Laws, vectors, energy and momentum conservation, waves, sound, light, and electricity through mathematical analysis and hands-on labs. They apply scientific methods, problem-solving strategies, and technology to conduct experiments, interpret data, and communicate findings. This course builds critical thinking and analytical skills essential for STEM pathways.

Prerequisites: Completion of or concurrently enrolled in Algebra II or higher level math course.
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

Students study motion, Newton’s Laws, vectors, conservation of energy and momentum, waves, sound, light, and electricity through both mathematical modeling and laboratory investigation. Emphasis is placed on analyzing how physical quantities relate and influence one another across systems. Students apply scientific methods, problem-solving strategies, and technology to conduct experiments, interpret data, and communicate findings through formal lab reports.

Prerequisites: 92% cumulative GPA and completion of or concurrently enrolled in Algebra II
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

Prerequisites: Biology or Advanced Biology
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One semester
Credit: One-half credit

Anatomy and Physiology II is a semester-long course that builds on A&P I. Students will continue studying the human body, focusing on the cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory, endocrine, and reproductive systems. The course deepens understanding of organ system functions and prepares students for advanced exploration of human anatomy.

Prerequisites: Anatomy & Physiology I
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One semester
Credit: One-half credit

AP Biology is a college-level course that prepares students for STEM fields through inquiry-based learning. Students explore key biological topics such as evolution, energy transfer, information storage, and system interactions. The course emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific communication. Learners engage in hypothesis testing, data collection and analysis, and visual representation of results. Through hands-on investigations, students build a strong foundation in biology and develop essential skills for future scientific study and research.

Prerequisites: 92% cumulative GPA
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit
Option: AP Exam (additional fee) or Dual Enrollment (87% cumulative GPA and additional fee)

AP Chemistry is course designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first two semesters in college. The goal is that students will take the AP Exam and receive college credit or placement at the student’s college of choice. Students are then prepared to undertake second-year work in the chemistry sequence at their institution, or simply take other course for which general chemistry is a prerequisite. The course is structured around the big ideas and science practices outlined in the AP Chemistry framework provided by the College Board. There will also be an emphasis on essential lab skills and critical thinking as it applies to scientific issues in the world. AP Chemistry is open to all students that have completed a year of chemistry and want to take part in a rigorous and academically challenging course.

Prerequisites: 92% cumulative GPA
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit

Prerequisites: 92% cumulative GPA
Grade: 11, 12
Course Length: One year
Credit: One credit