Science

Building knowledge about the universe and constructing new ideas that illuminate the world around us through the study of physical, earth and life sciences.
Physical Science is an investigative science aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards and is the entry course in the NCCVT science sequence for all freshmen. Throughout the course, students will investigate phenomena related to the interactions of matter and flow of energy in physical and chemical systems in order to understand how and why matter interacts in real-life situations. Successful completion of Physical Science satisfies one (1) of three (3) state-required investigative science graduation credit requirements.
 
Biology is an investigative science aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards and is the second course for the NCCVT science sequence for all sophomores. Biology is designed to follow the successful completion of physical science. Throughout the course, students will investigate phenomena regarding the movement of matter and flow of energy in ecosystems, the impact of genetic information on the health of an organism, and the effects of evolution on structure and composition of populations over time. Students shall successfully complete biology as one (1) of three (3) state-required investigative science graduation credit requirements.
 
Integrated Science is an investigative science aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards. It is an option for the third course for the NCCVT science sequence for juniors or seniors. Throughout the course, students will investigate phenomena related to earth and space science, climate change, environmental issues, utilization of natural resources and sustainability. Successful completion of Integrated Science can be used to satisfy the third investigative science requirement for graduation. Any student interested in Integrated Science may enroll. (Prerequisite: None)
 
Chemistry is an investigative science aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards. It is an option for the third course for the NCCVT science sequence for juniors or seniors. In this course, students use chemistry concepts to investigate how long term changes in climate causes environmental degradation, how scientists search for life beyond Earth, and how humans can use natural resources to meet our energy needs. Successful completion of Chemistry can be used to satisfy the third investigative science requirement for graduation. Any student interested in Chemistry may enroll. STEM-inclined students who intend to pursue post-secondary education are strongly encouraged to enroll. (Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 1 and Physical Science with grades of “C” or better.)
 
Physics is an investigative science aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards. Successful completion of Physics can be used to complete the state graduation requirements for science. Throughout the course, students will investigate phenomena related to the mechanics of physical systems: statics, dynamics, and equilibrium. Any student interested in physics and meeting prerequisites may enroll. STEM-inclined students who intend to pursue post-secondary education are strongly encouraged to enroll. (Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra I, Geometry, and Physical Science with grades of “C” or better)
 
ELECTIVE COURSE:
(This course cannot be used as a substitute for the three (3) state-recommended laboratory investigative science graduation credit requirements for Science)
 
Environmental Science is a laboratory science aligned with Delaware State Standards and requires mastery of scientific inquiry, earth science, and ecology knowledge and skills. Environmental Science is intended for SENIORS who have completed State graduation requirements and are interested in a fourth credit in science. *Prerequisite: Successful completion of the three (3) state-recommended laboratory investigative sciences [see above].