3121A CONCEPTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AUX
UC Approved, NCAA Approved
This course introduces students to environmental concepts and issues from an interdisciplinary approach, but at a differentiated pace. Students will gain an understanding of the scientific method and techniques needed to understand and analyze environmental issues such as ecology, human population growth, soils and agriculture, deforestation, urbanization, air pollution, freshwater resources, ocean pollution, climate change, fossil fuels, alternative energy sources, waste disposal, as well as environmental ethics and policy. This course is a survey of many environmental science topics at an introductory level, ultimately considering the sustainability of human activities on the planet. This course includes a variety of labs and in class projects to facilitate learning.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grade: 9
Note: This class is available to students enrolled in the ASP Program. Concurrent enrollment in Algebra 1 (2109A).

3220A BIOLOGY THE LIVING EARTH
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 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.

3400A CHEMISTRY IN THE COMMUNITY
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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, 12

3710A EARTH SCIENCE
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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
Prerequisites: Must have completed Chemistry in the Community.

3120A CONCEPTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
UC Approved, NCAA Approved
This course introduces students to environmental concepts and issues from an interdisciplinary approach. Students will gain an understanding of the scientific method and techniques needed to understand and analyze environmental issues such as ecology, human population growth, soils and agriculture, deforestation, urbanization, air pollution, freshwater resources, ocean pollution, climate change, fossil fuels, alternative energy sources, waste disposal, as well as environmental ethics and policy. This course is a survey of many environmental science topics at an introductory level, ultimately considering the sustainability of human activities on the planet. This course includes a variety of labs and at home projects to facilitate learning.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grade: 9
Note: Concurrent enrollment in Algebra 1.

3220A BIOLOGY THE LIVING EARTH
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 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

3400A CHEMISTRY IN THE COMMUNITY
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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, 11,12

3420A CHEMISTRY EARTH SYSTEMS
UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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.

3522A INTRO ENGINEERING & ROBOTICS
(g) UC Approved
Intro to Engineering & Robotics will explore the relations between science and technology. The program is designed to introduce students to basic and advanced concepts in robotics. Course information will be tied to lab experiments where students will work in teams to build and test complex FIRST FTC robots. Included in this instruction will be the historical development of robotics as a field, the importance of integrating sensors, effectors and control, basic control, the key approaches to mobile robot control (reactive, behavior-based, and hybrid), and discussion of robot learning and multi-robot systems history Students will work in small teams to research, design, program, and construct robotic devices in competitions amongst each other and other schools in the area. Integrated throughout the course are career preparation standards which include basic academic skills, communicating individual and team ideas, interpersonal skills, problem solving abilities, safety, technology, and employment literacy.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 11, 12
Prerequisites: Completion of Chemistry with no grade lower than B or Chemistry honors with a C. Completion of Algebra 2 or Algebra 2H and Geometry or Geometry H with no grade lower than a B.
Note: There are possible additional fees for this class dependent upon competitions.

3740A SPORTS MEDICINE 1
(d) UC Approved
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, 12
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Biology.

3600A ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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 is not extended for this course.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 11, 12
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry with no grade lower than a B or successful completion of Biology & Chemistry H.

3711A ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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 handson activities.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Successful Completion of Biology. Completion of Biology Aux with no grade lower than A.

3733AS FORENSIC SCIENCE
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
This class will introduce students to the field of Forensic Science providing a general overview of the scientific practices involved in solving crimes. Students will participate in many qualitative hands-on labs and simulations that develop practical and theoretical aspects of Forensics while developing proficiency in multiple Science and Engineering Practices (SEP) and Crosscutting Concepts (CCC) detailed in the Next Generation Science Standards. This class will integrate previous science courses and demonstrate the relevance of science education for practical use.
Length of Course: Semester
Open to Grades: 11, 12
Note: Paired with Intro to Forensic Psychology.

3515A – PHYSICS OF THE UNIVERSE
UC Approved, NCAA Approved
This is an introductory course in the foundations of physics and the physical processes that govern everything in the Universe. The instructional segments of this course are based on the CA’s Next Generation Science Standards. The laboratory work will provide students with sound laboratory techniques and engineering practices. Students will develop critical thinking and apply physics principles to solve real world problems in preparation for their college and career experiences.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 11,12
Prerequisites: Completion of Chemistry, Algebra 2 and Geometry with no grade lower than a B in any class. Concurrent enrollment, or prior completion of, Precalculus..

3720A OCEANOGRAPHY/MARINE BIOLOGY
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
The Oceanography and Marine Biology course centers on the world of ocean related topics which include Physical, Chemical, Biological, and Geological Oceanography and Marine Animal Biology. It focuses in depth on the history of the seas, ocean chemistry, waves and tides, coastal features, and circulation patterns of atmosphere and water currents. It will emphasize human impacts such as global warming, pollution, ocean acidification, seal level rise, and overfishing. Additionally, students will learn about all animal groups ranging from sponges to whales and will gain a deeper understanding of their anatomy through numerous dissections. Current event assignments are regularly discussed. Integral parts of the course include field trips and research projects.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry.

3750A SPORTS MEDICINE 2
(d) UC Approved
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
Prerequisites: Completion of Sports Medicine 1.

3710A EARTH SCIENCE
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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
Prerequisites: Must have completed Chemistry in the Community.

3220C BIOLOGY THE LIVING EARTH H
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
Students investigate the same concepts presented in Biology: The Living Earth, however, the pace is accelerated and content is investigated in more depth, including performing calculations, graphing, and data analysis to further their understanding of the content. 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.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grade: 9
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: To move from Academic to Honors classes requires an “A” both semesters & a passing score on the placement exam in May.

3420C CHEMISTRY EARTH SYSTEMS H
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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
*Note: To move from Academic to Honors classes requires an “A” both semesters & a passing score on the placement exam in May.

 

3200E AP BIOLOGY
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry
*Note: To move from Academic to Honors classes requires an “A” both semesters & a passing score on the placement exam in May.

3712E AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
The AP Environmental Science course is designed to engage students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships within the natural world. The course requires that students identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Environmental science is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from geology, biology, environmental studies, environmental science, chemistry, and geography. Students cultivate their understanding of the interrelationships of the natural world through inquiry-based lab investigations and field work as they explore concepts like the four Big ideas: energy transfer, interactions between earth systems, interactions between different species and the environment, and sustainability.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 11, 12
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry.
*Note: To move from Academic to Honors classes requires an “A” both semesters & a passing score on the placement exam in May.

3508E AP PHYSICS 1
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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
Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in math class higher than Geometry H.
*Note: To move from Academic to Honors classes requires an “A” both semesters & a passing score on the placement exam in May.

3512E AP PHYSICS C: MECHANICS
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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
Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in AP Calculus BC (preferred) or AP Calculus AB or completion of AP Calculus BC or completion of AP Calculus AB with no semester grade lower than A. Completion of Chemistry Honors.
*Note: To move from Academic to Honors classes requires an “A” both semesters & a passing score on the placement exam in May.

3200F BIOLOGY IB SL
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry.
*Note: To move from Academic to Honors classes requires an “A” both semesters & a passing score on the placement exam in May.

3201F BIOLOGY IB HL 1
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry. Note: A summer assignment is required
*Note: To move from Academic to Honors classes requires an “A” both semesters & a passing score on the placement exam in May.

3411F CHEMISTRY IB SL
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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
Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in a math class higher than Geometry. Completion of Chemistry or Chemistry Honors.
*Note: To move from Academic to Honors classes requires an “A” both semesters & a passing score on the placement exam in May.

3510F PHYSICS IB HL 1
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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
Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in Honors math course higher than Geometry Honors. Completion of Chemistry
*Note: To move from Academic to Honors classes requires an “A” both semesters & a passing score on the placement exam in May.

3712F ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS AND SOCIETIES IB SL (d) UC Approved
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
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry. Full IB students only.
*Note: To move from Academic to Honors classes requires an “A” both semesters & a passing score on the placement exam in May.

3525F DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY IB SL
(g) UC Approved
This course aims to develop internationally minded people whose enhanced understanding of design and the technological world can facilitate our shared guardianship of the planet and create a better world. Inquiry and problem solving are at the heart of the subject. Design technology requires the use of the design cycle as a tool, which provides the methodology used to structure the inquiry and analysis of problems, the development of feasible solutions ant he testing and evaluation of the solution. A solution can be defined as a model, prototype, product or system that students have developed independently.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grades: 11,12
Prerequisites: Completion of Algebra 2H and Geometry H with a B or better.
*Note: To move from Academic to Honors classes requires an “A” both semesters & a passing score on the placement exam in May.

3202F BIOLOGY IB HL 2
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology HL 1 IB.
*Note: To move from Academic to Honors classes requires an “A” both semesters & a passing score on the placement exam in May.

3511F PHYSICS IB HL 2
(d) UC Approved, NCAA Approved
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. Onefourth of class time is devoted to lab work.
Length of Course: Year
Open to Grade: 12
Prerequisites: Completion of Physics IB HL 1.
*Note: To move from Academic to Honors classes requires an “A” both semesters & a passing score on the placement exam in May.

8010AS HEALTH
This class 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 students’ overall well-being. The 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: This class is a Pass/Fail class, not counted into your GPA. Students enrolled in the MUN program must take this course prior to graduation.