AP Biology is a full-year class that is organized around the Four Big Ideas: 1) The process of evolution drives the diversity and unity of life; 2) Biological systems utilize free energy and molecular building blocks to grow, reproduce, and to maintain homeostasis; 3) Living systems store, retrieve, transmit, and respond to information essential to life processes; 4) Biological systems interact, and these systems and their interactions possess complex properties. Lectures, discussions, labs and projects support these ideas and are designed to show the connections that exist between them. AP Biology is a challenging course with many long-term labs and opportunities for student-directed research. The class is designed to be a first year college level biology course. It is fast moving and demanding; the successful student has a strong track record in science classes and is interested in the subject. AP Biology can be taken as a student's only biology class or it can be taken after CP or Honors Biology. Text: Biology in Focus (Campbell and Reece). PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Honors or CP Chemistry and successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in Pre-Calculus. Students who achieve an A- or higher in prerequisite courses usually are more successful in AP Biology. A content/skills assessment will be administered at the beginning of the course to help determine if AP Biology is the correct placement. Students opting to take the AP exam are responsible for the exam fee of approximately $110. (Fee reduction applications are available in the school counseling office.)

This course is offered every other year (Offered in 2027-2028) AP Chemistry is equivalent to a college level general chemistry course that provides rigorous study in four major areas: structure of matter, states of matter, reaction, and descriptive chemistry. Students must be highly motivated to tackle this rigorous course. The class is structured around the six big ideas articulated in the AP Chemistry curriculum framework provided by the College Board. A special emphasis is placed on the seven science practices, which capture important aspects of the work that scientists engage in, with learning objectives that combine content with inquiry and reasoning skills. At the end of the class, students demonstrate a basic understanding of, and the ability to apply, mathematical solutions to problems involving atomic theory and structures, chemical bonding, nuclear chemistry, kinetic theory, solutions, reaction types, stoichiometry, equilibrium, kinetics, thermodynamics, and descriptive chemistry. Evaluation is based on homework, lab reports, and tests. Much of the class involves out-of-class homework and in-class lab work. Text: Chemistry, A Molecular Approach, 5th edition (N.J. Tro). PREREQUISITE: It is recommended that students have a B+ or higher in Honors Chemistry or an A in CP Chemistry and have completed or be enrolled in Honors Algebra 2 or a higher level mathematics course. Students opting to take the AP exam are responsible for the exam fee of approximately $110. (Fee reduction applications are available in the school counseling office.)

This course is offered every other year (Offered in 2026-2027) AP Physics C: Mechanics is similar to the first semester of a college course taken by students majoring in the physical sciences or engineering. This course is an in-depth study of the fundamental theories and laws of classical physics, with emphasis on problem-solving skills. Calculus is an integral part of the course. Placement in AP Physics C: Mechanics assumes that students successfully completed Honors Physics 1 and are ready to solve more complex problems, calculus-based problems, and perform challenging laboratory activities. The specific content of this course is determined by the College Board AP program and includes many of the topics from Honors Physics 1, as well as torque, rotational motion, and simple harmonic motion. These topics are explored in more depth; the problems are more complex, and sometimes involve integral calculus. Honors Physics 1, Honors Physics 2, and AP Physics C: Mechanics taken together provides students interested in physics and engineering with a good foundation for calculus-based college physics courses. Students do not need to take Honors Physics 2 before enrolling in this class. AP Physics: C is not a substitute for Honors Physics 2, since the two courses cover different material. Text: Physics for Scientists and Engineers (Knight). PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Pre-Calculus and Honors Physics 1. Students must also have completed or concurrently be enrolled in Calculus. Students opting to take the AP exam are responsible for the exam fee of approximately $110. (Fee reduction applications are available in the school counseling office.)

This project-based course focuses on rigorous engineering analysis, technical documentation, and complex systems design. Students apply mechanical and civil engineering principles to ensure designs are not only visually accurate but physically viable. The curriculum centers on the validation phase of engineering: using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to perform Finite Element Analysis (FEA), test material properties, and simulate structural loads under real-world conditions. Students work in teams to produce comprehensive technical data packages, mastering the creation of professional blueprint sets, assembly instructions, and tolerance reports. Projects involve designing large-scale structural elements and intricate mechanical assemblies, requiring students to justify their decisions through calculation and simulation data. The course culminates in a capstone challenge where teams deliver a fully analyzed, construction-ready design solution to a client. This course emphasizes precision, technical communication, and data-driven decision-making, preparing students for professional or collegiate engineering environments. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of CP Engineering Through CAD. Co-enrollment or completion of a physics class is strongly recommended.

Juniors and Seniors

CP Anatomy and Physiology is a laboratory science course that provides a rigorous, in-depth study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body, emphasizing the integration of structure and function. The focus is on the chemical, cellular, and tissue levels of organization, and the structure and function of the histological, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems.  In addition, special emphasis is placed on the interrelatedness of these body systems and how they relate to human disease and disorder. Laboratory work includes microscopic study of cells and tissues, dissection of preserved specimens (or computer based alternative) and simple physiological tests. This course is designed to meet the needs of students entering nursing and health-related science programs at the post-secondary level. It requires a strong ability to memorize. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of CP/Honors/AP Biology class, CP/Honors Chemistry class, and completion of or concurrent enrollment in CP/Honors Algebra II.

CP Biology is a laboratory course designed to meet college entrance requirements; it prepares students for the content and workload expectations of either AP Biology or other introductory-level college science classes. This course is not necessarily a prerequisite for AP Biology. Topics include biochemistry, cellular biology, ecology, genetics, patterns of heredity, evolution, and using a systems approach to understanding human anatomy and physiology. Laboratory investigations are correlated to the Next Generation Science Standards and are designed to develop students' critical thinking abilities, while allowing them to make relevant connections to current scientific events. Students are evaluated on their ability to integrate scientific knowledge, work independently, and communicate scientifically. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of a chemistry class.

Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors

CP Biology is a laboratory course designed to meet college entrance requirements; it prepares students for the content and workload expectations of either AP Biology or other introductory-level college science classes. This course is not necessarily a prerequisite for AP Biology. Topics include biochemistry, cellular biology, ecology, genetics, patterns of heredity, evolution, and using a systems approach to understanding human anatomy and physiology. Laboratory investigations are correlated to the Next Generation Science Standards and are designed to develop students’ critical thinking abilities, while allowing them to make relevant connections to current scientific events. Students are evaluated on their ability to integrate scientific knowledge, work independently, and communicate scientifically. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of CP Chemistry or permission of the science department chair.

CP Chemistry is a rigorous introductory-level science course that forms connections to the world by investigating natural phenomena. The course covers basic, classical chemistry, with emphasis on the theoretical and mathematical aspects of the science. Topics include atomic structure, bonding principles, the periodic table, chemical formulas, moles and mole theory, chemical equations and stoichiometry, solution chemistry, thermochemistry, and acid/base theory. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of CP Foundations of Science, Foundations of STEM, or permission of the teacher. Successful completion of an algebra class is highly recommended.

Juniors and Seniors
1 science credit
Students in this course tackle some of the major questions in ecology and evolutionary biology: What factors influence an ecological community? How have species changed and evolved? How have humans changed the environment? What is the fate of our natural world? Using natural resources and biological communities at the Hildene farm, the course employs technology, observation and natural history to answer these questions. Students are introduced to a broad range of techniques used in the field to collect and analyze data, giving them a taste of what is required to be a field biologist. Students read essays and papers from some of the leading ecology and evolutionary biologists, develop their own experiments, and use critical thinking to process data. Fieldwork (including maintenance of a detailed field notebook), research, labs, and presentations are all important facets of this project-based class. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Biology, CP Biology, or the permission of the science department chair.

This project-based course provides a hands-on introduction to the engineering design process using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software. Students develop valuable skills in digital modeling, simulation, and 3D printing while tackling increasingly complex design challenges. They master essential CAD tools, create physical prototypes using 3D printing technology, and work with clients to design, prototype, and refine in an authentic design environment. The course culminates in a team project where students address a real-world issue in the local community, applying their engineering skills to make a positive impact. This course emphasizes creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork, providing a solid foundation in engineering design principles and preparing students for future studies or careers in STEM fields. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of a geometry class and CP Foundations of Science or Foundations of STEM is recommended but not required.

Ethnobotany connects botany with human tradition through hands-on, project-based learning. Students develop their understanding of plant anatomy, physiology, and ecology, as well as uses of plants as medicine, materials, food, and cultural touch points through scientific inquiry and practical skill-building. Labs, field work, research, and collaboration enable students to learn about key plant processes including photosynthesis, growth, defense, and reproduction. Plant science topics are complemented with skills in practical and cultural uses of plants; students make foods, teas, salves, tonics, fiber, dyes, and much more out of plants harvested from the school garden and surrounding ecosystems. Examination of the links between botanical knowledge and human society emphasize Indigenous perspectives and traditional ecological knowledge, as well as reflection on students' own relationships with the natural world. This class takes place primarily at the Farm and Food Studies classroom at Hildene Farm. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in a biology class.

In Food Systems, students explore the connections between land, food, and community. They practice systems thinking by examining the lifecycle of food from production to consumption and investigating the impacts of different food system models. Hands-on experience growing food and scientific investigation of agricultural inputs and outputs help students build skills for food production and land management. By partnering with local food access programs, students put their skills to work making positive change in the community. Classroom, lab, and farm experiences are complemented by visits and projects with agriculture and food professionals in the community. Students taking this class in the spring semester also participate in maple sugaring and learn about the importance of maple syrup production to our local environment, community, and culture. This class takes place primarily at the Farm and Food Studies classroom at Hildene Farm. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Foundations of Science or STEM.

Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors
1 social studies elective credit or 1 science credit
Students explore systems theory as it applies to the farm, the natural world, and the communities they are a part of. Specific areas of study include: living and nonliving systems, fundamentals of sustainable farming, and agricultural practices, including practical lessons in harvesting and preparing food. Students also explore the social, political, economic, and environmental challenges associated with developing a sustainable local food system. Students learn through visits to local farms, conversations with agricultural professionals, and participation in Burr and Burton’s farm to school initiative. This course provides students with the opportunity to explore topics through research, problem-based learning, fieldwork, and reflective writing. It is based primarily at Burr and Burton’s Hildene farm classroom. PREREQUISITE:

CP Foundations of Science introduces students to the process of scientific investigation, using concepts in physical science and mathematics. Students primarily use a modeling approach to discover the basic principles (laws) governing matter and energy. This approach emphasizes that in the physical sciences, mathematical models are built to represent nature. The first such mathematical model students encounter is that of an object moving at constant velocity. As the course progresses, the models of nature become more sophisticated. Students discover the models (equations) through a process of scientific investigation, rather than being told what they are. The course explores topics such as linear motion, Newton's Laws, energy, waves (sound and light), and electricity. PREREQUISITE: Students should be enrolled in CP Algebra or a higher level math class.

Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors

1 science or 1 computing/digital exploration credit

Biotechnology is an emerging field responsible for creating vaccines, analyzing human genetics, developing modern medicines, and curing disease. This course introduces important concepts in modern DNA and protein science with an emphasis on real world applications in drug discovery and development. Students learn about the Central Dogma of molecular biology and about emerging techniques in the biotechnology industry, from both a scientific and a business perspective. Twelve major laboratory investigations embody many of the fundamental techniques and concepts of modern molecular biology, including basic micropipetting, recombinant DNA technology (cutting and pasting genes into bacteria), DNA fingerprinting, gene amplification by PCR, and CRISPR Cas 9 gene editing technology.  Students begin the course by researching local biotech companies, their products, their net worth, and job opportunities and prerequisites. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of CP/Honors Chemistry,  CP/Honors Biology and successful completion of or current enrollment in Algebra 2.  Students who achieve a B+ or higher in prerequisite courses usually are more successful in Intro to Biotechnology. A content/skills assessment is administered at the beginning of the course to help determine if Intro to Biotechnology is the correct placement.

This course is offered every other year (Offered in 2025-2026)

Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors

1 science or 1 computing/digital exploration credit

With the James Webb telescope, we are able to observe some of the earliest galaxies and the atmospheres of exoplanets. New ways to observe our universe like LIGO (gravitational waves) and ice cube (high energy cosmic rays) mean that we have entered the era of multi-messenger astronomy. We can look further back in time and at larger portions of sky, allowing us to better understand the origin of the universe, its fate and its composition. In this lab/activity-based course, students investigate the stars, galaxies and planets to better understand the Universe and the objects in our Universe. Discussion topics include the Big Bang and inflation, galaxy formation and classification, quasars, stellar evolution, black holes, supernovae, dark matter and dark energy, and exoplanets. In order to understand these topics, students explore important concepts in physics and astrophysics, including nuclear physics, Newton’s Laws, waves, electromagnetic radiation, Kepler’s Law, and Special and General Relativity. Simulations are employed as students analyze geophysical and astrophysical data to understand the theoretical and experimental methods that have been used to learn the history of and to predict the future of Earth, the Milky Way Galaxy, and the Universe. Students enrolled in this course who participate in the Pulsar Search Collaboratory also have the option to earn college credit through that program. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of CP Foundations of Science or CP/Honors Physics 1 and successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in CP/Honors Algebra 2.

This introductory programming course provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles of software development and hardware interaction. Through the programming language Python, students gain proficiency in fundamental programming concepts, including variables, data structures, control flow, and algorithmic thinking. Students build functional software applications and utilize Raspberry Pi microcontrollers to program hardware systems. Students also begin to investigate collaborative coding with Artificial Intelligence (LLMs) and understand the uses and drawbacks of co-writing software with Artificial Intelligence. Through hands-on projects and collaborative learning, students develop essential programming skills applicable to diverse domains in the digital age. This course requires no prior programming experience and is suitable for individuals seeking to acquire a foundational understanding of computer programming and its applications in both software and hardware contexts.

This intermediate programming course focuses on the engineering of high-performance software through the study of compiled languages and advanced system architecture. Students select a technical specialization track-utilizing languages such as C++ (systems), C# (interactive media), or Swift (mobile applications)-to apply strict data typing, manual memory management, and Object-Oriented Programming (OOP). Through the development of complex, self-directed projects, students prioritize the creation of efficient, optimized, and scalable code. The curriculum integrates professional industry workflows, including version control and debugging, requiring students to directly manage hardware resources and system memory. Through independent inquiry and a personalized project roadmap, students execute advanced concepts within their chosen technical domain. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Programming 1.

In Sustainable Agriculture, students build a foundation in the skills and understanding needed to successfully and sustainably grow food. Working on site at Hildene Farm, students plan, prepare, and plant the BBA garden each spring. Hands-on land management is complemented by scientific investigation of soil properties, nutrient cycling, seed growth, and regenerative agricultural methods. Students have opportunities to explore other farm activities, including livestock and pasture management, habitat conservation, and maple sugaring. Food produced by students becomes part of the local food system through class projects, BBA food services, and food access organizations in the community. Collaboration with local agricultural professionals and food access organizations are essential to this course, enabling students to have a positive impact on the broader community. This class takes place primarily at the Farm and Food Studies classroom at Hildene Farm. Students have the option to take this course for general credit with permission of the teacher and their school counselor. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Foundations of Science or STEM.

This course is offered every other year (Offered in 2027-2028) Robotics and Engineering is a "multi-craft" course that delves deeper into the field of robotics and integrates multiple disciplines, including computer engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and manufacturing. Students begin with learning fundamentals in robotics, using the Tetrix system and Arduino sensors, to successfully build robots that accomplish various tasks while competing in engineering challenges. As students progress in their learning, they may work towards the completion of more advanced, honors projects that include coding and building robots from the ground up. Honors students gain a foundation in drafting and design principles using 3D printers; they continue to apply and use their skills and knowledge in the construction and programming of robotic systems, including wheeled mobile robots, drones (unmanned aerial systems), autonomous vehicles, and industrial robot manipulators. PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of CP Foundations of Science, Foundations of STEM, or CP/Honors Physics 1. Completion of Robotics: Foundations is NOT a requirement to enroll in this course.

CP/Honors Anatomy and Physiology is a laboratory science course that provides a rigorous, in-depth study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body, emphasizing the integration of structure and function. The focus is on the chemical, cellular, and tissue levels of organization, and the structure and function of the histological, skeletal, muscular and nervous systems. In addition, special emphasis is placed on the interrelatedness of these body systems and how they relate to human disease and disorder. Laboratory work includes microscopic study of cells and tissues, dissection of preserved specimens (or computer based alternative) and simple physiological tests. This course is designed to meet the needs of students entering nursing and health-related science programs at the post-secondary level. It requires a strong ability to memorize. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of CP/Honors/AP Biology, CP/Honors Chemistry, and completion of or concurrent enrollment in CP/Honors Algebra 2.

Biotechnology is an emerging field responsible for creating vaccines, analyzing human genetics, developing modern medicines, and curing disease. This course introduces important concepts in modern DNA and protein science with an emphasis on real world applications in drug discovery and development. Students learn about the Central Dogma of molecular biology and about emerging techniques in the biotechnology industry, from both a scientific and a business perspective. Twelve major laboratory investigations embody many of the fundamental techniques and concepts of modern molecular biology, including basic micropipetting, recombinant DNA technology (cutting and pasting genes into bacteria), DNA fingerprinting, gene amplification by PCR, and CRISPR Cas 9 gene editing technology. Students begin the course by researching local biotech companies, their products, their net worth, and job opportunities and prerequisites. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of CP/Honors Chemistry, CP/Honors Biology, and successful completion of or current enrollment in Algebra 2. Students who achieve a B+ or higher in prerequisite courses usually are more successful in Intro to Biotechnology. A content/skills assessment is administered at the beginning of the course to help determine if Intro to Biotechnology is the correct placement.

This course is offered every other year (Offered in 2027-2028) With the James Webb telescope, we are able to observe some of the earliest galaxies and the atmospheres of exoplanets. New ways to observe our universe like LIGO (gravitational waves) and ice cube (high energy cosmic rays) mean that we have entered the era of multi-messenger astronomy. We can look further back in time and at larger portions of sky, allowing us to better understand the origin of the universe, its fate and its composition. In this lab/activity-based course, students investigate the stars, galaxies and planets to better understand the Universe and the objects in our Universe. Discussion topics include the Big Bang and inflation, galaxy formation and classification, quasars, stellar evolution, black holes, supernovae, dark matter and dark energy, and exoplanets. In order to understand these topics, students explore important concepts in physics and astrophysics, including nuclear physics, Newton's Laws, waves, electromagnetic radiation, Kepler's Law, and Special and General Relativity. Simulations are employed as students analyze geophysical and astrophysical data to understand the theoretical and experimental methods that have been used to learn the history of and to predict the future of Earth, the Milky Way Galaxy, and the Universe. Students enrolled in this course who participate in the Pulsar Search Collaboratory also have the option to earn college credit through that program. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of CP Foundations of Science or CP/Honors Physics 1 and successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in CP/Honors Algebra 2.

Sophomores, Juniors , Seniors, and Freshmen on an honors math track
This is an algebra-based physics class. The course includes topics in classical physics, such as uniform motion, uniformly accelerated motion, Newtonian mechanics, momentum, energy, waves, optics, and nuclear physics. The design of the course is based on modeling, in which students learn physics by constructing scientific models that underlie each unit specifically (and physics in general). Where possible, each unit begins with an experiment, through which students begin to flesh out one or more physical relationships, serving as a basis for a scientific model. Freshmen enrolled in Honors Geometry can opt to take Honors Physics 1, which not only covers topics in CP Physics 1 in greater depth, but also covers additional content. Students will be better prepared for and more successful in Honors Physics 2, AP Physics, and college physics if they have first taken CP/Honors Physics 1. PREREQUISITE: CP students must have completed or be enrolled in CP Algebra 1. Students pursuing honors credit must complete additional coursework online in trigonometry, as well as additional lab work, and are required to independently meet with the teacher to discuss progress.

Internships are available through Farm and Food Studies, focusing on vegetable production and management. Interested students should see Work-Based Learning for more details on the internship process and reach out to the Farm and Food Studies Coordinator. HUMANITIES

In Farm to Plate, students develop the basic skills and knowledge needed to grow and prepare farm-fresh food. Students work as a team to grow, harvest, process, and cook vegetables and herbs at the Hildene Farm gardens and greenhouse. While developing these skills, students practice collaborating with peers, engaging in hands-on learning, observing natural phenomena, and growing toward achievement of personal and academic goals. Students share the experience of creating meals and recipes together, and they contribute to food access programs in the local community. They also have opportunities to learn how food interacts with the environment and their bodies, and to explore the farm and surrounding ecosystems. This class is designed to make agricultural and culinary experience accessible to all learners, and includes opportunities for peer mentorship for interested students. This class takes place primarily at the Farm and Food Studies classroom at Hildene Farm.

Forensic Science invites students to step into the role of real-life investigators and uncover the truth hidden in evidence. In this hands-on, mystery-driven course, students analyze crime scenes, examine physical evidence, and use scientific methods to solve complex cases. From fingerprinting and DNA analysis to ballistics, toxicology, and digital forensics, students learn how science is used to crack cases and support justice. Students work collaboratively to think critically, ask the right questions, and piece together clues just like professional forensic scientists. Along the way, they develop strong skills in observation, data analysis, logical reasoning, and scientific writing. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of a chemistry class. Students should have completed biology or be concurrently enrolled in a biology class.

2 credits (1 math, 1 science)

This year-long entry level course provides 9th grade students with a solid foundation in applied mathematics and science. Students gain a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness of mathematics and science. Through a combination of hands-on labs, data collection, and analysis, students develop essential skills that bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and real-world applications. They build valuable skills in mathematical modeling of linear equations and scientific inquiry, setting a strong foundation for further studies in mathematics and science. Students successfully completing this course may advance to Conceptual Geometry or CP Algebra 1, and General or CP Chemistry.

2 credits (1 math, 1 science)

This year-long entry level course provides 9th grade students with a solid foundation in applied mathematics and science. Students gain a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness of mathematics and science. Through a combination of hands-on labs, data collection, and analysis, students develop essential skills that bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and real-world applications. They build valuable skills in mathematical modeling of linear equations and scientific inquiry, setting a strong foundation for further studies in mathematics and science. Students successfully completing this course may advance to Conceptual Geometry or CP Algebra 1, and General or CP Chemistry.

Honors Biology is a laboratory-based course designed to provide additional rigor for students interested in the sciences who want to challenge themselves with greater independence in their learning at an accelerated pace. Students cover the topics of biochemistry, cellular biology, ecology, genetics, patterns of heredity, evolution, and anatomy and physiology. Students work throughout the semester to develop laboratory skills and are required to complete an independent research project as part of their final exam. Students also learn additional quantitative skills, such as spreadsheet management and introductory statistical analyses. This course is not necessarily a prerequisite for AP Biology. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Honors or CP Chemistry and successful completion of or current enrollment in Algebra 2. Students who achieve a B+ or higher in prerequisite courses are usually more successful in Honors Biology. A content/skills assessment is administered at the beginning of the course to help determine if Honors Biology is the correct placement.

Designed for students with a strong interest in the sciences, this introductory, lab-based course presents foundational chemistry concepts similar to those discussed in CP Chemistry, but with more emphasis on the theoretical and mathematical aspects. The pace of the class is faster and the amount of independent work is higher. Areas covered include the history of atomic theory, atomic structure, the periodic table, bonding principles, chemical formulas, moles and mole theory, equations and stoichiometry, the gas laws, solution chemistry, thermochemistry, and acid/base theory. PREREQUISITES: Students must have demonstrated excellent work in previous math and science courses and have a high level of interest in these areas. This is an accelerated class; it is recommended that students have a B+ or higher in Honors Physics 1 or an A in CP Foundations of Science. Students interested in enrolling in this course must have the endorsements of their math and science teachers.

This is an algebra-based physics class. The course includes topics in classical physics, such as uniform motion, uniformly accelerated motion, Newtonian mechanics, momentum, energy, waves, and nuclear physics. The design of the course is based on modeling, in which students learn physics by constructing scientific models that underlie each unit. Where possible, each unit begins with an experiment, through which students begin to flesh out one or more physical relationships, serving as a basis for a scientific model. 9th graders enrolled in Honors Geometry can opt to take Honors Physics 1, which not only covers topics in CP Foundations of Science in greater depth, but also covers additional content. Students will be better prepared for and more successful in Honors Physics 2, AP Physics, and college physics if they take Honors Physics 1. PREREQUISITE: 9th graders enrolled in Honors Geometry can opt to take Honors Physics 1. Students beyond grade 9 must have completed or be enrolled in Honors Geometry or a higher level mathematics course. This class is generally not recommended for 9th graders enrolled in Honors Algebra 1. 9th graders in Honors Algebra 1 must complete the course with an A or higher in order to enroll in Honors Physics 1.

This course is offered every other year (Offered in 2026-2027) Honors/AP Physics 2 is one of two non-sequential, algebra-based physics classes offered. It includes topics in classical and modern physics such as electricity and magnetism, fluid mechanics, thermal physics, quantum mechanics, special and general relativity, and particle physics. The design of the course is based on modeling, whereby students learn physics by constructing scientific models that underlie each unit specifically (and physics in general). Where possible, each unit begins with an experiment, through which students begin to flesh out one or more physical relationships that serve as a basis for a scientific model. Students who take both Honors Physics 1 and 2 will have a more complete foundation in physics and be better prepared for college level physics courses. PREREQUISITES: Successful completion or concurrent enrollment in Honors Algebra 2 or a higher level mathematics course and successful completion of either Foundations of Science with an A or Honors Physics 1. Students opting to take the AP exam are responsible for the exam fee of approximately $110. (Fee reduction applications are available in the school counseling office.)

AP Computer Science A introduces the Java programming language while emphasizing universal language techniques like syntax, semantics and readability. Students gain mastery in programming concepts by using a subset of Java features that are required for the AP Computer Science A exam, including abstraction, algorithms, data structures, and object-oriented programming. This allows the student to understand and master important concepts that apply to programming problems in many additional languages.The curriculum prepares students for advanced college coursework and careers in computer science. Because this class is comprised of 9 units of study, it is recommended that students pursue this independent study for a full school year. Students pursue this class independently, with the support of the computer science teacher; strong self-directed learning skills are necessary. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Algebra 1. Algebra 2 is recommended. Permission of the teacher is required.

AP Computer Science A introduces the Java programming language while emphasizing universal language techniques like syntax, semantics and readability. Students gain mastery in programming concepts by using a subset of Java features that are required for the AP Computer Science A exam, including abstraction, algorithms, data structures, and object-oriented programming. This allows the student to understand and master important concepts that apply to programming problems in many additional languages.The curriculum prepares students for advanced college coursework and careers in computer science. Because this class is comprised of 9 units of study, it is recommended that students pursue this independent study for a full school year. Students pursue this class independently, with the support of the computer science teacher; strong self-directed learning skills are necessary. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Algebra 1. Algebra 2 is recommended. Permission of the teacher is required.

Students study how to use computers to solve human problems, using the programming language Java. This course is an Amazon Future Engineer (AFE) Pathway class offered in partnership with Amazon and Edhesive and is primarily delivered as an online course. Strong self-directed learners will find the greatest success with this format. This course fulfills the technology requirement for graduation. PREREQUISITE: Permission of the teacher.

Students are introduced to and analyze a number of innovations in computing and digital media that form the backbone of online and offline interactions; throughout, students develop robust computational thinking skills. This course is an Amazon Future Engineer (AFE) Pathway class offered in partnership with Amazon and Edhesive and is primarily delivered as an online course. Strong self-directed learners will find the greatest success with this format. This course fulfills the technology requirement for graduation. PREREQUISITE: Permission of the teacher.

How do we best preserve and provide access to nature? What are the ethics of conservation? In this course, students jump into the role of a conservation biologist, learning the fundamental principles of biology while exploring humanity's impact on the world through scientific research, field studies, and literary analysis. By bringing writing and science together, students engage in both ecological inquiry and personal reflection, understanding how storytelling shapes environmental attitudes and actions. Students complete unit capstones that blend scientific research with narrative storytelling, journalism, and/or poetry. Students also have the opportunity to extend their learning through travel with the science department to locations such as Yellowstone, Costa Rica, Bermuda, or Belize in the spring or summer. This class takes place at the Burr and Burton Mountain Campus. Students who wish to pursue advanced reading assignments and writing/research projects may take this course for honors credit. PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of CP English 2 and a chemistry class.

1 science credit
This course provides students with a foundation in the skills and understanding needed to develop and maintain a successful farm or garden. Working on site at the Hildene farm and greenhouse, students plant, weed, and harvest crops, experiment with growing techniques, and investigate soil health, nutrient cycling, and land management practices. Students explore and study the ecosystems that surround the farm. Hands-on, inquiry-based lab experiences are complemented by readings, projects, and conversations with agricultural professionals. Students have the unique experience of producing food for our local food system. NOTE: This course does not have a prerequisite, but it does not replace or fulfill the Foundations of Science requirement.

* This course is offered to students who have applied and been accepted to Target.  The course is personalized to meet the needs of each student participant, and the teacher modifies the instruction and assessment plans to promote learning.