Science Courses
Biology (401) [NCAA] [Keystone]
1.0 credit, Grade 9, Weight 1.0
This course is designed to provide a holistic approach to the active study of living things and their interactions with the environment. Students will dynamically investigate the interrelationship of living and nonliving components through exploration of local and global biomes. Students will cultivate problem solving, critical thinking, communication, and self-management skills through a variety of real world, problem-based learning opportunities. This course is aligned to the Biology Keystone standards and will cover the topics of the nature of science, basic life chemistry, bioenergetics, cells, genetics, evolution, and ecology.
Honors Biology (401H) [NCAA] [Keystone]
1.0 credit, Grade 9, Weight 1.1
This course is designed for students who have demonstrated a consistently strong aptitude for math, science, reading, writing, and critical thinking and aligns with the targets and goals of Biology. Students will dynamically investigate the interrelationship of living and nonliving components through exploration of local and global biomes. Students will cultivate problem solving, critical thinking, communication, and self-management skills through a variety of real world, problem-based learning opportunities. This course is aligned to the biology Keystone standards and will cover the topics of the nature of science, basic life chemistry, bioenergetics, cells, genetics, evolution, and ecology. Prerequisite: Teacher/ Counselor Recommendation.
IB Biology (SL) (401IB) [NCAA]
1.0 credit, Grade 11-12, Weight 1.2
The core principle of SL Biology is to develop a broad understanding of the concepts while enhancing the students' critical thinking skills. There are four basic biological themes that run throughout the course: structure and function, universality versus diversity, equilibrium within systems, and evolution. A variety of topics are covered: statistical analysis, cells, the chemistry of life, genetics, ecology and evolution, and human health and physiology. Along with the theoretical aspects of the topics, students also complete a practical component to further develop their application of the concepts. This component includes an interdisciplinary project with the other IB sciences. The International Baccalaureate aspect of the course culminates in May when the students take a two–day SL Biology external examination. Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry, and a teacher recommendation. Students do not need to be enrolled in the IB CP Program to take the course.
Chemistry (402) [NCAA]
1.0 credit, Grade 10-12, Weight 1.0
This course is a study of the structure, composition and properties of matter along with the changes matter undergoes. Atomic and molecular structure, chemical nomenclature, and reactions as well as the behavior of gases and solutions are studied. Prerequisite: Biology
Honors Chemistry (402H) [NCAA]
1.0 credit, Grade 10-12, Weight 1.1
This course is a study of the structure, composition and properties of matter along with the changes matter undergoes. Atomic and molecular structure, chemical nomenclature, and reactions as well as the behavior of gases and solutions are studied. This course is designed for students who have demonstrated a high aptitude for math, science and, reading and writing skills. Prerequisite: Biology, Teacher Recommendation.
Advanced Chemistry (402AD) [NCAA]
1.0 credit, Grade 11-12, Weight 1.1
This course will allow students further investigation into the atomic nature of matter. Building on topics encountered in chemistry, students will develop deeper understanding of atomic structure and periodicity, the relationship between intermolecular forces and material properties, and the role of energy in chemical changes. Students will also explore new topics including electrochemistry, reaction rates, equilibrium reactions, and organic chemistry. Lab investigations will allow students to experience more advanced lab techniques while honing valuable real world skills in data analysis and technical writing. Prerequisite: Honors Chemistry, or Chemistry with Teacher Recommendation. It is recommended that students have taken Algebra II or are taking Algebra II concurrently with Advanced Chemistry.
Science of Natural Disasters (405) [NCAA]
1.0 credit, Grade 10-12, Weight 1.0
Through investigation of natural disasters, students will gain knowledge of the dynamic systems that make up the world we live on. Students will investigate human interactions with environmental systems, with special focus placed on understanding the causes and potential effects of various natural disasters from solar flares to hurricanes. Course themes will include disaster awareness and preparedness, as well as current and future energy sources to fuel a growing population. Prerequisite: Biology
Forensic Science (408) [NCAA]
1.0 credit, Grade 10-12, Weight 1.0
This course is designed for students with a curiosity as to how science helps the law. Forensic Science is a multidisciplinary class, pulling in the skills from Science, Technology, English, Art and Math, as well as Social Studies. Students will participate in hands–on activities, and will be involved in the process of solving crimes and mysteries with the use of science skills. The course requires that the students have a strong work ethic, patience to solve problems and puzzles, and a high motivation to learn. Prerequisites: Biology
Environmental Science (411)
1.0 credit, Grade 10-12, Weight 1.0
Sustainability will be a key focus as we delve exploring York’s natural beauty and the environmental difficulties being faced. Whether the issue is a global concern or a specific York County matter, students will determine how best they can interact with the environment now and in the future. Students should be prepared to spend a portion of each class outside and be ready to work with their hands. Each class will present one (or more) culminating environmental projects for administration approval and student implementation. Prerequisite: Biology
Physics (403) [NCAA]
1.0 credit, Grade 11-12, Weight 1.1
In this course, students are challenged to mathematically and conceptually examine the laws that govern the universe. We will study the following topics: motion, forces, momentum and impulse, mechanical advantage, and electricity and magnetism. Topics of current interest will be incorporated throughout the course as appropriate. To be successful, students must have mastered the following mathematical skills; solving a variety of algebraic equations (including sets of equations), basic aspects of geometry, definitions of basic trigonometric functions, identification of direct, inverse, and quadratic relationships, and the ability to recognize the relationships between graphs and the quantities being graphed. Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation. It is recommended that students have taken Algebra II or are taking Algebra II concurrently with Physics.
IB Design Technology I (SL) (409IB) [NCAA]
1.0 credit, Grade 11-12, Weight 1.2
The course focuses on analysis, design development, synthesis and evaluation. Inquiry and problem solving are at the heart of the subject. IB Design Technology requires the use of the design cycle as a tool, which provides the methodology used to structure the inquiry and analysis of problems, the development of feasible solutions, and the testing and evaluation of the solution. In Design Technology, a solution can be defined as a model, prototype, product or system that students have developed independently. Design Technology achieves a high level of design literacy by enabling students to develop critical thinking and design skills, which they can apply in a practical context. Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation. Students do not need to be enrolled in the IB CP Program to take the course.
IB Design Technology II (SL) (410IB) [NCAA]
1.0 credit, Grade 12, Weight 1.2
Year two of IB Design Technology builds off of the knowledge, skills, and techniques that students have developed during year one, with year two’s focus being on students putting those abilities into action in the development of their project for IB Design Technology’s Internal Assessment. The Internal Assessment requires that students develop a unique product and thoroughly document their process from idea to prototype. This project offers an opportunity for students to showcase their abilities. Students will be specifically assessed for personal skills and the ability to work within a team framework. All International Baccalaureate aspects of the course will culminate in May when the students take a two–day SL Design Technology external examination. Prerequisite: IB Design Technology I. Students do not need to be enrolled in the IB CP Program to take the course.
Science of Innovation (412)
1.0 credit, Grade 10-12, Weight 1.0, Offered 2026-27
The world around us is full of amazing events, complex problems, and tantalizing mysteries that demand further investigation. In this course, we will hone our engineering and scientific skills, so we are better prepared to investigate these phenomena in our lives. Hands-on application of concepts and practices central to science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (S.T.E.A.M.) will be the focus of our developing skills. Students will be encouraged to apply their technical prowess while approaching and solving problems with a science mindset. Prerequisite: Biology