Saint John's Curriculum

Science

The Science Department at Saint John's feels that a comprehensive foundation in natural science is needed to prepare the student for life and for future goals. This is achieved by making a variety of courses available and on levels that will meet varied abilities and interests. Intensive preparation is given for students interested in the areas of science and engineering.
  • Anatomy/Physiology (1)

    This course is designed to further explore the structure and function of the organ systems in the human body. The scope of the course will delve considerably deeper into physiology than was done in Biology, as well as make connections to the underlying cell biology for many physiological processes.
    Prerequisite: S11ttessjul COIII/Jietioll of Biology
  • Biology (1)

    Students will be exposed to the same topical studies as in the Honors section. However, adjustments are made in the pace, breadth and depth of presentation. As with Honors Biology, videos, lab exercises, and projects support textual materials.
  • Biology (2)

    Living systems introduces the novice science student to the study of organisms. Areas of concentration are the cell, genetics, and the animal phyla. The reading and pace are geared to the student for whom Honors and Level I may be too stringent.
  • Biology (AP)

    A. P. Biology is an elective course designed to give the student an opportunity to receive college credit by taking the A. P. Exam. Since a thorough presentation of Biology involves the use of concepts learned in Chemistry, students taking A.P. Biology should first complete a course in Chemistry. This course uses a college level text. The content is divided into the following major areas: molecular and cellular biology, organismal biology and populational biology.
  • Biology (H)

    This course demonstrates the foundations of Biology through the study of the chemistry of life, cell biology, genetics, evolution, invertebrate and vertebrate phylogeny, human systems, and ecological interactions. Videos, laboratory exercises, demonstrations, and projects are used to support and make practical content areas.
  • Chemistry (1)

    This course will consist of a study of matter and energy, atomic structure and bonding, chemical equations and stoichiometric relations, the solution process and ionization, acids, bases and salts, and a study of hydrocarbons.
    Lab work will supplement lectures with the object of
    developing skills in the use of laboratory  equipment.
  • Chemistry (AP)

    This course will build on a successfully completed high school chemistry course. An in-depth study of states and structure of matter, chemical reactions and descriptive chemistry will constitute the course. Laboratory work will involve experiments where emphasis is placed on quantitative aspects of the experiment.
  • Chemistry (H)

    This course will consist of a study of matter and energy, atomic structure and bonding, chemical equations and stoichiometric relations, the solution process and ionization, acids, bases and salts, and a study of hydrocarbons.
    Lab work will supplement lectures with the object of
    developing skills in the use of laboratory  equipment.
  • Environmental Science (1)

    A study of the environmental problems facing our society is undertaken. The causes and possible solutions to air, water, and soil pollution are covered in detail. An understanding and review of elementary biology, chemistry, and physics gives the student an opportunity to see the interaction of the sciences.
  • Environmental Science (AP)

    A comprehensive study of the environmental problems facing our society is undertaken. The causes and possible solutions to air, water and soil pollution are covered in detail. An understanding and review of elementary biology, chemistry, and physics gives the student an opportunity to see the interaction of the sciences. The course will prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Environmental Science exam.
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology (H)

    This course is designed to explore the structure and function of the organ systems in the human body at a level deeper than that of the level 1 course. The scope of the course will delve considerably deeper into physiology than was done in Biology, as well as make connections to the underlying cell biology for many physiological processes. There is a lab component to the course with lab topics that cover cell biology, physiological processes, as well as general anatomy providing the experience necessary to excel in the field at the collegiate level. Prerequisite: successful completion of Biology as well as the successful completion of at least one level 1 science course along with a recommendation by the teacher.
  • Physics (1)

    This is an introductory course into Physics which studies the manner in which the physical world functions. Major topics are kinematics (the study of motion), waves, sound, light, electricity and magnetism. Numerous laboratory experiments aid students in the discovery of fundamental physics laws and relationships. Physics develops strong
    problem solving skills by the application of equations and formulas along with the  mathematics of algebra and trigonometry.
  • Physics (H)

    Honors Physics is intended for those who wish to major in science or engineering in college. Extensive knowledge of algebra and trigonometry is required. Topics include Newtonian mechanics (kinetics and dynamics), heat energy, optics, electricity and magnetism, with much experimentation and challenging problem work.
  • Physics 1 (AP)

    A. P. Physics I is an algebra-based introductory physics course for the advanced math/science student. It prepares students to take the A.P. Physics 1 exam. A.P. Physics 1 exam questions are integrated into the curriculum in order to expose students to the rigorous nature of the following subject areas: 1) mechanics -- the study of motion, forces and energy; 2) wave motion and sound; 3) electric forces, fields, electric current and circuits and 4) magnetism and electromagnetism. The laboratory component of this course allows students to explore and apply the physical laws and concepts presented in class.
  • Physics C (AP)

    A. P. Physics C is a calculus-based physics course taught at a challenging pace and difficulty level. It prepares students to take both A.P. Physics C examinations - Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism. Homework and tests are based on rigorous A.P. Physics C exam questions. Laboratory experiments build on the concepts presented in class.
    Prerequisites: A grade of B+ or higher in Honors Physics and have completed or are enrolled in A.P. Calculus (AB or BC).
  • Principles of Engineering (H)

    A central goal of the course is to build technological literacy for every student, giving them practical understanding of how we all are influenced by technology and how we all influence future technological development by the choices
    we make as workers, consumers, and citizens. It also provides a strong foundation in physics and offers students an opportunity to explore social historical and environmental contexts surrounding emerging technologies. A project will be completed each quarter during which time the students will study different aspects of engineering and technology.
    Prerequisite: Completion of Physics: Honors (grade B or better) or Level 1 (grade of A- or better).
Saint John’s High School has educated young men under the sponsorship of the Xaverian Brothers since 1898. Through the Saint John’s strong college preparatory curriculum, 1,000 students pursue personal and intellectual growth in an environment that is committed to the development of the whole person and recognizes a moral dimension of life through service to God and to others.