Academics
Upper School


Our Curriculum

Math

All students must earn three credits in mathematics to be eligible for graduation. The expected sequence is Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra II, and Pre-Calculus. For new students, initial placement in a course will be based on recognition of credits from previous courses taken, performance on a placement test, and application material.
  • Algebra I

    Algebra I is an entry level course, with students coming from a myriad of math experiences. This foundational course is designed to transition students into the Upper School and covers the following topics: operations on integers and monomials; solutions of first degree equations; elementary word problems; factoring; percents; simple number line graphs; operations on rational numbers, polynomials, and radicals; properties of exponents; graphing linear equations inequalities; systems of linear equations; graphing and solving quadratics. 
    Prerequisite: Eighth Grade Math
  • Geometry

    Geometry is a core course that is required for graduation, and it is designed to transition students into the Upper School through its emphasis on problem-solving, mathematical thinking, collaboration, and communication. We incorporate fundamental algebraic skills when examining lines, angles, triangles, polygons, and circles. Proofs will be used throughout to enhance the students' understanding. The course also covers the Pythagorean Theorem, similarity, trigonometry, transformations, and spatial reasoning. An emphasis on algebra and coordinate geometry will prepare students to be successful as they move into Algebra II.
    Prerequisite: Algebra I
  • Algebra II

    Algebra II is a core course required for graduation. It explores the topics of linear functions, quadratic functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, polynomial functions, radicals and rational functions, graphing transformations, and circular trigonometry. This course requires a scientific calculator.   
    Prerequisite: Geometry     
  • Algebra II Honors

    Algebra II Honors covers the same topics explored in the regular Algebra II curriculum, but in greater depth, at a faster pace, with increased complexity and expectations. This course requires a scientific calculator. 
    Prerequisite: Geometry
    Requires Department Chair Approval
  • Functions

    Functions provides opportunities for students to understand algebraic, trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic, and polynomial functions in a self-paced environment. Students will gain confidence in math skills as they progress from graphical interpretations to solving equations and inequalities, with a focus on real world applications of math and data. Students are encouraged to use clarity and precision in expression, and are taught in a discovery and inquiry based approach.
    Prerequisite: Algebra II
  • Intro to Statistics

    Data is all around us. How do we make sense of it and use it to make decisions? How can we take a sample of 1000 people and know about 300 million people? Statistics, as a mathematical tool, helps us understand our world. This one-trimester course will use activities and problems to introduce the fundamental concepts of statistics, such as data analysis, data collection, and inferential procedures.        
    OFFERED: Fall
    Prerequisite: Algebra II

  • Economics

    This trimester course will cover the basic fundamentals of economics, with an emphasis on microeconomics. Students will work in small groups, as they learn about supply and demand and the role of private and public enterprises in the US economy. The course culminates in the creation and presentation of a Small Business Plan at an Investor's Forum, where students hope to generate enough funding to move forward with their vision. OFFERED: Winter
    Prerequisite: Algebra II
  • Mathematics of Finance

    Mathematics of Finance is designed to introduce students to the basic concepts in financial literacy, including managing individual finances, the long term effects of financial decisions, and stock market investment. In this one-trimester course, students will investigate topics such as how to pay for college, purchase and insure a vehicle, afford a home, or prepare a budget.
    OFFERED: Spring
    Prerequisite: Algebra II
  • Pre-Calculus

    Pre-Calculus builds on the topics covered in Algebra II, in preparation for Single Variable Calculus.  Students will review inverse, piecewise, exponential, logarithmic, polynomial, and rational functions, and will cover trigonometry in greater detail. Emphasis will be placed on mathematical modeling, rates of change, concavity, long term behavior and the concept of limits. Additional topics may be covered, as time permits.
    Prerequisite: Geometry and Algebra II
  • Pre-Calculus Honors

    The topics in the Pre-Calculus Honors course will be the same as the core topics in Pre-Calculus, but are presented in greater depth and with increasing complexity.  Students can expect to work at a brisk pace, to focus on developing problem solving skills, and to maintain a primarily abstract approach to the material. The Pre-Calculus Honors course may include additional topics, such as sequences and series, vectors, and matrices, as time permits. Students who complete this course with exemplary work will be considered for Advanced Single Variable Calculus.
    Prerequisite: Geometry and Algebra II or Algebra II Honors
    Requires Department Chair Approval
  • Single Variable Calculus

    Single Variable Calculus is an introductory calculus course. It involves the study of limits, derivatives, and integrals, and their applications. This year long course begins with a review of the behavior of functions covered in Pre-Calculus. The emphasis of the course is on the application of calculus to real world scenarios. Student directed, small project work will be an essential element to the course.
    Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus
  • Adv Single Variable Calc

    Advanced Single Variable Calculus is an honors-level introductory calculus course that assumes a strong working knowledge of the topics covered in previous math classes. Students can expect to work at a brisk pace and maintain a primarily abstract approach to material. It begins with limits and continuity, followed by differentiation and its applications, definite and indefinite integrals. Additional topics may be covered, at the discretion of the teacher and/or the students.
    Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus Honors
    Requires Department Chair Approval
  • Advanced Topics in Calculus*

    This Pinnacle* mathematics course begins where Advanced Single Variable Calculus ends. Students will continue to develop their understanding of differential and integral calculus as it applies to parametric, polar, and other more advanced functions. The course will also cover sequences and series, and approximating functions using series. There is intentional room left open in the curriculum to engage student and teacher interests in related topics (Differential Equations, Linear Algebra, Real Analysis, and Calculus of a complex input are prior examples). Students who take this course should be prepared to have their mathematical intuition and assumptions challenged on a regular basis and will contribute to developing the contents of the course. 
    Prerequisite: Advanced Single Variable Calculus
    Requires Department Chair Approval
  • Statistics 101

    This year-long statistics course will explore data analysis, data collection, probability as it applies to statistical procedures, and inferential statistics. Students will be assessed through tests, projects, and reports as we explore these concepts. This course differs from the Pinnacle course (Statistics in Society*) in regards to the depth of understanding, expectations, and number of assignments. 
    Prerequisites: Pre-Calculus or taking Pre-Calculus concurrently.
  • Statistics in Society*

    This Pinnacle* course explores fundamental ideas of statistics such as data analysis, data collection, and inference. Students can expect to work with these abstract concepts and relate them to problems that exist in the world today. This course allows students to choose the topics they are interested in and apply statistical methods to these issues. Students in this Pinnacle* course will be held to a high standard, with the expectation that they will work independently to understand the complexities of the material, and demonstrate this depth of understanding.  
    Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus, or taking Pre-Calculus concurrently.
    Requires Department Chair Approval
  • Computing in Context*

    This year-long class will continue the exploration of data structures as well as give students the opportunity to research and produce larger projects in different coding environments. Computational thinking, as a design process, will be emphasized, and students will work in a collaborative environment. The major units will be drawn from data structures and the analysis of algorithms that apply to these various data structures. 
    Prerequisite: Algebra II, Fundamentals of Computer Science  
    Requires Department Chair Approval
  • Computer Aided Design

    This course introduces the design concepts of 3-D solid modeling using parametric CAD software.  Students will create models using dimensional and geometric constraints, with parametric features.  From the 3-D models, the student will create annotated 2-D engineering drawings. This is a hands-on course with emphasis on precision and accuracy.  Students will be Exposed to the Engineering Design Process and integrate their CAD software skills to “design” a solution to a problem. This project will include a set of drawings, a mechanical assembly, a stress analysis and a prototype.
    OFFERED: Winter
  • Fundamentals of Computer Science

    This course is based on an object-oriented methodology, and the content will include: object-oriented design (class specifications and relationships, class hierarchies); program implementation (appropriate distinctions between public and private data, data abstractions, interfaces, methods and parameters, problem solving); program analysis (efficiency, working with case studies); standard data structures (primitive data types, arrays, ArrayLists); standard algorithms (searching, sorting); and computing in context. It will use the Java language to teach the concepts. Students will need access to a computer outside of class in order to complete homework. No prior exposure to computer science courses and/or concepts is required.
    Prerequisite: Algebra II 
  • Introductory Programming

    This is a one-trimester introductory programming course and no previous experience is necessary. Lab work is the primary component of the class. Students will experience the theory and practice of programming through hands-on work with a variety of software tools which may include Lego Robotics and phone app development using MIT App Inventor. Topics will include: input and output procedures; control statements and logic; looping; subprograms; and graphics. Several projects will be based on simple logic games, and many will involve group work. Students will need access to a computer outside of class to complete work.
    OFFERED: Fall
  • Making Arduinos

    This trimester course will explore the relationship between hardware and software in solving problems. Arduinos are miniature computers that can be configured to accept a variety of sensors and inputs; results can be physical displays of movement, or a recording of data. Arduinos can be used to work with robotics, light, sound, air, water-the possibilities are endless. Students will be exposed to basic computer science principles as well as basic electronics. This course will be project based; some work will be guided explorations as a class, some will be projects suggested by the instructor, and at least one project will be student designed. Students will be required to purchase an Arduino kit and related parts (~$75).
    OFFERED: Spring

Our Faculty

Berwick Academy

Berwick Academy, situated on an 80-acre campus just over one hour north of Boston, serves 550 students, Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12 and Post-Graduates. Berwick students are from Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and several countries. Deeply committed to its mission of promoting virtue and useful knowledge, Berwick Academy empowers students to be creative and bold. Berwick strives to graduate alumni who shape their own learning, take risks, ask thoughtful questions, and come to understand and celebrate their authentic selves.