Petaluma High School English Catalog

P-AGRICULTURAL BIOLOGY - C000PY
Year: 10-12
Prerequisites: Ag Science 1 is recommended
Agricultural Biology is a one year, laboratory science course, designed for the college-bound student with career interests in plant and animal sciences. Using agriculture as the learning vehicle, the course emphasizes the principles, central concepts and inter-relationships among the following topics: scientific methodology, the molecular and cellular aspects of life, the chemical and structural basis of life, anatomy and physiology, growth and reproduction in plants and animals, evolution of modern plants and domestic livestock species, plant and animal genetics, taxonomy of modern agricultural plants and animals, animal behavior, ecological relationships among plants, animals, humans and the environment, nutrition in animals, health and diseases in animals, and the similarities between animals and humans. This course meets the subject area “d” of the UC / CSU approved course list. This course meets the Life Science requirement for graduation.
P-AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE I - K703PY
Year: 9-12T
Prerequisites: None
Agriculture Science I is a year long course that will introduce the student to the agriculture industry and provide them an understanding of it’s importance to American society. The course is designed to enhance the agricultural biology curriculum that meets UC/CSU requirements and California State Standards for Biological Sciences. Students will be exposed to topics in both plant and animal science, biotechnology applications in agriculture and their relevance and impact on human needs in a changing world. This course meets the subject area “g” of the UC / CSU approved course list. This course meets the Math / Science related requirement for graduation.
P-AP BIOLOGY II - C700AY
Year: 11-12
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Biology with a B or Honors Biology with a C and completion or concurrent enrollment in Chemistry. May not be offered every year.
AP Biology is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory course usually taken by biology majors. This course differs significantly from the usual first high school course in Biology with respect to the kind of textbook used, the range and depth of topics covered, the kind of laboratory work done by students, and the time and effort required of students. This course is designed to be taken after the successful completion of a first course in high school biology and the completion or concurrent enrollment of one course in high school chemistry as well. It aims to provide the student with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skill necessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing science of biology and to prepare students for the AP Biology Exam. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.
P-AP CHEMISTRY II - D710AY
Year: 11-12
Prerequisites: Chemistry with a C or better, Algebra II with a C or better, approval of first year chemistry teacher. May not be offered every year.
The advanced placement chemistry course is designed to be taken only after successful completion of a year of chemistry. Students will continue with additional quantitative studies in acids, bases, oxidation/reduction, organic chemistry, thermodynamics and kinetics, biochemistry and living systems. This course is designed to be the equivalent of a first year college course in general chemistry but with additional emphasis on organic chemistry. Successful passing of the AP examination at the end of the year may fulfill a laboratory science requirement in some colleges. This course should not displace other science and math in a student’s curriculum. It is highly desirable that students with strong math and science skills have both a course in physics and a fourth year of math. This course is very fast paced and mathematically oriented. A scientific calculator is required, along with a personal commitment to complete the course. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.
P-BIOLOGY - C300PY
Year: 10
Prerequisites: Successful completion of one semester of physical science
This is a one-year laboratory course that explores the interrelationships of life and the physical world around us. Some areas of study include cellular and molecular biology, ecology, genetics, energy pathways of life, bioethics, evolution, and diversity. Students will become aware of science career connections. Homework is required. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.
P-CHEMISTRY - D700PY
Year: 10-12
Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in Biology, Alg I and Geometry and concurrent or previous enrollment in Alg 2.
A one year course studying the composition of substances and how they change while focusing on laboratory investigations to enable students to better understand the world around them and to make intelligent consumer decisions about that world. This is a college preparatory course designed for students who have an aptitude for math and science but who may or may not plan to major in science. This course assumes no prior substantial knowledge of chemistry. It will introduce students to the concepts of, atomic theory, chemical reactions, phases of matter, solutions and ions, periodic table, chemical bonding, chemical rates and equilibrium, acids and bases, and oxidation-reduction. A scientific calculator is highly recommended. A minimum of 30 minutes of homework is required on a daily basis. A commitment to complete the course is important. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.
P-EARTH SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURE -
Year: 9T
Prerequisites: Alg 1 or concurrent enrollment in Alg 1
Earth Science in Agriculture is a one-year, laboratory science course, designed for the college bound student with career interests in Agriculture. Using agriculture as a learning vehicle, the course emphasizes the principles and practices of Earth Science as a way to demonstrate the relevance of Earth Science in Agriculture to each student’s life and environment. This class will utilize local and regional issues and concerns to stimulate problem-solving activities and to foster a sense of Earth stewardship by student in their communities. The class will establish an expanded learning environment, which incorporates fieldwork, technological assess to data, and traditional classroom and laboratory activities. This course meets the subject area “g” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.
P-HONORS BIOLOGY - C3NWHY
Year: 10
Prerequisites: B or better in Physical Science, Algebra 1, passing score on qualifying exam, teacher recommendation
This college prep laboratory class explores the interrelationships of life and the physical world around us. Some areas of study will include cellular and molecular biology, ecology, genetics, energy pathways of life, bioethics, evolution, and diversity. This course is designed for college-bound students with a strong aptitude in science and who consistently work to the best of their ability. This is the first level of preparation for Honors/AP junior, senior courses. Homework is required daily. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.
P-HONORS CHEMISTRY - D700HY
Year: 10-12T
Prerequisites: Grade of B or better in Biology, Alg I and Geometry and concurrent or previous enrollment in Alg II
This course will introduce the same concepts in P-Chemistry. Students need to have a strong aptitude for science and math, be able to comprehend and utilize concepts more quickly and demonstrate the ability, initiative and motivation to work independently. Students will need to employ an above- average level of analytical skill and sufficient maturity to consistently deduce underlying concepts from empirical evidence. It is the intent of this course to challenge and stimulate the student to go beyond basic principles to examine concepts and applications in greater depth and complexity. Although the course is not designed as an AP course, interested students will be helped to prepare for the AP exam. Students should be aware of the personal time commitment to complete this course. A minimum of 45 minutes of homework is required daily. A scientific calculator is required. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.
P-HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY - C230PY
Year: 11-12
Prerequisites: Completion of Biology with a B or better for both semesters recommended
This laboratory course is intended for students who wish to expand their knowledge of the structure and function of the human body. This course will be especially valuable for students wishing to continue in various health careers after high school. Participation in all aspects of this course, including field trips, dissections, and CPR training is mandatory. A donation for supplies will be asked for each student. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.
P-MARINE SCIENCES - C900PY
Year: 11-12
Prerequisites: Physical Science, Biology with a grade of B or better recommended. May not be offered every year.
This course is designed to cover both the physical and biological aspects of the marine environment. One semester's worth of study and laboratory work will be concerned primarily with the abiotic nature of all things related to saline waters. This will include plate tectonics, ocean formation, water movements, water characteristics, weather, and pollutants. Another semester’s worth of class time will deal with all pelagic life and their inter-relationships. This will include man's effect on all marine life found in tidal benthonic, estuarian, and mud flat areas. Groups will also have an opportunity to do research projects. Field trips are included in the course. This course meets the subject area “g” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.
P-PHYSICAL SCIENCE - D109PY
Year: 9
Prerequisites: None
This is a one year laboratory course encompassing multiple areas of physical science and its relationship with the natural world around us. Students gain knowledge, skills and appreciation of science in such areas as astronomy, chemistry, geology, meteorology and physics through a variety of strategies. Students will develop skills in the manipulation of materials and equipment, as well as organizing and communicating scientific information. Appreciation and respect for the natural world will part of the course content. Students will become aware of careers in science. Homework is required. This course meets the subject area “g” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.
P-PHYSICS - D300PY
Year: 11-12
Prerequisites: Completion of Algebra II
This is a survey laboratory course, which involves the main concepts of physics such as classical mechanics, heat, waves, sound, optics, electricity, magnetism nuclear physics, and astronomy. The course is designed to help students develop problem solving and critical thinking skills, to understand and to analyze the physical world. Homework is required daily. A commitment to complete the course is important. A scientific calculator is required. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.
P-PHYSICS AP - D720AY
Year: 11-12
Prerequisites: Concurrent or prior enrollment in Math Analysis/Trig
AP Physics is a quantitative study of the laws which govern the behavior of matter and energy in the universe. This course introduces the students to the mathematics of Physics, motion, force, and conservation laws, heat and energy, electricity and electromagnetism, vibration and waves, optics and light, and atoms and matter. Knowledge of algebra and basic trig is required for the course; the basic ideas of calculus may be introduced in connection with physical concepts, such as acceleration and work. A scientific calculator is required. Students should expect 45 minutes of homework daily and be aware of the personal time commitment to complete the course. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.

P-AGRICULTURAL BIOLOGY - C000PY

Year: 10-12

Prerequisites: Ag Science 1 is recommended

Agricultural Biology is a one year, laboratory science course, designed for the college-bound student with career interests in plant and animal sciences. Using agriculture as the learning vehicle, the course emphasizes the principles, central concepts and inter-relationships among the following topics: scientific methodology, the molecular and cellular aspects of life, the chemical and structural basis of life, anatomy and physiology, growth and reproduction in plants and animals, evolution of modern plants and domestic livestock species, plant and animal genetics, taxonomy of modern agricultural plants and animals, animal behavior, ecological relationships among plants, animals, humans and the environment, nutrition in animals, health and diseases in animals, and the similarities between animals and humans. This course meets the subject area “d” of the UC / CSU approved course list. This course meets the Life Science requirement for graduation.

P-AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE I - K703PY

Year: 9-12T

Prerequisites: None

Agriculture Science I is a year long course that will introduce the student to the agriculture industry and provide them an understanding of it’s importance to American society. The course is designed to enhance the agricultural biology curriculum that meets UC/CSU requirements and California State Standards for Biological Sciences. Students will be exposed to topics in both plant and animal science, biotechnology applications in agriculture and their relevance and impact on human needs in a changing world. This course meets the subject area “g” of the UC / CSU approved course list. This course meets the Math / Science related requirement for graduation.

P-AP BIOLOGY II - C700AY

Year: 11-12

Prerequisites: Successful completion of Biology with a B or Honors Biology with a C and completion or concurrent enrollment in Chemistry. May not be offered every year.

AP Biology is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory course usually taken by biology majors. This course differs significantly from the usual first high school course in Biology with respect to the kind of textbook used, the range and depth of topics covered, the kind of laboratory work done by students, and the time and effort required of students. This course is designed to be taken after the successful completion of a first course in high school biology and the completion or concurrent enrollment of one course in high school chemistry as well. It aims to provide the student with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skill necessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing science of biology and to prepare students for the AP Biology Exam. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.

P-AP CHEMISTRY II - D710AY

Year: 11-12

Prerequisites: Chemistry with a C or better, Algebra II with a C or better, approval of first year chemistry teacher. May not be offered every year.

The advanced placement chemistry course is designed to be taken only after successful completion of a year of chemistry. Students will continue with additional quantitative studies in acids, bases, oxidation/reduction, organic chemistry, thermodynamics and kinetics, biochemistry and living systems. This course is designed to be the equivalent of a first year college course in general chemistry but with additional emphasis on organic chemistry. Successful passing of the AP examination at the end of the year may fulfill a laboratory science requirement in some colleges. This course should not displace other science and math in a student’s curriculum. It is highly desirable that students with strong math and science skills have both a course in physics and a fourth year of math. This course is very fast paced and mathematically oriented. A scientific calculator is required, along with a personal commitment to complete the course. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.

P-BIOLOGY - C300PY

Year: 10

Prerequisites: Successful completion of one semester of physical science

This is a one-year laboratory course that explores the interrelationships of life and the physical world around us. Some areas of study include cellular and molecular biology, ecology, genetics, energy pathways of life, bioethics, evolution, and diversity. Students will become aware of science career connections. Homework is required. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.

P-CHEMISTRY - D700PY

Year: 10-12

Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in Biology, Alg I and Geometry and concurrent or previous enrollment in Alg 2.

A one year course studying the composition of substances and how they change while focusing on laboratory investigations to enable students to better understand the world around them and to make intelligent consumer decisions about that world. This is a college preparatory course designed for students who have an aptitude for math and science but who may or may not plan to major in science. This course assumes no prior substantial knowledge of chemistry. It will introduce students to the concepts of, atomic theory, chemical reactions, phases of matter, solutions and ions, periodic table, chemical bonding, chemical rates and equilibrium, acids and bases, and oxidation-reduction. A scientific calculator is highly recommended. A minimum of 30 minutes of homework is required on a daily basis. A commitment to complete the course is important. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.

P-EARTH SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURE -

Year: 9T

Prerequisites: Alg 1 or concurrent enrollment in Alg 1

Earth Science in Agriculture is a one-year, laboratory science course, designed for the college bound student with career interests in Agriculture. Using agriculture as a learning vehicle, the course emphasizes the principles and practices of Earth Science as a way to demonstrate the relevance of Earth Science in Agriculture to each student’s life and environment. This class will utilize local and regional issues and concerns to stimulate problem-solving activities and to foster a sense of Earth stewardship by student in their communities. The class will establish an expanded learning environment, which incorporates fieldwork, technological assess to data, and traditional classroom and laboratory activities. This course meets the subject area “g” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.

P-HONORS BIOLOGY - C3NWHY

Year: 10

Prerequisites: B or better in Physical Science, Algebra 1, passing score on qualifying exam, teacher recommendation

This college prep laboratory class explores the interrelationships of life and the physical world around us. Some areas of study will include cellular and molecular biology, ecology, genetics, energy pathways of life, bioethics, evolution, and diversity. This course is designed for college-bound students with a strong aptitude in science and who consistently work to the best of their ability. This is the first level of preparation for Honors/AP junior, senior courses. Homework is required daily. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.

P-HONORS CHEMISTRY - D700HY

Year: 10-12T

Prerequisites: Grade of B or better in Biology, Alg I and Geometry and concurrent or previous enrollment in Alg II

This course will introduce the same concepts in P-Chemistry. Students need to have a strong aptitude for science and math, be able to comprehend and utilize concepts more quickly and demonstrate the ability, initiative and motivation to work independently. Students will need to employ an above- average level of analytical skill and sufficient maturity to consistently deduce underlying concepts from empirical evidence. It is the intent of this course to challenge and stimulate the student to go beyond basic principles to examine concepts and applications in greater depth and complexity. Although the course is not designed as an AP course, interested students will be helped to prepare for the AP exam. Students should be aware of the personal time commitment to complete this course. A minimum of 45 minutes of homework is required daily. A scientific calculator is required. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.

P-HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY - C230PY

Year: 11-12

Prerequisites: Completion of Biology with a B or better for both semesters recommended

This laboratory course is intended for students who wish to expand their knowledge of the structure and function of the human body. This course will be especially valuable for students wishing to continue in various health careers after high school. Participation in all aspects of this course, including field trips, dissections, and CPR training is mandatory. A donation for supplies will be asked for each student. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.

P-MARINE SCIENCES - C900PY

Year: 11-12

Prerequisites: Physical Science, Biology with a grade of B or better recommended. May not be offered every year.

This course is designed to cover both the physical and biological aspects of the marine environment. One semester's worth of study and laboratory work will be concerned primarily with the abiotic nature of all things related to saline waters. This will include plate tectonics, ocean formation, water movements, water characteristics, weather, and pollutants. Another semester’s worth of class time will deal with all pelagic life and their inter-relationships. This will include man's effect on all marine life found in tidal benthonic, estuarian, and mud flat areas. Groups will also have an opportunity to do research projects. Field trips are included in the course. This course meets the subject area “g” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.

P-PHYSICAL SCIENCE - D109PY

Year: 9

Prerequisites: None

This is a one year laboratory course encompassing multiple areas of physical science and its relationship with the natural world around us. Students gain knowledge, skills and appreciation of science in such areas as astronomy, chemistry, geology, meteorology and physics through a variety of strategies. Students will develop skills in the manipulation of materials and equipment, as well as organizing and communicating scientific information. Appreciation and respect for the natural world will part of the course content. Students will become aware of careers in science. Homework is required. This course meets the subject area “g” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.

P-PHYSICS - D300PY

Year: 11-12

Prerequisites: Completion of Algebra II

This is a survey laboratory course, which involves the main concepts of physics such as classical mechanics, heat, waves, sound, optics, electricity, magnetism nuclear physics, and astronomy. The course is designed to help students develop problem solving and critical thinking skills, to understand and to analyze the physical world. Homework is required daily. A commitment to complete the course is important. A scientific calculator is required. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.

P-PHYSICS AP - D720AY

Year: 11-12

Prerequisites: Concurrent or prior enrollment in Math Analysis/Trig

AP Physics is a quantitative study of the laws which govern the behavior of matter and energy in the universe. This course introduces the students to the mathematics of Physics, motion, force, and conservation laws, heat and energy, electricity and electromagnetism, vibration and waves, optics and light, and atoms and matter. Knowledge of algebra and basic trig is required for the course; the basic ideas of calculus may be introduced in connection with physical concepts, such as acceleration and work. A scientific calculator is required. Students should expect 45 minutes of homework daily and be aware of the personal time commitment to complete the course. This course meets the subject area “d” requirement for the UC / CSU approved course list.