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Science

Salesianum's Science curriculum explores the natural and technological world through scientific inquiry and discovery. There is an emphasis on both labs and content work to better understand our environment.
  • AP Biology

    Advanced Placement Biology exposes the student to a survey of the material in a first year college course for majors. Further, it emphasizes the syllabus recommended by the College Board.  Students are required to sit for the AP Biology Examination in May. 
    This course may be eligible for college credit through Dual Enrollment.
    Prerequisites: Grade of at least a B+ in Biology-HN and Chemistry-HN and current HN Mathematics course; Department approval Prerequisites/Co-requisites: Physics-HN, AP Biology Laboratory
  • AP Biology Laboratory

    AP Biology Laboratory is a co-requisite to accompany Advanced Placement Biology. Students  perform laboratory investigations required by the College Board and several other relevant experiments.  The course emphasizes experimental design, presentation of data, and statistical analysis of data as well as the skills necessary for rigorous scientific discussion.  Grades in this course are separated from the Advanced Placements Biology course and reflect the rigor required at the university level.  
    Prerequisites/Co-requisites: Enrollment in Advanced Placement Biology; Department approval.
  • AP Chemistry

    AP Chemistry (equivalent to a two semester freshman college course) is for those students intending to major in science, in particular Chemistry, Medicine, or Engineering.  A thorough understanding of the principles of Chemistry is developed through the study of fundamental topics, such as: bonding, structure, equilibrium, kinetics thermodynamics, electrochemistry and problem solving and laboratory analysis.  Independent study is stressed so students may become more responsible and self-reliant.  A college level text is used.  Students are required to sit for the AP Chemistry examination in May.  Prerequisites: Grade of at least a B in Biology-HN, Chemistry-HN and current Mathematics-HN course; Department approval
    Prerequisites/Co-requisites: Physics-HN, AP Chemistry Laboratory and Problem Solving
  • AP Chemistry Lab & Problem Solving

    AP Chemistry Laboratory & Problem Solving is a co-requisite to accompany Advanced Placement Chemistry. It is in keeping with the requirements recommended by College Board AP Central that laboratory be an integral topic, covered in double periods, with a formal record of investigations. Students investigate scientific principles learned in AP Chemistry through hands-on experimentation and problem solving. An Inquiry based approach to developing questions and answers through data collection is emphasized. Grades in this course are separate from the Advanced Placement Chemistry course, but they will reflect the high quality of work a college laboratory course requires.
    Prerequisites:  Enrollment in Advanced Placement Chemistry; Department approval
  • AP Environmental Science

    The AP Environmental Science course is designed to be the equivalent of a first year, introductory college course in environmental science.  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, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and /or preventing them.  Laboratory investigations will be an integral part of this course.  Students are required to sit for the AP Environmental Science examination in May. This course may be eligible for college credit through Dual Enrollment.
    Prerequisites: Grade of at least a B+ in Biology-AC and Chemistry-AC and current AC Mathematics course; Department approval
    Co-requisites: Physics-AC/HN
  • AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism

    AP Physics-C: Electricity and Magnetism is a calculus-based college entry level course in electricity and magnetism. It follows the guidelines published by the College Board.  Topics include electric field, electric potential arising from discrete charge distributions, electrostatic energy and capacitance, magnetic fields, and induction. Students undergo an in-depth study of introductory college-level physics limited to the discipline of electricity and magnetism, learn to apply calculus in the solution of problems in classical physics, and will perform laboratory experiments to reinforce the concepts discussed in class and to develop an appreciation of the scientific method. Students are required to sit for the electricity and magnetism part of the AP Physics C examination in May.  
    Prerequisites/ Corequisites: Prerequisite: Grade of A in Physics-HN AND Corequisite AP Physics -C: Mechanics or
    Prerequisite of at least B+ in AP Physics-C (Mechanics); 
    Corequisites: AP Calculus BC; Department approval
  • AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism Laboratory

    AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism Laboratory is a co-requisite to accompany Advanced Placement Physics C.  Students perform the laboratory investigations required by the College Board and other experiments.  Grades in this course are separate from the Advanced Placement Physics courses and reflect the rigor required at the university level.  Prerequisites/Co-requisites: Enrollment in Advanced Placement Physics C; Department approval 
  • AP Physics C: Mechanics

    AP Physics-C: Mechanics is a college entry-level course in Newtonian Mechanics.  It is designed for students who are interested in majoring in science or engineering while in college.  Topics in mechanics include kinematics, Newton’s Laws, the conservation laws, rotation, and universal gravitation.  This course is a calculus-based course, so students must have a strong background in mathematics.  Students are required to sit for the AP Physics C examination in May. 
    Prerequisite: Grade of A in Physics-HN and B or higher in AP Calculus AB
     or 
    Grade of A in Chemistry-HN and A in AP Calculus AB and Department approval
    Co-requisite: Enrollment in AP Calculus BC
  • AP Physics C: Mechanics Laboratory

    AP Physics C: Mechanics Laboratory is a co-requisite to accompany Advanced Placement Physics C.  Students perform the laboratory investigations required by the College Board and other experiments.  Grades in this course are separate from the Advanced Placement Physics courses and reflect the rigor required at the university level.  Prerequisites/Co-requisites: Enrollment in Advanced Placement Physics C; Department approval 
  • AP Physics I

    AP Physics I is intended for students interested in studying physics as a basis for more advanced work in the life sciences, medicine, geology, and related areas.  AP Physics I is equivalent to a first-semester college course in algebra-based physics. The course covers Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum); work, energy, and power; and mechanical waves and sound. It also introduces electric circuits. Students who are interested in taking this course should consult with their Physics teacher in order to determine whether this course or AP Physics-C better suits their needs. Students are required to sit for the AP Physics 1 examination in May.
    Prerequisites: Grade of at least B+ in Physics-AC or Chemistry-HN; Grade of at least B+ in Algebra 2-AC or Algebra 2-HN. Co-requisites: Enrollment in Pre-Calculus or a higher level Math course 
  • AP Physics II

    This course builds upon topics from Physics I and is subject to minimum enrollment requirements for the course to be scheduled.  This course is also for students interested in studying physics as a basis for advanced work in life sciences, medicine, geology, and related areas.  AP Physics II is equivalent to a second-semester college course in algebra-based physics. The course covers fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, optics, and atomic and nuclear physics. Students who are interested in taking this course should consult with their Physics teacher in order to determine whether this course or A.P. Physics-C better suits their needs. .  The student will be required to sit for the A. P. Physics 2 examination in May.
    Prerequisites: Grade of at least B+ in AP Physics 1 or Physics-HN; Grade of at least B+ in Algebra 2-AC or Algebra 2-HN
    Co-requisites: Enrollment in Pre-Calculus or a higher level Math course
  • Biology-CP

    Biology, a life science course, emphasizes how structures enable organisms to perform life functions, how characteristics are passed from one generation to another, and how organisms obtain and use energy needed to live and grow. Students study how organisms interact with the living and nonliving components of their environment, and how life as we know it can be so similar and yet so diverse. Students utilize classroom activities and lab work to reinforce the course content and provide a strong foundation in biology. 
  • Biology-AC

    Biology, a life science course, emphasizes how structures enable organisms to perform life functions, how characteristics are passed from one generation to another, and how organisms obtain and use energy needed to live and grow. Students study how organisms interact with the living and nonliving components of their environment, and how life as we know it can be so similar and yet so diverse. Students utilize classroom activities and lab work to reinforce the course content and provide a strong foundation in biology. 
  • Biology-HN

    Biology, a life science course, emphasizes how structures enable organisms to perform life functions, how characteristics are passed from one generation to another, and how organisms obtain and use energy needed to live and grow. Students study how organisms interact with the living and nonliving components of their environment, and how life as we know it can be so similar and yet so diverse. Students utilize classroom activities and lab work to reinforce the course content and provide a strong foundation in biology. 
  • Biology Research-Advanced

    *Phasing varies by individual*
    Advanced Biology Research is an independent-study curriculum intended for students who have an interest in the science of biology and who wish to work alone exploring some of the topics of first year biology to greater depths. Students spend most of their time performing experiments and generating data, as well as doing a good deal of outside reading. Evaluation is arranged by mutual agreement among students and their teacher at the beginning of each unit.  Prerequisites:  Successful completion of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics; Department approval
  • Chemistry-CP

    Chemistry introduces students to general principles of chemistry and how those principles apply to their everyday lives.  It develops quantitative and qualitative analytical skills, along with best laboratory practices. Topics covered include data collection & analysis; atomic structure & theory; chemical bonding & reactions; states of matter; thermochemistry; solutions; and acid/base chemistry. Coursework incorporates hands-on lab work, textbook readings and interactive online platforms to foster a comprehensive understanding of general chemistry.
    Prerequisites: Biology and Algebra 1
  • Chemistry-AC

    Chemistry introduces students to general principles of chemistry and how those principles apply to their everyday lives.  It develops quantitative and qualitative analytical skills, along with best laboratory practices. Topics covered include data collection & analysis; atomic structure & theory; chemical bonding & reactions; states of matter; thermochemistry; solutions; and acid/base chemistry. Coursework incorporates hands-on lab work, textbook readings and interactive online platforms to foster a comprehensive understanding of general chemistry.
    Prerequisites: Biology and Algebra 1
  • Chemistry-HN

    Chemistry introduces students to general principles of chemistry and how those principles apply to their everyday lives.  It develops quantitative and qualitative analytical skills, along with best laboratory practices. Topics covered include data collection & analysis; atomic structure & theory; chemical bonding & reactions; states of matter; thermochemistry; solutions; and acid/base chemistry. Coursework incorporates hands-on lab work, textbook readings and interactive online platforms to foster a comprehensive understanding of general chemistry.
    Prerequisites: Biology and Algebra 1
  • Chemistry Research-Advanced

    *Phasing varies by individual*
    Advanced Chemistry Research is an independent-study curriculum intended for students who have an interest in the science of chemistry and who wish to work alone exploring some of the topics of first year chemistry to greater depths.  Students will spend most of his time performing experiments and generating data, as well as doing a good deal of outside reading. Evaluation will be arranged by mutual agreement among students and their teacher at the beginning of each unit.
    Prerequisites:  Successful completion of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics; Department approval 
  • Physics-CP

    Physics is the study of the relationship between matter and energy.  The goal of these courses is to investigate the motion and interaction of particles. Laboratory work is the basis for the development of the major physical concepts that are studied.  The students’ ability to use mathematics in the solution of physical problems is also developed.  Topics include: classical mechanics and electricity and magnetism.  
    Prerequisites: Chemistry and Geometry Co-requisites: Algebra II, Math Analysis, or Pre-Calculus
  • Physics-AC

    Physics is the study of the relationship between matter and energy.  The goal of these courses is to investigate the motion and interaction of particles. Laboratory work is the basis for the development of the major physical concepts that are studied.  The students’ ability to use mathematics in the solution of physical problems is also developed.  Topics include: classical mechanics and electricity and magnetism.  
    Prerequisites: Chemistry and Geometry Co-requisites: Algebra II, Math Analysis, or Pre-Calculus
  • Physics-HN

    Physics is the study of the relationship between matter and energy.  The goal of these courses is to investigate the motion and interaction of particles. Laboratory work is the basis for the development of the major physical concepts that are studied.  The students’ ability to use mathematics in the solution of physical problems is also developed.  Topics include: classical mechanics and electricity and magnetism.  
    Prerequisites: Chemistry and Geometry Co-requisites: Algebra II, Math Analysis, or Pre-Calculus
  • Physics Research-Advanced

    *Phasing varies by individual*
    Advanced Physics Research is an independent-study curriculum intended for students who have an interest in the science of physics and who wish to work alone exploring some of the topics of first year physics to greater depths. Students will spend most of his time performing experiments and generating data, as well as doing a good deal of outside reading. Evaluation will be arranged by mutual agreement among students and their teacher at the beginning of each unit.
    Prerequisites:  Grade of at least B in Physics-AC or Physics-HN; Departmental approval 
  • Anatomy & Physiology-HN

    Anatomy & Physiology uses an organ system approach to the study of the structure and function of the human body with some comparison to major vertebrate groups. Considerable time is devoted to lab work with emphasis on dissection and microscopy, as well as on biochemistry.
    Prerequisites: Grade of at least A in Biology-AC and Chemistry-AC or B in Biology-HN and Chemistry-HN; Department approval; Note that sophomores are permitted to take the course with departmental approval and must be enrolled in Honors Chemistry
    Prerequisites/Co-requisites: Physics-AC or Physics-HN
  • Aquatic & Marine Biology-AC

    Aquatic & Marine Biology - Why is the ocean so big? Why is it salty? How deep is it? How can it support so much diversity? Starting with these simple questions, this class will investigate the complex Ocean system by looking at the way its components – the atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, and biosphere – interact. Ocean Conservation is  a topic discussed throughout the course. 
    Prerequisites: Grade of at least B in Biology-AC or B+ in Biology-CP
    Prerequisites/Co-requisites: AC Chemistry
  • Disease & Human Civilization-AC

    Disease & Human Civilization introduces students to disease outbreaks and shows how the outbreaks have shaped traditions and institutions of Western civilization.  The course focuses on the effects, causes, and outcomes from past and current epidemics.  This course takes an in-depth look at the role epidemic diseases have played in our lives.  Both important diseases in history and current outbreaks are analyzed.   Pre-requisites:  B in Biology-AC, B+ in Biology-CP   Co-requisite: Chemistry
  • Forensic Science-AC

    Forensic Science takes an in-depth look at how scientific and biotechnological concepts are applied to solve real life crime and the problem solving methods used.  Specifically, students study technology associated with DNA analysis, crime scene analysis and forensics investigations, toxicology and the use of human anatomy and physiology to determine the identity of an unknown person of interest.  In this lab intensive course, students take an interdisciplinary look at scientific principles used in forensic science as well as the moral and ethical implications of these topics in society.   
    Prerequisites:  Grade of at least a B in Biology-AC and Chemistry-AC; Department approval; Available also to sophomores who are enrolled in Chemistry-AC/HN
    Co-requisites: Physics-AC or Physics-HN.
  • Geology of National Parks-AC

    Geology of the National Parks uses the incredible variability of the North American landscape, specifically that of the United States and our National Parks, to qualitatively describe the forces at play – both at the surface and deep within the Earth – and help students develop reasonable hypotheses to explain the origins of physiographic features visible here at the surface.
  • Scientific Phenomena: Explorations and Exhibitions-AC

    Scientific Phenomena: Explorations and Exhibitions (SPEE) provides an opportunity for students to communicate science to younger audiences through hands-on engagement. The bulk of the course will be spent studying a selected phenomenon and creating an interactive exhibit, like those at the Franklin Institute, that will be showcased at the end of the course. This cross-curricular class is an excellent choice for students interested in art, hands-on learning, and science beyond the core courses.

  • Native Flora and Fauna-AC

    Native Flora & Fauna introduces students to the rich and varied world of plants right in their own backyard. Students will study plant classification systems, forage for specimens around school and their homes, research the plants they collect, and keep a detailed journal of their findings. Where Ecology emphasizes global environmental issues, Native Flora & Fauna takes a more microscopic approach, focusing on the ecosystem immediately around us. A strong emphasis will be placed on developing observational and research skills, and honing students' ability to notice the smallest details.  Prerequisites:  Successful completion of Biology.
Salesianum School educates and develops the whole person based on the teaching of Saint Francis de Sales, whose spirituality can be summarized in “Live Jesus.” As an independent Catholic secondary school founded by the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales in 1903, Salesianum challenges young men through dynamic college preparatory and extracurricular programs to live as Salesian Gentlemen devoted to faith, community, and service.