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Science

Science Department

Science Courses

  • Illustration of two lab flasks, one with a plant growing inside.Biology with Virtual Labs, Semester A, is a single-semester course designed to strengthen your knowledge of basic biology. The first unit provides an introduction to biology and biochemistry. It focuses on the roles of and differences between plant and animal cells. In the second unit, you’ll learn about the functions of different organ systems. The third unit covers cell division and the role of DNA and chromosomes in passing traits from parents to offspring.

    Biology with Virtual Labs, Semester B, is a single-semester course designed to strengthen your knowledge of biology concepts. The first unit focuses on the classification, characteristics and biological processes of living organisms. In the second unit, you’ll study evolutionary mechanisms and the impact of environmental factors on species over time. The third unit focuses on the conservation of energy as it relates to living things and different ecosystems. In the last unit, you’ll explore how different ecosystems are interdependent.

  • A circular icon featuring laboratory flasks and test tubes.Chemistry is the study of matter and how it changes. This course looks at matter’s composition, properties, and transformations. In Chemistry A, you’ll explore the structure and properties of matter. You’ll analyze and construct the periodic table of elements. You’ll compare elements based on their atomic structures and relative positions in the periodic table. You will also discuss the chemical bonding taking place in ionic and covalent compounds and metals. Finally, you’ll predict the outcome of chemical reactions based on the reactants involved.

    In Chemistry B, you will calculate the theoretical quantities of substances involved in a chemical reaction through the study of stoichiometry. You’ll analyze chemical reactions that involve aqueous solutions, acids and bases, and gases. You’ll see how gases respond to changes in pressure, volume, temperature, and quantity through the ideal gas law. You’ll also calculate changes in temperature caused by physical and chemical processes and analyze reactions in terms of bond energies. Finally, you will understand how atoms are changed by the unique processes of radioactive decay, nuclear fusion, and nuclear fission.

  • An illustration of an eco-friendly tote bag and a reusable coffee cup.Environmental Science A is intended to introduce you to some of the main concepts of environmental science. It will help you gain knowledge of some of the natural processes that occur in nature and understand their importance and relevance. You will also gain awareness of some of the environment-related issues and challenges we face in the world today. 

    Environmental Science B is intended to help you understand some of the factors that affect the environment. You will first learn about the characteristics of populations and the implications of human population growth on the environment. You will then learn about land use and management, wildlife conservation, resource and waste management, and the different kinds of pollution and their management. In the last unit, you will learn about energy sources and production, sustainable development, and environmental policies. 


  • Diagram illustrating the life cycle of a ladybug, with arrows showing the stages.Life Science A: Life Science deals with the study of all types of living organisms, such as microorganisms, plants, animals, and humans. The field focuses on their organization and life processes. Life Science A begins with the basic unit of life—the cell. You’ll discover how cells build up tissues, organs, and systems. You will study the growth and development processes of different organisms and see how genes are responsible for the traits of organisms. You’ll also explore natural selection and artificial selection and their effects on the genetic traits of organisms.

    Life Science B: In Life Science B, you will learn how life evolved on Earth. You’ll analyze fossil data to determine the evidence it provides about evolution. You’ll study ecosystems, the flow of energy in an ecosystem, and the various relationships in an ecosystem. In addition, you will discover the interdependence that is present in all ecosystems. At the end of the semester, you’ll determine the effects that humans and environmental factors have on the ecosystems and devise solutions to protect the biodiversity of ecosystems from these effects. 

  • An illustration of Newton's cradle, a physics demonstration toy.Physical Science A: Science is the study of the natural world. It relies on experimentation and evidence to describe the natural events that occur around us. Physical science is the study of matter and energy. In Physical Science, Semester A, you'll describe the atomic and molecular structure of substances using models. You will investigate how chemical reactions involve energy and lead to changes in properties of substances. You'll also model different kinds of forces and the effect they have on the motion of objects. You’ll solve problems involving work and power and apply these principles to simple machines. Finally, you will see how simple machines make up more complex machines that are important in our lives.

    Physical Science B: In Physical Science, Semester B, you'll investigate gravitational, electric, and magnetic force fields and identify factors that determine their strength. You'll apply concepts of electricity and magnetism to explain how motors, generators, and electromagnets work. You will discuss energy transformations in objects and systems, including how heat flows between objects that are at different temperatures. You will model how sound and light travel as waves and how they interact with different forms of matter. Finally, you'll explore how electromagnetic waves help us communicate with one another and collect information about the universe.

  • A diagram of the solar system, showing planets orbiting the sun.In Intro to Astronomy, you will learn about the history of astronomy from ancient times to modern times. You will identify the movements of the sun, moon, planets, and stars across the sky. You will describe the formation of the solar system and the role of the Sun and Moon in our solar system. You will describe the causes of seasons on Earth and the reasons for life on Earth. You will learn about the stars, galaxies, and the Milky Way. You will explain various theories of cosmology and the advantages and disadvantages of space exploration. 

  • A blue shield icon with a white cross and paw prints, inside a white circle.This one-semester course is intended for you to familiarize yourself with the knowledge and skills required for a career in the veterinary industry. This course has 13 lessons organized into three units, plus three Unit Activities. Each lesson contains one or more Lesson Activities. In the Introduction to Veterinary Science course, you will explore the history of veterinary science, and the skills and requirements for a successful career in the veterinary industry. You will also explore the physiology and anatomy of animals, learn how to evaluate their health, and determine effective treatment for infectious and noninfectious diseases. Additionally, you will learn about zoonotic diseases, and the impact of toxins and poisons on animal health. Your teacher will grade your work on the Unit Activities, and you will grade your work on the Lesson Activities by comparing them with the given sample responses. The Unit Activities (submitted to the teacher) and the Lesson Activities (self-checked) are the major components of this course. There are other assessment components, namely the mastery test questions that feature along with the lesson; the pre- and post-test questions that come at the beginning and end of the unit, respectively; and an end-of-semester test. All of these tests are a combination of simple multiple-choice questions and technology-enhanced (TE) questions.

  • An illustration of an underwater scene with a purple fish, seaweed, and bubbles.This one-semester course is intended to help you familiarize yourself with the knowledge and skills required for a career in marine biology. This course has 15 lessons organized into four units. Each unit has a Unit Activity, and each lesson contains one or more Lesson Activities. In the Introduction to Marine Biology course, you will explore the fundamental concepts of marine biology. You will learn about the formation and characteristic features of the oceans. You will also learn about scientific methods and explore careers available in marine biology. The course will introduce you to the characteristic features of different taxonomic groups found in the ocean. You will learn about the different habitats, life forms, and ecosystems that exist in the oceans and explore the different types of adaptations marine creatures possess to survive in the ocean. You will learn about succession and the flow of energy in marine ecosystems. Finally, you will also learn about the resources that the oceans provide and the threats that the oceans face from human activities. Your teacher will grade your work on the Unit Activities, and you will grade your work on the Lesson Activities by comparing them with the given sample responses. The Unit Activities (submitted to the teacher) and the Lesson Activities (self-checked) are major components of this course. There are other assessment components, namely the mastery test questions that feature along with the lesson; the pre- and post-test questions that come at the beginning and end of the unit, respectively; and an end-of-semester test. All of these tests are a combination of simple multiple-choice questions and technology-enhanced (TE) questions.

  • The sun over a field of cornExploring Agriculture Science and Business is a two-semester course designed to focus on the role of agriculture and its impacts on society and the concepts of sustainable agriculture, agribusiness, and agricultural mechanics. Students will learn about the plant lifecycle, characteristics of livestock, food sources, nutrition, and food safety principles. They will also research and write about major advancements and issues in agriculture, create nutritionally balanced meal plans, and apply the scientific investigation process to answer questions and solve problems. They will also evaluate the effects of pollution on ecosystems and propose solutions. In addition, the course covers agricultural mechanics and technology and their effects on society and the economy, as well as various types of agribusinesses and their functions. The course will also teach students about local and national job opportunities available in the agricultural science and agribusiness industry and the skills needed for success in these careers. Through focused mini lessons, students will be introduced to durable skills such as metacognition and critical thinking, and they will have opportunities to practice and begin applying these skills in career-specific activities.

  • A stylized illustration of a forest path leading towards a bright light.Forestry and Wildlife Management A: Forestry and Wildlife Management, Semester A, is the first part of a two-semester course. In this course, you will identify employment and entrepreneurial opportunities in forestry, wildlife, and natural resource management. You will learn about safety hazards and procedures. You will examine water sources and water quality. You will learn about mineral resources, mineral extraction, types of trees, plant processes, aquatic resources, and invasive species. You will identify types of land resources. You will explain how parks are funded and managed. You will also learn about forest management methods and silviculture practices. Finally, you will learn about the carrying capacity of rangelands and the consequences of overgrazing. This course consists of 14 lessons organized into four units, four Unit Activities, and four Discussions. Additionally, there is one Course Activity and one Course Project. Each lesson contains one or more Lesson Activities. You will grade your work in the Lesson Activities by comparing it to sample responses. You will submit the Unit Activities, Course Activity, and Course Project to your teacher for grading.

    Forestry and Wildlife Management B: Forestry and Wildlife Management, Semester B, is the second part of a two-semester course. In this course, you will identify forest soil types, forest harvesting techniques, and wood types. You will learn about wildlife population dynamics and wildlife management practices. You will create a forest management plan and a forestry stewardship plan. You will identify best practices and examine how new technologies such as the Global Positioning System (GPS) and geographic information systems (GIS) work and their uses in forestry, wildlife, and natural resources management. You will examine the effects of recreational activities on the environment. You will also recommend solutions to different conservation and environmental issues. Finally, you will examine laws, policies, and regulations related to forestry and wildlife management. This course consists of 12 lessons organized into three units, three Unit Activities, and three Discussions. Additionally, there is one Course Activity and one Course Project. Each lesson contains one or more Lesson Activities. You will grade your work in the Lesson Activities by comparing it to sample responses. You will submit the Unit Activities, Course Activity, and Course Project to your teacher for grading.

  • An illustration of a factory machine with robotic arms and smokestacks.California Course Principles of Manufacturing, Semester A, is a one-semester course intended to help you familiarize yourself with the evolution of manufacturing and describe manufacturing processes and systems. This course has twelve lessons organized into three units. Each unit has a Unit Activity and each lesson contains one or more Lesson Activities. Additionally, the course ends with has a comprehensive Course Activity. This course will cover the history and evolution of manufacturing, manufacturing processes, engineering design, and production systems. You will submit the Unit Activity and Course Activity documents to your teacher, and you will grade your work in the Lesson Activities by comparing them with given sample responses. The Unit Activities, Course Activities (submitted to the teacher), and the Lesson Activities (self-checked) are the major components of this course. There are other assessment components, namely the mastery test questions that feature along with the lesson; the pre- and post-test questions that come at the beginning and end of the unit, respectively; and an end-of-semester test. All of these tests are a combination of simple multiple-choice questions and technology enhanced (TE) questions.

  • Icon featuring a DNA strand, syringe, and pills, representing medical advancements.Biotechnology, Semester A, is the first part of a two-semester biotechnology course. The course begins with an introduction to biotechnology. You will trace the history of biotechnology and learn about its impact on modern society. You will gain the essential skills needed to work in the field of biotechnology. As the course progresses, you will be introduced to the fundamentals of cell biology and molecular biology. Additionally, you will learn about breakthroughs in the field of biotechnology such as the polymerase chain reaction, recombinant DNA technology, and protein engineering. You will explore the significance of safety protocols in the laboratory. And finally, you will apply biotechnology laboratory techniques to perform an experiment. This course consists of 16 lessons organized into four units, four Unit Activities, and four Discussions. Additionally, there is one Course Activity and one Course Project that you need to work on throughout the course. Each lesson contains one or more Lesson Activities. You will grade your work in the Lesson Activities by comparing it to sample responses. You will submit the Unit Activities, Course Activity, and Course Project to your teacher for grading.

  • A green wind turbine icon with a lightning bolt symbol, representing renewable energy.Green Energy A: Foundations of Green Energy, Semester A is the first part of a two-semester course designed to help you learn about the science, technologies, and careers in the rapidly growing and evolving energy industry, with special emphasis on electrical energy and new and emerging energy technologies. The course is designed to address state standards related to STEM studies in energy. The course content is aligned to the Energy Industry Fundamentals Certificate Program (EIFCP) standards developed by the Center for Energy Workforce Development (CEWD). The course consists of four units: • Unit 1 – You'll learn about conventional and renewable energy sources as well as emerging alternative energy sources. • Unit 2 – You'll review basic electricity concepts such as voltage, current, resistance, power, energy, AC and DC power, Ohm’s law, and the power formula. • Unit 3 – You'll learn about different electric power generation systems, including thermal, nuclear, hydroelectric, wind, and solar photovoltaic systems. • Unit 4 – You'll focus on careers in the energy industry.

     Green Energy B: Foundations of Green Energy, Semester B is the second part of a two-semester course designed to help you learn about the science, technologies, and careers in the rapidly growing and evolving energy industry, with special emphasis on electrical energy and new and emerging energy technologies. The course is designed to address state standards related to STEM studies in energy. The course content is aligned to the Energy Industry Fundamentals Certificate Program (EIFCP) standards developed by the Center for Energy Workforce Development (CEWD).

    The course consists of three units: • Unit 1 – You'll discuss electric power generation from conventional energy sources including crude oil, natural gas, coal, nuclear energy, and hydropower, and explore careers in each of these fields. • Unit 2 – You'll discuss clean, renewable, and alternative energy sources, including solar, wind, bioenergy, and geothermal; and emerging energy sources such as ocean waves, algal fuels, clean coal, IGCC, biodegradable materials, and waste-toenergy processes. • Unit 3 - You'll explore workers' health and safety. You'll also describe cyberattacks, energy system resilience, and careers in energy security.

  • The layers of the earth's core, illustratedEarth and space science is the study of the structure of our planet and Earth's role in the solar system and universe. This branch of science relies on observations, historical data, and physical evidence to describe the natural processes that occur around us and in distant space. Semester A begins with a discussion of the methods and tools that scientists use to study Earth and space science, including the scientific method, modeling, and mathematics. You'll look at theories for how the planets, solar system, and universe formed and explain the interactions between the Sun, Earth, and Moon. You'll also learn about the emergence of Earth's materials, atmosphere, and first lifeforms, as well as the dating methods that help us piece together Earth's unique history. 

    You'll begin Semester B by comparing the composition of rocks and minerals and analyzing the processes involved in the rock cycle. You'll explore the tectonic mechanisms that lead to some of Earth's most prominent geological features. Next, you'll study important interactions between the hydrosphere and atmosphere and the role they play in weathering and erosion. You'll also differentiate between weather and climate and make evidence-based predictions about both using data and modeling. The last unit in this course highlights the negative effects that humans can have on the natural cycles of Earth, as well as effective measures we can take to protect our planet.

Science is a common favorite subject among younger students, but as they get older, students seem to enjoy science less. Here at San Diego Virtual School, our aim is to foster a love of science through students’ entire schooling experience and well beyond graduation. One way we do that is through engaging content and activities that not only spark curiosity and critical thinking skills, but also create a passion for science and problem-solving.

Our online science courses are designed with state standards in mind, but they get to the core of scientific concepts to encourage students’ participation and interest in what they’re learning. Our middle school online science classes include grade-appropriate subjects, including life and physical science, that lay the groundwork for scientific knowledge and critical thinking skills. Our high school online science courses cover topics such as earth science, biology, and chemistry, allowing students to delve farther into the fundamental disciplines of science and further expand their knowledge base of scientific concepts.

Online Science Courses Offer Flexibility

One of the greatest advantages to online science courses is the flexibility that comes with them. Students can work on their own schedules and in their own time, completing tasks when they have free time and requesting assistance whenever they need it. Students are encouraged to learn on their own schedules and in their own timelines so that they ensure complete comprehension and full understanding of the concepts. Especially if your student is used to homeschool science courses, he or she will feel right at home with our coursework and environment. With the individualized approach at SDVS, they not only get the benefit of course flexibility, but they also enjoy a positive and comfortable learning environment, foundational skills of independence and self-motivation, and top-notch teaching with incredible curriculum that was designed around their particular age group.

Online Science Classes at SDVS Are Accredited

Accreditation is a common concern for online schools, but SDVS is fully accredited and WASC and NCAA approved. Our school has undergone evaluations to achieve these accreditations, and they ensure that all of our courses meet California high school graduation requirements and that our diplomas and transcripts are recognized and validated by colleges and universities across the nation. All of our online science courses award students with credits that apply towards their graduation requirements, and our course offerings are set up the same way that other California schools are so that our students get the best education from a fully accredited and amazing school.

With any educational experience, many students have preferences and dislikes when it comes to their schooling. Thankfully, the students who attend SDVS are extremely passionate about how much they love their school and how grateful they are for the online schooling experience. From online science classes to online electives and more, our courses prepare students for the real world in a number of ways and truly set them up for success. Our students are more likely to take personal responsibility for their educational successes and shortcomings, and they learn skills like independence, self-motivation, and self-discipline far earlier than their traditionally schooled peers. The experienced staff at San Diego Virtual School is a group of passionate, driven, and caring individuals who want nothing more than to see each and every student succeed during school and afterward. Our teachers are there for their students in many ways and are always willing to give extra help or talk them through a troublesome concept or problem in class.

If you or your student are ready to begin an amazing journey of online education, get in touch with San Diego Virtual School today. Our academic advisors and admissions specialists are standing by to answer your questions and help you enroll today!

Online Science Courses Offer Flexibility
One of the greatest advantages to online science courses is the flexibility that comes with them. Students can work on their own schedules and in their own time, completing tasks when they have free time and requesting assistance whenever they need it. Students are encouraged to learn on their own schedules and in their own timelines so that they ensure complete comprehension and full understanding of the concepts. Especially if your student is used to homeschool science courses, he or she will feel right at home with our coursework and environment. With the individualized approach at SDVS, they not only get the benefit of course flexibility, but they also enjoy a positive and comfortable learning environment, foundational skills of independence and self-motivation, and top-notch teaching with incredible curriculum that was designed around their particular age group.

Online Science Classes at SDVS Are Accredited
Accreditation is a common concern for online schools, but SDVS is fully accredited and WASC and NCAA approved. Our school has undergone evaluations to achieve these accreditations, and they ensure that all of our courses meet California high school graduation requirements and that our diplomas and transcripts are recognized and validated by colleges and universities across the nation. All of our online science courses award students with credits that apply towards their graduation requirements, and our course offerings are set up the same way that other California schools are so that our students get the best education from a fully accredited and amazing school.

With any educational experience, many students have preferences and dislikes when it comes to their schooling. Thankfully, the students who attend SDVS are extremely passionate about how much they love their school and how grateful they are for the online schooling experience. From online science classes to online electives and more, our courses prepare students for the real world in a number of ways and truly set them up for success. Our students are more likely to take personal responsibility for their educational successes and shortcomings, and they learn skills like independence, self-motivation, and self-discipline far earlier than their traditionally schooled peers. The experienced staff at San Diego Virtual School is a group of passionate, driven, and caring individuals who want nothing more than to see each and every student succeed during school and afterward. Our teachers are there for their students in many ways and are always willing to give extra help or talk them through a troublesome concept or problem in class.

If you or your student are ready to begin an amazing journey of online education, get in touch with San Diego Virtual School today. Our academic advisors and admissions specialists are standing by to answer your questions and help you enroll today.

  • Science is a common favorite subject among younger students, but as they get older, students seem to enjoy science less. Here at San Diego Virtual School, our aim is to foster a love of science through students’ entire schooling experience and well beyond graduation. One way we do that is through engaging content and activities that not only spark curiosity and critical thinking skills, but also create a passion for science and problem-solving.

    Our online science courses are designed with state standards in mind, but they get to the core of scientific concepts to encourage students’ participation and interest in what they’re learning. Our middle school online science classes include grade-appropriate subjects, including life and physical science, that lay the groundwork for scientific knowledge and critical thinking skills. Our high school online science courses cover topics such as earth science, biology, and chemistry, allowing students to delve farther into the fundamental disciplines of science and further expand their knowledge base of scientific concepts.

    Online Science Courses Offer Flexibility

    One of the greatest advantages to online science courses is the flexibility that comes with them. Students can work on their own schedules and in their own time, completing tasks when they have free time and requesting assistance whenever they need it. Students are encouraged to learn on their own schedules and in their own timelines so that they ensure complete comprehension and full understanding of the concepts. Especially if your student is used to homeschool science courses, he or she will feel right at home with our coursework and environment. With the individualized approach at SDVS, they not only get the benefit of course flexibility, but they also enjoy a positive and comfortable learning environment, foundational skills of independence and self-motivation, and top-notch teaching with incredible curriculum that was designed around their particular age group.

    Online Science Classes at SDVS Are Accredited

    Accreditation is a common concern for online schools, but SDVS is fully accredited and WASC and NCAA approved. Our school has undergone evaluations to achieve these accreditations, and they ensure that all of our courses meet California high school graduation requirements and that our diplomas and transcripts are recognized and validated by colleges and universities across the nation. All of our online science courses award students with credits that apply towards their graduation requirements, and our course offerings are set up the same way that other California schools are so that our students get the best education from a fully accredited and amazing school.

    With any educational experience, many students have preferences and dislikes when it comes to their schooling. Thankfully, the students who attend SDVS are extremely passionate about how much they love their school and how grateful they are for the online schooling experience. From online science classes to online electives and more, our courses prepare students for the real world in a number of ways and truly set them up for success. Our students are more likely to take personal responsibility for their educational successes and shortcomings, and they learn skills like independence, self-motivation, and self-discipline far earlier than their traditionally schooled peers. The experienced staff at San Diego Virtual School is a group of passionate, driven, and caring individuals who want nothing more than to see each and every student succeed during school and afterward. Our teachers are there for their students in many ways and are always willing to give extra help or talk them through a troublesome concept or problem in class.

    If you or your student are ready to begin an amazing journey of online education, get in touch with San Diego Virtual School today. Our academic advisors and admissions specialists are standing by to answer your questions and help you enroll today!

  • Online Science Courses Offer Flexibility
    One of the greatest advantages to online science courses is the flexibility that comes with them. Students can work on their own schedules and in their own time, completing tasks when they have free time and requesting assistance whenever they need it. Students are encouraged to learn on their own schedules and in their own timelines so that they ensure complete comprehension and full understanding of the concepts. Especially if your student is used to homeschool science courses, he or she will feel right at home with our coursework and environment. With the individualized approach at SDVS, they not only get the benefit of course flexibility, but they also enjoy a positive and comfortable learning environment, foundational skills of independence and self-motivation, and top-notch teaching with incredible curriculum that was designed around their particular age group.

    Online Science Classes at SDVS Are Accredited
    Accreditation is a common concern for online schools, but SDVS is fully accredited and WASC and NCAA approved. Our school has undergone evaluations to achieve these accreditations, and they ensure that all of our courses meet California high school graduation requirements and that our diplomas and transcripts are recognized and validated by colleges and universities across the nation. All of our online science courses award students with credits that apply towards their graduation requirements, and our course offerings are set up the same way that other California schools are so that our students get the best education from a fully accredited and amazing school.

    With any educational experience, many students have preferences and dislikes when it comes to their schooling. Thankfully, the students who attend SDVS are extremely passionate about how much they love their school and how grateful they are for the online schooling experience. From online science classes to online electives and more, our courses prepare students for the real world in a number of ways and truly set them up for success. Our students are more likely to take personal responsibility for their educational successes and shortcomings, and they learn skills like independence, self-motivation, and self-discipline far earlier than their traditionally schooled peers. The experienced staff at San Diego Virtual School is a group of passionate, driven, and caring individuals who want nothing more than to see each and every student succeed during school and afterward. Our teachers are there for their students in many ways and are always willing to give extra help or talk them through a troublesome concept or problem in class.

    If you or your student are ready to begin an amazing journey of online education, get in touch with San Diego Virtual School today. Our academic advisors and admissions specialists are standing by to answer your questions and help you enroll today.