Mathematics and Science
Denver Public Schools
Page Quick Links
- Earth Science
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) Science
- Science Electives
Attention
Denver Botanic Gardens' School Programs Brochure—Denver Botanic Gardens offers a variety of programs to enhance students’ science skills, plant knowledge, and appreciation for the natural world. For more detailed information, visit their Web site. Hover over “classes,” then select “schools & teachers.” The In Full Bloom scholarship program provides discounts of 50–100% on program fees to schools with 60% or greater free and reduced lunch participation. Programs fill fast, particularly ones in September, April, and May, so register early to guarantee a spot. To register for a program, call 720-865-3580 or email registrar@botanicgardens.org.
About Grades 9–12 Science
In science, we stress the use of activities and skills that focus on the active search for knowledge or understanding to satisfy a curiosity. Structured and facilitated discussions based on shared understanding of rules of scientific discourses must be the rule to enhance our science disciplinary literacy (e.g., justifying understandings, basing arguments on data, critically assessing the explanation of peers). Both aspects of understanding—explaining and representing—are required to meet standards and prepare our students for the technological world they will enter. Science should include activities focused on the following main ideas.
- Scientific Thinking
- Scientific Tools and Technologies
- Scientific Communication
- Scientific Investigation
DPS high school students are required to take three years of science. Ninth grade students are required to take earth science. The tenth grade requirement is biology. For their third year, students can choose either chemistry or physics.