Science

The upper school science department promotes science as a process in which students are active participants. The curriculum gives high priority to hands-on activities that encourage critical thinking and application of concepts to solving problems. A key goal is the development of a scientific way of thinking about the world and a literacy of concepts, both past and present, that is relevant to students’ everyday lives. The curriculum stresses those physical and biological concepts that are most fundamental and/or thematic in nature as they relate to this goal and to each other.

Biology

This course is designed to prepare students for an introductory college-level Biology course. Diverse assessments involving labs, groups work, project, videos, and traditional written tests are used to evaluate student understanding of the following topics: cell structure and function, biomolecules, water’s unique properties, cell respiration, fermentation, cell reproduction, genetics, DNA technology, evolution, and ecosystems. Current events study reinforces scientific reading and understanding.
Biology Advanced

This fast-paced course is designed to prepare students for AP Biology. It emphasizes thorough understanding of basic principles and processes through application and investigation, class projects, labs, and in-class discussions. Topics of study include molecules and cells, genetics, and ecology reflecting evolution as the central guiding theme. The key goals of this course are to develop an understanding of the cultural, social, and scientific impacts of current biological discoveries to us and the living world around us as well as preparing students for the AP Biology course.
AP Biology

Designed to build on material from Advanced Biology, this is a college-level course based on the curriculum established by the College Board. The main topics include molecular biology and energetics, evolution, ecology, taxonomy, and anatomy and physiology of plants and animals. This course includes a lab component, dissection, and out-of-class review of concepts from Advanced Biology.

Prerequisites: Chemistry and Advanced Biology (advanced biology is required and advanced work in chemistry is strongly recommended) and biology instructor permission.
Chemistry

The introductory chemistry course provides a foundation for success in college-level chemistry. This course includes a study of measurement skills, atomic structure, the periodic table, bonding, stoichiometry, states of matter, and solutions. Laboratory experiments reinforce material presented during lecture and class discussion. Students are appropriately paced when beginning to learn how to write a proper laboratory report. Concepts of algebra and basic mathematics are reinforced in the context of chemical calculations and conversions of units.
Chemistry Advanced

This course is designed for the beginning chemistry student who seeks a challenging curriculum with considerable emphasis on problem solving and critical thinking. This course includes a study of measurement skills, atomic structure, the periodic table, bonding, stoichiometry, states of matter, solutions, and acid-base chemistry. Emphasis is placed on thorough presentation and discussion of concepts as well as proper style of scientific writing. Specific laboratory experiments are performed to reinforce topics learned during lecture and class discussion. Topics are covered at a more accelerated pace and in greater depth than in the general chemistry class; nightly supplemental materials are given to enhance their understanding of concepts.
AP Chemistry

The AP Chemistry course follows a college-level general chemistry syllabus as prescribed by the College Board. Brief review of material covered during first-year chemistry is accompanied by study of topics including advanced molecular theory, kinetics, thermodynamics, equilibrium, behavior of gases, acid-base, and electrochemistry. Students also perform frequent laboratory work and write subsequent formal lab reports. Performing labs outside of normal class time may be required at times.
Physics I

This course emphasizes the fundamental topics relating to the nature of science, Newton’s Laws, energy, gravity, electricity, magnetism and momentum. The class has a particular emphasis on conceptual learning through working in groups on competition-based projects, labs, and other projects. Use of appropriate equations and units, dimensional analysis, use of spreadsheets and technology to analyze data, and real-world applications of physics are emphasized throughout. Curiosity is a requirement.
Physics I Advanced

This course strongly emphasizes the concepts of physics while making appropriate math applications to the topics studied. There are many problem sets to be done and many demonstrations to be explained. Emphasis is placed on developing the ability to apply abstract ideas to concrete examples. The students will complete two or three major projects over the course of the year. Time will be spent learning how to use the resources in the Fab Lab to aid the execution of the projects.
Physics II

This course picks up where Physics I and Physics I Advanced leave off. The emphasis is on conceptual understanding rather than mathematical solutions to problem sets. Group project-based learning is emphasized. The students will learn 21st century skills by collaborating and building various kinds of products. The actual topics covered will depend on the interests of the students but will come from the following set: waves, sound, the science of music, electricity, magnetism, properties of light, light waves, color, space, the formation of the solar system, life cycles of stars and the universe.
Physics II Advanced

This is an algebra-based physics class. Problem solving is the major component of the course, which allows students to develop mathematically such traditional topics as mechanics, light, electricity and magnetism, and wave motion from fundamental principles. Assessment is done by traditional testing as well as completion of several projects throughout the year.
AP Physics

This calculus-based, problem-solving course follows the C Level syllabus as set forth by the College Board. The class focuses on classical mechanics, but some topics in E and M (electricity and magnetism) will be covered if time permits. The AP exam is given in two parts, one part for mechanics and one part for E and M. In the spring, all students will take the mechanics section. The E and M section may be taken at the discretion of the student.
Physics: Electronics I

This course will cover the use and theory of basic circuit components such as resistors, capacitors, diodes, switches, transistors and integrated circuits. The emphasis is on hands-on experimentation and circuit building.
Physics: Electronics II

This course picks up where Electronics I left off. Microcontrollers are the main focus. Emphasis is given to interfacing the microcontroller with the outside world and gathering data through sensors such as motion detectors, temperature sensors, and infrared range finders. The microcontroller and the data from the sensors is used to control actions through motors, stepper motors, relays, solenoids and other actuators. Learning occurs through building projects to achieve specific kinds of results.
Engineering Lab

This is a hands-on lab in which the students will build one or more projects of their own choosing, subject to the approval of the teacher. The resources in the FabLab are available for student use. Part of the class will be teaching the students how to use these tools. The grade will be based on documentation of the project, from design through completion. Daily status updates and goals will be provided by the student. An oral presentation will be given upon project completion.
Environmental Science

This class will give a background into humanity's (and specifically students') relationship with the natural world. Emphasis will be on the concepts of sustainability focused through the lens of economics, culture, and politics. The course will include units on demography, biodiversity, pollution, resource types and usage (including re-use), and alternative energy technologies.
Herpetology

Herpetology is the study of reptiles and amphibians. Students will learn general characteristics of reptiles and amphibians and their evolution, as well as their ecological roles and distribution. Special emphasis will be placed on identification of local reptiles and amphibians. The trip will include field trips and identification of species (both physically and from frog calls). Field trips will likely include at least one night trip and will involve getting dirty!
Human Biology: Reproduction & Survival

The purpose of this course is to give students a greater knowledge and appreciation for the human body. Diseases, disorders and social issues will also be discussed. A hands-on approach through projects, student presentations, and activities will make this course more conceptual than technical…and more fun for the students! Topics include the following: Conception, Development and Aging; Heart and Blood Vessels; Digestive System and Nutrition; and Nervous System and Respiratory System.
Human Biology: Strength & Defense

The purpose of this course is to give students a greater knowledge and appreciation for the human body. Diseases, disorders and social issues will also be discussed. A hands-on approach through projects, student presentations, and activities will make this course more conceptual than technical…and more fun for the students! Topics include the following: Skeletal System; Muscular System; Immune System; Endocrine System; and Post-Mortem Examination. (The Trimester 1 Human Biology course, Reproduction and Survival, is not a prerequisite for this course.)
Ornithology

Ornithology is the study of birds. In this Spring trimester class, students will provide approximately fifteen nest boxes on campus for bird habitats. Students will monitor these and observe the life cycles of birds such as wintering, migration, nesting, chicks, fledglings, and predation. Students will learn species identification skills through sight and sound. We will also gain insight into how the anatomy and physiology of birds lends itself to successful propagation of the various species. Finally we will study bird evolution, flight evolution, mating practices, partner relationships, intra-species competitions, resource competition, and plumage changes. Ultimately, students will gain an appreciation for not only birds, but also the natural world surrounding them!
Vertebrate Anatomy & Physiology

Students will learn about the various organ systems of the human body. The anatomy component of the course will include dissection and will emphasize identification of various structures of the body. The physiology component will emphasize the functions of the systems including circulation, the immune system, digestion, muscle contraction and movement and the nervous system.
Advanced Topics in College Physics
AP Chemistry Audit
Biochemistry
Medical Interventions

Grade/Dept

Department

Our Faculty

Megan Pollitt

At KCD since 2006
Marilyn Almonte

Science Teacher

At KCD since 2020
Lillian Apple

Physics Teacher, Head XC Coach, Assistant Varsity Track and Field Coach

College of Charleston - Masters of Education in Mathematics and Science
Elon University - BA
Rogers High School

At KCD since 2020
Heidi Bayerlein

US Science Teacher

At KCD since 2023
Caitlin Carroll

6th Grade Science Teacher; MS Head Cross Country and Track Coach; Before Care Coordinator

Bellarmine University - Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science and Nutrition, Master of Public Health

At KCD since 2020
Wendy Foulis

Science Teacher

Northwestern University - Ph.D. in Chemistry
Earlham College - B.A. in Chemistry

At KCD since 2019
Jackie Glass

Science Teacher

Western Kentucky University - Biology & Science/Math Education
University of the Cumberlands - Teacher Leadership

At KCD since 2018
Tracy Gritton

Kindergarten Assistant Teacher

University of Louisville - B.A.
Bellarmine University - M.A.T.

At KCD since 2006
Jason Johnson

Science Teacher; MS Assistant Cross Country/Track Coach, Varsity Quick Recall Coach

University of Arkansas - B.S., M.A.

At KCD since 2002
Kent Martin

Director of Upper School, Science Teacher

At KCD since 2014
Amy Sheehan

Science Teacher

Unity College of Maine - BS Environmental Science

At KCD since 2020
Thomas Sheehan

US Physics and Math Teacher

At KCD since 2024

Science

Grade/Dept

Our Faculty

KCD Connect