Palo Verde is proud to offer a variety of top-quality courses in science.  PV science teachers have years of combined teaching experience.  Many of our teachers have spent time in research labs and universities gaining valuable experience that is used in the classroom.  

Palo Verde offers a complete high school science experience.  All courses are considered lab sciences as defined by the NCAA.  

Life Sciences

Biology (Biology 1, 2)

This year-long course is an introductory course in life science.  Topics include cell structure and function, mitosis, DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis.  Other topics include genetics, heredity and the human reproductive system.  Second semester involves taxonomy,  population dynamics, ecology and more.

Forensics

This class is a two-semester class. Topics include

Biomedical Biotechnology

Biotechnology is an advanced biology course that focuses on DNA, RNA, proteins and their applications in biology labs and bioscience industry. Labs activities include DNA extraction, bacterial transformation, polymerase chain reaction, and bioinformatics. Particular attention is paid to lab skills as well as the scientific principles behind the labs.  This course is only offered to juniors and seniors and is cross listed as a Career and Technical Education (CTE) Joint Technology Education District.  Dual credit (BIOC 110) is available with Pima Community College.

Physical Sciences

Earth Science

Earth Science is an introductory course that covers a wide range of subjects relating to our dynamic environment.  Astronomy, mapping, physical and historical geology, meteorology, and energy are some of the topics presented in this class.

Physics

Physics is the study of the physical laws of the universe.  It includes the study of motion, electricity, light, magnetism, sound and heat.  This class teaches students the concepts of physics with algebra-based problem solving and numerous hands-on experiments and projects.  Physics is highly recommended for college-bound students; however, students interested in science or engineering should take Honors Physics or AP Physics instead of this class.

Honors Physics

Honors Physics is a more advanced class in Physics for the student with more advanced math skills.  The course covers the same material as Physics but with an emphasis on mathematical solutions to problems and the collection and analysis of data in labs.  Students who are interested in a career in engineering, science or technology should take this course if their math background is sufficient.

AP Physics

In this advanced class in physics, students study mechanics (the study of motion) in depth with the goal of passing the AP Physics "C" exam for college credit.  The course uses differential and integral calculus as the fundamental math in the understanding of the principles and the solutions to the problems.  Students are strongly encouraged to take the AP exam for college credit.

Chemistry

Chemistry is highly recommended for the college-bound student.  Students will study the make-up of matter:  its composition, structure, and properties.  Practical applications of chemistry to everyday life are frequently made.  Understanding the major concepts of chemistry is emphasized in laboratory experiments.

Environmental Chemistry

This class studies the fundamental concepts and principles of chemistry as they relate to various issues that affect society and the environment.  Topics covered include the study of water, natural resources, petroleum products, air quality, industrial chemistry, nuclear power, and food chemistry.  Students will be introduced to the study of organic chemistry and biochemistry.  The course is about 50% laboratory-based and features decision-making activities which give students practice in applying their chemistry knowledge.  

AP Chemistry

This second year chemistry course gives students an in-depth knowledge of the principles of basic chemistry and a firm foundation in the techniques and procedures used in the chemistry laboratory.  The laboratory experiments emphasize principles and concepts learned in lecture.  Students are strongly encouraged to take the AP exam at the end of the course.

Graduation Requirements for Science

• Student interested in a career in the sciences or desire a more rigorous  high school program should take four or five science course during their years at Palo Verde.  Check on entrance requirements at the institution of choice.

• College-bound students must earn three science credits.  Check on entrance requirements at the institution of choice.

• Students must earn two science credits to graduate from Palo Verde High School.  

• It is recommended that students take a variety of science courses--at the minimum, one life science and one physical science.

For details on each teacher's courses, including syllabi, web-related assignments and other information, click on the teacher's name on the PV Science Home Page.

Other Opportunities for science students

• Academic Decathlon

• Engineering Club

• Science and Engineering Awards - juniors and seniors

• Women in Science and Engineering - U of A conference for young women

• Open House at the U of A - science careers

• Chemical Engineer - Adopt an Engineer, U of A

• Pre-engineer Workshop - U of A

• Professional Internship Program (PIP) - juniors and seniors with a 3.0 GPA

• U of A Summer Science Programs - juniors and seniors

• Med Start - U of A medical careers

• Southwest Area Regional Science and Engineering Fair (SARSEF) - annually in March or April