Science

Welcome to the preview of our new GPS Secondary Digital Course Catalog. Please be advised that this tool is currently in a Beta testing phase. While we strive for precision, course descriptions, prerequisites, and availability are subject to change. Always consult with a school counselor for availability and official graduation requirements. Your input is vital. If you notice any errors or have suggestions for improvement, please contact webmaster@gilbertschools.net.

The Science Department is very proud to serve the community and to provide a high-quality science experience for all students. Our mission is to provide a comprehensive science studies program through an effective system of activities that enable students to gain knowledge and skills. We believe that acquiring knowledge and skills enhances the student's worldview and provides the fundamentals to be a successful citizen. Our department is dedicated to hands-on learning including lab activities and other critical experiences.

Gilbert Public Schools' secondary science ignites curiosity by fostering a questioning mind and an enthusiasm for exploration. Through hands-on investigations and real-world applications, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that prepare them for success in any post-secondary path or future career. This foundation empowers them to become lifetime learners who can adapt and thrive in an ever-changing world.

Arizona Requires 3 years lab sciences: 1 year each from biology, chemistry, earth & space science, integrated sciences or physics. ABOR PAGE 5

A Laboratory Science course is defined as a course in which at least 1 class period each week is devoted to providing an opportunity for students to manipulate equipment, materials, or specimens, to develop skills in observation and analysis, and to discover, demonstrate, illustrate, or test scientific principles or concepts, such as chemistry, physics, earth sciences and biology.

Our junior high and high schools also offer the option of taking Honors Science Courses in grades 7, 8, 9, and 10. Honors classes delve deeper into scientific concepts, fostering advanced critical thinking, analysis, and communication skills.

GPS also offers Advanced Placement classes at all our high schools. Examples include AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics 1, AP Environmental, AP Physics 2. Please see the Advanced Placement page for more information. See specific course offerings and pathways which vary by campus.

International Baccalaureate (IB) is offered at Gilbert High School. Please see the GPS IB page for more information.

Specific course offerings and pathways may vary by campus. Please contact your school counselor for specific details.

K-12 Science Coordinator
Barbara Torrey
Phone: 480-497-3407

Jr. High Promotion Requirements: 2 Credits
Seventh-grade 1 credit & Eighth-grade 1 credit

Graduation Requirements: 3 Credits of lab science Lab sciences include: biology, chemistry, physics or other lab science courses.
GPS recommends 3 credits of lab science for meeting the requirements for public universities in Arizona.

GPS Science Pathway

Year 1

Pathway 1: Biology
Pathway 2: Honors Biology
Pathway 3: Biology
Pathway 4: Biology

Year 2

Pathway 1: Chemistry
Pathway 2: Honors Chemistry
Pathway 3: Chemistry
Pathway 4: Earth and Space Science

Year 3

Pathway 1: Physics
Pathway 2: AP Physics 1
Pathway 3: Earth and Space Science
Pathway 4: Chemistry

Year 4

Option to take any of the follow:

Anatomy & Physiology
Environmental Science
AP Environmental
AP Physics 1
AP Physics 2
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
Astronomy [online]
Marine Biology

Science Courses

Anatomy and Physiology

Grade: 11,12
Semester: 2
Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Biology or application and approval
Fee: $0.00

11
12
Dual Enrollment