The New York State Science Learning Standards are a series of performance expectations that define what students should understand and be able to do as a result of their study of science. The standards are based on the most current research in science and scientific learning as outlines in the Framework for K-12 Science Education developed by the National Research Council and the Next Generation Science Standards. The framework outlines three dimensions that are needed to provide students with a high-quality science education while engaging with natural scientific phenomenon. The integration of these three dimensions (Disciplinary Core Ideas, Science and Engineering Practices and Crosscutting Concepts) provides students with a context for the content of science (DCI), how science knowledge is acquired and understood (SEP) and how the sciences are connected through concepts that have universal meaning across the disciplines (CCC). To meet these standards, students must be able to operate in all three dimensions for each performance expectation. 

Our Middle Level Program for grades 7 and 8 is designed to be an interdisciplinary, hands-on learning experience to stimulate an interest in science while emphasizing inquiry skills, critical thinking, and problem solving. Following Science 7, students proceed to Science 8 where their interdisciplinary studies continue as they prepare for the NYS Science 8 State Assessment. Some students may be accelerated in the 8th grade and placed into Living Environment Accelerated course in lieu of Science 8. 

The Honors Science program begins with Earth Science and is for those dedicated and responsible students who have achieved great success in science thus far.

College level courses, including College Forensics, College Research, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science and AP Physics, are electives offered to high school students. These rigorous courses require student responsibility, dedication, and a deep insight into scientific principles. 

Science 7
Grade 7
The seventh-grade science curriculum uses STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) inquiry and project-based learning. Students receive a strong foundation in Chemistry to enhance their understanding of the composition, structure, properties, and changes that occur within the matter of the Universe. Students use the scientific method daily to learn the introductory engineering and literacy skills needed to investigate our understanding of Earth and Space, such as the Big Bang Theory, space exploration, plate tectonics, and global climate change.  

Science 8
Grade 8 
The eighth-grade science curriculum continues to incorporate inquiry and project-based learning as students study topics in Biology and Physics. Students are given ample opportunity to think critically about these topics as they read, write, and collaborate with one another. Hands-on opportunities for learning are an integral part of the course as they build their scientific skills. The course culminates with students completing the New York State 8^th Grade Science Assessment, covering topics from science in grades six through eight. 

Life Science: Biology  
Grades 9-12, 1 Credit  
The Life Science: Biology course offers students a comprehensive exploration of biological principles and processes. The curriculum covers essential topics such as cell structure and function, biochemistry genetics, evolution, ecology, and human biology. Students will engage in hands-on laboratory experiments and field investigations to develop their scientific inquiry skills and gain practical experience. The course integrates Science and Engineering Practices, Disciplinary Core Ideas, and Cross-Cutting Concepts, ensuring a well-rounded scientific education. The culmination of the course is the Life Science: Biology examination, which assesses students’ mastery of the core concepts and their ability to apply them in various contexts. This class meets 7.5 periods each week. Students must complete 1200 minutes of laboratory investigations, including mandatory state lab investigations as guided by NYSED to be eligible to take the Regents Exam.  *NCAA Approved   
   
Life Science: Biology  Accelerated 
Grade 8, 1 Credit   
Students may be selected to join the Living Environment Accelerated course after Science7. These students are among the highest achievers in both science and math. Students must be responsible and mature enough to enter the Regents program early. This course follows the New York State Learning Standards in Life Science: Biology. It involves the study of living things from the molecular level to communities and biomes. Special attention is also given to the areas of biochemistry, ecology, and reproduction and development. This class meets 7.5 periods each week. Students must complete 1200 minutes of laboratory investigations, including mandatory state lab investigations as guided by NYSED to be eligible to take the Regents Exam.  
   
Co-requisite: Students enrolled in Accelerated Life Science: Biology must have achieved an overall average of 90% in Science 7 and teacher recommendation.  *NCAA Approved   

Physical Science: Earth and Space Science 

Grades 9-12, 1 Credit  
The Earth and Space Science course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the Earth’s systems and its place in the universe. The curriculum covers key topics such as geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy. Students will explore the dynamic processes that shape the Earth, including plate tectonics, weather patterns, and the water cycle. Additionally, the course delves into the study of celestial bodies and the universe’s structure. Through hands-on laboratory experiments and field investigations, students will develop their scientific inquiry skills and gain practical experience. The course aligns with the New York State P-12 Science Learning Standards and culminates in the Earth Science Regents examination, which assesses students’ mastery of the core concepts and their ability to apply them in various contexts. 

*NCAA Approved  

Physical Science: Earth and Space Science Honors 
Grade 9, 1 Credit 
The Honors Earth Science course will enhance the Earth and Science Regents curriculum and will offer students the opportunity to challenge themselves academically. Students enrolled in the Honors Earth Science course will gain exposure to and an understanding of Earth and Science that is both broader and deeper than the standard curriculum. The course culminates with the NYS Physical Setting/Earth and Space Science Regents exam. 

*NCAA Approved  

Physical Science: Chemistry  
Grades 10-11, 1 Credit  
This course of study represents a modern view of chemistry suitable for pupils with a wide range of skills and abilities. Laboratory work is designed to encourage pupils to look for relationships. Each exercise is designed to investigate a problem or concept related to the area of study. The course culminates with the NYS Chemistry Regents exam.   

*NCAA Approved   
Prerequisites: Students are required to have obtained a passing overall average in Earth Science, as well as on the Earth Science Regents exam. 

 
Physical Science: Chemistry Honors  
Grade 10-11, 1 Credit  
This course is designed for students with a strong interest in science or science related fields of study. This course places emphasis on the theoretical concepts of chemistry and is taught as an inquiry-based class – both in discussion sessions as well as during laboratory sessions. Many of the questions posed in class, on homework, and on laboratory assignments will be designed to help students develop higher-level critical thinking skills. Students will get many opportunities for hands-on experiences in chemistry and will also gain experience in technical writing with formal lab write-ups, like a college format. There will be much more independence expected of the students, both in homework and lab procedures, than the Regents program. The course culminates with the NYS Chemistry Regents exam.  

*NCAA Approved   
Prerequisites: Students are required to achieve a 90% minimum in Honors Earth Science or a 95% or higher in the Regents Earth Science course.   

The Physical Setting/Physics 
Grades 11-12, 1 Credit  
This course should be considered by all students interested in pursuing an academic program of study in college. The physical environment is studied through concentrated study in four major units – Mechanics, Wave Motion and Light, Electricity, and Nuclear Physics. In addition to the class lectures, special attention is given to the laboratory phases of the course to provide each student with the opportunity to learn the practical aspects of  science. This course culminates with the NYS Physical Setting/Physics Regents exam.   

*NCAA Approved  
 
Prerequisites: Students are required to obtain a passing overall average in Chemistry, as well as a passing grade on the Chemistry Regents exam.  

 
Physical Setting/Physics Honors 
Grades 11-12, 1 Credit 
This course is designed for students with a strong interest in science or a science-related field of study and interested in pursuing a degree in science or the medical field in college. This course takes the topics covered in Regents Physics and covers them in greater depth. Honors students will often be expected to solve problems that require more synthesis, more difficult mathematics, and more abstract thinking. There will be much more independence expected of the students, both in homework and lab procedures than the Regents program. Also, certain topics will be covered in this course that are not covered in Regents Physics. The course culminates with the NYS Physical Setting/Physics Regents exam.   

*NCAA Approved  
 
Prerequisite: Students are required to achieve an 85% or higher in Honors Chemistry or 90% or higher in Regents Chemistry. Successful completion of Algebra 2 and a passing grade on the Algebra 2 Regents exam.  

Applied Chemistry  

Grade 10-11, 1 Credit  

Get ready to embark on an exciting journey with our Introduction to Chemistry course! Whether you’re a complete newbie or just curious about the magic of molecules, this course is your gateway to understanding the fascinating world of chemistry. You’ll explore the building blocks of matter like atomic structure and chemical bonding and unravel the mysteries of chemical formulas and equations. Discover the different states of matter and dive into the intriguing realms of acid-base chemistry, electrochemistry, kinetics, and equilibrium. But that’s not all! You’ll get to roll up your sleeves and conduct practical laboratory experiments, honing your scientific inquiry skills and gaining hands-on experience that brings these concepts to life. Designed for students with no prior background in chemistry, this course does NOT conclude in the regents exam. This course is one period, daily. 

*NCAA Approved   

Marine Science  
Grades 10-12, 1 Credit  
Marine Science is designed to meet the needs of the student who wishes to obtain an in-depth awareness of coastal and marine systems. Students will study the physical, chemical, and geological aspects of oceanography, marine biology, the coastal environment and the interrelationships among the disciplines. Habitats studied will range from near shore estuarine systems to deep ocean systems. Laboratory sessions include phyla dissections that play an important role of supporting lecture material.  

*NCAA Approved   
 

The STEAM Program 

These courses provide students with practical experience in STEAM disciplines, equipping them with a broad range of skills and interests that may prove valuable beyond their tenure at Babylon. All STEAM courses are conducted within our dedicated STEAM laboratory. 

STEAM: Sustainable Agriculture  
Grade 9 -12, ½ Credit  
This course is designed to be an introduction to aquaponics and tangentially related topics such as wastewater treatment, composting and recycling. It is a supplementary science course that provides inquiry-based projects to enhance skills in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. Course content is designed to enhance the student’s understanding of science using modules. Modules emphasize hands-on skills that will prepare students for careers in STEAM fields. Various applications of technology are integrated to organize student work and assignments, to improve technological skills, and allow collaboration between teachers and students. Students participate in science projects to connect with professionals in the field and the community. This class runs on alternating days.

STEAM: Sustainability in 3D Printing 

Grade 9-12 ½ Credits  

The Sustainability in 3D Printing course will immerse students in the fascinating world of 3D printing. They will gain hands-on experience using 3D printers and the associated software. Additionally, students will learn to create filament by recycling plastic waste, which they will then use to design and produce their projects. This class is perfect for anyone interested in learning about 3D printing. Open to students in grades 9-12, the course can be taught by either a science or technology teacher. This class runs on alternating days.   

The Research Program  
The Babylon Junior-Senior High School Research Program courses are designed to offer interested students the opportunity to become truly immersed in scientific research. The Research Program at BHS, is rigorous and inquiry based. It requires students to work collaboratively, as well as independently. 

Research 1  
Grades 9-10, 1 Credit  
Students will develop their preliminary research skills in the Research 1 course. This course was developed to expose students to the fundamental skills required in scientific research and introduce them to equipment used in the field of science. Research 1 is a prerequisite to Research 2 and upper-level research courses. Students who wish to participate in the Research 1 program must complete a written application. This application, including a writing sample, will be submitted to the teacher in accordance with the deadline established. Applications will be reviewed by a committee.   
   
Prerequisite: Students should achieve a minimum grade of 85 on both the Living Environment and Algebra 1 regents.   

  
Research 2  
Grades 10-11, 1 Credit  
Research 2 is designed to enable students to improve their research skills, including technological and scientific literacy. Students will become accustomed to reviewing scientific journals and using their findings for their own authentic research. Students will be required to conduct independent, hands-on research and will be mentored throughout the process. Students in Research 2 will also be required to enter their work in scientific competitions.   
   
Prerequisite: Completion of Research 1 with a minimum year-grade of 90 is required for advancement into Research 2 and subsequent Upper-Level Research courses. Students must also receive the approval of the Science Research teacher and the Director of the Science Department.

College Research 3 and 4  
Grades 11-12, 1 Credit  
4 College Credits – Syracuse University  
The primary goals of the Syracuse University Undergraduate Science Research Program are to provide critical opportunities for students to understand what constitutes modern scientific research and to gain first-hand mentored experience in the scientific disciplines. These goals are achieved through both a close examination of the scientific discovery and communication process and through direct “hands-on” involvement in carefully guided basic and applied research projects. The scientific development and encouragement of young scientists in this program is promoted and fostered through direct and frequent interactions between teachers, science research professionals and other program participants. The cost for each course is approximately $115 per credit, to be paid by the student directly to Syracuse University (financial assistance is available).  
URP 150 (4 credits) – for Juniors  
URP 250 (4 credits) – for Seniors  

Prerequisites: A student registering for this course must have the recommendation of the current science teacher. Students must also have previously taken Research 1 and 2 and an overall average of 90% or higher in previous science courses. 12th grade students in URP 250 must have already taken 11th grade URP 150. 

Advanced Placement and College Credit Courses:  

Advanced Placement and college level courses are offered in many of the science disciplines, including Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, Physics, and Forensics. Advanced Placement courses all have the requirement that each student must take the AP examination in the respective disciplines. All AP classes are scheduled as a one period per day class and a laboratory period every other day. The Forensic Science course offers students the opportunity to study college-level science and earn 4 college credits from Syracuse University. The fee for this course is set by Syracuse University directly. This class is scheduled as a one period per day class and runs for a full year. 

College Forensic Science  
Grades 11-12, 1 Credit  
4 College Credits – Syracuse University    
Forensic Science is focused upon the application of scientific methods and techniques to crime and law and designed for the college bound student. This course is intended to provide an introduction to understanding the science behind crime detection. Topics included are blood analysis, organic and inorganic evidence analysis, microscopic investigations, hair analysis, DNA, drug chemistry and toxicology, fiber comparisons, glass compositions and fragmentations, fingerprints, soil comparisons, and arson investigations, among others. Laboratory exercises will include techniques commonly employed in forensic investigations. The cost for this course is approximately $115.00 per credit, to be paid by the student directly to Syracuse University (financial aid is available). *NCAA Approved 

Prerequisite: 80% or higher overall average in Honors Chemistry or 85% or higher overall average in Regents Chemistry. 

Advanced Placement Chemistry Grades  

11-12, 1 Credit  

The AP Chemistry course provides students with a college-level foundation to support future advanced coursework in Chemistry. Students cultivate their understanding of chemistry through inquiry-based investigations, as they explore content such as: atomic structure, intermolecular forces and bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics, and equilibrium. Both enrichment and college credit are available to the dedicated student. Intensive classroom work, independent study and research are an integral part of the classroom. Students must take the AP exam to receive weighted course credit: If a student doesn’t take the exam, it’s not possible to tell if he/she learned the content one would expect of an AP course. Requiring a student to take the exam ensures that the grade in the class is aligned with the student’s mastery of the course content knowledge. Students are expected to pay the associated College Board for fee for the exam.  

*NCAA Approved  

Prerequisites: A student registering for this course must have the recommendation of the current science teacher, and an overall average of 85% or higher for all previous Regents Science courses. Students must have completed Chemistry Regents or Honors and received a passing score on the Chemistry Regents exam. 

Prerequisites: A student registering for this course must have the recommendation of the current science teacher, and an overall average of 85% or higher for all previous Regents Science courses. Students must have completed Chemistry Regents or Honors and received a passing score on the Chemistry Regents exam. 

Advanced Placement Physics 1 (Algebra Based) 

Grades 11-12, 1 Credit  

AP Physics 1 (Algebra Based) is a course for those who would like to expand their understanding of physics. Students will explore and apply concepts on a deeper level. Laboratory assignments are inquiry based and hands-on. These assignments will foster a true understanding of the material and will require students to think independently and critically about various concepts in physics. AP Courses offer students an opportunity to take a course taught on a college level. Both enrichment and college credit are available to the dedicated student. Intensive classroom work, independent study and research are an integral part of the classroom. Students must take the AP exam to receive weighted course credit. Students are expected to pay the associated College Board a fee for the exam.   

 NCAA Approved  

Prerequisites: A student registering for this course must have the recommendation of the current science teacher, and an overall average of 85% or higher for all previous Regents Science courses. It is highly recommended that students have completed Physics Regents or Honors and have received a passing score on the Physics Regents exam. Successful completion of Regents Chemistry and Algebra 2.  

Advanced Placement Environmental Science  

Grades 11-12, 1 Credit 

AP Environmental Science is a problem-based multidisciplinary course that integrates the physical sciences, life sciences, and social sciences. The essential themes of the course include Land and its Uses, Soil, Water, Atmosphere and Weather, and Energy Needs and Production. AP Environmental Science is designed to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems, both natural and human made, and to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems. Students will be taught how to analyze these problems, generate alternatives, and make responsible choices in order to encourage stewardship of the earth’s natural resources. AP Courses offer students an opportunity to take a course taught on a college level. Both enrichment and college credit are available to the dedicated student. Intensive classroom work, independent study and research are an integral part of the classroom. Students must take the AP exam to receive weighted course credit: If a student doesn’t take the exam, it’s not possible to tell if he/she learned the content one would expect of an AP course. Requiring a student to take the exam ensures that the grade in the class is aligned with the student’s mastery of the course content knowledge. Students are expected to pay the associated College Board for fee for the exam.  

*NCAA Approved  

Prerequisites: A student registering for this course must have the recommendation of the current science teacher, and an overall average of 85% or higher for all previous Regents Science courses. Students must have received a passing grade on the Earth Science Regents and the Chemistry Regents.