Science

“Science is a participation sport, no spectators allowed.” DO Science Teachers

Studying Science 

The Del Oro Science Department addresses the needs of every student for basic scientific literacy through in-depth study of scientific principles and the utilization of appropriate technology in hands-on laboratory experiences.  Coursework in all science classes prepares students for college by reinforcing the foundational academic disciplines of reading, writing, mathematics and communication.  With an array of standards-based course offerings; including Anatomy, AP Environmental Science, Chemistry and several Ag Science courses, it is also the department’s goal to introduce our students to the variety of biological and physical science opportunities in both post-secondary education and the workplace. Students planning to attend a 4-year college should complete a minimum of Biology, Advanced biology and chemistry.  Physics and AP science courses are also highly recommended for students interested in pursuing a degree in science or engineering, or who plan to apply to some of the more competitive universities such as any of the UC schools.  Students who plan to attend a 2-year college, technical school, or transition directly to the workforce meet graduation requirements by completing one life science course and one physical science course.

Biology 
Biology is an introduction to biological science which provides students with a general understanding of and appreciation for the natural world. Units of study include: the scientific method, classification of living organisms including identification of local plants, a survey 
of the microbial world, ecology, DNA and genetics. This course is designed for freshman students and will develop the competencies, skills and scientific literacy needed before advancing further in the 
science department.


Anatomy/ Physiology 
Anatomy/Physiology studies the 
major organ systems of the human body in detail. This course contains a great deal of laboratory work with dissections. Quality work and study habits are needed. This course is recommended for all students interested in learning about the human body and especially those students majoring in science, medicine, and health related fields.


Earth Science 
This course is designed to meet the physical science graduation requirement. The major topics of this course are oceanography, astronomy, geology, and weather and climate.


AP Physics ll
A review of major topics in AP Physics 1 followed by an in depth study of fluids, thermodynamics and electricity/magnetism. Major units include: Rotational dynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and heat engines, electric fields and electric potential, magnetic fields and magnetic induction, RC circuit analysis, light and optics, nuclear and 
modern physics, as well as an emphasis on lab design though out the course. A variety of projects will enhance the learning in this course. The projects include: Construction of a simple electric motor and generator, a heat engine designed and built using a 3-D printer (in 
conjunction with the technology department).
Advanced Biology 
Advanced Biology is a study of the workings of living organisms. Cellular organization and processes, advanced topics in genetics and biotechnology and the topic of evolution will be stressed. Students are required to keep an organized notebook, perform lab work and complete projects. Adv. Biology is a course designed and recommended for students planning on attending college.


Chemistry
Chemistry provides a rigorous introduction to chemical systems. The main units of study include atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry, reaction types, solutions and gas laws. Mathematical modeling tools will be used to gain a better conceptual understanding of underlying physical systems. Chemistry prepares students to take college chemistry which is required for a wide variety of majors. Prerequisite courses: A grade of C or better in Advanced Biology or AP Biology and Integrated math 2.  Successful completion of this course will satisfy UC/CSU “D” Lab Physical Science.


Physics 
An in-depth study of mechanics, energy and energy transport. Major units include: Kinematics, Newton’s Laws, Work/Energy and Conservation of Energy, Impulse/Momentum and Conservation of 
Momentum, Force at a Distance: Fields, Waves and Energy Transport, Introduction to Rotation, Basic Electricity. A variety of projects will enhance the learning in this course. The projects include: Design and 
Construct a Rocket, Build a Paper-Plate Speaker, Build a Popsicle Stick Bridge, and Design and Build a Radio-controlled Robot powered by 18V drill motors. This course aligns with AP Physics 1, with the exception of the depth of coverage of the rotation unit. Students can perform extra work to make up this deficiency and earn AP Physics 1 credit


AP Environmental Science  
AP Environmental Science is an Advanced Placement course designed to increase student’s awareness of environmental issues in our community, state, country and world. Topics covered will include; water 
usage, pollution sources and solutions, ecosystems and energy flow, population problems and solutions, resource and energy sources and usage. In addition, the course will provide students with opportunities to measure various environmental parameters and use the data collected to arrive at conclusions about the environmental health of certain habitats. Successful completion of this course will satisfy UC/CSU “G” elective requirements.
AP Biology
AP Biology aims to provide students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing science of biology. At the conclusion of 
the course, students will have the opportunity to take the AP Biology exam, allowing them the possibility of earning college credits. This course is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory 
biology course usually taken by biology majors during their first year of college. The material breakdown will be as follows: Molecules and Cells, 25%, Heredity and Evolution, 25%, Organisms and Populations, 
50%


AP Chemistry
Physics completed or concurrent enrollment required This course is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course taken during the first college year. Includes atomic structure, 
the mole concept, gas laws, stoichiometry, redox, acid base theory, equilibrium and chemical bolding.


AP Physics 
An in-depth study of mechanics, energy and energy transport. Major units include: Kinematics, Newton’s Laws, Work/Energy and Conservation of Energy, Impulse/Momentum and Conservation of 
Momentum, Force at a Distance: Fields, Waves and Energy Transport, Rotation Basics, Rotational Dynamics and Rotational Energy, Basic Electricity. A variety of projects will enhance the learning in this 
course. The projects include: Design and Construct a Rocket, Build a Paper-Plate Speaker, Build a Popsicle Stick Bridge, and Design and Build a Radio-controlled Robot powered by 18V drill motors.