🎯 Our Mission
We believe scientific literacy is essential for success in today's world. Our Science Department cultivates the next generation of scientists, innovators, and informed citizens who will shape our future.
🌟 Our Approach to Science Education
We make science engaging and relevant through hands-on labs, data analysis, real-world applications, student research projects, collaboration, and science competitions.
🎓 Science Graduation Requirements
Students must complete a minimum of 2.0 credits of laboratory science to graduate from Loveland High School.
📚 Science Course Offerings
🧬 Biology
Credit: 1.0 Science Credit
Study of living organisms, their structure, function, growth, evolution, and interactions with their environment.
Topics Include:
- Cell structure and function
- Genetics and heredity
- Evolution and natural selection
- Ecology and ecosystems
- Human body systems
Credit: 1.0 Science Credit
International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme approach to biology with inquiry-based learning.
Credit: 1.0 Honors Science Credit
Accelerated biology course with advanced topics and increased rigor for high-achieving students.
Credit: 1.0 Weighted Science Credit
Note: College-level course with AP exam opportunity
College-level biology covering advanced cellular and molecular biology, genetics, evolution, and ecology.
Course Features:
- College-level content and expectations
- Extensive laboratory investigations
- Preparation for AP Biology exam
- Potential for college credit
Year 2 Codes: 3334, 3335
Credit: 2.0 Weighted Science Credits (over 2 years)
Two-year International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme higher level biology course.
⚗️ Chemistry
Credit: 1.0 Science Credit
Study of matter, its properties, composition, structure, and the changes it undergoes.
Topics Include:
- Atomic structure and periodic table
- Chemical bonding and reactions
- Stoichiometry and calculations
- Solutions and acids/bases
- Gas laws and thermodynamics
Credit: 1.0 Honors Science Credit
Accelerated chemistry with advanced problem-solving and deeper exploration of chemical principles.
Credit: 1.0 Weighted Science Credit
College-level chemistry covering atomic theory, bonding, thermodynamics, kinetics, and equilibrium.
Year 2 Codes: 3336, 3337
Credit: 2.0 Weighted Science Credits (over 2 years)
Two-year International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme higher level chemistry course.
⚛️ Physics
Credit: 1.0 Science Credit
Study of matter, energy, motion, and forces in the physical universe.
Topics Include:
- Kinematics and dynamics
- Energy, work, and power
- Waves and sound
- Electricity and magnetism
- Light and optics
Credit: 1.0 Weighted Science Credit
Prerequisite: Strong mathematics background (calculus recommended)
Calculus-based college-level physics focusing on classical mechanics.
🌱 Environmental Science
Credit: 1.0 Science Credit
Study of environmental systems, sustainability, and human impact on the planet.
Topics Include:
- Ecosystems and biodiversity
- Climate change and global warming
- Natural resources and sustainability
- Pollution and environmental health
- Conservation and environmental policy
Credit: 1.0 Weighted Science Credit
College-level environmental science with fieldwork and data analysis.
Credit: 1.0 Weighted Science Credit
International Baccalaureate standard level course examining environmental systems from scientific and societal perspectives.
🔬 Specialized Science Courses
Credit: 0.5 Science Credit
In-depth study of human body systems, structure, and function. Ideal for students interested in health sciences and medicine.
Credit: 0.5 Science Credit
Application of scientific principles to criminal investigations, including evidence collection, analysis, and crime scene investigation.
Credit: 0.5 Science Credit
Advanced study of heredity, DNA, genetic engineering, and biotechnology applications.
Credit: 0.5 Science Credit
Study of celestial objects, space, and Earth's atmosphere and weather systems.
Credit: 1.0 Science Credit
IB MYP approach to Earth science, geology, and physical geography.
Credit: 1.0 Honors Science Credit
Accelerated IB MYP Earth science with honors-level rigor.
📋 Additional Information
Course Planning Tips:
- Meet with your counselor to plan your science pathway
- Consider your college and career goals when selecting courses
- Challenge yourself with honors or AP courses if ready
- Explore specialized courses in areas of interest
Questions About Science Courses?
Contact your school counselor or visit the Science Department to learn more about course offerings and find the best path for your goals!
View the complete course catalog: TSD Course Catalog
