Science: Learning the Natural World
A lab-based program
The science program at Central Catholic High School is designed around our Marianist mission to educate the whole man. It is an integral--and integrated--quality program based on laboratory experiences. Students begin by studying physics I--an algebra-based investigation of the scientific method, motion, heat, and the structure of substances. They may take this course as an honors component in several cooperating middle schools, or the summer prior to their freshman year.
Physics I: our introductory science lab course
Central Catholic freshmen and sophomores who have successfully completed physics 1 are eligible to take biology or honors biology. During the year-long course, they spend significant time in the laboratory. The comprehensive biology course prepares them for college-level biological science by teaching them the terms, concepts and procedures of animal and plant science.
In the third year, sophomores take pre-AP chemistry or juniors take regular chemistry, a more detailed investigation into how substances form, react, and become useful to humans. Laboratories are highly quantitative; students also focus on lab safety.
The junior or senior year usually brings students back to physics, for Physics II-honors. This program spins off their trigonometry and higher algebra math studies, as well as their first physics and chemistry courses, to learn more about motion, light, sound, energy, and the fascinating world that was once called "natural philosophy."
Finally, advanced science students take anatomy/physiology or AP Chemistry in their senior year. These courses are specifically aimed at students with an interest in a science, engineering, or medical career.
CCHS offers two courses in engineering- Engineering I/Drafting, and Engineering II/Computer Aided Design.
CCHS also offers an exciting field-trip oriented summer experience in Ecology, which may be taken twice for a full credit, or in only one summer for a half-credit.
The science department also oversees the required health education program, where students learn about the care of the human body, including nutrition and natural birth regulation.
In all courses, the ethical components of the work of science and engineering are treated.
