Belen Jesuit Preparatory School

CHOOSE A DEPARTMENT BELOW:

Science

  • AP Biology

    SCI 6750 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     10th - 12th
    Prerequisites: A minimum 3.5 unweighted cumulative GPA, final grade of 95 in previous science course, 90 in the previous year’s honors science course, or 90 in Honors Biology and departmental approval. Additionally, the College Board AP Potential Expectancy Tables will be used to inform placement.
    Notes: Students in this course are required to take the Advanced Placement Exam. The goals and objectives of this AP course are aligned to the College Board Curriculum Standards.
    Description: AP Biology is designed to be the equivalent of a two-semester college introductory biology course and its lab usually taken by biology majors during their first year. It conforms to the standards instituted by the College Board’s AP Biology course and covers all the topics in the AP Biology Course Description. Moreover, these topics are incorporated throughout the course using the eight major themes from the AP Biology Curriculum Requirements (Science as a Process; Evolution; Energy Transfer; Continuity and Change; Relationship of Structure to Function; Regulation; Interdependence in Nature; Science, Technology, and Society. AP Biology students will develop a conceptual framework for modern biology; develop an appreciation of science as a process; demonstrate the ability to apply scientific skills and follow scientific processes. Laboratory experiments in Biology are an integral component of this course.

  • AP Chemistry

    SCI 6757 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     11th - 12th
    Prerequisites: A minimum 3.5 unweighted cumulative GPA, final grade of 95 in previous science course or 90 in the previous year’s honors science course, and departmental approval. Junior students selecting this course must be concurrently enrolled in honors or AP math course. Seniors selecting this course must be enrolled in a Calculus course. Additionally, the College Board AP Potential Expectancy Tables will be used to inform placement. 
    Notes: Students in this course are required to take the Advanced Placement Exam. The goals and objectives of this AP course are aligned to the College Board Curriculum Standards.
    Descriptions: This course is designed to be the equivalent of a one-year general college chemistry course. As part of this course students will be presented with a series of topics in general chemistry that will not only enhance their critical thinking skills but also expose them to problem solving, both in class, and in the laboratory. AP Chemistry is a lecture course with 85-minute blocks as well extra time set aside for laboratory experiments. All laboratory experiments are hands-on activities specifically designed to meet the requirements and rigor of an AP Chemistry lab. The course material will be covered in 34 weeks of a 38-week school year. The remaining 4 weeks will be used as a review for the AP Chemistry exam. 

  • AP Environmental Science

    SCI 6759 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     10th
    Prerequisites: A minimum 3.5 unweighted cumulative GPA, final grade of 95 in previous science course or 90 in the previous year’s honors science course, and departmental approval. Additionally, the College Board AP Potential Expectancy Tables will be used to inform placement. 
    Notes: Students in this course are required to take the Advanced Placement Exam. The goals and objectives of this AP course are aligned to the College Board Curriculum Standards.
    Description: AP Environmental Science is designed to engage students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships within the natural world. The course requires that students identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Environmental science is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from geology, biology, environmental studies, environmental science, chemistry, and geography. Students will explore how decisions directly impact the environment, as well as how to balance both humanity's and nature's needs always keeping in mind the Jesuit principle of Caring for Our Common Home.

  • AP Physics 1

    SCI 6650 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     11th & 12th 
    Prerequisites: A minimum 3.5 unweighted cumulative GPA, final grade of 95 in previous science course or 90 in the previous year’s honors science course, concurrent enrollment in honors or AP math course and departmental approval. Additionally, the College Board AP Potential Expectancy Tables with a 60% threshold for a qualifying score of 3 or higher will be used to inform placement.
    Notes: Students in this course are required to take the Advanced Placement Exam. The goals and objectives of this AP course are aligned to the College Board Curriculum Standards.
    Description:     AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through inquiry-based investigations as they explore these topics: kinematics, dynamics, circular motion and gravitation, energy, momentum, simple harmonic motion, torque and rotational motion, electric charge and electric force, DC circuits, and mechanical waves and sound.

  • AP Physics C: Mechanics

    SCI 6755 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     12th
    Prerequisites: A minimum 3.5 unweighted cumulative GPA, final grade of 95 in Physics, 90 in the Honors Physics, 85 in AP Physics 1.  Students should be enrolled in Calculus AB or, preferably Calculus BC, and earn a passing score on the AP Physics I exam. Additionally, the College Board AP Potential Expectancy Tables will be used to inform placement. 
    Notes: Students in this course are required to take the Advanced Placement Exam. The goals and objectives of this AP course are aligned to the College Board Curriculum Standards.
    Description: AP Physics C Mechanics is a calculus-based version of a first semester college physics course designed for students who have already taken a solid introductory physics course and are considering a career in math or science. This course is specifically designed to meet the demands of the AP Physics C Mechanics as published by the College Board. AP Physics C Mechanics focuses in Newtonian mechanics. Instruction is given in Kinematics; Dynamics: Newton’s Laws; Work, Energy, and Power; System of Particles and Linear Momentum; Rotation; and Oscillations. The course emphasizes rigorous problem-solving in physics and it demands a higher level of conceptual and mathematical understanding. The student is assumed to have a working knowledge of algebra, trigonometry, and geometry. In addition, the course requires a basic understanding of differential and integral calculus. Differentiation and integration will be applied to all topics and problems that merit so, therefore; it is recommended that a student taking Physics C be enrolled concurrently in a calculus course. Laboratory practices are also an integral part of the course where students will become familiar not only with traditional methods of data collection and analysis but also with digital and computerized methodologies.

  • Biology

    SCI 6500 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     9th 
    Prerequisite: None
    Description: This course offers a study of the biological sciences with the goals of defining a framework for a healthier and broader understanding of life and how different forms are interrelated. Students will cover many topics including the unique properties of living and nonliving organisms and the use of various microscopes. The presentation of molecular and cellular biology will be discussed in depth. This allows proper background preparation for the concepts of reproduction, genetics, biotechnology, and organic variation. The course concludes with scientific classification with units dealing with microbiology, multi-cellular plants, invertebrates, vertebrates, and human biology.

  • Chemistry

    SCI 6600 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     10th
    Prerequisites: None
    Description: This course explores the links between matter, energy, and its relationship to chemistry and the laws of physics by which they interact. Topics that will be studied include the nature of matter, properties of matter, changes of matter, atomic structure, periodic table, bonding, formulas and equations, mole concept, gas laws, energy, heat, solutions, nuclear chemistry, and many more. Laboratory investigations of selected topics in the content which also include use of the scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus and safety are an integral part of the course.

  • Earth & Space Science

    SCI 6102 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     6th
    Prerequisite: None
    Description: This course is designed to provide students with an overview of the basic concepts in earth and space science including the exploration of earth’s structure, geologic changes, and exploration of the universe. This course is specifically designed to promote critical thinking skills through project-based learning, along with the use of the scientific method in laboratory activities that will instill an awareness of the Earth and universe. 

  • Honors Biology

    SCI 6510 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:      9th 
    Prerequisite: A minimum 3.25 unweighted cumulative GPA, final grade of 92 in previous science course or 87 in the previous year’s honors science course, and departmental approval.
    Description: The Honors Biology course is an accelerated and in-depth first-year course that uses four themes to organize important concepts throughout the course: science, technology, and society; evolution; the relationship between structure and function; and science as a process. The Honors Biology course involves the scientific study of living organisms;  considers the interactions among the vast number of organisms that inhabit planet Earth; presents the basic form and function of these organisms, from cells to organ systems, from simple unicellular bacteria to complex humans. It delves into interactions between organisms, and between an organism and its environment. It also explores how genetics, genetic engineering, and biotechnology are used to improve our health and daily lives.  

  • Honors Chemistry

    SCI 6610 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     10th
    Prerequisites: A minimum 3.25 unweighted cumulative GPA, final grade of 92 in previous science course or 85 in the previous year’s honors science course, concurrent enrollment in an honors or AP math course  and departmental approval.
    Description: Honors Chemistry is a demanding course meant to prepare students for AP Chemistry, a one-year general chemistry college level course. This course will provide students with a rigorous study of the composition, properties, and changes associated with matter. The content includes, but is not limited to heat, changes of matter, atomic structure, the periodic table, bonding, formulas and equations, mole concept, gas laws, and energy. Laboratory investigations of selected topics in the content which also include use of the scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus and safety are an integral part of the course. Methods of instruction will vary, from lectures using digital and practical demonstrations to laboratory experiments. This course emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis and problem solving. 

  • Honors Environmental Science

    SCI 6610 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     11th & 12th
    Prerequisites:
    11th Grade: A minimum 3.25 unweighted cumulative GPA, final grade of 92 in previous science course or 85 in the previous year’s honors science course, and departmental approval.
    12th Grade: Successful completion of three consecutive years of Science coursework and departmental approval.
    Description: Environmental science is an interdisciplinary course designed to introduce students to the study of the natural world and how it is impacted by human activity. The course integrates Biology, Earth Science, Chemistry, and other disciplines. The goal of this course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the risks associated with these problems and examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them.

  • Honors Physical Science

    SCI 6311 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     8th
    Prerequisite: A minimum 3.25 unweighted cumulative GPA, final grade of 92 in previous science course or 87 in the previous year’s honors science course, and departmental approval.
    Description: This course encourages students to study and investigate scientific concepts that will enable them to appreciate the knowledge and processes of science, understand the consequences and limitations of science, and appreciate personal and social relevance of science and technology in our society. Topics include but are not limited to the nature and properties of matter, atomic structure, chemical reactions, motion, forces, work, energy, and electricity & magnetism. This accelerated course places strong emphasis on mathematical approaches to chemistry and physics by incorporating problem solving. In addition, students will engage in laboratory investigations, class demonstrations and projects that will provide further understanding of the concepts being studied. 

  • Honors Physics

    SCI 6710 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     11th
    Prerequisites: A minimum 3.25 unweighted cumulative GPA, final grade of 92 in previous science course or 85 in the previous year’s honors science course, concurrent enrollment in honors or AP math course and departmental approval.
    Description: Honors Physics is an algebra-based college physics course. It encompasses an analytical approach to the study of the interactions in the physical world around us. It covers a wide range of topics including mechanics, kinematics, statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, optics, and modern physics. The course stresses an in-depth conceptual understanding of the basic principles of physics and emphasizes the application of these principles in the laboratory. The ultimate goal of this course is to provide the student with a solid scientific foundation and the necessary critical thinking skills that will enable him to be successful problem-solver. 

  • Honors Physics DE

    SCI 6710DE (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     11th
    Notes: This is a dual enrollment course. Students must commit to dual enrollment for both semesters.
    Prerequisites: A minimum 3.25 unweighted cumulative GPA, final grade of 92 in previous science course or 85 in the previous year’s honors science course, concurrent enrollment in honors or AP math course and departmental approval.
    Description: Honors Physics is an algebra-based college physics course. It encompasses an analytical approach to the study of the interactions in the physical world around us. It covers a wide range of topics including mechanics, kinematics, statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, optics, and modern physics. The course stresses an in-depth conceptual understanding of the basic principles of physics and emphasizes the application of these principles in the laboratory. The ultimate goal of this course is to provide the student with a solid scientific foundation and the necessary critical thinking skills that will enable him to be successful problem-solver. 

  • Life Science

    SCI 6200 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     7th
    Prerequisite: None
    Description: This course provides students with a general understanding of the basic concepts and terminology of life science. Students investigate the structure, function, and processes of living things, such as, how cells divide, grow, and convert matter and energy to sustain life; how organisms reproduce and pass hereditary characteristics from one generation to the next; and how living things have changed over time. In addition, students also investigate similarities and differences in living organisms, and learn about the human body systems and factors responsible for maintaining human health. Students will continue more in-depth project-based learning, laboratory practices and become familiarized with the use of the microscope.

  • Physical Science

    SCI 6300 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     8th
    Prerequisite: None
    Description: This course will introduce students to fundamental concepts in physics and chemistry. Students will gain a conceptual and mathematical understanding of the basic physical laws and chemical processes that govern everyday life. Topics that will be covered include but are not limited to the nature of matter, atomic structure, properties of matter, various types of chemical reactions, motion, forces, work, energy, and electricity & magnetism. In addition, students will further their understanding of the scientific method by participating in laboratory activities.
     

  • Physics

    SCI 6700 (1 credit)
    Grade Level:     11th
    Prerequisites: Successful Completion of Chemistry
    Description: Physics is an introductory study of the theories and laws governing the interaction of matter, energy, and the forces of nature. The course covers a wide range of topics which include but are not limited to kinematics; dynamics; energy, work, and power; momentum; and electricity. Students will be introduced to the laboratory as it pertains to the field of physics with emphasis given to understanding and applying the scientific method in a variety of situations. The ultimate goal of this course is to instill an understanding of the basic principles of physics while honing qualitative and quantitative critical thinking skills that can be applied in a broad variety of fields and circumstances.

Faculty

BELEN JESUIT PREPARATORY SCHOOL
500 SW 127th Avenue, Miami, FL 33184
phone: 305.223.8600 | fax: 305.227.2565 | email: webmaster@belenjesuit.org
Belen Jesuit Preparatory School was founded in 1854 in Havana, Cuba by Queen Isabel II of Spain.  The task of educating students was assigned to the priests and brothers of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), whose teaching tradition is synonymous with academic excellence and spiritual discipline.  In 1961, the new political regime of Cuba confiscated the School property and expelled the Jesuit faculty.  The School was re-established in Miami the same year, and over the next decade, continued to grow.  Today, Belen Jesuit sits on a 30-acre site in western Dade County, only minutes away from downtown Miami.