Science Department
John Muir High School Early College Magnet core science classes include extensive laboratory work and are designed to meet university A-G entrance requirements for science ‘D’ credit. Two years of science ‘D’ credit courses are required for admission to a University of California campus, with a third year of science recommended. The subjects covered in each core science course are in alignment with the California State Standards for that course.
BIOLOGY: THE LIVING EARTH - GRADES 9-12 A-G Approved 10 CREDITS Prerequisite: Math 1 and/or concurrent enrollment Through the lens of the science and engineering practices and the crosscutting practices identified in the California NGSS, students will study the biological concepts of ecosystems, genetics, evolution and cells to organisms. Standards of Earth and Space Science, such as Earth’s History and Global Climate Change will be used to deepen students understanding of the Biology concepts that are being learned.
AP BIOLOGY - GRADES 10-12 A-G Approved 10 CREDITS Recommended Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry with C or higher; student commitment to persist for entire school year in college-level course and take the AP examination in the spring.
BIOTECHNOLOGY 1 A. 1B – GRADES 10-12 A-G Approved 10 CREDITS These courses are designed to give students an introduction to the scientific concepts and laboratory research techniques currently used in the field of biotechnology. Students develop laboratory skills, critical thinking, and communication skills currently used in the fields of genetics, microbiology and biotechnology. Through extensive reading, laboratory work, and workplace experiences, students will gain workplace competency skills in the field of biotechnology. This course is only offered at specific schools.
CHEMISTRY IN THE EARTH SYSTEM - GRADES 9-12 A-G Approved 10 CREDITS Prerequisite: Recommended: Math 1 and/or concurrent enrollment Through the lenses of the science and engineering practices and the crosscutting practices identified in the California NGSS, students will study the concepts of atoms, elements, molecules chemical reactions, bonding, and thermodynamics. Students will apply their knowledge of Chemistry by studying Earth’s systems, climate change, and ocean acidification.
PHYSICS OF THE UNIVERSE- GRADES 9-12 A-G Approved 10 CREDITS Minimum co-requisite: Algebra 1 or Math 1 Physics of the Universe is a lab science class aligned to the three dimensions of the California NGSS. Students will learn Physics concepts as well as the Earth and Space Science Standards that support Physics ideas and concepts. Students will investigate and construct their 16 understanding of concepts such as forces and motion, energy conservation and renewable energy, nuclear process and Earth’s history, waves and electromagnetic radiation and the origin of the universe.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE – 11TH GRADE A-G Approved 10 Credits Students will learn about the scientific principles, concepts and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships between humans and the world in which we live. Students will evaluate and analyze both natural and anthropocentric environmental issues, as well as examine alternative solutions for solving and/or preventing environmental problems. The course will encompass a wide variety of disciplines including biology, chemistry, physics, geology, climatology, and geography, to name a few.
AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE – 11TH GRADE A-G Approved 10 Credits Students will learn about the scientific principles, concepts and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships between humans and the world in which we live. Students will evaluate and analyze both natural and anthropocentric environmental issues, as well as examine alternative solutions for solving and/or preventing environmental problems. The course will encompass a wide variety of disciplines including biology, chemistry, physics, geology, climatology, and geography, to name a few.
