SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
There is a three to four year program in science. Freshmen are required to take Introduction to Chemistry and Physics. Students must then complete two additional years of laboratory science. Normally, students take Biology in sophomore year and Chemistry in junior year. Most students also take Physics in senior year.

INTRODUCTION TO CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS
This course attempts to develop two fundamental concepts of science, namely, the kinetic molecular theory and the Law of Conservation of Energy, which serves as a base for subsequent offerings in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
The major objectives are accomplished through the utilization of topics from
chemistry and physics. Experiments are performed which allow for the acquisition of such skills as observation, recording data, measurement, graphical analysis and problem solving techniques. A major attempt is made to allow students to think creatively, substantiate or discard ideas and to ponder both the accuracy and limitations of science.

BIOLOGY
The biology program offers a balance between textual and investigative material. The textual areas include a study of molecular biology, genetics, evolution, and a survey of both plant and animal life, with stress on the human life form as a whole organism. These will be coupled with the investigation into a vastly changing field, including recombinant DNA technology, virology, and immunology. Each investigative lab will complement the material of the course content and will emphasize science’s basic methods and logical approaches to asking questions and solving problems.

A.P. BIOLOGY
This is an elective for highly motivated seniors who wish to pursue a career in the biological sciences at the university level. The course is meant to parallel the objectives of a first-year college biology course. Students will sit for the A.P. examination at the conclusion of the course.

CHEMISTRY
This course offers modern concepts and principles of chemical science. The primary skills emphasized are the acquisition of basic chemical knowledge, the development of insights into chemical concepts which are often best illustrated by an ability to solve problems and the mastery of laboratory techniques necessary for a sophisticated study of the science.

A.P. CHEMISTRY
Students with outstanding aptitude and interest in science may select A.P. Chemistry which follows the comprehensive course of study designated by the College Board. This course is a college-level course in chemistry intended to provide an extensive foundation and competence in dealing with chemical principles. A complementary lab course is also completed.
This course is a part of the seven-year cooperative program with the University of Scranton. Students will also sit for the A.P. exam in chemistry offered in May.

APPLIED CHEMISTRY
The emphasis of this course is acquisition of basic chemical knowledge. The context of this acquisition is the belief that chemical properties and principles pervade nearly every aspect of a student’s personal life and environment. The course seeks to identify the connection between the student and the science. A laboratory experience accompanies the descriptive material.

PHYSICS
This college prep course is for students with widely differing career plans (i.e., scientific or non-scientific career plans). The course follows the traditional approach to physics with major emphasis on mechanics, light, electricity and magnetism. Lecture topics are reinforced with a well-coordinated laboratory program. Problem solving is emphasized throughout the course.

A.P. PHYSICS
The A.P. Physics syllabus is structured in accordance with both the A.P. Program of studies and the Pre-Med Physics course presently taught at the University of Scranton. The syllabus is prepared by the science department of Scranton Preparatory School. Students are encouraged to solve problems through analyzing and evaluating situations in order to arrive at valid solutions/conclusions. Emphasis is placed on the development of critical and analytical thinking skills instead of memorization.
All students in this program must complete two projects: (1) a research project which they will present orally, and (2) construction of a model bass wood bridge meeting certain design specifications which will be tested in local competition.
All students will sit for the A.P. Physics examination at the completion of the academic year. This course is part of the seven-year cooperative program with the University of Scranton.