1. Recommendations!!

2. All incoming freshmen will be recommended for College Prep Integrated Earth and Physical Science (IPES) unless they meet the following criteria……

3. Honors IPES
Students with an average of 85 or higher in math and 95 or above in 8th grade science can be recommended for Honors Integrated Earth and Physical Science.

4. Honors Biology
Students currently enrolled in Algebra 1, who have been recommended for Algebra II, may be recommended for Honors Biology if they have an average of 85 or higher in math and 95 or above in science. Freshmen can only register for Biology at the Honors level.

5. E3
Freshmen who are interested in a blended learning class that combines work on computers and in the laboratory can take E3 (Earth & Energy Essentials) instead of Integrated Physical & Earth Science. Students who take E3 must also be enrolled in Skills 21, a course in information literacy and digital media.

6. E3 (CP and Honors Option)
The Earth and Energy Science Essentials (E3) curriculum, aligned to the CT Science Standards, explores the concepts in physical and chemical sciences in the context of critical environmental topics. While maintaining focus on making the connections between the impact of science and technology on the quality of our lives, E3 uses multiple pathways of scientific reasoning to develop global citizens of the future capable of making informed decisions and developing a model for a healthy, sustainable society. All students are required to participate in the CT Student Innovation Expo, which takes place on a Saturday in May. It is the culminating event of the yearlong effort highlighting teamwork, problem solving, presentation, and 21st century skills. This course is meant to be taken in place of CP or Honors IPES.  Students who take E3 must also be enrolled in Skills 21 (see below).
Prerequisite: Science Department Chair approval (open only to freshmen)
NOTE:  E3 is a course from The Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences
SKILLS21
In this class students will explore the six critical skills required for success in the 21st century: Information Literacy, Collaboration, Creativity & Innovation, Problem Solving and Responsible Citizenship. In addition to creating a digital portfolio showcasing the work they complete during the year, the class as a team will develop a product or service, complete with a prototype, marketing plan, website, and display, which they will present at the Expo Fest and have an opportunity to compete with other schools throughout the state.  Students who take Skills21 must also be enrolled in E3.
NOTE:  Skills21 is a course from The Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences

7. IED
Freshman may apply to take a science elective called Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) Prerequisite: Department approval based on students completing an application and submitting it to their NMS school counselor. (Open to Freshmen only). Must be taken concurrently with Honors Biology and Honors Algebra II).​

8. INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN (IED)
Students will dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. They will work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3D modeling software, and use an engineering notebook to document their work
Prerequisite: Department approval (Open to freshmen only.  Must be taken concurrently with Honors Biology and Honors Algebra II).

9. The NHS Science Department encourages all students to take Integrated Physical and Earth Science, with its valuable science content, process, and laboratory foundation.