The Science Department at Bishop Kelly High School has as its primary goal providing each student with a solid understanding of basic scientific knowledge, concepts, and processes. Consequently, all students will be provided opportunities to follow a program in which scientific skill will be stressed and an integrated, interdisciplinary approach will be provided them by linking mathematics, written expression, laboratory experiences and research skills.
In the society in which they will live and work, the number of decisions they will be required to make involving an understanding of the products, process, ethics and relationships of science to society are increasing. To prepare them for their responsibilities, the department will address current issues and encourage independent, creative and critical thinking in the study of those topics which are covered by the curriculum.
The evolution and continual adaptation of scientific knowledge and technology - along with historical, cultural and ethical perspectives – will be presented within the framework of the varied course offerings contained in the school's science curriculum. Given the direction of today's world, the science department believes that an extensive academic preparation which contains a strong presence of science, mathematics and technology - bound by the Catholic Christian ethic provided at Bishop Kelly - will best prepare the school's graduates to pursue post-secondary education or to enter the workplace.
EARTH SCIENCE -Two Semesters
Grade Level: 9
Earth Science is the study of the planet in which we live with a focus on four areas of discovery: geology, oceanography, meteorology and astronomy. Being the most fundamental of sciences, students will be presented with a comprehensive view of a wide variety of topics-all of which are applicable to their lives and world. Basic scientific facts and concepts will be presented regarding the history and future of our earth and data relating to the atmosphere and life beyond our planet will be integrated into the course.
PHYSICAL SCIENCE -Two Semesters
Grade Level: 9
This course offers an introduction to the basics of Chemistry and Physics. The first semester will be an introduction to the properties of matter, basic chemical reactions and chemistry for everyday use. The second semester will survey elementary physics; motion, forces, and energy with an emphasis on relationships to everyday life. This course is not intended to replace Conceptual Physics, Physics or Chemistry, it is offered as an introduction.
ECOLOGY -One Semester
Grade Levels: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Earth Science
The Ecology-Environmental course at Bishop Kelly High School is designed to provide students with information regarding current environmental issues. This course will provide opportunities for students to gain both an awareness and an understanding of the range of sciences which may be utilized in studying our environment. The class will incorporate both hands-on activities and out-of-class experiences which will be designed to utilize community and regional resources to facilitate a student's understanding and learning.
GEOLOGY -One Semester
Grade Levels: 9, 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Earth Science
This course is designed as an entry-level survey class in which elements of historical and physical geology will be examined in an attempt to understand today's land formations. Mineralogy, rock cycle, erosion, weathering, hydrology, glaciation, volcanism, plate tectonics/mountain building, orienteering and cartography-as well as some unique desert and oceanic environments-will be considered. Throughout the course, students will be encouraged to relate geological concerns to modern day environmental, resource and land use considerations.
CONCEPTUAL PHYSICS -Two Semesters
Grade Levels: 9, 10, 11, 12
Conceptual Physics is a laboratory course which, like standard physics, will address the main topics of that course: motion, light, energy, sound, electricity, etc. The program will concentrate on providing students with a strong conceptual understanding of physical events. In contrast to standard physics, with its traditionally heavy emphasis on mathematics, this course will make use of mathematical equations only to the extent necessary to guarantee understanding of the concept under study. Though not a prerequisite, Conceptual Physics provides excellent preparation for regular Physics.
BIOLOGY -Two Semesters
Grade Level: 10
Biology, a laboratory class which explores various aspects of life, is required of all sophomores. The principles of living matter-cell structure and functions, energy processes, reproduction and genetics-will be covered during the first semester. During the second semester, knowledge of these principles will be applied to an in-depth survey of representative organisms found in the five kingdoms: monera, protista, fungi, plantae and animalia. An introductory-level class, the course will provide preparation for more advanced studies in biology.
CHEMISTRY -Two Semesters
Grade Levels: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Algebra II or concurrent with Algebra II
Chemistry I is an introductory course in which students will study the structure of matter and the physical and chemical changes it may undergo. Topics included in this course will be atomic theory, chemical bonding, states of matter, reaction types, stoichiometry, equilibrium, kinetics, thermodynamics and carbon chemistry. Laboratory work and scientific process will be emphasized. This course is highly recommended for all college-bound students.
AP BIOLOGY -Two Semesters
Grade Levels: 11, 12
Prerequisite: A or B grade in General Biology and Chemistry
AP Biology is a college preparatory course which incorporates a detailed survey of the biological principles under study with the chemical aspects of cellular components, genetics and bioenergetics. Reproduction and embryology will be topics explored as a prelude to a treatment of the theories of adaptation, evolution and survival of the species. Representative examples of organisms from the five kingdoms (monera, protista, fungi, plantae and animalia) will be studied with emphasis on those comparative anatomies, physiological systems and the evolutionary adaptations essential in each for it to establish its niche in their habitat. Readings from non-fiction, fictional literature and periodicals will be required along with a research paper on a topic related to the course. This class will incorporate the elements found in Advanced Placement classes and is recommended for students interested in careers in science or medicine.
INTRO TO CHEMISTRY/PHYSICS -Two Semesters
Grade Levels: 10, 11, 12
This course is designed for the non math and science student who may not be studying science in college, but would like an introduction to chemistry and physics. One semester will be an introduction to the properties of matter, basic chemical reactions and chemistry in everyday use. The other semester will survey elementary physics; motion, forces and energy with an emphasis on relationships to everyday life. This course is not intended to replace Conceptual Physics, Physics or Chemistry. It is offered as an introduction. Students who wish to sign up for this course as Juniors and Seniors will be screened by their previous two science teachers. This course is a precursor to Conceptual Physics or Conceptual Chemistry, and is intended for juniors and seniors who are not ready for regular chemistry.
AP CHEMISTRY -Two Semesters
Grade Levels: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Chemistry and Math beyond Algebra II and Instructor Approval
This second year class will focus on the theoretical aspects of chemistry. Topics, which will be covered in depth, will include the structure of matter, chemical bonding, nuclear chemistry, states of matter, reaction types, stoichiometry, equilibrium, kinetics and descriptive chemistry. Problem solving and application of theoretical concepts will be emphasized. This course is highly recommended to those college-bound students who plan to study life science, chemistry or engineering.
HORTICULTURE -One or Two Semesters
Grade Levels: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Passing grade in Biology
Horticulture is a hands-on curriculum. Students will experiment with different aspects of the horticulture field, including greenhouse management, landscape design and maintenance, plant propagation, pest control, and growing a variety of plant species. Students can expect several required design projects, such as flower arrangement, Christmas wreath, landscape plan, and terrarium. The class objectives are to provide job skills for students, and to improve the landscaping at Bishop Kelly High School.
PHYSICS -Two Semesters
Grade Levels: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Algebra II or Concurrent with Instructor Approval
Physics is a laboratory course, which involves the investigation of such physical phenomena as force and motion, energy, vibrations/waves, light, electricity/ magnetism, electromagnetic induction and relativity. The course will provide students with a strong conceptual understanding of physical events and, as concepts are understood, problems will be presented and solved by the use of mathematics. The link between technology and society will be thoroughly explored and numerous examples will be provided illustrating the manner in which physics finds use in real-world applications.
Students with a strong B or better grades are strongly encouraged to take the AP Physics B Exam in May.
AP PHYSICS B -Two Semesters
Grade Levels: 12
Prerequisite: Physics and Instructor Approval
Advanced Placement (AP) Physics B is intended for those students who have successfully completed standard Physics and desire a more comprehensive and in-depth treatment of the subject prior to university studies. The regular Physics and AP Physics B sequence, with its heavy emphasis on laboratory experiences, will provide students with the full AP Physics B curriculum, plus more. Special projects and topics of particular interest to students will be included as time permits. A two-year, laboratory-enriched program such as this is strongly recommended by The College Board. AP Physics B is highly recommended for students interested in science, engineering, or medicine. Though not mandatory, students are strongly encouraged to take the AP Exam in May.
ENGINEERING DESIGN -Fall Semester
Grade Levels: 11,12
Engineering Design is intended to introduce students to the field of engineering during their high school years. The objective is to attract more students to the engineering field by providing early exposure to the design and development processes used in engineering. Students will select an item to design, research to see what has already been done in this particular area, design the item, build a working prototype, test it, and present their results to a panel of professionals. The process will also emphasize a carefully organized and annotated notebook to be maintained throughout the project. This course will be offered during zero hour o-three times per week.