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)

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

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

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)

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

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

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)