Science

9th Grade Biology – 2 Semesters

This course surveys botany, zoology, and human anatomy and physiology at a high school introductory level. Emphasis is placed on major themes such as: structure and function, unity and diversity, capture and use of energy, locomotion, and reproduction and heredity; these are studied in a creation perspective, and augmented by occasional field work and hands-on investigations. The above themes are addressed recurrently throughout three vegetation units, three zoology units (aquatic, flying, and terrestrial creatures), and seven human anatomy and physiology units (uniqueness of mankind, several units surveying most of the body systems, heredity, and creation and the genetic code).

10th Grade Physical Science – 2 Semesters

This course surveys chemistry and physics at a high school introductory level. Emphasis is placed on inorganic chemistry and classic physics. Though not a full lab course, students engage in several lab activities, regular demonstrations and simulations, and critical thinking and problem-solving. Units of study include philosophy of science/scientific activities and methods, measurement/precision/error, properties /states/classification of matter, nuclear chemistry basics, periodic table development, chemical bonding and reactions, solutions and solubility, acids/bases/salts, conservation/forms of energy, kinematics/dynamics/simple machines, fluid dynamics, sound, electromagnetism and light, and electricity.

11th Grade Investigations in Technology – 1 Semester

This course explores the nature of technology and the interactions between science, technology, and society. Emphasis is made in understanding human ingenuity, technological methods, and how technologies are forged. After studying the nature of technology and exploring the idea of a personal philosophy of technology, students survey various technologies, past and present, in fields such as energy, materials, medicine, agriculture, information and computing, and construction.

11th Grade Environmental Science – 1 Semester

This applied science course introduces students to foundational principles of ecology. Emphasis is placed on the masterfully created order of Earths systems, and our biblical role as stewards of a wonderful yet groaning world (Romans 8:20-22). Students will observe natural ecosystems on-site, tour commercial and industrial operations involving waste management, and evaluate the economics, politics, and science of current and regional environmental issues. Units of study include, but are not limited to, the organization of ecology (ecosystems and biomes), abiotic factors (light, temperature, water, minerals), biotic relationships (food webs, energy flow, population, succession, niches, adaptations, symbiosis), and human interaction (pollution, energy production and consumption, urbanization, agriculture).

12th Grade Chemistry – 2 Semesters

This lab course studies the nature of matter and its chemical interactions. Students learn proper methods of measurement, calculation, and presentation of experimental data with regard to precision and accuracy. Students learn sound lab procedures and safety. The course spans two units in thermodynamics, three units in the classification and atomic/molecular structure of matter, a unit studying solutions, and a unit on gases. Six units of study focus on chemical reactions, including general concepts, stoichiometry, acid/base reactions, reaction kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and reduction/oxidation reactions.

12th Grade Physics

Physics is taken as an IDLA course online, it has also been offered some years instead of Chemistry.