The philosophy of the Science Department is to promote an understanding of the basic principles of science. After four years, the student will have an understanding of the basic order in nature and have an appreciation of the laws of the universe. Science courses are designed to meet the state standards and UC requirements. Courses starting with the freshman year are developed in a sequential fashion to encourage upper level courses in the future.

Science Course Sequence
For more information about Science course offerings, visit the Course Catalog.

• Integrated Science
• Biology
• Accelerated Biology
• Honors Biology
• Advanced Placement Biology
• Environmental Geology
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Chemistry
• Honors Chemistry
• Advanced Placement Chemistry
• Physics
• Biotechnology

Facts about the Science Program

• Most SFHS students graduate with four years of science.
• Science courses involve a student-centered classroom, implementing “hands-on” techniques.
• SFHS students participate in the robotics team, the “Fembots”. The 2003 team won the Sacramento Regional Competition. Teams in 2003 and 2004 participated in the Nationals.

Diocesan Science Competencies for High School Entrance

St. Francis High School expects entering students to have basic competencies in science. These competencies are in the areas of problem-solving, critical thinking, scientific method and the “big” ideas in science. Students also need competencies in laboratory safety and methods, reading and writing, measuring and reporting results. The purpose of freshman courses is to introduce students to specific sciences and to build laboratory skills.

Scientific Skills

• Recognize and use the scientific method
• Conduct oneself safely in a science laboratory
• Demonstrate familiarity with basic laboratory equipment
• Measure accurately – use SI units and metric conversions
• Interpret tables and graphs
• Read and follow directions
• Analyze data and form logical conclusions
• Cite proper references

Exposure to “Big” Ideas

• Biology: cell structure and function, anatomy of the human body, evolution, ecology, DNA and heredity
• Earth Science: structures and processes of planet Earth, plate tectonics: our changing planet
• Physical Science: atomic structure, periodic table, formulas, reactions, energy transfers and transformations, motion and forces

Department Chair:
Kathy Keller
916.452.3461 ext. 175
KKeller@stfrancishs.org