Science Department

The content of this natural science lab course is similar to that of College Preparatory Biology I, with the addition of higher-order thinking skills and more detailed discussion of concepts at an accelerated pace. Students desiring to take Honors Chemistry I as sophomores should take Honors Biology I as freshmen. Prerequisite: Enrollment is subject to departmental review based on application with a minimum average of 84 in the preceding science class.

This natural science lab course is a general introduction to the concepts of Biology. Topics include terminology, the chemistry of life, levels of organization, evolution, ecology, molecular and Mendelian genetics, and comparative anatomy of both plants and animals.

This natural science lab course is an in-depth study into the structure and function of the human body. Topics covered will include the basic organization of the body, biochemical composition, and major body systems along with the impact of diseases on certain systems. There is a heavy emphasis on dissection in this class. This course is highly recommended for anyone pursuing a biological or medical career. Prerequisite: Biology, and enrollment is subject to departmental review based on application with a minimum average of 84 in the preceding science class.

This year-long Anatomy and Physiology natural science lab course is an in-depth exploration of the human body’s structure and function. Students will gain a foundational understanding of medical terminology to improve health literacy in our students. As we progress through this course, all major body systems will be studied with the interconnectedness of form and function being emphasized. In addition to Anatomy and Physiology, each unit will explore common diseases and disorders through an introduction to the study of Pathophysiology. Taught from a Christian perspective, the course encourages students to appreciate the complexity of the human body as part of God’s creation. Engaging virtual dissections, dissection demonstrations, as well as case studies throughout this course will provide hands-on learning opportunities. Prerequisite: Biology I

The content of this natural science lab course is similar to that of College Preparatory Chemistry I, with the addition of higher-order thinking skills and detailed discussion of concepts. The pace is accelerated and includes a more independent approach to lab work and class work. This class is designed for students who have an aptitude for science or plan to pursue a science career. Prerequisites: Honors Biology I and Algebra I; Recommended completion or enrollment in Algebra II; Enrollment is subject to departmental review based on application with a minimum average of 84 in preceding science and math classes.

This natural science lab course is designed to provide students with the analytical skills and factual knowledge necessary to prepare students for the Advanced Placement (AP®)  Biology Exam in May. Topics such as cytology, biochemistry, genetics, plant anatomy and physiology, human anatomy and physiology, evolution, and ecology will be covered. All students taking this course are required to take the AP exam, which costs approximately $100. Depending on one’s exam score and the institution of higher learning one attends, a student may receive college credit for this high school course. Laboratory work is an integral part of this course. Prerequisites: Honors Biology I, a minimum average of 93 in previous science class, and approval from the current science teacher and another teacher from honors level course. Taking Honors Anatomy and Honors Chemistry prior to this course is strongly recommended. Alternates years with AP Environmental Science (Available in 2026/27, 2028/29, etc.)

AP® Chemistry is a rigorous and challenging natural science lab course that covers the chemistry and chemical principles typical of college and university general chemistry courses. Students learn the usefulness and relevance of chemistry both in their intended areas of study and in the everyday world. Laboratory work is an integral part of this course. All students taking this course are required to take the AP® exam, which costs approximately $100. Depending on one’s exam score and the institution of higher learning one attends, a student t may receive college credit for this high school course. Prerequisites: Honors Biology I, Honors Chemistry I, minimum average of 93 in previous science class, and approval from current science teacher and another teacher from honors level course.

The AP® Environmental Science natural science lab course is designed to be the equivalent of a one semester, introductory college course.  The goal of the AP Environmental Science course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them.  Laboratory work is an integral part of this course.  All students taking this course are required to take the AP exam, which costs approximately $100.  Depending on one’s exam score and the institution of higher learning one attends, a student may receive college credit for this high school course. Textbooks: Environmental Science for the AP Course (2023), AP Environmental Science (Biozone, 2022) Prerequisites: Honors Biology I, Algebra I, minimum average of 93 in previous science and math courses, and approval from current science teacher and another teacher from honors level course.  This course alternates years with AP Biology (Available 2025/26, 2027/28, etc.)

1 semester, 0.5 credit

A continued study in physics with emphasis on wave motion, electricity and magnetism, and atomic and nuclear studies. Concepts are applied using calculus. Dual Enrollment courses require tuition be paid to the college or university beyond DCA tuition. Students may utilize the Dual Enrollment Grant through the TN Education Lottery Programs for approximately $500 per course for 5 semester courses' tuition. Natural science elective with lab, four credit hours, offered spring semester, through Welch College. Prerequisite: PHY 2003/2013