Grade Level: 9 - 12 Length: June 8 – July 17, 2026 Final Exam: July 17, 2026 NO SCHOOL: June 19 Essential Skills: None Graduation: Fulfills the life science requirement College Prep: Fulfills CSU/UC biological lab science “D” requirement with a grade of “C” or better. The course and textbook are based on the California SBE-adopted Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for Public Schools within the scope of the life sciences. In this course, the NGSS framework will support students’ learning within 5 broad topics 1) Structure and Function, 2) Inheritance and Variation of Traits, 3) Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems, 4) Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems, and 5) Natural Selection and Evolution. Students will be expected to read at or above grade level and to be capable of independent work. Critical thinking, lab work and reporting are emphasized. Note: Students should expect 1 – 4 hours of homework daily. This includes previewing, reviewing, and/or practicing skills & concepts as well as lab reports and project work. Please complete the Non-District Course Intent form when you enroll in this class to let DUSD know of your intent to accelerate in the 2026-27 school year. However, if you're taking the class for enrichment only, the form is not required.