“An education in science at Holy Cross High School is dedicated to individually and incrementally promoting science literacy through core scientific competencies and intellectual skills.  We encourage students to make cross-curricular connections through the application of knowledge and active engagements.  We hope to inspire, challenge, and motivate students to gain an appreciation of science and graduate with the skills necessary for success in the 21st century.”

- Erik Lanese, Science Department chair

Course Highlights

Here are a few of the classes offered in our Science Department. 

  • Neuroscience Honors: This full year course offers an accelerated and in-depth survey of the human brain and nervous system. Students gain a broad understanding of major concepts in Neuroscience and Biopsychology, and they develop quantitative, analytical, and laboratory skills as well as the ability to communicate scientific findings clearly. Principles learned include anatomy & physiology, brain mapping, neurotransmitter/ hormones & drugs, disease & disorders, vision, motor system, sensory system, learning and memory, sleep, emotions, homeostasis, rhythms & drives, and altered states of consciousness. Students will be challenged to understand topics in more depth and will be required to complete independent work and adhere to course deadlines. 

  • ECE Principles of Biology: Biology is the critical study of living things. It is the foundation for all of the disciplines that study life in more detail, including medicine, physiology, anatomy, biomechanics, bioengineering, neuroscience, etc. An understanding of the basic principles of biology is an invaluable part of any student’s repertoire. This course is an undergraduate introduction to biology, allowing students the opportunity to earn 4 credits from the University of Connecticut. The course of study begins with a basic, working definition of life and moves through the study of molecules, cells, and genetics. Many of the classes offer an inquiry-based approach where students are challenged to think critically about why a problem exists and how to solve it. Throughout the course, students write. And they write. Completion of this course will provide students with a comprehensive and solid foundation for further study in biology which they can use to pursue more advanced subspecialties. Perhaps, through this study of other forms of life, students will gain a greater understanding of their own.

 

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