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Course Description Guide 2024-25

Science (2024-25)

The Trinity Episcopal School Science Department forges academically knowledgeable, scientifically literate, and technologically capable problem solvers. The Department provides an environment that fosters inquisitive thought, nurtures curiosity, and brings current and real-world science into the classroom. Students learn to collect, interpret and manage data, enabling knowledgeable decision making. Through a unique blend of classic classroom lectures, hands-on laboratory exercises, field trip excursions, engagement with the local scientific community, and use of technical tools, students question, comprehend and analyze global issues with a scientific and data-driven approach.

3 years of laboratory science are required. The 9th and 10th grade required sequence of semester courses Conceptual Physics and Scientific Research for 9s and semester courses Biology and Chemistry for 10s earn 2 laboratory credits. Scroll down for the course sequence.

All IB Science SL courses have one additional lab day per eight-day cycle.

Science

List of 11 items.

  • Integrated Science - Grade 8

    1 Credit

    This course offers students from a diverse array of science backgrounds an opportunity to prepare for upper-level science with an integrated study of the major sciences. Students will study chemistry, physics, biology, and environmental science through a series of investigations and analysis problems occurring in a traditional classroom setting, the laboratory, and in the field. Students will devote a significant amount of time to studying ecological systems and watershed dynamics in and around the James River and the Chesapeake Bay. The course will take a specific focus on hands-on water quality testing both in streams flowing through Trinity’s campus as well as the James River and its tributaries. Through this course, students should not only learn the communication skills, study skills, research, and vital laboratory skills expected in the science classroom but also should improve their appreciation for our local watershed and its importance in Virginia’s social and scientific history. As in all laboratory science courses, students will conduct research through experimentation, developing and practicing all aspects of the scientific method.

    Additionally, there will be opportunities to work with younger students from surrounding schools as we share the impressive features of our local ecosystem. It is recommended that students bring in a pair of rain boots or old shoes, as the class frequently takes field trips to the creek or river.

    Units of Study
    Water Quality Indicators
    Chesapeake Bay Ecosystems
    Topographic Mapping
    Chemistry: Periodic Table, Sugar in Nature
    Biology: Nucleic Acids, Carbohydrates, Proteins, Lipids
    Graphing
    Water Quality Education

  • Conceptual Physics - Grade 9

    0.5 Credit

    This required semester-long freshman course involves the study of the basic concepts of physics. It provides the foundation to understanding the physical world around us, engaging students in understanding the basic laws and processes that determine how our world works. Students learn through a combination of independent and collaborative hands-on investigations, mathematical concepts, and computer simulations. Students will develop skills in experimental procedure and analysis. Students will be expected to think critically and apply their knowledge, rather than apply rote memorization. Healthy habits for success in this course include time management skills, personal responsibility in group interactions, and proactively reaching out for help. This course is about developing individual students to become critical thinkers who take responsibility for their learning. This course will also provide insight into what physics is like in the real world, with the help of an independent research project. The course will give students a solid foundation for future work in Chemistry and Biology in the 10th grade. 

    Units of Study
    Measurement
    Motion
    Forces
    Energy


  • Scientific Research - Grade 9

    0.5 Credit

    This semester-long course is required for all freshman students. The course concentrates on developing those habits of mind and practice that are the building blocks of the scientific method. Students learn to use the scientific method in a lab setting including planning and conducting an experiment; processing, analyzing, and graphing data collected from the experiment; discussing and making conclusions using collected data; and evaluating the experimental process itself. In addition, they learn to use statistical analysis to determine the validity and reliability of data. Students also conduct research through the use of popular and academic journals, discerning information’s currency, accuracy, and usefulness to support scientific conclusions. Students will demonstrate their learning through quizzes and tests as well as group work, labs, and various hands-on activities and projects. To succeed in this course, a nightly review of material is a necessity in combination with a curious, analytical, enthusiastic, and hard-working attitude every day in class. Skills learned during the semester will translate to future science, as well as other courses.

    Units of Study
    Unit 1 - Observe
    Unit 2 - Research and Questioning
    Unit 3 - Experimental Design
    Unit 4 - Data Collection
    Unit 5 - Data Processing and Analysis

  • Biology - Grade 10

    0.5 Credit

    Prerequisites:  Conceptual Physics, Scientific Research, and Algebra 1

    Required tools:  TI-84 Plus Calculator

    This course offers students an opportunity to explore how scientists define life and classify living things, how populations of organisms grow and change over time, how organisms grow on a cellular level, and how traits and characteristics are inherited. Students learn through data collection in the laboratory, focused readings, and class discussions. Students will improve their observational and investigative skills and their experimental design proficiency. Scientific literacy and data analysis will be emphasized.

    Units of Study
    Biomolecules
    The Cell
    Cancer, Meiosis, and Sexual Reproduction
    Diseases
    Genetics
    Evolution
    Human Systems


  • Chemistry - Grade 10

    0.5 Credit
    Prerequisites:  Conceptual Physics, Scientific Research, and Algebra 1
    Required tools:  TI-84 Plus Calculator

    This course covers properties of matter, periodic trends, atomic theory, nomenclature, chemical formulas, mole conversions, chemical composition, reactions, and stoichiometry. Students learn concepts and practical applications through lab activities and collaborative problem-solving. The course also covers laboratory techniques, experimental design, error analysis, and statistical analysis. Safe laboratory practices are emphasized and implemented. This semester-long course is complemented by the study of Biology.

    Students should demonstrate the personal skills of cooperation, perseverance, and responsibility appropriate for effective scientific investigation. They should be organized and comfortable with a variety of teaching techniques. Students should demonstrate good problem-solving skills such as using learned material in new situations and deciding which material is applicable in a given situation. 

    Units of Study
    Nature of Science and Laboratory Skills
    Classification and Atomic Theory
    Bonding and Nomenclature
    Counting Particles (The Mole)
    Chemical Reactions
    Stoichiometry

  • Biology Honors - Grade 10

    0.5 Credit
    Prerequisites:  Scientific Research with a semester grade of A or higher and an average test grade of A- or higher; Conceptual Physics with a semester grade of A or higher and an average test grade of A- or higher and teacher recommendation. Grades in previous standard level math classes (Geometry or higher) of A-. Grades in previous honors-level math classes (Geometry Honors or higher) of B+. Teacher recommendation is also required.

    Required tools:  TI-84 Plus Calculator

    This course offers students an opportunity to explore basic concepts in Biology and their contributions to the characteristics of life. Students study the structures, functions, and processes of living organisms and their interactions with the environment. Students will conduct independent research and statistical analysis. Students learn complex biological concepts through class discussions, collaborative groups, data collection, video presentations, and independent application of knowledge. Students who want to pursue IB science classes in their junior year would benefit from this class.  This semester-long course is complemented by the study of Chemistry Honors.

    This course is designed for independent, fast-paced learners with excellent reading comprehension and mathematics skills. The course allows for both prescribed and original experimental designs to encourage students to grow in their investigative and observational skills. Collected data is further delineated through statistical analysis and quantitative manipulation. 

    Students should demonstrate the personal skills of cooperation, perseverance, and responsibility appropriate for effective investigation and problem-solving. They should be organized and comfortable with fast-paced learning and a variety of teaching techniques. Students should demonstrate good problem-solving skills such as using learned material in new situations and deciding which material is applicable in a given situation. Students must also be independent learners who can comprehend and retain what they read.

    Units of Study
    Cell Biology
    Molecular Biology
    Genetics
    Ecology
    Evolution and Biodiversity
    Human Physiology


  • Chemistry Honors - Grade 10

    0.5 Credit

    Prerequisites: Scientific Research with a semester grade of A or higher and an average test grade of A- or higher; Conceptual Physics with a semester grade of A or higher and an average test grade of A- or higher. Grades in previous standard level math classes (Geometry or higher) of A-. Grades in previous honors-level math classes (Geometry Honors or higher) of B+. Teacher recommendation is also needed.

    Required tools:  TI-84 Plus Calculator

    This course covers properties of matter, periodic trends, atomic theory, nomenclature, chemical formulas, mole conversions, chemical composition, reactions, and stoichiometry. Students learn concepts and practical applications through lab activities and collaborative problem-solving. The course also covers laboratory techniques, experimental design, error analysis, and statistical analysis. Safe laboratory practices are emphasized and implemented. This semester-long course is complemented by the study of Biology Honors.

    Students should demonstrate the personal skills of cooperation, perseverance, and responsibility appropriate for effective scientific investigation. They should be organized and comfortable with fast-paced learning and a variety of teaching techniques. Students should demonstrate good problem-solving skills such as using learned material in new situations and deciding which material is applicable in a given situation. Students must also be independent learners who can comprehend and retain what they read.

    Units of Study
    Nature of Science and Laboratory Skills
    Classification and Atomic Theory
    Bonding and Nomenclature
    Counting Particles (The Mole)
    Chemical Reactions
    Stoichiometry


  • Physics - Grades 11-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisites:  B- or higher in Algebra 2/2H or Teacher Recommendation

    Required tools:  TI-84 Plus Calculator

    Physics is a course where the fundamental motions of the universe and equations that describe them will be modeled, discussed, and explored. This class offers an introduction to Algebra-based physics for non-IB students. Students learn through class discussions, demonstrations, hands-on experiments, and simulations. Students will interpret the results of observations, which involve the assessment of experimental errors and uncertainties. As in all laboratory science courses, students will conduct research through experimentation, developing all aspects of the scientific method. Students who are considering careers in STEM-based fields should strongly consider taking this course. It is crucial for students to be curious about the way the world works. Scientifically minded students will have great success in this course. This course can also help prepare students for IB Physics SL.

    Units of Study
    Scientific Thinking 
    Introduction to Forces
    Constant Velocity
    Constant Acceleration
    Constant Net Force
    Two Dimensional Motion
    Energy
    Electrostatics
    Circuits
    Waves & Sound 


  • Chemistry 2 - Grades 11-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisites:  Biology and Chemistry and grade of B- or higher in Algebra 2 or Algebra 2 Honors

    Required tools:  TI-84 Plus Calculator

    This course covers deeper learning of properties of matter, gas laws, thermodynamics, bonding, intermolecular forces, reactions, stoichiometry, and forensics. Additional smaller topics will be covered pertaining to data analysis, instrumentation, conversions, and the nature of science. Students will learn concepts and practical application through discussion, group work, problem-solving and lab activities. The course also emphasizes safe laboratory techniques, experimental design, error analysis, and statistical analysis. This course is intended to supplement the semester-long introductory chemistry course. It also gives an opportunity to non-IB students to go further in chemistry and prepare for college. It is intended for students who plan to pursue careers in science, medicine, nursing, pharmacology, physical therapy, etc.

    In order to be successful in this course, students should demonstrate the personal skills of cooperation, perseverance, active participation, and responsibility. They should be organized and comfortable with a variety of teaching techniques. Students should demonstrate good problem-solving skills such as applying learned material to novel situations and deciding which material is applicable in a given situation.

    Units of Study
    Nature of Science and Laboratory Skills
    The Mole and Stoichiometry
    Gas Laws
    Thermodynamics
    Bonding
    Intermolecular Forces
    Organic Chemistry Topics


  • Human Anatomy and Physiology - Grades 11-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry and teacher recommendation

    The foundation of this course is the concept of homeostasis and how the body maintains stable internal conditions, if not also ideal performance. Fundamental structures, at least one core physiological process, and particular diseases or issues of note are explored in each unit. Successful students will have the discipline to memorize some information and connect it to larger medical or social issues, to study both independently and collaboratively, and to employ research and writing skills. Hands-on activities and labs, discussion of current events, research projects, and traditional worksheets, quizzes, and tests are used to reinforce content and develop information literacy. This class is strongly recommended for students who may want to pursue a career in health or medicine.

    Units of Study
    Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology
    Biochemistry and Tissues
    Skeletal System
    Muscular System
    Nervous System
    Cardio-Respiratory System
    Digestive System
    Immune System
    Endocrine and Reproductive Systems


  • River and Environmental Systems - Grade 12

    Grade 12
    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

    This class offers senior students the opportunity to understand how river systems function and their connection to the overall environment. The course emphasizes the study of the James River system with a particular focus on environmental values, perspectives, and history. The course goes into detail about the current worldwide environmental issues using both the historical and modern James River as a direct example. In addition, the course serves as an overview of basic environmental sciences that allow students to draw connections between these systems.  This course is a hands-on, experience-based class. We use classroom activities to support numerous outings to the James River Park System, the environment around campus, Downtown Richmond, and other local James River tributaries. 

    As in all laboratory science courses, students will conduct research through experimentation thus developing all aspects of the scientific method. Additionally, because this class is hands-on and experiential in nature, students must be prepared to be outside in a variety of weather and possibly challenging conditions. All field experiences will be preceded or followed by classroom activities and traditional assignments. Students should be prepared to learn both inside and outside.

    It is recommended that students bring in a pair of rain boots or old shoes, as the class will frequently be walking in wet and muddy conditions.

    Units of Study
    Foundations of Environmental Science and River Systems 
    Geography and Mapping of Virginia’s Watersheds
    Water Properties, Water Quality, and the Water Cycle
    Biodiversity and Conservation
    Soil Science
    Atmospheric Science 
    Climate Change and Human Systems
    Environmental Action


IB Science

List of 7 items.

  • IB Environmental Systems & Societies SL - Grades 11-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on expectations of B or higher in Chemistry Honors and Biology Honors (or previous IB course) or A in Chemistry and Biology (or previous standard-level science course), evidence of focus, reliability, work ethic, independent learning, and passion for the subject matter.

    Required tools:  Graphing calculator. "Rite-in-the-Rain" Field Journal (purchased through the school)

    Additional Fees: Students in this course are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam. Please see the information in the Overview section about IB exams. An additional fee is required for the online support tool Kognity.

    This course may count as a Group 3 and/or a Group 4 IB course for diploma candidates.  It will also satisfy either a Trinity science credit or a social studies credit, but not both.

    The intent of this course is to help students develop a holistic perspective on the environment using a systems approach together with scientific, economic, historical, cultural and socio-political methodologies. The course seeks to help students develop the skills to assess, measure, and analyze the environment from a local to a global perspective. Topics include foundations of environmental systems and societies, ecosystems and ecology, biodiversity and conservation, water and aquatic food production systems and societies, soil systems and terrestrial food production systems and societies, atmospheric systems and societies, climate change, and energy production and human systems and resource use.

    In the laboratory component of this course, students will explore experimental methods, develop experimental design skills and apply these methods and skills to the study of ecosystems and societies. Laboratory work will be augmented with fieldwork both on the Trinity property and other locations. Students are expected to independently apply laboratory skills and report writing learned in previous science classes. Advanced skills will be developed throughout the course and students will complete an individual investigation that is assessed by the teacher and submitted to IBO. It represents 25% of the exam score. The investigation focuses on using the scientific method for a lab experience that includes: planning and conducting an experiment; processing, analyzing, and graphing data collected from the experiment; discussing and making conclusions using collected data; and evaluating the experimental process itself.

    This course is for any student interested in environmental sciences, sustainability, or the outdoors in general. However, the goal of this course is to explain environmentalism through a variety of lenses, from economic, to religious, to recreational, so all curious and qualified students are welcome. It is a class that does involve some outdoor work, so students should be prepared to work safely in any weather.

    Units of Study
    Foundations of ESS
    Ecosystems and ecology 
    Biodiversity and conservation
    Water, aquatic food production systems, and societies
    Soil systems, terrestrial food production systems and societies
    Atmospheric systems and societies
    Climate change and energy production
    Human systems and resource use

  • IB Biology SL - Grades 11-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on expectations of B or higher in Chemistry Honors and Biology Honors (or previous IB course) or A in Chemistry and Biology (or previous standard-level science course), evidence of focus, reliability, work ethic, and independent learning.

    Required tools: A TI 83/84 calculator is recommended for this course. All students should have at least a four-function calculator for the IB exam.

    Additional Fee: Students in this course are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam. Please see the information in the Overview section about IB exams. An additional fee is required for the online support tool Kognity.

    Biologists investigate the living world at all levels from the microscopic to macroscopic, using a variety of approaches and techniques. At one end of the scale are the cell, its molecular construction, and complex metabolic reactions. At the other end of the scale are the ecosystem-level interactions in the biosphere. The IB Biology curriculum is organized around these levels of organization, exploring four main themes that interconnect them all. Students should be able to focus on challenging concepts, maintain a strong work ethic, and be both independent and collaborative learners. Those who are interested in college or career-level biology, ecology, medicine, and health will all benefit from the course. Students will demonstrate their knowledge through a variety of means, apply that knowledge to modern problems, and engage in scientific investigations designed to develop their analysis, research, and evaluation skills. Students are expected to independently apply previous laboratory skills and continue to develop them, culminating with an IA - an individually designed and completed investigation assessed by the teacher. The score on the IA, along with the May exam scores, completes the overall IB Biology grade.

    Units of Study
    Form and Function
    Unity and Diversity
    Interaction and Interdependence
    Continuity and Change.

    These units are explored through four main levels of organization: Molecules, Cells, Organisms, and Ecosystems.

  • IB Biology HL - Grade 12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB Biology SL
    Required tools: A TI 83/84 calculator is recommended for this class. All students need at least a four-function calculator for the IB exam.

    Additional Fee: Students in this course are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam. Please see the information in the Overview section about IB exams. Students will be charged a fee for Kognity in this course. Kognity is an online learning support tool.

    This course builds upon what was learned in IB Biology SL. Students re-engage with previous topics and take on additional coursework in cell signaling, viruses, genetics, and movement systems. Students demonstrate their learning through collaborative activities, lab investigations, research projects, and data analysis. To succeed in this course, students must be curious, knowledgeable, attentive to detail, determined, creative, and self-motivated. Skills in critical analysis, observation, research, and writing are all emphasized. Those interested in majors/jobs in biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, chemistry, psychology, nursing/medical school, engineering, agriculture, and ecology should consider taking this course. This course prepares students for the IB Biology HL examination.

    Units of Study
    Form and Function
    Unity and Diversity
    Interaction and Interdependence
    Continuity and Change

    These units are explored through four main levels of organization: Molecules, Cells, Organisms, and Ecosystems.

  • IB Chemistry SL - Grades 11-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation based on expectations of B+ or higher in Chemistry Honors and Biology Honors, (or B or higher in previous IB course), or A in Chemistry and Biology (or previous standard-level science course), evidence of focus, reliability, work ethic, and independent learning.   In addition, the mathematics prerequisite is B or higher in Algebra 2 Honors or A or higher in Algebra 2.

    Required tools:  TI-84 Plus Calculator

    Additional fees: Students in this course are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam. Please see the information in the Overview section about IB exams. An additional fee is required for the online support tool Kognity.

    This course takes a rigorous approach to academic study and investigational laboratory skills, emphasizing experimental design and documentation. This means students should anticipate a difficult, but rewarding, class. Stoichiometry, atomic structure, periodicity, bonding and intermolecular forces, energetics, chemical kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, oxidation-reduction and electrochemistry, basic organic chemistry, and medicinal chemistry are the major topics that are covered. All students conduct research for the IB Group 4 science project. Assessment includes homework, quizzes, tests, labs, and practice problems from prior IB exams. Independent laboratory work is assessed in the second semester. Students learn concepts and practical applications through lectures, group work, problem-solving, and lab activities. The course also covers laboratory techniques, experimental design, error analysis, and statistical analysis. This course prepares students for the IB Chemistry Standard Level Examination.

    This course is recommended for students who plan to pursue careers in sciences, engineering, medicine, nursing, pharmacology, physical therapy, etc.

    Units of Study
    Structure 1: Models of the particulate nature of matter
    Structure 2: Models of bonding and structure
    Structure 3: Classification of matter
    Reactivity 1: What drives chemical reactions?
    Reactivity 2: How much, how fast, and how far?
    Reactivity 3: What are the mechanisms of chemical change?

  • IB Chemistry HL - Grade 12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB Chemistry SL

    Required tools:  TI-84 Plus Calculator

    Additional fees: Students in this course are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam. Please see the information in the Overview section about IB exams. An additional fee is required for the online support tool Kognity.

    This course covers a review of the material covered in IB Chemistry SL as well as the additional material specified for IB Chemistry HL. This course provides a deeper approach to chemical principles, including the required mathematical analysis. Students must be able to retain material mastered in Chemistry SL as well as the work in the HL course and apply it throughout the entire field of study. Laboratory work is an extensive part of the course with an emphasis on experimental design and report writing. A scientific paper on the student’s self-designed experiment and a cumulative test will take the place of a first-semester exam. Topics covered include atomic structure, chemical bonding and structure, thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, equilibrium, redox, acids and bases, and a detailed survey of organic chemistry and instrumental analysis. The IB optional study topic is medicine and drugs. Students who complete this course will be prepared to take the IB Chemistry Higher Level examination.

    This course is recommended for students who plan to pursue careers in sciences, engineering, medicine, nursing, pharmacology, physical therapy, etc.
     
    Units of Study
    Structure 1: Models of the particulate nature of matter
    Structure 2: Models of bonding and structure
    Structure 3: Classification of matter
    Reactivity 1: What drives chemical reactions?
    Reactivity 2: How much, how fast, and how far?
    Reactivity 3: What are the mechanisms of chemical change?

  • IB Physics SL - Grades 11-12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation based on expectations of B+ or higher in Chemistry Honors and Biology Honors, (or B or higher in previous IB course), or A in Chemistry and Biology (or previous standard-level science course), evidence of focus, reliability, work ethic, and independent learning.  In addition, the mathematics prerequisite is B or higher in Algebra 2 Honors or A or higher in Algebra 2.

    Required tools:  TI-84 Plus Calculator

    Additional fees: Students in this course are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam. Please see the information in the Overview section about IB exams. Students will be charged a fee for Kognity in this course. Kognity is an online learning support tool.

    Delve into the captivating realm of physics with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Physics Standard Level (SL) course. Designed to inspire curiosity and foster a deep understanding of the natural world, IB Physics SL offers students a journey through the principles that govern the universe. Students will be exposed to ‘tools’ for understanding physics through mathematics, experimentation, and data analysis.

    Throughout this course, success will come to students who:
    -   embark on a comprehensive exploration of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, waves, quantum physics, and more.
    -   engage in experiments, theoretical investigations, and real-world applications,
    -   develop critical thinking skills and analytical mindsets

    IB Physics SL places a strong emphasis on hands-on experimentation, encouraging students to develop practical skills in data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Students gain proficiency in scientific inquiry, learning to formulate hypotheses, design experiments, and draw evidence-based conclusions.

    Milestones of this course include an individual assessment/lab, Group 4 project, and external assessments. Those who are considering careers in STEM-based fields should strongly consider taking this course.

    IB Physics SL empowers students to become lifelong learners and informed global citizens. Whether pursuing further studies in the sciences, engineering, or beyond, graduates of IB Physics SL emerge with a profound appreciation for the beauty and intricacy of the physical world, ready to make meaningful contributions to society.

    Units of Study
    Space, Time, and Motion
    The Particulate Nature of Matter
    Wave Behavior
    Fields
    Nuclear and Quantum Physics

  • IB Physics HL - Grade 12

    1 Credit

    Prerequisite:  Teacher recommendation based on the expectation of B or higher in IB Physics SL  

    Required tools:  TI-84 Plus Calculator

    Additional fees: Students in this course are expected to take the IB exam. A fee applies to all students taking this exam. Please see the information in the Overview section about IB exams. Students will be charged a fee for Kognity in this course. Kognity is an online learning support tool.

    This course uses college-level texts and laboratory experiences and includes a detailed approach to the principles of physics. The course amplifies the material taught in the first year of the course with a greater emphasis on problem-solving skills involving more advanced mathematical methods. Students will learn through independent research, hands-on laboratory investigations, demonstrations, and collaborative work within the class. Students should be able to think critically and work independently. This course prepares students not only for the IB Physics HL Examination but also for advanced physical scientific study at the college level. While reviewing the standard-level material and learning the additional higher-level topics, students will gain an understanding and appreciation for the scientific advances that have contributed to the development of society as we know it. Students should expect a rigorous curriculum. Healthy study habits and time management skills are a necessity for success in this course. Those who are interested in careers in science and engineering should consider taking this course.

    Units of Study
    Space, Time, and Motion
    The Particulate Nature of Matter
    Wave Behavior
    Fields
    Nuclear and Quantum Physics


Science Electives

List of 4 items.

  • Crime & Science - Grades 9-12

    Grades 9-12
    0.5 credit

    Required tool(s): Scientific calculator

    This course does not count toward the lab science graduation requirement.

    This course covers principles of forensic science including the justice system, crime scene investigation, and fingerprinting. Possible additional units will be arson/explosive, toxicology, hair analysis, pathology and blood spatter, and DNA. In this single-semester elective, students will learn through hands-on experience, lectures, and labs. Forensic science touches all facets of science and will help students understand the limitations of forensic science to develop their critical thinking skills.

    Success in this course will come from the motivation to explore scientific concepts and the willingness to think objectively about the evidence presented in class. This course covers sensitive materials and requires a mature attitude.

    Units of Study
    The Justice System
    Crime Scene Investigation
    Pathology
    Fingerprinting
    Hair Analysis
    Toxicology
    Blood Spatter
    DNA Analysis
    Arson/Explosive Analysis

  • Oceanography - Grades 8-10

    Grades 8-10
    0.5 credit

    This course does not count toward the lab science graduation requirement.

    Oceanography is the study of the largest and most consequential feature on earth.  This course, a single semester elective, will offer students in grades 8-10 the opportunity to use the study of oceans as a framework for practicing investigative skills including laboratory activities, environmental science fieldwork, data collection, and interpretation of findings.   The class will cover material from many branches of science including environmental science, geology, and biology.  As earth’s oceans have a tremendous effect on topics in all areas of science and society this class will offer students the opportunity to prepare for college study and careers in ocean-related history, urban planning, habitat management, resource management, aquaculture, and meteorology.

    Success in this course will come from motivation to explore scientific concepts and a willingness to work outside in the fields and forest surrounding campus.

    It is recommended that students bring in a pair of rain boots or old shoes, as the class frequently will be working outside.

    Units of Study
    Origins of the Oceans
    Sea Geography
    Properties of Water
    Ocean Currents and Tides
    Life in the Sea
    Ocean Economics
    Sand, Shells, Gravel
    International Shipping
    Fishing and Whaling 
    Monitoring Ocean Pollution

  • Science Intern - Grades 9-12

    Grades 9-12
    0.5 credit

    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation

    This course does not count toward the lab science graduation requirement.

    This elective is designed for students in grades 9-12 with an appreciation and curiosity for the scientific method. Students will be responsible for managing and setting up lab equipment for various levels of science courses. Students will gain insight and understanding of how to conduct experiments within the different science courses. With exposure to the experimental design process and lab equipment, students would feel more prepared as lab assistants in research facilities. Students in this semester-long course will engage with the science department faculty and should have the ability to communicate effectively, be organized, and follow lab safety procedures. Those interested must receive a recommendation from a science teacher. This class may be repeated for credit with the instructor’s permission.

    Units of Study
    Lab Safety
    Systems of Organization
    Maintaining the Lab Space
    Independent Study Related to Science

  • Sustainable Systems: Rethink, React, Resolve - Grades 9-12

    Grades 9-12
    0.5 Credit

    This course does not count toward the lab science graduation requirement.

    This semester-long course explores and promotes the science behind a sustainable way of life. Students rethink the ways we live now, react to information about the impact of those lifestyles, and resolve to improve. Students learn what a carbon footprint is and why it matters. Do they pursue questions like what is the impact of our current agricultural system? Should we eat vegetarian? How are governments and businesses incorporating sustainability into their missions? Students in this course cultivate answers to these questions and more by working in the Trinity gardens, taking field trips, and listening to guest speakers who specialize in sustainability. This course includes multiple projects in which students research and present, allowing them to gain first-hand experience with a variety of technology and media tools. The class pursues paperless learning and helps with on-campus programming designed to support a culture of sustainability. This course may be repeated for credit with instructor permission if space permits.

    It is recommended that students bring in a pair of rain boots or old shoes, as the class frequently works in the garden or does field studies.

    Units of Study (will vary by season)
    What Does It Mean to Live Sustainably?
    Good Garden Practices
    Sustainable and Non-sustainable Food Supplies
    Sustainable Workplaces
    Sustainable Cities
    United Nations Sustainability Goals

Course Sequence

Science Core Courses

Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4 Level 5
Integrated Science Conceptual Physics/Scientific Research Chemistry Honors/Biology Honors IB Physics SL IB Physics HL
IB Chemistry SL IB Chemistry HL
IB Biology SL IB Biology HL
IB Environmental Systems and Societies SL
Chemistry/Biology Physics
Chemistry 2
Human Anatomy and Physiology
River and Environmental Systems


Science Electives

Grades 8-10 Grades 9-12 Grades 10-12
Oceanography Science Intern Sustainable Systems
Crime & Science

Trinity Episcopal School

3850 PITTAWAY DR | RICHMOND VA 23235-1099 | Phone: 804.272.5864 | Fax: 804.272.5865 Email: mail@trinityes.org