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Academics
Upper School


Our Curriculum

Science

All students are required to have at least three credits in Science including IPC (Integrated Physics and Chemistry), IBC (Integrated Biology and Chemistry), plus one additional credit earned through completion of a Pinnacle* course, year-long elective or set of trimester electives. Depending on their prior experience, new upper level students may be required to take either IPC or IBC to fill gaps in their previous learning and adequately meet the department expectations for enrollment in elective and Pinnacle* courses.

  • Integrated Physics-Chem

    IPC/IBC Overview
    The IPC/IBC framework is designed to provide a smooth transition to Upper School science as well as emphasize development of the skills, knowledge, confidence, curiosity, and enthusiasm essential to future success in the science program at Berwick Academy and beyond.

    IPC - Integrated Physics and Chemistry (typical 9th grade course)
    Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC) progression fosters a deeper appreciation for the physical laws of nature with emphasis on Kinematics and Dynamics in trimester 1, Energy, Universal Gravitation, and Electric Charges and Circuits in trimester 2, and States of Matter, Gas Laws, Stoichiometry, and Calorimetry in trimester 3.

  • Integrated Bio-Chem

    IPC/IBC Overview
    The IPC/IBC framework is designed to provide a smooth transition to Upper School science as well as emphasize development of the skills, knowledge, confidence, curiosity and enthusiasm essential to future success in the science program at Berwick Academy and beyond.

    IBC - Integrated Biology and Chemistry (typical 10th grade course)
    The Integrated Biology and Chemistry (IBC) progression fosters a deeper appreciation for life’s diversity and its chemical origins with emphasis on the molecular basis for life, cells and energetics, and the central dogma of science. IBC students will continue to build upon the skill development they started in IPC as they prepare for upper level electives and/or Pinnacle* courses in Grades 11 and 12. 

  • Analytical Chemistry*

    This course will build and expand upon topics studied in IPC/IBC focusing on more depth and placing the lab experience first. Students will explore topics in thermodynamics, bonding, molecular geometry, intermolecular forces, kinetics, equilibrium, acid/base chemistry, electrochemistry, and advanced topics in organic/biological chemistry. Each major unit will begin with a laboratory exercise allowing students to explore chemical concepts through inquiry-driven learning and collaboration. This course will also emphasize skills in scientific writing, presentation, and real-world lab techniques which will mirror not only a college-level chemistry course, but also the nature of science in general.
    Requires Department Chair Approval

  • Anatomy & Physiology

    This one year course is a study through lecture, laboratory activities, and research of the gross and microscopic structures and functions of the cells, tissues, and organ systems of the human body. This course will review basic cellular structure and function and then progress through the levels of structural organization. We will travel through the major systems of the body including the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, reproductive, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, immune, digestive, and urinary systems. Terminology and pathology will be introduced. Students will be expected to participate in laboratory investigations and research on organ system pathologies. This course will introduce and explore the integrated functioning of the human body. A strong foundation in chemistry and biology is recommended.
    Prerequisite: IPC & IBC 

  • Anthropogenic Climate Change

    This course explores the science behind climate change along with factors that cause it. Students will learn how to analyze data and examine graphs that articulate changes which have occurred in the environment. In doing so, students gain perspective about human actions that have the biggest impact on the climate. Specifically, this course takes an in-depth look at the communities most impacted by climate change and pinpoints the disparity between the contributors and impacted populations. Additionally, students will learn about efforts made to combat this crisis and develop the knowledge to feel empowered to join that charge.
    OFFERED: Winter
    Prerequisite: IPC & IBC (can be taken concurrently)

  • Applied Physics*

    Throughout this advanced, project-based course, students are challenged to demonstrate real-world applications of physics, mathematics, and engineering concepts.  Students will dive deeply into topics related to kinematics, electricity, mechanics, and special relativity. As part of their exploration, students will design, build, test, and analyze models to discover how and why things around us work the way they do. The year will culminate in a public exhibition of an authentic, question-driven, data rich investigation in which students demonstrate their learning and commitment to diving deeply and expressing their curiosity in the field of Physics.  
    Prerequisite: Calculus (can be taken concurrently)
    Requires Department Chair Approval

  • Biological Inquiry & Analysis*

    An inquiry-based introduction to concepts in biology. The course will build core knowledge and core skills through a guided-inquiry approach in which students engage in science as it is practiced by professional scientists: reading the primary literature, writing in the style of the discipline, presenting ideas orally, developing and testing hypotheses, conducting authentic research experiments, analyzing data using statistical methods, graphing and interpreting results, thinking creatively and critically, working effectively in teams, and applying knowledge to novel situations and civic problems. A strong foundation in chemistry and biology is recommended. 
    Requires Department Chair Approval

  • Classical Physics

    This course will help students develop their problem-solving skills through an examination of different concepts in physics. The trimester will focus on basic mechanics (kinematics, dynamics, conservation of momentum, and conservation of energy). Utilizing student-designed lab activities, group problem sets, and collaborative projects, students will build their understanding of the basic concepts of physics while enhancing their problem-solving skills in the scientific realm.
    OFFERED: Fall
    Prerequisite: IPC & IBC, Algebra II w/trigonometry (can be taken concurrently)

  • Ecology & Natural History of BA

    Ecology and natural history take an interdisciplinary approach to understanding a landscape. Factors such as human history, disturbance, weather, soil and slope combine to shape the landscapes we see around us. Informed by the literary works of Aldo Leopold and Tom Wessels we will conduct field research to interpret and tell the story of the processes that shaped the landscape of our campus and surrounding forest. For a capstone project we will also learn the art and science of woodcraft, using wood from the Berwick Campus to build and create. These pieces will serve as a means to communicate the natural history of our school community.
    OFFERED: Fall
    Prerequisite: IPC & IBC (can be taken concurrently)

  • Engineering for the Future*

    In this project based class we will take a systems approach to identifying, analyzing and solving real world problems. Students will draw from their own toolbox of past academic experience in order to critically examine issues in our world, develop understanding and craft designs and solutions that make the world healthier, happier and more sustainable. Being a project based course, initiative, inquisitiveness, and alacrity when approaching independent work are essential to success. Course topics will take an interdisciplinary approach to many complex social and environmental issues, folding in local and global case studies and field trips.
    Requires Department Chair Approval

  • Environmental Chemistry

    This course explores the relationship between chemistry and the environment. Students will approach the topics of atmospheric composition, water supply and contaminants, soil composition, waste management, and global warming through the lens of chemistry. Through a combination of theory, lab experiments, and real-world case studies, students will develop an understanding of the complex interactions between chemicals and the environment along with the role chemistry can play in addressing environmental challenges.
    Prerequisite: IPC & IBC

  • Farm to Fork

    This course explores food systems, from a global and local perspective. Students will put the skills we learn in the classroom into practice in the Berwick Academy Campus Garden. We will explore all of the components that go into growing plants, experimenting with different gardening techniques and analyzing variables that contribute to a successful garden. After preparing the garden beds for Winter, students will explore factors that impact food access and distribution in order to brainstorm how we can build a more equitable food system.
    OFFERED: Fall
    Prerequisite: IPC & IBC (can be taken concurrently)

  • Fundamentals of Neuroscience

    This year-long course will explore a variety of areas of study in neuroscience: the structure and function of the nervous system and the brain.  Areas of focus include: neurons, neurotransmitters, and the nervous system; the brain's development, physical structure, and function; the ways in which the brain processes information and allows us to see, hear, experience pain, and pay attention; what happens when the brain is damaged (including concussion and dementia); and the impact of wellness on the brain, including stress, sleep, nutrition, substances, exercise, and mindfulness.   The class is dynamic and interactive, and material is presented through lecture, demonstrations, and a wide variety of hands-on activities.  Course requirements consist of regular readings, high-level note-taking, vocabulary preparation, assessments, assignments, class discussion, projects, and presentations.
    Prerequisite: IPC & IBC

  • Human Nutrition and Exercise Physiology

    In this course, students will gain an in-depth understanding of the roles of carbohydrate, protein, and fat in their diet. Students will be introduced to the scientific basis of exercise and/or athletic performance, and learn what foods, fluids, and supplements support optimal training, performance, and recovery. There will also be a focus on the human body's physiological adaptation to external stressors such as work, exercise and environmental conditions. Nutrition will be explored through a broader lens where students will investigate how political, economic, social and cultural drivers in the food system influence human health outcomes.
    Prerequisite: IPC & IBC

  • Introduction to Psychology

    This year-long course is designed to introduce students to the study of psychology: the science of behavior and mental processes. Areas of focus include: how memory works and the science of how we learn and remember; biopsychology (the nervous system and the brain) and emotion; child development and learning; the effects of nature and nurture on motivation and personality; social psychology; sleep, substance use, and addiction; and stress, psychological disorders, and mental health. The class is dynamic and interactive, and material is presented through lecture, demonstrations, and a wide variety of hands-on activities. Course requirements consist of regular textbook and supplemental readings, high-level note-taking, vocabulary preparation, assessments, assignments, class discussion, projects, and presentations.
    Prerequisite: IPC & IBC

  • Mechanical Engineering

    This trimester course explores the history, physics, geometry, art, electronics, and engineering of pinball machines. Since the 1930s, technological advances and social change have shaped the evolution of pinball. Appreciating this history will provide students with useful perspective and inspiration as they engage in the process of making their own tabletop pinball machine. Through this process, students will express their creativity, apply their knowledge of geometry and physics, develop confidence in their ability to design and fabricate, and be asked to regularly reflect on their successes and learn from their failures.  This course will conclude with a community pinball festival where students will share their process and show off their creations.
    OFFERED: Winter
    Prerequisite: IPC & IBC (can be taken concurrently)

  • Sustainability at Berwick

    This course brings topics of sustainability to life around Berwick's campus. Using the UN Sustainable Development goals as a framework, students will take a critical look at the topics of food, water, energy, and waste. This course will provide context for these topics by situating them within the reality of Berwick Academy and giving students the opportunity to choose an aspect of sustainability on campus to improve. This course empowers students to make positive change by building the skills of communication, community organizing, and systems thinking.
    OFFERED: Spring
    Prerequisite: IPC & IBC (can be taken concurrently)

  • The Science of Where

    This project-based, trimester elective leverages a variety of geospatial technologies (GPS - Global Positioning Systems, GIS - Geographic Information Systems, and Remote Sensing) to engage students in developing their spatial thinking skills. Effective spatial thinking in the 21st century involves visualizing and solving problems within the context of Earth's ever changing physical and human systems. This interdisciplinary course engages students in learning experiences which will showcase geospatial technologies (GSTs) as an indispensable component of decision-making in today's complex society and develop an appreciation for how GSTs are becoming a crucial component of careers in environmental, social science, health, business, and engineering fields. 
    OFFERED: Spring
    Prerequisite: IPC & IBC (can be taken concurrently)

  • Truss Bridge Architecture & Design

    Students will construct a scale model of a truss bridge using manila file folders, test the tensile and compressive strength of each member of the truss, analyze the forces acting on the truss, and determine the factor of safety of the design. We will also study and explore the history of the truss, different truss designs, and the cost of building trusses today. The one trimester course will end with a computer-aided truss design competition that will allow students to experiment with different styles and materials as they work to complete the virtual crossing with a design that is safe, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing.
    OFFERED: Spring
    Prerequisite: IPC & IBC (can be taken concurrently); Algebra II w/trigonometry (can be taken concurrently)

Our Faculty

  • Photo of Christine Bessette
    Christine Bessette
    Upper School Science Teacher, US Musical Choreographer, Dance Teacher
    207-384-2164 x2601
    Sanford High School - Diploma
    Northeastern University - M.S.
    Barry University - B.S.
  • Photo of Heidi Duehmig
    Heidi Duehmig
    Middle School Science and Math, Middle School Cross Country Coach, Middle School Math Team Coach
    207-384-2164
    Plymouth State College - M.Ed.
    Eckerd College - B.A.
  • Photo of Julie Givens
    Julie Givens
    Upper School Science Teacher
    207-384-2164 x2528
    Boston College - M.B.A., M.S.W.
    University of Vermont - B.A.
  • Photo of John Ibsen
    John Ibsen
    Inspiration Commons Coordinator, US Science Teacher, 5th Grade Advisor
    University of Vermont - BS
    University of Vermont - B.S.
  • Photo of Krysta Ibsen
    Krysta Ibsen
    Middle School Science Teacher, Coach
    207-384-2164 x2606
    Lesley University, Cambridge - MEd
    Lesley University - M.Ed.
    University of Vermont - M.Ed.
  • Photo of James Maldonis
    James Maldonis
    Science Department Chair, Upper School Science, Community Life Coordinator
    207-384-2164 x2613
    Tufts University - M.S.
    Bates College - B.S.
  • Photo of Christopher Mansfield
    Christopher Mansfield
    Upper School Science Teacher, Boys JV Soccer
    207-384-2164 x2608
    Hamilton College - B.A.
  • Photo of Benjamin McDermott
    Benjamin McDermott
  • Betsy Randall
    Presque isle high school - Yes
    University of New England - Bachelors in health sciences
    University of new england - Masters in occupational therapy
  • Photo of Sarah Jeanne Shimer
    Sarah Jeanne Shimer
    PK-12 Sustainability Coordinator, Upper School Science Teacher
    Lesley University - M.Ed.
    Colby College - B.A.
  • Photo of Marc Small
    Marc Small
    STEAM Pathways Coordinator, 7th Grade Science, MS/US Soccer Coach, MS Ice Hockey Coach
    207-384-2164 x2611
    Harvard University - M.Ed.
    Colby College - B.A.
  • Photo of Eloise Willemsen
    Eloise Willemsen
    Middle and Lower School Science Teacher
    Lesley University - M.Ed.
    Whitman College - B.A.

Berwick Academy

31 Academy Street
South Berwick, Maine 03908

Contact:
Admission | 207.384.6300
Main Office | 207.384.2164
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.

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