26-27 BPS Course Catalog - Flipbook - Page 68
SCIENCE
VISION:
As the Birmingham Public Schools Science Department, we are committed to fostering a community of critical thinkers,
problem-solvers and ethical science students who push the boundaries of knowledge through real-world opportunities,
experiential learning, inquiry and a culture of inclusivity backed with trust and validation. We equip students with the
knowledge and passion for future study in the sciences and enable positive contributors to their communities.
Graduation Requirement
Course options
1.0 credit Biology
0.5 credit Chemistry
1.0 credit Biology
0.5 credit Physics
0.5 credit Physics A or 1.0 credit full year of AP Physics 1
1.0 credit Science elective(s)
Grade 9
Grade 10
Grade 11
Grade 12
Possible Pathways
0.5 credit Chemistry A or 1.0 credit full year of Honors Chemistry
1.0 of credit of science electives from course catalog
(The B term of Chemistry, Honors Chemistry, Physics, or AP Physics 1
courses, when taken as part of the full-year course, also meet this
requirement.)
Biology
Chemistry A and Elective
Chemistry A** and B**
Chemistry A** and B**
Physics A** and B**
Physics A and Elective
Physics A and Elective
Possible AP course
Possible AP course
Possible AP course
and/or Elective
and/or Elective
and/or Elective
**Note: Honors and AP courses must be taken for the full year to meet graduation requirements for each subject. In this
case, students would earn a 0.5 credit to meet the subject area requirement and a 0.5 credit towards the Science Electives.
This is also true of Chemistry B and Physics B.
411421/411422 Honors Biology
Biology is a required full year inquiry-based course in which students will investigate the fundamentals of biology,
including scientific methodology, ecological systems, evolution, cellular systems, and genetics. All students begin the year
enrolled in honors biology and will have the opportunity to opt out of the honors coursework during the school year.
Prerequisites: None
Grades Taught: 9, 10, 11, 12
Credit: 1.0
NCAA Approved
42022 Chemistry A
Chemistry A is a laboratory-based program for students bound for college or other post-secondary training. Topics covered
include properties of matter, atomic structure, energy changes, chemical bonding, introduction to gas laws and chemical
reactions. Emphasis is on laboratory skills, laboratory reporting, data analysis, and general chemistry theory. Both Chem A
and Chem B are highly encouraged for STEM students and/or for continuing on to AP Chem.
Prerequisites: Integrated Math 1
Grades Taught: 10, 11 12
Credit: 0.5
NCAA Approved
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