2024 - 2025 MCPS High School Course Bulletin

Science

The goal of the science program is for all students to achieve full scientific literacy through standards-aligned, problem-based instruction. Students apply content knowledge through scientific and engineering practices to solve non routine problems. For high school graduation, each student must earn a minimum of 3 credits in science courses that are aligned to the Maryland Science Standards (Next Generation Science Standards). In selecting courses to meet the 3-credit requirement, students should seek a broad array of learning experiences that include experiences in each of the major disciplines of science (Earth/space, life, and physical science [physics and chemistry]). Recommended course sequences for students are shown in the following diagram. The varying pathways in the diagram are intended to represent options for students as they select core science courses.

CORE PATHWAY
GRADE 9	GRADE 10	GRADE 11	GRADE 12
NGSS Biology	NGSS Chemistry	NGSS Physics OR Astronomy w/Physics	AP/IB Science
NGSS Biology	NGSS Chemistry	NGSS Physics OR Astronomy w/Physics	Science Elective
Other NGSS-aligned sequences, including options for AP and IB, also are available. For example other approved pathways might include but are not limited to:
PATHWAY OPTION 1
GRADE 9	GRADE 10	GRADE 11	GRADE 12
NGSS Biology	NGSS Chemistry	AP/IB Science	AP/IB Science OR Science Elective

PATHWAY OPTION 2
GRADE 9	GRADE 10	GRADE 11	GRADE 12
NGSS Physics OR Astronomy w/ Physics OR AP/IB Physics	NGSS Chemistry	NGSS Biology OR AP/IB Biology	AP/IB Science

UPDATE: Beginning in2022, the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment in science will be administered to students the year they are enrolled in the NGSS aligned Biology course. The2022 administration (and beyond) will reflect the revised Maryland assessment, which exclusively addresses Life Science Disciplinary Core Ideas.

Alternatives to Dissection
Dissection is one of many instructional methods that may be used in laboratory science courses. Students/parents/guardians may request alternatives to dissection from the teacher. Alternatives may include such materials as videos, computer programs, films, models, transparencies, charts, diagrams, and textbook overlays.

Three Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) credits, including 1 life science (BC) credit and 1 physical science (PC) credit of organized instruction that integrate laboratory components and earth and space science concepts in each.

Each credit engages students in the application of the science and engineering practices, the cross- cutting concepts, and the disciplinary core ideas of Earth/space science, life science, physical science (chemistry and physics), engineering, and technology; align to the Maryland High School Assessment for science.