Science Department

• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology
• Astronomy
• Environmental Science

Physics (Required)

This course is a study of the major topics of physics that includes the study of mechanics, heat and temperature, waves, electricity and magnetism, and topics in modern physics. Laboratory experiments are incorporated throughout the course and help to illustrate all topics covered.

All SFUSD students are required to complete 2 years of science; 1 year in a Physical science course (Physics or Chemistry) and 1 year in a Biological science course (Biology). 3 years is recommended for college eligibility.  10th grade students can choose between Biology and Chemistry. Students that choose to take Chemistry during 10th grade will still need to complete Biology during 11th grade in order to be eligible for graduation. 

Biology (Required for graduation but can be taken in 11th grade.)

This course is a study of the major topics in the life sciences that include:  the cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, bioenergetics, genetics, biosystematics, evolution, and the role of human beings in their natural environment.  Laboratory work is incorporated throughout the course.

Chemistry (Optional, but recommended for college eligibility. Can be taken in 11th grade.)

This course covers the basic principles of general chemistry with an emphasis on observation and quantitative laboratory measurements. The topics include: classification of matter, atomic theory, chemical formulas and equations, the periodic table, atomic structure, bonding, rates of reaction, chemical equilibrium, acids and bases, oxidation-reduction, organic, nuclear and environmental chemistry.

Graduation requirement: All SFUSD students are required to complete 2 years of science; 1 year in a Physical science course (Physics or Chemistry) and 1 year in a Biological science course (Biology). 3 years is recommended for college eligibility.  10th grade students can choose between Biology and Chemistry. Students that choose to take Chemistry during 10th grade will still need to complete Biology during 11th grade in order to be eligible for graduation. 

CHEMISTRY  (Optional, but recommended for college eligibility. Can be taken in 11th grade.)

This course covers the basic principles of general chemistry with an emphasis on observation and quantitative laboratory measurements. The topics include: classification of matter, atomic theory, chemical formulas and equations, the periodic table, atomic structure, bonding, rates of reaction, chemical equilibrium, acids and bases, oxidation-reduction, organic, nuclear and environmental chemistry.

BIOLOGY(Required for graduation)

This course is a study of the major topics in the life sciences that include:  the cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, bioenergetics, genetics, biosystematics, evolution, and the role of human beings in their natural environment.  Laboratory work is incorporated throughout the course.

ASTROMONY (Science elective)

How do we know so much about objects in our universe that are light years away? How did scientists use a robotic spacecraft to fly through the tail of a comet and return a sample to Earth ? How do the cycles of the moon and sun affect our environment here on Earth? Our universe is filled with wonders that once seemed unknowable. This course will introduce students to the scientific methods and tools used to investigate worlds from our neighbors in the solar system to exotic objects like quasars at the far reaches of the known universe. The course topics will include the formation and evolution of our solar system, our dynamic sun, asteroids, comets, robotic spacecraft design, the search for exoplanets (planets orbiting other stars), and the investigation of astrobiology (the search for extraterrestrial life).

Students will do direct investigation of the physics of craters, the cycles of the sun, and astronomical spectroscopy to name a few. They will also use a variety of engaging online tools to directly explore our universe. This course provides an overview of the major topics in astronomy such as the origin and evolution of the universe, galaxies, stars, telescopes, the solar system, and the Earth and its moon.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE (Science elective)

This course examines environmental issues and problems. It includes the study of populations, forestry, cities, soil chemistry, wildlife and soil conservation, air and water pollution, hazardous materials, and energy sources. Laboratories and field trips are incorporated throughout the course. The purpose of the Environmental Science course is to give students an empowering understanding of the rapidly changing world through a multidisciplinary approach that includes earth science, biology, chemistry, and physics. As the population increases, our impact on the environment requires vigorous study in order to design solutions that ensure the sustainability of the world's resources, including, but not limited to fossil fuels, alternative energy, agriculture, world's forestry, biodiversity, climate management, and water. Together these topics are aimed to encourage stewards of the planet and an informed future voting population. Understanding the world around us and our impact on the world develops students into critical thinkers and responsible earth inhabitants.

Students that have completed SFUSD Science requirements can continue to take Science electives. Ensure that you have completed 1 year of a Physical Science (Physics or Chemistry) and 1 year of a Biological Science (Biology) as these are graduation requirements.  

ASTROMONY (Science elective)

How do we know so much about objects in our universe that are light years away? How did scientists use a robotic spacecraft to fly through the tail of a comet and return a sample to Earth ? How do the cycles of the moon and sun affect our environment here on Earth? Our universe is filled with wonders that once seemed unknowable. This course will introduce students to the scientific methods and tools used to investigate worlds from our neighbors in the solar system to exotic objects like quasars at the far reaches of the known universe. The course topics will include the formation and evolution of our solar system, our dynamic sun, asteroids, comets, robotic spacecraft design, the search for exoplanets (planets orbiting other stars), and the investigation of astrobiology (the search for extraterrestrial life).

Students will do direct investigation of the physics of craters, the cycles of the sun, and astronomical spectroscopy to name a few. They will also use a variety of engaging online tools to directly explore our universe. This course provides an overview of the major topics in astronomy such as the origin and evolution of the universe, galaxies, stars, telescopes, the solar system, and the Earth and its moon.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE (Science elective)

This course examines environmental issues and problems. It includes the study of populations, forestry, cities, soil chemistry, wildlife and soil conservation, air and water pollution, hazardous materials, and energy sources. Laboratories and field trips are incorporated throughout the course. The purpose of the Environmental Science course is to give students an empowering understanding of the rapidly changing world through a multidisciplinary approach that includes earth science, biology, chemistry, and physics. As the population increases, our impact on the environment requires vigorous study in order to design solutions that ensure the sustainability of the world's resources, including, but not limited to fossil fuels, alternative energy, agriculture, world's forestry, biodiversity, climate management, and water. Together these topics are aimed to encourage stewards of the planet and an informed future voting population. Understanding the world around us and our impact on the world develops students into critical thinkers and responsible earth inhabitants.