Standard Order & Timing of High School Science Classes

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I receive lots of questions about the order and timing of taking high school level science classes. Obviously, there can be many variations based upon i ndividual circumstances, but here's the standard order and timing..

For students who will likely NOT be college science majors or will likely NOT attend college:

--- 9th grade - Life Prep (standard level) Biology

Most students are also capable of taking Life Prep (standard level) Biology in 8th grade but most take it in 9th.

--- 10th grade - Life Prep (standard level) Chemistry (and / or possibly Anatomy & Physiology)

--- 11th grade - Life Prep (standard level) Physics (and / or possibly Anatomy & Physiology)

Traditionally, most students who will likely not be college science majors or will likely not attend college, don't take Physics. However, I created Life Prep (standard level) Physics specifically for these students. It's much more focused on the concepts (not math) of Physics which are really interesting to most students.

--- 12th grade - Anatomy & Physiology

Other electives: Embryology, Microbiology / Biochemistry, Exercise and Sports Physiology

For students who WILL likely be college science majors:

--- 9th grade - College Prep Biology

About 15% of students are capable of taking this in 8th grade which creates time for more science classes in the high school year. However, I would be cautious about taking College Prep Biology in 8th grade unless you're sure your student is ready for it.

--- 10th grade - College Prep Chemistry (and possibly Anatomy & Physiology)

As with College Prep Biology, about 15% of students are capable of taking this in 9th grade.

--- 11th grade - Physics (and possibly Anatomy & Physiology or Advanced Biology)

--- 12th grade - Anatomy & Physiology and / or Advanced Biology and / or advanced Chemistry)

Other electives: Embryology, Microbiology / Biochemistry, Exercise and Sports Physiology

I hope this helps. Please don't hesitate to email me if you have questions.