FACULTY

Sr. Mary Elizabeth Merriam, O.P.
Science Department Chair, Pre-AP Chemistry, Physics, AP Physics
Contact: srmaryelizabeth@saviochs.org

Mr. Luis Becerra III
Physical Science, Anatomy & Physiology
Contact: lbecerra@saviochs.org

Ms. Pamela Koo
Biology, Pre-AP Biology, Chemistry
Contact: pkoo@saviochs.org

MISSION
The mission of the St. Dominic Savio science department is to impart to students a thirst for scientific truth through the rigorous and technical acquisition of scientific knowledge in which all students may encounter the beautiful harmony of God’s manifold creation.  It is the goal of the science faculty members to advance an academically competitive environment which fosters a virtuous pursuit of the scientific disciplines, while cultivating a spirit of wonder among all students and a classroom culture which nurtures the joy of learning.  Courses offered match curricular decisions formed by this mission statement to create an integrated and challenging program, thus providing students with the knowledge and skills that will enable them to function as responsible Servant Leaders within the community.

In support of its mission, the science department at St. Dominic Savio is committed to provide:
• Academic programs that meet the evolving needs of its students.
• Facilities and technology that support the learning environment.
• A learning community which supports students of varying learning abilities.
• An environment that fosters a lifetime of critical inquiry and learning.

2011 AP Physics B Summer homework

Science Department News

COURSES

SC 101 | Biology (1.0 Credit)
Prerequisite:  None; Corequisite:  Algebra I
In this course, students develop a conceptual framework for modern biology and recognize unifying themes that integrate major topics.  Students explore molecules and cells, cellular reproduction and genetics, biochemistry, taxonomy and classification, ecology, and a survey of botany and zoology with the study of the anatomy and physiology of specific organisms.  Laboratory activities stress the development of important skills such as detailed observation, accurate recording, experimental design, and data analysis.  The course is intended to develop critical thinking skills through research and discussions about issues relating to current advancements in the life sciences.  Study in all areas emphasizes the relationship between structure and function, biotic and abiotic, and a systemic approach.

SC 102 |  Pre-AP Biology (1.0 Credit)
Prerequisite: Performance on the HSPT and Teacher recommendation; Corequisite:  Algebra I In this course, students develop a conceptual framework for modern biology and recognize unifying themes that integrate major topics.  Students explore molecules and cells, cellular reproduction and genetics, biochemistry, taxonomy and classification, ecology, and a survey of botany and zoology with the study of the anatomy and physiology of specific organisms.  Laboratory activities stress the development of important skills such as detailed observation, accurate recording, experimental design, and data analysis.  The course is intended to develop critical thinking skills through research and discussions about issues relating to current advancements in the life sciences.  Study in all areas emphasizes the relationship between structure and function, biotic and abiotic, and a systemic approach.

SC 111 | Physical Science (1.0 Credit)
Prerequisite: Biology; Typically sophomore or junior standing.
This course, building on K-8 Science and on Biology skills, is designed to provide a solid foundation for the study of the Physical Sciences.  Chemistry topics to be investigated include states of matter, atomic structure, arrangement of the periodic table, bonding, and chemical reactions.  An introduction to the Physics topics of force and motion, work, conservation and transformation of energy, and waves is also included.  The course is structured for those students who struggled through Biology and/or Algebra I and need a more secure basis before moving on to Chemistry or Physics.

SC 201 | Chemistry (1.0 Credit)
Prerequisite:  Biology and Algebra I; Corequisite:  Geometry.
This course covers central themes of chemistry building upon a conceptual framework with applied problem solving.  Topics include states of matter, atomic theory and structure, arrangement of the periodic table, bonding, chemical equations, stoichiometry, acids and bases, reaction kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and oxidation-reduction reactions as well as organic and nuclear chemistry.  Both theoretical and practical knowledge will be emphasized using a combination of factual and analytical assignments and laboratory experiments.

SC 202  |  Pre-AP Chemistry (1.0 Credit)
Prerequisite: Biology, Algebra I, and Teacher recommendation; Corequisite: Geometry.
This course covers central themes of chemistry building upon a conceptual framework with applied problem solving.  Topics include states of matter, atomic theory and structure, arrangement of the periodic table, bonding, chemical equations, stoichiometry, acids and bases, reaction kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and oxidation-reduction reactions as well as organic and nuclear chemistry.  Both theoretical and practical knowledge will be emphasized using a combination of factual and analytical assignments and laboratory experiments.

SC 211 | Anatomy and Physiology (1.0 Credit)
Prerequisite: Biology and Algebra I; Corequisite:  Geometry. This course is designed as an intense program in human anatomy and physiology. The areas covered will include medical terminology, basic bio-chemistry, cell and tissue structure, and an in-depth study of the eleven systems of the human body (integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, digestive, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive).

SC 301 | Physics (1.0 Credit)
Prerequisite: Chemistry, Algebra I, Geometry; Corequisite: Algebra II.  Recommended Corequisite: Pre-Calculus.
This course undertakes a study of core physics content combining a conceptual foundation with applied mathematics with less mathematical rigor and content depth than the AP Physics B course.  The course is comprised of five major divisions spanning both classical and modern physics:  Newtonian mechanics, fluid mechanics and thermal physics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism, and atomic and nuclear physics.  Both theoretical and practical knowledge are emphasized using a combination of analytical assignments and student-conducted hands-on laboratory experiments.  Students are required to keep a laboratory notebook and write several formal laboratory reports.  This course may be used as a terminal physics course or as a preliminary course to be followed by the more intense AP Physics B.

SC 433 | AP Physics B (1.0 Credit)
Prerequisite: Chemistry, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and teacher recommendation.
Recommended: Physics;  Corequisite: Pre-Calculus.
AP Physics B is a rigorous college-level algebra-based course for students interested in entering an applied or life science field or a non-science program which has science requirements.  This course is also excellent preparation for calculus-based physics sequences typically required for those pursuing physical science and engineering disciplines. Incoming students should be well-versed in algebra and trigonometry and have robust mathematical and problem solving skills.  Some basic calculus concepts are introduced and utilized.  Proceeding in a systematic manner, AP Physics B develops conceptual foundations, stresses application of core principles, and cultivates critical thinking.  The course is comprised of five major divisions spanning both classical and modern physics:  Newtonian mechanics, fluid mechanics and thermal physics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism, and atomic and nuclear physics.  Both theoretical and practical knowledge are emphasized using a combination of analytical assignments and student-conducted hands-on laboratory experiments.  Students are required to keep a laboratory notebook and write several formal laboratory reports.  Students who excel in both mathematics and science may enter this course directly after chemistry; those who would benefit from further foundational studies are encouraged to take Physics prior to this course.
Students are required to take the AP Physics B exam in May.