Prerequisites for Accelerated Students in Grade 9: (concurrent with PSII) A limited number of students with very strong math and science grades and a strong teacher recommendation, may be allowed to take Biology concurrently with PSII. This will be decided individually after a discussion with the science teacher.

Basic traditional concepts in biology will be explored through a combination of laboratory investigations, lectures and various technologies. General themes will be taken from molecular biology, energy usage, epidemiology, genetics, biodiversity, ecology and anatomy / physiology. Instructional strategies will focus more on conceptual approaches and a moderate pace intended to address a variety of student learning styles and standards expected in the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks.

Prerequisites for Grade 10: B+ average in 9th grade science AND a B average in either Algebra II Honors or regular Geometry, with the strong recommendation of their 9th grade science teacher.
Prerequisites for Accelerated Students in Grade 9: (concurrent with PSII) A limited number of students with very strong math and science grades and a strong teacher recommendation, may be allowed to take Biology concurrently with PSII. This will be decided individually after a discussion with the science teacher.

Molecular and traditional concepts in biology will be explored through a combination of laboratory investigations, lectures and various technologies. General themes will be taken from molecular biology, energy usage, epidemiology, genetics, biodiversity, ecology and anatomy / physiology. Instructional strategies will focus more on abstract as well as conceptual approaches at a rapid pace. This course is intended to not only cover standards expected in the MCAS frameworks, but also prepare students for potential advanced studies in biology.

This demanding biology program is recommended for juniors who have demonstrated advanced skills in science and significant levels of past academic achievement, who believe their future careers may be in science, engineering or medicine. The curriculum follows a program developed by the College Board including 12 mandatory laboratory investigations and is parallel in rigor and content to that offered at the introductory college level. Assignments are purposeful, but lengthy and the class pace is rapid. Students are expected to take the standardized final examination and may qualify for a waiver of an introductory biology course upon entry into college.