DCHS Science Courses
(Please visit the science flowchart for recommended course sequencing.)

Life Science

Prerequisite: None
Credit: 1

Life Science prepares students for Biology I and its associated  end of the year Gateway test, a state requirement for graduation.


Earth Science

Prerequisite: None
Credit: 1

Earth Science is the study of the physical make-up of the earth, the earth's resources, the atmosphere, and the solar system.


Agriscience

Prerequisite: None
Credit: 1

This course satisfies Science of Technology or regular science credit for graduation requirement.  Traditional scientific topics are studied from agricultural viewpoint. Coursework includes ecology and conservation, plant and animal science, soil chemistry, engine dynamics and mechanics, leadership training, and numerous laboratory activities.  Students in Agriscience are encouraged to join the FFA and participate in its activities.

(This course can also be found under the Agriculture section.)


Physical Science

Prerequisite: Foundations 2 or above concurrently
Credit: 1

Physical Science will introduce students to the basics of physics and chemistry, courses that may be taken later as part of a college preparatory track. Content will include topics in motion, heat, machines, atomic structure, chemical bonds, light, sound, electricity, and energy  alternatives.  Physical Science is required before taking chemistry except for those "fast track" students taking Biology I as a Freshman.  Physical Science will offer laboratory experience.  Lab fee is required.

Biology I

Prerequisite: Alg 1 or above concurrently 
Credit: 1

This course offers classroom and laboratory experience in exploring life.  Students survey biochemistry, genetics, the five kingdoms of living things, comparative anatomy, ecology, and cells. Students must pass an end of year Gateway test in Biology I as a graduation requirement. Lab fee is required. 


Biology for Technology

Prerequisite: Foundations 2 or above concurrently
Credit: 1

This course is designed for students desiring a biology credit that includes topics from industrial, commercial, and health care related viewpoints. The curriculum leans toward hands-on activities rather than lectures.  Students must pass the same end of the year Gateway test as biology I students.  The Gateway test is a graduation requirement.  Lab fee is required.


Biology II

Prerequisite: Bio I (B or above) and teacher permission
Credit: 1

Biology II is an elective college-preparatory course designed to be an advanced study of life by the serious biology student.  The course goal is to develop understanding and appreciation of the unity underlying the diversity of living things by studying molecular and cellular structures and functions, reproductive processes and genetics, microorganisms, anatomy and physiology of plants and animals, interactions between a biotic and biotic factors in the balance of ecosystem, and current biological information as it relates to the student and his world.  Time is spent in laboratory activities.  Lab fee is required.

Biology I Advanced

Prerequisite: Alg I or above concurrently & 8th grade  teacher and Guidance Recommendation
Credit: 1

An enriched presentation of Bio I for the advanced freshman student.


Chemistry I

Prerequisite: Phys Sci & Alg I (Both C or above) Exception:  Freshman student finishing Alg  I & Bio I (Both C or above)
Credit: 1

Chemistry is the science of matter and structure.  Mathematical techniques are essential for chemical calculations in developing a fundamental understanding of the quantitative relationships in chemistry as observed in chemical reactions. Laboratory safety, procedures and techniques are an important aspect of high school chemistry and this course is part of the college preparatory track.  Lab fee is required.


 Chemistry I (Advanced)

Prerequisite: Physical Science, Alg I (Both C or above),  a minimum of 3.0 GPA, and teacher permission 
Credit: 1

An in-depth presentation of Chemistry I aimed at the advanced student who needs a more challenging environment.  Students will cover all state standards and prepare for The American Chemical Society's standardized high school exam.


Chemistry II

Prerequisite: Chem I (B or above) & teacher permission
Credit: 1

This course will develop the concepts of Chemistry I at a deeper level and will include such topics as solutions, thermodynamics, and kinetics.


Physics

Prerequisite: Geometry & Alg II (Both C or above)
Credit: 1

Physics is an in-depth study of physical sciences with laboratory work and class assignments directed toward college level preparation.  Five general area of physics are studied:  Mechanics, Properties, of matter, Waves/Light, Electricity, and Modern Physics.