Every New Jersey public school graduate must successfully complete a minimum of three years of science. The LRHSD graduation requirements are that all students must take three science classes. Students are encouraged to take more than the minimum requirement. Our core science courses are Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science and Physics. Depending on their college plans and math aptitude, those students interested in a science-related college major may double up in science in order to take AP or advanced science classes. All AP sciences classes are six credit courses. Six credit courses incorporate an additional lab period once a cycle as a continuous allotment of instructional time designated to allow teachers to incorporate laboratory-based activities that extend beyond the standard 57-minute class period. Technology is infused throughout the science program. Students in their junior year will be responsible for taking the NJDOE Student Learning Assessment in Science, a comprehensive science test that will assess the New Jersey Student Learning Science Standards.

Astronomy                                                        ACC
This course studies the origin and makeup of the universe. Topics covered may include the earth's motions, the solar system, stars, galaxies, and cosmology. Processes will be explained using basic physics. Labs are integrated within standard class time. Mathematical applications occur, and completion of Algebra 1 and geometry is needed. Intended for students who have finished chemistry and are at least concurrently completing their third science course. This course does not satisfy the science requirement for graduation.

Environmental Science                                    ACC, CP, PR
This course is an experiential exploration of the physical and biological aspects of the natural environment, both local and global, allowing students to discover their personal interrelationships with their surroundings and, using scientific methods, to develop a respect and sense of stewardship for the environment. Students should have completed Biology and Chemistry.  PR level is available through the Child Study Team.

*AP Environmental Science                               HON
This course will provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. Students will identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Topics include energy conservation, human impact on the earth, environmental problems and sustainability. Students should have completed Biology and Chemistry. Offered as RCBC CAP Course.

Biology                                                             HON, ACC, CP, PR
Basic survey course in the life sciences. Topics include: biochemistry, cell biology, energy, genetics, evolution, ecology and diversity of life. Students gain an appreciation of the interdependence of all living things and human impact on the biosphere. Successful completion of Algebra 1 is recommended for HON and ACC students.   PR level is available through the Child Study Team.

*AP Biology                                                      HON
The key concepts and related content that define the AP Biology course are organized around a few underlying principles which encompass the core scientific principles, theories and processes governing living organisms and biological systems. They are Evolution, Cellular Processes, Genetics and Interactions between Biological Systems. Students will also become proficient in the science practices which enable students to collect evidence and use it to develop testable explanations and predictions.  This course is offered as a second-year biology course and is for the student who excelled at first-year Biology. This course is equivalent to two semesters of college biology. Students will be prepared to take the College Board's Advanced Placement Test. Completion of chemistry is recommended. *Offered as RCBC CAP Course.

Human Biology                                                 ACC
This is a second-year biology course that offers an in-depth study of selected topics in human biology.  Problem solving, mathematical analysis of data, and critical thinking are important aspects of Human Biology.  This course includes molecular biology and biotechnology; cellular process, histology, anatomy and physiology; immunology, bacteriology and pathology. The course includes dissections. It is recommended for students with a strong interest in these areas of biology as well as those interested in the medical field. It is recommended for students who have successfully completed Biology and have completed or are currently taking Chemistry.

Chemistry                                                         HON, ACC, CP
Focuses on the nature and behavior of matter and utilizes mathematical skills in problem solving and laboratory experiences. Major topics include: atomic structure, chemical elements, compounds, reactions, gas laws, and applications of the periodic chart. Basic techniques are developed in laboratory experiments. Successful completion of Algebra 1 and geometry are recommended for HON and ACC students.

*AP Chemistry                                                  HON
The key concepts and related content that define the AP Chemistry course are organized around a few underlying principles which encompass the core scientific principles, theories and processes governing chemical systems. Those principles are: the structure of matter, bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics and chemical equilibrium. Students will also become proficient in the science practices which enable students to collect evidence and use it to develop testable explanations and predictions. This course is offered as a second-year course and is for the student who excelled at first-year chemistry. Equivalent to a first-year college course. Students will be prepared to take the College Board's Advanced Placement Test. *Offered as RCBC CAP Course.

Advanced Chemistry                                          ACC
A second-year chemistry course which covers in more detail much of the material from the first year course. Particular emphasis is placed on the mathematics involved. Laboratory experiences reinforce standard techniques relating to the material covered in class.  Recommended for students planning careers in the sciences or medicine. This course does not satisfy the science requirement for graduation.

Integrated Science                                            PR
Hands-on, critical thinking-based course with emphasis on life skills and work place readiness skills. Students are exposed to three areas of science: chemistry, physics and environmental science. Available to juniors and seniors after the completion of environmental science and biology. PR level is available through the Child Study Team.

*AP Physics 1                                                    HON
This course is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through inquiry-based investigations as they explore these topics: kinematics; dynamics; circular motion and gravitation; energy; momentum; simple harmonic motion; torque and rotational motion; and fluids. Students will also become proficient in the science practices which enable students to collect evidence and use it to develop testable explanations and predictions. Students will be prepared to take the College Board's Advanced Placement Test. Students should have completed or be currently taking pre-calculus. *Offered as RCBC CAP Course.

Physics                                                              ACC, CP

Emphasizes concepts and theory in classical physics. Topics may include: motion, forces, energy, wave behavior and its applications, electricity, magnetism. This course involves laboratory applications of physics concepts. Successful completion of Algebra 2 is recommended for ACC.

*AP Physics C                                                   HON
Students will learn to apply differential and integral calculus in order to solve problems associated with kinematics, Newton’s Laws of motion, work, energy, power, momentum, circular and rotational motion, and electricity and magnetism. Students will also become proficient in the science practices which enable students to collect evidence and use it to develop testable explanations and predictions. Offered as a second-year course and is for the student who excelled at first-year physics. Equivalent to a first year college course. Students will be prepared to take the College Board's Advanced Placement Test. Students should have completed or be currently taking calculus. *Offered as RCBC CAP Course.

*Genetics                                                          HON
This course stresses current developments and applications in the field of genetics. Topics may include molecular and cellular biology, inheritance patterns, chromosome behavior, and abnormalities, biotechnology, genetics of cancer, developmental biology, and experimental design. Students who elect this course should enjoy problem-solving and be motivated to work independently. Laboratory activities emphasized and integrated into the coursework. Chemistry is a prerequisite.  In addition, a second year of Biology is recommended. This course does not satisfy the science requirement for graduation. *Offered as RCBC CAP Course.

Physical Science                                                PR
A hands-on science course where students will draw evidence-based conclusions.  Students are exposed to physical and chemical changes, motion, energy, renewable resources and technology.  Available through the Child Study Team.