3103A CONCEPTS IN SCIENCE
In this course, students will learn the essential concepts of Life and Physical Science. The course is designed to present a balanced approach to science as it transitions between Middle School Science and High School Biology. The class will include topics in Physical Science, Chemistry, Physics, Human Biology and Ecology. The class will focus on mathematical applications and writing in the science classroom. Student will demonstrate their knowledge through laboratory work, discovery, interactive, computer simulations, multimedia and demonstrations. Students will participate in the collection of data, observation, graphing and interpretation of data.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grade: 9
(g) UC Approved
Note: Concurrent enrollment in Algebra 1.

3220A BIOLOGY THE LIVING EARTH 
Through the lens of the science and engineering practices and
the cross-cutting 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 also be used to deepen student understanding of the concepts that are being learned. Students will spend a minimum of 20% of classroom time engaged in hands-on laboratory investigations that support instruction.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grade: 9,10
Prerequisite: HSPT Reading score of 450 or higher and
combined HSPT Math and Quantitative of 900 or higher.
UC Approved, NCAA Approved

3400A CHEMISTRY IN THE COMMUNITY
Chemistry in the Community (ChemCom) is an alternative to traditional academic Chemistry. Students investigate and analyze community problems that have a chemistry component and use their knowledge of chemistry to suggest ways in which the problems can be solved or abated. ChemCom uses student-centered activities, societal problems and decision-making exercises to successfully introduce chemistry. Major topics include hydro chemistry, biochemistry, polymer chemistry and nuclear chemistry. Development of laboratory skills complements course work.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 10, 11
(d) UC Approved

3420A CHEMISTRY EARTH SYSTEM 
Through the lenses of the science and engineering practices and the crosscutting practices identified in the California NGSS, students will study the Chemistry 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. A minimum of 20% of class time will be spent engaging students in hands-on laboratory investigations that support instruction 

Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 10,11
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites:
1. Completion of Algebra 1 Honors with no grade lower than C
2. Completion of Algebra 2 with no semester grade lower than a C. Completion of Algebra 2 Honors with no grade lower than a C.
3. Concurrent enrollment in Geometry.
4. Completion of Geometry with no semester grade lower than a B.
5. Completion of Biology or Biology Honors with no semester grade lower than a C.

3420A CHEMISTRY EARTH SYSTEMS
Through the lenses of the science and engineering practices and the crosscutting practices identified in the California NGSS, students will study the Chemistry 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. A minimum of 20% of class time will be spent engaging students in hands-on laboratory
investigations that support instruction
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 10,11
Prerequisites: Completion of Algebra 1 with an A or Algebra 2
and Biology.
UC Approved, NCAA Approved

3600A ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
Anatomy and Physiology is a course designed for juniors and seniors who desire an introduction to human anatomy and physiology. Students will learn about the structure and function of the systems of the human body by exploring organs at a molecular level and as a whole. Dissections and laboratory experiments are performed so students can get a better understanding of how the human body systems work hand in hand to keep homeostasis.. Right of refusal to participate in dissections in not extended for this course.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 11, 12
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites:
1. Completion of Biology and Chemistry with no semester grade lower than B. Completion of Biology Honors or Chemistry Honors with no semester grade lower than a C.
2. Recommendation of current Science teacher.

3711A ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
This Life Science elective course is available to Junior and Senior students. The class explores the principles of ecology; population dynamics; natural resources and their management; major pollution problems; the role of governing bodies in the environmental management and basic conservation practices. The class will include laboratory activities and independent research. Students will experience environmental science through current topics and hands-on activities.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 10, 11, 12
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology or Chemistry with no semester lower than a “C”. Completion of Biology Aux or Chemistry in the Community with no semester grade lower than an “A”.

3501A PHYSICS STEM
The course looks at physics from a STEM approach – using technology, math and engineering applications. Major topics include motion, work, energy, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, atomic theory and their applications. Laboratory experiments emphasize problem solving; critical thinking skills are fundamental to the course. This course works with Precalculus to emphasize the use of mathematics as it applies problem solving in a variety of areas including engineering concepts. TiNspire will be used to enhance problem solving through technology.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 11,12
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites:
1. Completion of Chemistry with no semester grade lower than B or completion of Chemistry Honors with no semester grade lower than C.
2. Completion of Algebra 2 or Algebra 2 H with no semester grade lower than a B.
3. Completion of Geometry or Geometry H with no semester grade lower than a B.
4. Concurrent enrollment in Precalculus STEM is required.

3720A OCEANOGRAPHY/MARINE BIOLOGY
The first semester of this course will introduce the world of the ocean covering such topics as the origin and history of the sea to Junior and Senior level students. It will also cover topography and the chemistry of the ocean as it relates to the structures of the ocean. Students will study the circulation patterns and how they relate to climatology. Marine provinces will be a topic of discussion, and field trips will be an integral part of the course.

The second semester is a general introduction to the world of Marine Biology for Junior and Senior level students. It will cover the productivity of the ocean including such topics as energy flow and systems and classifications of organisms. There will be information on pollution and ocean environment in general. Integral parts of the course include a field trip and a related research project related to Oceanography/Marine Biology.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 10, 11, 12
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry with no semester grade lower than C or Biology Aux and Chemistry in the Community with no semester grade lower than B.

3121A CONCEPTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AUX
In this class, students will learn the essential concepts of Life and Physical Science. The course is designed with a focus on skills and is presented in a balanced approach to science to lay the foundation for future science classes. Students will participate in laboratory work, discovery and demonstrations. Students will review and practice mathematical concepts in science. Writing skills will be practiced on a regular basis with current events and laboratory write-ups.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grade: 9
(g) UC Approved
NCAA Approved
Note: This class is available to students enrolled in the ASP Program. Concurrent enrollment in Algebra 1 (2109A).

3199A BIOLOGY
Biology covers the fundamental concepts of Biology. Major areas of study include cell biology, biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, evolution, virology, microbiology, and phylogeny. Students will participate in laboratories to develop proper use of the microscope and collection of data. The course will incorporate current, related topics and issues.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grade: 10
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisite: This class is available to students enrolled in the ASP Program.

UC Approved, NCAA Approved
Through the lens of the science and engineering practices and
the cross-cutting practices identified in the California NGSS,
students will study the fundamental 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 also be
included. Students will spend a minimum of 20% of classroom
time engaged in hands-on laboratory investigations that support
instruction.
Length of Course: Year Open to Grade: 10
Prerequisite: This class is available to students enrolled in the
ASP Program.

3400A CHEMISTRY IN THE COMMUNITY
Chemistry in the Community (ChemCom) is an alternative to traditional academic Chemistry. Students investigate and analyze community problems that have a chemistry component and use their knowledge of chemistry to suggest ways in which the problems can be solved or abated. ChemCom uses student-centered activities, societal problems and decision-making exercises to successfully introduce chemistry. Major topics include hydro chemistry, biochemistry, polymer chemistry and nuclear chemistry. Development of laboratory skills complements course work.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 10, 11
(d) UC Approved

3710A EARTH SCIENCE
Earth Science is an elective physical science course that examines topics in geology, oceanography, astronomy, atmospheric science and earth history. Students continue to develop math and science skills through laboratory experiences. This course is designed to bring about a greater understanding of how the earth and oceans are in a constant state of change, how we are able to predict these changes and what role humans have in the changing atmosphere. This course is not designed for those who have completed Chemistry.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 12
(g) UC Approved
Prerequisites:
1. Must have completed Chemistry in the Community with no semester grade lower than C.
2. Teacher recommendation.

3200E AP BIOLOGY
This course prepares students for the Advanced Placement Biology exam. Students who pass their AP Biology exam may be granted college credit or advancement. Credit criteria are determined by individual colleges. Course content includes Cell Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Evolution, Ecology and Physiology. This course integrates Science Practices and Laboratory Experiences which employ college-level techniques.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 11, 12
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites:
1. Completion of Biology Honors with no semester grade lower than B or Biology 3200A9 with no semester grade lower than an A.
2. Completion of Chemistry Honors with no grade lower than a B or Chemistry with no grade lower than an A or concurrent enrollment in Chemistry Honors.
Note: This is a college level course. Students enrolled in this course are required to take the corresponding AP Biology exam.
Note: A summer assignment is required.

3508E AP PHYSICS 1
AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics of classical physics. Topics include kinematics, dynamics, Newton’s Laws, circular motion, Universal Law of Gravitation, simple harmonic motion, linear momentum, work energy, conservation of energy, rotational motion, electric charge, electric force, circuits and mechanical waves. Through science practices and inquiry based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 11, 12
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites:
1. Concurrent enrollment in Precalculus Honors, Mathematics IB SL, AP Calculus AB or BC or Math Studies.
2. Completion of Chemistry Honors with no semester grade lower than B. Completion of Chemistry with no semester grade lower than an A.
3. Completion of Geometry Honors or Precalculus Honors with no semester grade lower than B.
Note: This is a college level course. Students enrolled in this course are required to take the corresponding AP exam.

3512E AP PHYSICS C: MECHANICS
This Calculus based physics course is designed for highly motivated students planning to specialize in physical science or engineering. Successfully passing the associated AP exam may lead to advanced placement in a calculus based college freshman physics sequence. AP Physics C: Mechanics should be taken concurrently with either AP Calculus AB or BC AP otherwise the student’s advanced placement in Physics may be delayed or denied due to insufficient mathematical background. AP Calculus BC is the preferred choice to help assure advance placement in college. AP Physics C: Mechanics provides in depth instruction in the following six content areas: kinematics; Newton’s Laws of Motion; work, energy and power; systems of particles and linear momentum; circular motion and rotation; and oscillations and gravitation. Laboratory experiments are an integral part of this course.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 11,12
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites:
1. Concurrent enrollment in AP Calculus BC (preferred) or AP Calculus AB or completion of AP Calculus BC with no semester grade lower than B or completion of AP Calculus AB with no semester grade lower than A.
2. Completion of Chemistry Honors with no semester grade lower than B.
Note: This is a college level course. Students enrolled in this course are required to take the corresponding AP exam.

3420C CHEMISTRY EARTH SYSTEMS H
Honors Chemistry in the Earth System is a college preparatory laboratory science class that will prepare students in grades 10-11 to be successful in college level lab science courses. The course integrates Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) from Earth and space science into chemistry concepts from a phenomenonbased approach. It is aimed at building a solid foundation in chemistry, integrating a laboratory component and building student competency in science practices and cross cutting concepts. Student-centered activities will emphasize the process of inquiry and critical thinking. Students will apply their knowledge of course concepts to various real-world phenomena. Additionally, honors course students will engage with the content more deeply, including performing calculations, graphing and data analysis to further their understanding of the content.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 10, 11
Prerequisites: Completion of Algebra 1 Honors (A both semesters), Algebra 2. Completion of Biology
UC Approved, NCAA Approved

Length of Course: Year
Open to Grade: 9
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in Algebra I Honors, Algebra 2 or Algebra 2 Honors AND a Basic Skills Reading score on the HSPT at or above 565.
Note: Summer assignment is required

3410C CHEMISTRY HONORS
This fast paced course deals with the same concepts covered in Chemistry, however, emphasis is on chemical calculations and deductive reasoning. Laboratory investigations and techniques are of a more sophisticated nature than in Chemistry. Laboratory reports are required.

Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 10, 11
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites:
1. Completion of Algebra 1 Honors (A- both semesters), or Algebra 2 (A both semesters), or Algebra 2 Honors with a B or better, both semesters.
2. Completion of Biology Honors with a B or better each semester, or Biology with an A or better both semesters.

3200F BIOLOGY IB SL
This one year course prepares students for the IB Exams (papers 1, 2 and 3). Students who pass their IB exams may be granted college credit or advancement. Credit criteria are determined by individual colleges. IB students are required to participate in the Group 4 Project and complete all Internal Assessment Assignments. Course content includes Cell Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Evolution, Ecology and Physiology. This course integrates laboratory experiences which employ college level techniques.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 11,12
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites:
1. Completion of Biology Honors with no semester grade lower than B or Biology 3200A9 with no semester grade lower than an A.
2. Completion of Chemistry Honors with no grade lower than a B or Chemistry with no grade lower than an A or concurrent enrollment in Chemistry Honors.
Note: This is a college level course. Students enrolled in this course are required to take the corresponding IB Biology exam.
Note: A summer assignment is required.

3201F BIOLOGY IB HL 1
This course (first of two years) prepares students for the IB Exams (papers 1, 2 and 3) in their senior year. This class is designed to be a pre-university course for highly motivated secondary students who plan to major in science as an undergraduate in college. Students who pass their IB exams may be granted college credit or advancement. Credit criteria are determined by individual colleges. Course content includes Cell Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Evolution, Ecology and Physiology. This course integrates laboratory experiences which employ college-level techniques.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grade: 11
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites:
1. Completion of Biology Honors with no semester grade lower than B or Biology 3200A9 with no semester grade lower than an A.
2. Completion of Chemistry Honors with no grade lower than a B or Chemistry with no grade lower than an A or concurrent enrollment in Chemistry Honors.

3202F BIOLOGY IB HL 2
This senior level course completes a two year rigorous biology course that meets the requirements for the International Baccalaureate Programme. This class prepares students for the IB Exams (papers 1, 2 and 3) in their senior year. This class is designed to be a pre-university course for highly motivated secondary students who plan to major in science as an undergraduate in college. Students who pass their IB exams may be granted college credit or advancement. Credit criteria are determined by the individual colleges. Course content includes Cell Biology, Plant Science,, Molecular Biology, Neurobiology, Evolution, Ecology and Conservation, and Human Physiology. Students are required to participate in the G4 project their senior year. This course integrates laboratory experiences which employ college level techniques.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grade: 12
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Biology HL 1 IB with a B or better both semesters.
Note: This is a college level course. Students enrolled in this course are required to take the corresponding IB exam.
Note: A summer assignment is required

3411F CHEMISTRY IB SL
This accelerated Chemistry course is designed to prepare the students to pass the Chemistry SL IB exam. (Individual colleges determine college credit criteria.) The IB curriculum will include the study of Inorganic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry. Laboratory work stresses the research techniques employed in college and industry. Participation in a G-4 Project is required of the Chemistry SL IB students.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 11, 12
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites:
1. Completion of Chemistry Honors with no semester grade lower than an A-
2. Concurrent enrollment in Precalculus, Precalculus Honors, or Math IB SL 3. Recommendation of Chemistry Honors teacher.

3510F PHYSICS IB HL 1
Physics IB HL 1 is designed for the academically talented, highly motivated science student and will prepare them for further studies in IB Physics classes. The course places heavy emphasis on mathematical application and calculations. The main topics of study are Motion, Electricity, Work, Energy, Thermal Physics and Magnetism. Laboratory experiments are an integral part of this course.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grade: 11
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites:
1. Concurrent enrollment in Precalculus Honors, Mathematics IB SL, AP Calculus AB or BC or Math Studies.
2. Completion of Chemistry Honors with no semester grade lower than B. Completion of Chemistry with no semester grade lower than an A.
3. Completion of Geometry Honors or Precalculus Honors with no semester grade lower than B.
Note: This is a college level course. Students enrolled in this course are required to take the corresponding IB exam.

3511F PHYSICS IB HL 2
This course fulfills the International Baccalaureate requirement for Physics, and prepares the student to pass the Physics HL IB exam. The core topics include Fluids, Modern Physics, Measurement, Mechanics, Thermal Physics, Energy, Power, Waves, Electricity and Magnetism, and Atomic Physics with added topics in Optics, Relativity, and Astrophysics. Participation in a group experimental research project is also required. One-fourth of class time is devoted to lab work.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grade: 12
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites: Completion of Physics IB HL 1 with no semester grade lower than a B.

3712F ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS AND SOCIETIES SL
This one year course prepares students for the IB Exams. (Individual colleges determine college credit criteria.) This course explores the structure and function of environmental systems as well as the cultural, economic, ethical, political, and social interactions of societies with the environment. Core content includes ecosystems and ecology, biodiversity and conservation, water and food production systems and societies, soil and terrestrial food production systems and societies, atmospheric systems and societies, climate change, and human systems and resource use. This course integrates laboratory experiments and field work with philosophical discussion. IB students are required to participate in the Group 4 Project and complete all Internal Assessment Assignments.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 11, 12
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites:
1. Completion of Biology Honors with no semester grade lower than B or Biology 3200A9 with no semester grade lower than an A.
2. Completion of Chemistry Honors with no grade lower than a B or Chemistry with no grade lower than an A or concurrent enrollment in Chemistry Honors.
Note: This is a college level course. Students enrolled in this course are required to take the corresponding IB exams.
Note: A summer assignment is required.

3710A EARTH SCIENCE
Earth Science is an elective physical science course that examines topics in geology, oceanography, astronomy, atmospheric science and earth history. Students continue to develop math and science skills through laboratory experiences. This course is designed to bring about a greater understanding of how the earth and oceans are in a constant state of change, how we are able to predict these changes and what role humans have in the changing atmosphere. This course is not designed for those who have completed Chemistry.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 12
(g) UC Approved
Prerequisites:
1. Must have completed Chemistry in the Community with no semester grade lower than C.

3740A SPORTS MEDICINE 1
Sports medicine is an area of health that applies medical and scientific knowledge to prevent, recognize, manage, and rehabilitate injuries related to sports, recreational activity, or exercise. This course provides an opportunity to study sports medicine including but not limited to: sports medicine related careers, organizational and administrative considerations, prevention of athletic injuries, recognition, evaluation, immediate care of athletic injures, rehabilitation skills, taping and wrapping techniques, first aid/CPR, emergency procedures, nutrition, sports psychology, human anatomy and physiology, therapeutic modalities, and therapeutic exercise. Multiple laboratory activities are included.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 10, 11,
(d) UC Approved
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology Aux, Biology or Biology Honors with a “C” or better.

3750A SPORTS MEDICINE 2
This course builds on the traditional disciplines of anatomy and physiology by focusing on alterations and adaptations in body systems during physical activity. Students will cover a range of topics including: The history of exercise physiology in the U.S.; reflexes; muscle physiology; cardio respiratory response to exercise; thermoregulation; and nutrition for athletic performance. Students explore these topics through several projects, labs, and a semester long investigation. Some labs will require physical activity.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 11, 12
(d) UC Approval Pending

8010AS HEALTH
An Overview
Santa Margarita’s health science program prepares our students to make intelligent and effective decisions that promote physical, social, mental, and spiritual health. More than any other subject, health education has a direct and daily impact on our student’s overall well-being.
Our Curriculum
The Santa Margarita Catholic High School’s Health Science curriculum is based on the California State Health Standards which includes the following units of instruction: Mental Health & Spiritual Health, ( Developing Self-Esteem, Decision Making Skills, Building Resilience, Coping with Stress, Understanding Mental Disorders/ Depression) Social Health, (Building Healthy Relationships, Building Communication Skills, Practicing Abstinence, Bullying Awareness & Prevention) Physical Health ( Nutrition, Fitness & Exercise, Substance Abuse of Alcohol, Illegal Drugs, Prescription Drugs, & Tobacco. The Prevention of Infectious Diseases including Sexually Transmitted Infections. Santa Margarita Students will receive CPR / First Aid Training and Certification). Health is a required course at Santa Margarita Catholic High School.
Length of Course: Semester
Open to Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12
Note: Students enrolled in the MUN program must take this course through the online summer school program prior to graduation.