Courses

Science Course Flowchart 2024-2025

NYS Science Courses

Students who earn 90% or higher on their three Science Regents Exams earn a special honors endorsement in Science on their High School Diploma.

Honors Earth Science

Honors Biology

Honors Chemistry

Honors Physics

Advanced Placement Courses

All Advanced Placement classes are full year courses. Only Juniors and Seniors are eligible for these courses. In addition to Townsend Harris credit, students who score 3 or higher on the required Advanced Placement exam in May may be awarded college credit.

Note that there is an $87 examination fee (which may be waived in cases of documented financial need).

Advanced Placement Biology

Advanced Placement Chemistry

Advanced Placement Environmental Science

Advanced Placement Physics 1

Advanced Placement Physics 1 Hybrid

Advanced Placement Physics C (Mechanics and E&M)

Advanced Placement Psychology

Biomedical Technology - Science Research Track

Townsend Harris High School's world-class three-year Science and Humanities Symposium, and many other contests in which they win a disproportionally large number of awards. Students in this program earn up to three years of additional high school science credit.

Sophomore Science Research

This course introduces students to hands-on training in our dedicated Science Research lab, which includes state-of-the-art DNA equipment and real-time PCR. From popcorn to bridges, students will learn to formulate their own questions and use the scientific method to solve problems and reach conclusions. Learning laboratory techniques and conducting both guided and independent experimentation are major components of this course. Students planning to continue in the Science Research program will be guided in their search to find an outside mentor for their research project. This is the first course in a three-year sequence designed to prepare students for participation in Regeneron, JSHS and other science-related competitions. As such, students who hope to pursue the sequence into their junior year are expected to devote part of their summer to developing and pursuing an independent research project.

Junior Science Research

This course engages students in research in local research facilities such as Memorial Sloan Kettering, NYU-Langone Medical Center, Cornell-Weil Medical Center, and Queens College. This course is open to those students who have completed Sophomore Science Research, or students who have the special permission of the AP of Math, Science, and Technology. Placement preference will be given to students continuing on in this sequence. Students will meet frequently with their teacher/advisor to discuss their ongoing research projects. Laboratory and library time will also be provided, as needed. Students will be encouraged and guided in their search to find an outside mentor for their research project. Students will be required to enter certain competitions, including the NYT Science Essay Contest and the MSKCC Radiology Essay contest. Students will be encouraged to enter additional competitions, based on where they are in their independent research projects. These include JSHS and TerraNYCSEF. Students hoping to pursue the sequence into their senior year are required to devote part of their summer to developing and pursuing an independent research project.

Senior Science Research

This course is open only to seniors currently working on an independent science research project. Students who enroll in Senior Science Research must commit to continuing to work on their individual research project during the summer following 11th grade. Research projects are submitted as early as the first week of November (Regeneron) of the senior year. Therefore, students and their parents must understand the seriousness of the commitment involved. Students will be taught how to write a scientific research paper and are required to submit their research projects to all applicable contests including, but not limited to the Regeneron Science Talent Search, Junior Science and Humanities Symposium, and TerraNYCSEF. Students meet frequently with their teacher/advisor to discuss their ongoing project and to prepare their paper, display boards, and oral presentation of their research. Students are also expected to provide peer feedback over the course of the year.

Pre-Engineering - Robotics Track

Beginning in their sophomore year, students may choose to engage in our three-year robotics track. These courses are unrelated to our school's robotics team, though participating in both is highly encouraged.

Computer Aided Design (CAD) - Sophomore Year

Step into the future of design with our "Computer Aided Design" course, where imagination meets precision engineering! This cutting-edge elective propels you into the world of digital design, teaching you to bring your most innovative ideas to life using state-of-the-art CAD software. From creating intricate 3D models to drafting complex architectural blueprints, you'll master the tools that are shaping industries around the globe. No prior experience? No problem! This course is designed for beginners and aspiring designers alike, ensuring you'll walk away with the skills to transform your visions into virtual (and potentially physical) realities. Join us and unlock your creative potential in the digital realm!

Electronic and Mechanical Systems (Robotics) - Junior Year

Embark on a journey through the core of innovation with our "Electrical and Mechanical Systems" course! This dynamic elective is your gateway to the thrilling world of engineering, where electricity meets mechanics to power the world around us. Dive into the fundamentals of electrical circuits, delve into the mechanics of machines, and explore the integration of these systems in real-world applications. With hands-on projects and cutting-edge simulations, you'll walk away with a solid foundation in the principles that drive today's technological advancements. No specific prerequisites are required, just a curious mind and the eagerness to solve complex problems. Gear up for an electrifying adventure into the heart of engineering!

Principles of Engineering (Student-Design) - Senior Year

Step into the world of innovation with "Principles of Engineering," a course designed to turn theoretical knowledge into real-world solutions. This hands-on elective offers a deep dive into the engineering design process, from concept to creation, challenging students to think critically and innovate boldly. Tackle engaging projects that span across disciplines, including robotics, sustainable design, and digital fabrication, using the latest technology and tools. With a focus on problem-solving and teamwork, students will emerge as forward-thinking creators ready to make an impact. To enroll in this course, you must satisfy at least one of the following two conditions as a prerequisite:

1. You must have already completed CAD and Electronic and Mechanical Systems.

2. You must have been an active member of the Steel Hawks for the past two years.

Join us and transform your ideas into engineered reality!

Elective Courses

Anatomy & Physiology / Genetics

Through this course, students will learn the details of how the parts of their body work to allow them to function. Students will learn the components of various body systems, their individual functions and the outcome of their cooperation. Students will learn the way their DNA contributes to their body’s ability to form and function. Students will learn through classroom and laboratory activities. The lab activities will allow the students to view the anatomical details learned in class and see the connections that hold everything together and allow for the proper functioning of the body. Students will learn techniques used in labs everywhere to isolate, copy and analyze DNA. Students will also learn about diseases and problems associated with the different systems of the body. Students will actively contribute to the creation of the course syllabus by selecting the chapters that will be studied each semester.

Astronomy

Biomedical/Environmental Ethics

Do we have moral obligations to animals? To trees? To embryos? Do personal rights over body tissue outweigh contributing to science and research for the benefit of all humankind? Are biometric technologies a tool for mass surveillance or public welfare? Students will develop various approaches and answers to these and other biomedical and environmental questions. Through this course, students will be encouraged to discuss, question, and defend their own views on these topics. Students will also develop skills in argument analysis, critical reading, and thesis-driven writing. Topics covered include legal aspects of health-privacy issues, the impact of social, economic, political, and environmental factors on health, ethical issues that arise in reproductive medicine, etc. Each semester will culminate in a symposium in which students will have the opportunity to investigate an ethical question of interest and present their understanding to classmates.

Chemistry of Cooking

Dive into the fascinating world where science meets the culinary arts in "The Chemistry of Cooking"! This electrifying elective unravels the molecular mysteries behind your favorite dishes, transforming the kitchen into a laboratory where flavor and texture are born from chemical reactions. Whether you're caramelizing onions or emulsifying a vinaigrette, you'll discover the scientific principles that make it all possible. For all students who have completed Regents Chemistry, they will walk away with a unique blend of practical cooking skills and a deeper appreciation for the chemistry that makes our food delicious. Join us on this flavorful journey where each recipe is a scientific experiment waiting to be explored! [Successful completion of Regents Chemistry is required]

Science Citizenship

What scientific, social, and justice considerations are important to keep in mind as we design solutions to deal with issues affecting our earth? The ultimate goal of this course is to help students become scientifically literate citizens by exploring real world issues, applying scientific reasoning, and critical thinking skills to inform personal decisions and communicate findings to our community to help navigate the frenzy of modern news cycles. Students will understand that science is a rational and evidence-based schema for understanding the world we live in, after all our common ground is the earth beneath our feet.

Science at Queens College

A wide variety of electives are available at Queens College. Students who wish to take a Queens College science course must obtain the approval of the department supervisor. Juniors may enroll in specially designated, tuition-free, College Now courses (for credit). Seniors may enroll in any science course for which they have the necessary prerequisites, but assume the responsibility for paying for additional credits beyond the 3-credit limit for an elective.