Science
FACULTY
The Science Department at St. Pius X Catholic High School aims to foster a deep understanding of the physical and biological environment, integrating scientific study with spiritual and ethical awareness. Our curriculum encourages students to think critically, become independent learners, and appreciate the evolving nature of scientific knowledge. We prepare students for higher education and inspire awe in the universe as part of God’s creation. Through science, students learn to make informed decisions, understand ethical implications, and recognize the intersection of science and other academic disciplines.
CORE COURSES
Biology
Introductory biology course exploring human activity, evolutionary history, structure, function, behavior, and molecular biology. Focuses on scientific thinking, problem-solving, and understanding life's complexities.
Biology H
Advanced biology course starting with molecular and cellular biology and progressing to organismal and ecological biology. Focus on scientific methods, lab skills, research, technology applications, and scientific writing.
Chemistry
Traditional chemistry course using labs to study atomic theory, bonding, chemical reactions, and states of matter. Emphasizes problem-solving, disciplined study, and lab report writing using mathematical skills.
Chemistry H
Advanced chemistry course covering principles, concepts, and operations. Emphasizes logical and abstract thinking, math reasoning, and analytical problem-solving. Includes lab reports and independent learning.
Conceptual Physics
Focuses on understanding physics concepts with minimal math. Includes lab activities, data analysis, and detailed lab reports. Requires completion of a physics project each semester.
Physics
Emphasizes mathematical solutions and conceptual understanding of physics. Includes lab activities, data analysis, and detailed lab reports. Requires completion of a physics project each semester.
AP Physics 1
Equivalent to a first-semester college algebra-based physics course. Covers Newtonian mechanics, waves, sound, and introduces electric circuits. Includes lab activities and AP exam.
AP Physics C: Mechanics
College-level physics course focusing on mechanics, using calculus. Includes designing experiments, data analysis, and AP exam.
ELECTIVE COURSES
AP Biology
College-level biology course covering energy transfer, structure, function, regulation, and interdependence. Includes extensive reading, lab work, and AP exam.
AP Chemistry
College-level chemistry course covering atomic theory, bonding, acid-base chemistry, and thermodynamics. Includes lab work, data analysis, and AP exam.
Astronomy
Introduction to modern astronomy, covering the universe's origin, Earth's properties, planets, stars, and galaxies. Includes lab exercises and observations.
Environmental Science
Interdisciplinary course examining human impact on Earth's ecosystems. Topics include biodiversity, sustainability, and environmental economics. Includes lab and field research.
Forensic Science
Lab-intensive course focusing on chemical reactions and forensic evidence analysis. Emphasizes experimentation, problem-solving, and scientific writing.
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Comprehensive study of the human body, including anatomical language, organ systems, and clinical implications. Includes dissections, lab reports, and a research paper.
Oceanography-Marine Ecology
Survey of oceanography and marine ecology, integrating physical science with marine biology. Covers oceanic topics, human impact, and includes lab work and field observations.
For more information, see the Course Catalog. [Page 19]