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Science

  • GN Biology

    400-GENERAL BIOLOGY                                           1 CR      
                                                                                               9
    Students study all aspects of living organisms.  The course emphasizes the basic theories of biology and the chemistry of living cells.  It includes a general survey of the six kingdoms as well as a detailed study of systems.  Students are instructed in basic laboratory techniques including the scientific method, microscopy, aseptic technique, and dissection. This course is designed for those students with a lower level of reading ability.
    PREREQUISITES: Placement by Academic Dean. Concurrent enrollment in GN English 9.

  • CP Biology

    402-CP BIOLOGY                                                         1 CR
                                                                                       9
    Students study all aspects of living organisms.  The course emphasizes the basic theories of biology and the chemistry of living cells.  It includes a general survey of the six kingdoms as well as a detailed study of systems.  Students are instructed in basic laboratory techniques including the scientific method, microscopy, aseptic technique, and dissection.
    PREREQUISITES: Enrollment in CP or HN English 9.

  • HN Biology

    424-HONORS BIOLOGY                                            1 CR
                                                                                         9
    Honors Biology is an advanced biology course for well-organized students with aptitude in science and strong reading and writing skills.  The course provides a comprehensive overview of biology as a foundation for further study in biological sciences.  The curriculum includes biological chemistry, cellular biology and energy cycles, molecular and transmission genetics, evolution, diversity of living organisms, plant and mammalian biology.  Lab investigations focus on laboratory techniques, critical thinking and writing skills.
    PREREQUISITES: 95% or above in reading section on the HSPT Diocesan Placement Examination.

  • Conceptual Chemistry

    431-CONCEPTUAL CHEMISTRY                               1 CR
                                                                    10
    This is a college preparatory chemistry course designed to acquaint the student with the basic concepts of Chemistry with less emphasis on mathematics that usually accompanies a Chemistry class.  Chemistry is the study of matter and the change it undergoes. Through the laws and theories that govern this behavior, the student will build a strong foundation in the principles of chemistry. Laboratory experiments are designed to reinforce the scientific method of investigation as well as develop good laboratory techniques. The atomic theory, structure and properties of matter, kinetic theory of gases, stoichiometry, acids, bases and solutions are some of the topics covered.
    PREREQUISITES: Recommendation of current science teacher.

  • CP Chemistry

    432-CP CHEMISTRY                                                   1 CR
                                                                                       10
    Chemistry is the study of matter and the change it undergoes. Through the laws and theories that govern this behavior and emphasis on their mathematical applications, the student will build a strong foundation in the principles of chemistry. Laboratory experiments are designed to reinforce the scientific method of investigation as well as develop good laboratory techniques. The atomic theory, structure and properties of matter, kinetic theory of gases, stoichiometry, acids, bases and solutions are some of the topics covered. Current topics in technological and environmental applications are supplemented.
    PREREQUISITES: Recommendation of current science teacher.

  • HN Chemistry

    434-HONORS CHEMISTRY                                        1 CR
                                                                                            10
    Honors Chemistry places an emphasis on the mathematical basis of chemical concepts. Students will study the laws and theories of chemistry in detail. Laboratory experiments are designed to develop the principles learned in class and to teach the mathematical development of these principles. More self-motivation and independent study is expected of students in Honors Chemistry than in CP Chemistry. The atomic theory, structure and properties of matter, kinetic theory of gases, stoichiometry, quantum mechanics, acids, bases and solutions are some of the topics included.

    PREREQUISITES: Math prerequisite: Current enrollment in CP or HN Algebra 2 or higher; or an A in PVI CP Algebra 1. Science prerequisite: B or above in Honors Biology or A- or above in CP Biology.

  • AP Chemistry

    436-ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY              1 CR           
                                                                                      11, 12
    Advanced Placement Chemistry is a college level course designed for the seriously committed science student. The curriculum follows the College Board’s Advanced Placement Chemistry course description.  Solution chemistry and stoichiometry, reactions types, thermochemistry, thermodynamics, equilibria, rate studies, atomic theory, bonding theories and electrochemistry are covered in great detail.  Appropriate laboratory sessions supply the practical application of the theory presented.  Lab time is lengthy.  This course is designed for any student who will major in science and be required to take chemistry in college.
    PREREQUISITES: B or above in Honors Chemistry. A limited number of students will be selected from those interested in the course.
    See AP policies on page 4.

  • Applied Physics 1

    462-APPLIED PHYSICS 1                                        .5 CR
                                                                                 11, 12
    Applied Physics 1 is an entry level course utilizing project-based learning focused on the practical application of the principles of physics such as hydraulics, levers, friction, and motion. 
    PREREQUISITES: Completion of Algebra 2.

  • Applied Physics 2

    463-APPLIED PHYSICS 2                                        .5 CR
                                                                                 11, 12
    Applied Physics 2 is an entry level course utilizing project-based learning focused on the practical application of the principles of physics such as electricity, magnetism, and light.   
    PREREQUISITES: Completion of Algebra 2.

  • CP Physics

    442-CP PHYSICS                                                     1 CR
                                                                                 11, 12
    CP Physics is designed to prepare the students to pursue science courses at the college level. The course covers the principles of mechanics, energy, electricity and magnetism, wave mechanics, sound, light, and optics. The course emphasizes problems and laboratory experiments to explore, demonstrate and extend the principles covered.

    PREREQUISITES:  B- or above in CP Chemistry and completion or concurrent enrollment in CP Algebra 2 math or above.

  • HN Physics

    444-HONORS PHYSICS                                            1 CR
                                                                                 11, 12
    Honors Physics is designed to prepare students to pursue further study in science, math, and engineering at the college level.  It covers the same general topics as CP Physics (mechanics, energy, electricity and magnetism, wave mechanics, sound, light, and optics) but in greater depth and with more mathematical rigor.  A stronger emphasis is also placed on problem solving, analysis and laboratory explorations.  This course is intended for the serious honors science student. 

    PREREQUISITES: Completion of HN Chemistry or A in CP Chemistry with completion of Honors Algebra 2, B or above in CP Algebra 2, B or above in CP Pre-Calculus, or B or above in AP Pre-Calculus. 

  • AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based

    445-AP PHYSICS 1: ALGEBRA-BASED                     1 CR
                                                                                 11, 12
    AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based is the equivalent to a first-semester college course in algebra-based physics. The course covers Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum); work, energy, and power. Knowledge of Algebra and Trigonometry are essential for calculations in this course. The laboratory investigations in this class will strengthen topics covered in class and offer a better understanding of the concepts. This course is intended for students who are looking to challenge themselves, especially those who are interested in pursuing a career in the science or medicine field.

    PREREQUISITES: Science prerequisite: B or above in HN Chemistry or A in CP Chemistry. Math prerequisite: B or above in HN Algebra 2 or A in CP Pre-Calculus or A in CP Algebra 2.  A limited number of students will be selected from those interested in the course. See AP policies on page 5.

  • AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based

    447-AP PHYSICS 2: ALGEBRA-BASED                     1 CR
                                                                                       12
    AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based is the equivalent to a second-semester college course in algebra-based physics. The course covers fluid mechanics; thermodynamics; electricity and magnetism; optics; atomic and nuclear physics. This course is a second year Physics course which will go straight into the topics covered without a math review period. Students taking this course are required to have a strong grasp on the topics of Algebra 2 and Trigonometry as well as a solid understanding of the study methods and problem solving skills required for a Physics course. This course is intended for students who are looking to challenge themselves, especially those who are interested in pursuing a career in the science, medicine and electrical fields.
    PREREQUISITES: C or above in AP Physics 1.
    See AP policies on page 4.

  • AP Physics C: Mechanics

    AP PHYSICS C: MECHANICS                                     1 CR
                                                                                 11, 12
    AP Physics C: Mechanics is a college level, calculus-based physics mechanics course.  Topics include kinematics, Newton’s Laws, conservation of energy and momentum, rotational motion, simple harmonic motion and gravitation.  The laboratory experiences of this course help build students’ scientific reasoning skills and are a large component of the course.  Introductory differential and integral calculus is used throughout the course. A strong mathematical foundation is required for students to succeed. This class is excellent preparation for students wishing to pursue a STEM career, especially in engineering or physical science.
    PREREQUISITES: A in Pre-Calculus and concurrently enrolled in AP Calculus AB or BC. Approval of AP Physics C teacher is required. See AP policies on page 5.

  • CP Meteorology

    COLLEGE PREP METEOROLOGY                              1 CR

                                                                                     10, 11, 12

    This course is designed to provide an overview of weather and climate processes in the atmosphere. In addition to foundational material describing atmospheric structure and variables, the emphasis will be on real-world weather systems ranging from mid-latitude cyclones and hurricanes to global circulation. Other topics will include cloud formation, precipitation, and severe weather.

    PREREQUISITES: None.

  • CP Ecology

    465-CP ECOLOGY                                                        1 CR
                                                                                      11, 12
    Utilizing the foundation acquired in chemistry and biology, students will analyze the physical environment and identify the interrelationships between the organisms within ecological structures. The principles of ecology and evolution will be applied through project-based learning and data collection for on-going field studies monitoring the structure and composition of terrestrial and aquatic communities. 
    PREREQUISITES: Completion of Biology and Chemistry.

  • CP Epidemiology

    COLLEGE PREP EPIDEMIOLOGY                               1 CR

                                                                                           11, 12

    This is an elective that explores how diseases spread, how health data are collected and analyzed, and how scientific evidence informs public health decisions. Students will examine real-world case studies—including historical and modern outbreaks—to develop skills in data interpretation, critical thinking, and distinguishing correlation from causation. The course emphasizes analytical reasoning, ethical responsibility, and clear communication. In the second semester, students will apply epidemiological methods in a guided research project, gaining experience relevant to future studies in science, medicine, public policy, and data-driven fields.

    PREREQUISITES: Completion of Biology. Current enrollment in CP or HN math class.

     

  • Sports Medicine

    Sports Medicine
    .5 CR
    Grades 10, 11, 12
    This course introduces students to the field of sports medicine and provides a foundational understanding of athletic health, injury prevention, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation. This course caters to students with a passion for sports, physical fitness, and healthcare, offering a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of these areas.
    Prerequisites: None

  • HN Marine Biology

    Marine Biology examines the ecology and biology of ocean organisms and their environment including classification, life histories, and adaptations. Ocean geology, chemistry, and the relationship of the oceans to Earth’s climate are also investigated.  We will research, discuss, and write about marine public policy issues, current events, and scientific research.

    PREREQUISITES: Completion of any PVI Honors level science courses or a B- or above in CP Biology.

  • HN Microbiology

    HONORS MICROBIOLOGY                                          .5 CR

                                                                                           11, 12

    This course in Microbiology is an advanced level elective. This course requires a highly motivated, organized student capable of independent work. The laboratory sessions will deal with culturing live organisms, microbial identification and classification, as well as bacterial conjugation and microbial cloning techniques. Only BSL-1 organisms are handled during the course but laboratory training will include all Bio-Safety Level procedures. 
    PREREQUISITES: B or above in both Biology and Chemistry. 

  • HN Genetics

    481-HONORS GENETICS                                        .5 CR
                                   11, 12
    This course in Genetics is an advanced level elective. It is offered to those students who have demonstrated a high level of motivation and capacity for independent study. The content will cover both classic Mendelian genetics as well as current practices of molecular genetics. Associated laboratory sessions will include the classic experiments of Thomas Hunt Morgan using Drosophila as well as additional investigations utilizing techniques in molecular genetics. The latter will be primarily directed toward bacterial genetics with some human application.
    PREREQUISITES: B or above in both Biology and Chemistry.

  • HN Anatomy & Physiology

    This course explores the anatomy and physiology of cells, tissue, organs, and systems of the human body.  The course integrates concepts of chemistry, physics, and pathology.
    PREREQUISITES:  Completion of a PVI Honors level science courses or a B- or above in both CP Biology and CP Chemistry.

  • DE Biology (BIO 101)

    DE1 - BIOLOGY 1 (BIO 101)                                       .5 CR
    DE2 - BIOLOGY 2 (BIO 102)                                       .5 CR
                                                                                 11, 12
    These are Dual Enrollment courses offered through Northern Virginia Community College. BIO 101 and BIO 102 with laboratories are each 4 credit college courses.  These college-level courses explore fundamental characteristics of living matter from the molecular level to the ecological community with emphasis on general biological principles. The course introduces the diversity of living organisms, their structure, function and evolution.
    PLEASE NOTE: A lab fee is required for each semester. 

    PREREQUISITES: 3.0 or above cumulative GPA. B or above in HN Biology or A- or above in CP Biology. C or above in BIO 101 is required for enrollment in BIO 102. A limited number of students will be selected from those interested in the course. Please review Dual Enrollment information on pages 5 and 47.

  • DE Biology (BIO 102)

    DE1 - BIOLOGY 1 (BIO 101)                                       .5 CR
    DE2 - BIOLOGY 2 (BIO 102)                                       .5 CR
                                                                                 11, 12
    These are Dual Enrollment courses offered through Northern Virginia Community College. BIO 101 and BIO 102 with laboratories are each 4 credit college courses.  These college-level courses explore fundamental characteristics of living matter from the molecular level to the ecological community with emphasis on general biological principles. The course introduces the diversity of living organisms, their structure, function and evolution.
    PLEASE NOTE: A lab fee is required for each semester. 

    PREREQUISITES: 3.0 or above cumulative GPA. B or above in HN Biology or A- or above in CP Biology. C or above in BIO 101 is required for enrollment in BIO 102. A limited number of students will be selected from those interested in the course. Please review Dual Enrollment information on pages 5 and 47.

  • DE Environmental Science 1 (ENV 121)

    DE20 – ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 1 (ENV 121)    .5 CR
    DE21 – ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 2 (ENV 122)    .5 CR
                                                                                 11, 12
    These are Dual Enrollment courses offered through Northern Virginia Community College. ENV 121 and ENV 122 with laboratories are each 4 credit college courses.  These college-level courses explore fundamental components and interactions that make up the natural systems of the earth. Introduces the basic science concepts in the disciplines of biological, chemical, and earth sciences that are necessary to understand and address environmental issues. Explores fundamental interactions between human populations and natural systems of the earth. Introduces the basic science behind the causes, effects, and mitigation of major environmental issues.

    PREREQUISITES: 3.0 or above cumulative GPA. B or above in CP Physics, completion of HN Biology, or completion of HN Chemistry. Permission of the DE Environmental Science teacher. Please review Dual Enrollment information on pages 5 and 41.

  • DE Environmental Science 2 (ENV 122)

    DE20 – ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 1 (ENV 121)    .5 CR
    DE21 – ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 2 (ENV 122)    .5 CR
                                                                                 11, 12
    These are Dual Enrollment courses offered through Northern Virginia Community College. ENV 121 and ENV 122 with laboratories are each 4 credit college courses.  These college-level courses explore fundamental components and interactions that make up the natural systems of the earth. Introduces the basic science concepts in the disciplines of biological, chemical, and earth sciences that are necessary to understand and address environmental issues. Explores fundamental interactions between human populations and natural systems of the earth. Introduces the basic science behind the causes, effects, and mitigation of major environmental issues.
     
    PREREQUISITES: Satisfactory score on NOVA English and mathematics placement exams. Completion of HN Biology or HN Chemistry. Please review Dual Enrollment information on page 4.

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St. Paul VI Catholic High School is a private Diocesan Catholic preparatory school for girls and boys in grades 9-12 in Chantilly, Virginia, seeking to help our students Grow in Grace and Wisdom. Our school is part of the Diocese of Arlington and offers rigorous academics, an inclusive community focused on spiritual and leadership formation, and a proud athletic tradition featuring nationally renowned programs competing in the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference and the Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association.

St. Paul VI Catholic High School is an accredited member of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.