Physics Honors
1 Credit • Grades 10 , 11 , & 12 Prerequisites : Placement by instructor , Algebra II ( may be taken concurrently )
This course seeks to expand students ’ introduction to an understanding of the first principles of physics . Students will apply gained understanding in complex , practical , and relevant physical problem solving . The areas of focus for this yearlong course are : kinematics , dynamics , work , energy , power , impulse and momentum , circular and rotational motion , oscillation and periodic motion , gravitation , thermodynamics , fluids , vibrations and waves , electricity and magnetism , and optics . This course requires strong algebra and trigonometry skills and serves as a prerequisite for AP Physics .
AP Physics I & II
2 Credits / Meets Daily • Grades 10 , 11 , & 12 Prerequisite : Physics Honors , or placement by instructor and pre-calculus ( may be taken concurrently )
The purpose of Advanced Placement Physics is to provide a college level course in physics and to prepare the student to seek credit and / or appropriate placement in college physics courses . In this “ flipped ” class , students are engaged in hands-on , inquiry-driven laboratory work . They will apply problem solving strategies for much of their time in class , while also taking notes from lecture material for homework . Emphasis is placed on depth of understanding of a topic , rather than breadth of topics and very little time is spent on performing mathematical “ plug-and-chug ” routines . Topics from both AP Physics 1 and AP Physics 2 will be covered and students will take both AP exams in May .
AP Physics C
2 Credits / Meets Daily • Grades 11 , & 12 Prerequisite : Calculus and Physics ( Honors or AP1 )
This course will include the same physics topics , including labs , required of college physics and engineering majors across the country . Students will derive and implement a great variety of calculus-based mechanics and electricity and magnetism applications . A talent for abstract , multidimensional reasoning and competency in solving multivariable calculus problems are required . Only the most serious and capable physics students should undertake this course . All students are required to take the AP exam .
Contemporary Science Foundations
1 Credit • Grades 11 , & 12
Contemporary Science Foundations explores a wide variety of current scientific topics to help students near graduation become scientifically literate citizens . The class covers global scale issues such as vaccines , climate change , and sustainable energy generation and use along with issues that are directly relevant to Coastal Maine . Local topics include saltwater fisheries , beach erosion , and land use . Students will conduct field research , design solutions to problems that require a scientific approach , and participate in hands-on lab and project experiences .
Introduction to Engineering Honors
1 Credit • Grades 11 , & 12 Prerequisites : Physics Honors , Pre-Calculus ( may be taken concurrently ), Chemistry Honors ( may be taken concurrently )
This rigorous introduction to the field of engineering satisfies one requirement for the University of Maine School of Engineering Articulation Agreement . The course will expose students to the basic engineering principles of four major fields of engineering : mechanical , chemical / biomedical , electrical / computer , and civil / environmental . Students will solve complex , college-level engineering problems using experimental , analytical , and / or numerical procedures . A teamwork approach will be emphasized . Strong math and physics skills are required .
AP Environmental Science
1 Credit • Grades 11 , & 12 Prerequisite : Biology Honors , one year of physical science and Algebra II
This interdisciplinary course embraces a wide variety of topics from different areas of scientific study . Unifying themes will include concepts such as science as a process , human impact on natural systems , the cultural and social context inherent in environmental challenges , and the dependence of human survival on the development of sustainable systems .
SCIENCE ELECTIVES
Science electives are one-semester classes designed for students who wish to add to their science experience . Electives may not replace core graduation requirements . Preference is given to seniors . Students may take elective classes in addition to their required science class ( es ).
Anatomy and Physiology
0.5 Credit • Grades 11 , & 12 Prerequisite : Two science credits
This course introduces anatomical position and directional terms , maintenance of homeostasis , medical terminology , the integumentary system , the skeletal system , the eyes and vision , and the respiratory and digestive systems . The human body is explored from the microscopic to the organsystems level . Topics include comparative anatomy and physiology , pathology , and biomechanics . The culminating activity is dissection of fetal pigs followed by a laboratory practical . The course is designed for students interested in health-related careers .
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