\

Curriculum Detail

Search Our Curriculum

US Science

Severn’s Upper School Science department strives to help students gain an understanding of the natural world and develop the study skills particular to the sciences. The department also helps students acquire the knowledge needed to live in a technological society and become aware of the responsibility that science has to society. 

The Upper School Science department follows a physics first approach. Typically, students will enroll in physics during their freshmen year, chemistry during their sophomore year, and biology during their junior year. Several students choose to take "double science" in their junior and senior year by enrolling in AP science classes.

  • Physics

    Physics

    Physics is a laboratory-oriented course that introduces students to the major topics in physics: kinematics, forces and Newton’s Laws, momentum, energy, waves, sound, light, color, optics, electricity, and magnetism. Physics emphasizes both conceptual analysis and algebra-based approaches. Students will develop the skills to use dimensional analysis for unit conversions and perform algebraic manipulations of equations in order to solve for different variables.
    Students will learn the skills required to perform experiments successfully. These skills include data collection with traditional devices as well as digital probeware, and data analysis by creating and interpreting graphs. Finally, scientific reasoning will be used to draw conclusions and provide evidence to support their claims. Students will develop their mathematical skills by solving quantitative physics problems.
    Compared to the Honors Physics course, Physics moves at a more moderate pace that is appropriate for students who are concurrently enrolled in Algebra I or Integrated Math, has a stronger conceptual focus, and provides more scaffolding of mathematical concepts. 


  • Honors Physics

    Honors Physics

    Honors Physics is a laboratory-oriented course that covers the major areas of classical physics: kinematics, forces and Newton’s laws, fluids, momentum, energy, waves, optics, and electricity. Honors Physics is an algebra-based course that requires students to use dimensional analysis for unit conversions and perform algebraic manipulations of equations in order to solve for different variables.
    Students will learn the skills required to perform experiments successfully. These skills include data collection with traditional devices as well as digital probeware, and data analysis by creating and interpreting graphs. Finally, scientific reasoning will be used to draw conclusions and provide evidence to support their claims. Students will develop their mathematical skills by solving quantitative physics problems. Successful students typically are confident in their ability to problem solve, organize and manage time, and are comfortable with self-motivation and self-advocacy. 
    Compared to the Physics course, Honors Physics moves at a faster pace, covers topics in more depth, and places a greater emphasis on mathematics and calculations. Honors Physics closely follows the College Board AP Physics 1 curriculum.  Students who are confident in their abilities and able to prepare additionally outside of class can choose to take the AP Physics 1 exam in the spring. 
    Prerequisite: Departmental approval


  • Chemistry

    Chemistry

    Chemistry is the study of matter, its structure, properties, composition, and the changes it undergoes. This course includes units on classification of matter, chemical numeracy, properties of gasses, stoichiometry and the mole, nomenclature, intermolecular forces, gas laws, chemical reactions and equations, and the periodic table. Laboratory work provides the basis for emphasis and extension of classroom topics. To reinforce concepts being studied, there are typically nightly assignments. Students will develop scientific literacy and critical thinking skills that can be applied to the challenges facing the world today. The goal of Chemistry is to provide students with a foundational understanding of chemistry topics while developing the skills needed to be successful in Biology junior year.
    Compared to the Honors Chemistry course, Chemistry moves at a more moderate pace, has a stronger conceptual focus, and provides more scaffolding of mathematical concepts. Students will find that a strong background in Algebra I is sufficient as a mathematical foundation. 
    Prerequisite: Physics or Honors Physics


  • Honors Chemistry

    Honors Chemistry

    Honors Chemistry explores the composition, properties, and transformations of matter, providing a rigorous foundation in chemistry principles. This year-long course covers foundational chemical principles, atomic structure and bonding, chemical reactions, states of matter, thermochemistry, equilibrium, acids and bases, and electrochemistry. Laboratory investigations reinforce theoretical concepts, develop critical thinking, and enhance experimental skills.

    Success in this course requires self-motivation, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to independent learning. Honors Chemistry prepares students for the challenges of Honors Biology in junior year and provides a strong foundation for those electing to take AP Chemistry in later years.

    Compared to Chemistry, Honors Chemistry moves at an accelerated pace and explores topics in greater depth. Students should have strong mathematical reasoning skills, and completion of Algebra II or concurrent enrollment in Honors Algebra II is recommended, but not required. 

    Prerequisites: Physics or Honors Physics, and departmental approval



  • Biology

    Biology

    Biology explores various aspects of biology from two different viewpoints: the macro-level and the molecular level. Within the units dedicated to the study of macro-biology, students investigate topics such as ecology, evolution, and human body systems. At the molecular scale, topics such as macromolecules of life and their synthesis, structure and function of the cell, and genetics are introduced. Students are provided opportunities to supplement their studies with laboratory work designed to deepen content understanding and develop key laboratory skills. Successful students will make organization, time management, dedication to outside practice and self-advocacy a priority. 
    Prerequisite: Chemistry or Honors Chemistry


  • Honors Biology

    Honors Biology

    Placing a heavy emphasis on cellular and molecular biology, Honors Biology focuses on several major areas of biology including, cell structure and function, the molecules of life, genetics, human anatomy and physiology, and evolution. Students will develop scientific literacy and critical-thinking skills that can be applied to scientific issues facing the world today. Laboratory work provides the basis for emphasis and extension of classroom topics. Students who take this course should have strong time-management and organizational skills, academic grit, and a willingness to think independently as students are expected to make concept connections throughout the year . 
    Compared to Biology, Honors Biology covers topics at an accelerated pace and in greater depth. Much of the detailed content learned in this course will provide a strong foundation for future success in AP Biology. 
    Prerequisites: Chemistry or Honors Chemistry, and department approval


  • Anatomy & Physiology

    Anatomy & Physiology (Spring)

    Anatomy & Physiology is a semester-long course that provides a fundamental understanding of the structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) of various human systems, particularly those that were not already studied in junior-year Biology or Honors Biology. The topics covered explore human anatomy from the lens of homeostasis. Topics explored include anatomical terminology and directional terms, the integumentary system, the skeletal muscular system and special senses.
    Prerequisite: Biology or Honors Biology


  • Astronomy

    Astronomy (Fall, Spring)

    Astronomy provides students with the opportunity to go where no one has gone before! Students role-play as astronauts assigned to humanity's first permanent Mars base established in a domed crater and learn the content of the Mars AstroVenture astronaut training curriculum. Divided into four units, astronauts-in-training learn about the basics of Newtonian astromechanics and the nighttime sky, then delve into the solar system and the planets and smaller objects found there. Moving beyond the solar system, trainees learn about stars, stellar evolution, the Milky Way Galaxy, and habitable zones and the search for life in the Universe. Finally, astronauts learn about the larger structures and cosmology of the Universe and explore exciting topics such as dark matter, supernovas, and the structure of space-time. This course uses an online simulation that allows students to role-play as an explorer of the final frontier.
    Open to freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors 


  • Forensics

    Forensics (Fall)

    Forensics is a one-semester course in which students learn how the disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics can be used to analyze crime scene evidence. Students will use their previous science knowledge to investigate the scientific basis behind various analytical techniques involved in forensics analysis. Hands-on activities give students a deeper understanding of how such techniques are performed.

    Open to juniors and seniors


  • Introductory Robotics

    Introductory Robotics (Fall,Spring)

    Introductory Robotics provides students with a hands-on exploration of robotics hardware and software. No experience is necessary but previous experience in robotics and programming will benefit students. Exploring a number of robotics platforms and electronic microcontrollers, students will learn about and build an underwater ROV running motors using an Arduino microcontroller, and will control and utilize sensors on a Texas Instruments™ Rover using the Python computing language on a TI-84 CE calculators. Students will also learn how to design for and utilize the laser cutter and 3D printers in the Graw Innovation Center to construct components for various robotics projects. This course provides a great onramp for students intrigued by robotics, interested in engineering coursework or careers, and/or wanting to learn programming. 
    Open to freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors 


  • Introduction to Engineering Design I

    Introduction to Engineering Design I (Fall)
    In Introduction to Engineering Design (IED), students explore engineering tools and apply a common approach to the solution of engineering problems, an engineering design process. Utilizing the activity-project-problem-based (APB) teaching and learning pedagogy, students progress from completing structured activities to solving open-ended projects and problems that require them to plan, document, communicate, and develop other professional skills.
    Through both individual and collaborative team activities, projects, and problems, students apply systems thinking and consider various aspects of engineering design including material selection, human-centered design, manufacturability, assemblability and sustainability. Students develop skills in technical representation and documentation especially through 3D computer modeling using a Computer Aided Design (CAD) application. As part of the design process, students produce precise 3D-printed engineering prototypes using an additive manufacturing process. Student-developed testing protocols drive decision-making and iterative design improvements. With a focus on (1) Design and Problem Solving and (2) Assembly Design, IED I is the first semester of the year-long Introduction to Engineering Design foundational course in the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Engineering curriculum.
    Open to freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors


  • Introduction to Engineering Design II

    Introduction to Engineering Design II (Spring)
    In Introduction to Engineering Design (IED), a foundational course in the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Engineering Curriculum, students explore engineering tools and apply a common approach to the solution of engineering problems, an engineering design process. Utilizing the activity-project-problem-based (APB) teaching and learning pedagogy, students progress from completing structured activities to solving open-ended projects and problems that require them to plan, document, communicate, and develop other professional skills.
    Through both individual and collaborative team activities, projects, and problems, students apply systems thinking and consider various aspects of engineering design including material selection, human-centered design, manufacturability, assemblability and sustainability. Students develop skills in technical representation and documentation especially through 3D computer modeling using a Computer Aided Design (CAD) application. As part of the design process, students produce precise 3D-printed engineering prototypes using an additive manufacturing process. Student-developed testing protocols drive decision-making and iterative design improvements. With a focus on (1) Thoughtful Project Design and (2) Making Things Move, IED II is the second semester of the year-long Introduction to Engineering Design foundational course in the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Engineering curriculum. IED II picks up where IED I concluded, although IED I is not a prerequisite for IED II. 
    Open to freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors


  • Principles of Engineering I

    Principles of Engineering I (Fall)   
    Principles of Engineering (POE) I is a survey course that exposes students to some of the major concepts that they will encounter in a postsecondary engineering course of study. Through problems that engage and challenge, students explore a broad range of engineering topics, including mechanisms, the strength of materials and structures, automation, and kinematics. Students develop skills in problem solving, research, and design while learning strategies for design process documentation, collaboration, and presentation. The course applies and concurrently develops knowledge and skills in mathematics, science, and technology. With a focus on (1) Energy and Power and (2) Materials and Structures, POE I is the first semester of a year-long foundational course in the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Engineering curriculum.
    Upon successful completion of POE I, POE II and an optional end-of-year exam administered by Project Lead The Way, students may become eligible to receive college credit for equivalent coursework.
    Open to freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors


  • Principles of Engineering II

    Principles of Engineering II (Spring) 
    Principles of Engineering (POE) II is a survey course that exposes students to some of the major concepts that they will encounter in a postsecondary engineering course of study. Through problems that engage and challenge, students explore a broad range of engineering topics, including mechanisms, the strength of materials and structures, automation, and kinematics. Students develop skills in problem solving, research, and design while learning strategies for design process documentation, collaboration, and presentation. The course applies and concurrently develops knowledge and skills in mathematics, science, and technology. With a focus on (1) Control Systems and (2) Statistics and Kinematics, POE II is the second semester of a year-long foundational course in the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Engineering curriculum. POE II picks up where POE I concluded, although POE I is not a prerequisite for POE II. 
    Upon successful completion of POE I, POE II and an optional end-of-year exam administered by Project Lead The Way, students may become eligible to receive college credit for equivalent coursework. 
    Open to freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors


  • AP Biology

    AP Biology

    AP Biology is the equivalent of an introductory biology course in college and closely follows the College Board curriculum. This course recognizes evolution as the unifying theme of biology and challenges students to “think like a biologist.” The pace of this course is rigorous and the standards for student work are high. The course begins with work over the summer, and students can also expect to have work assigned over school breaks and holidays. Twenty-five percent of this course is devoted to laboratory work, so students are required to regularly use the scientific method to collect and analyze data. Students who take this course should be able to consistently complete all assignments fully and on time, work and think independently, contribute positively to class, and have a genuine interest in and enthusiasm for the study of life. 

    Successful students typically have a deep passion for science, strong organization and time management skills, and are comfortable with self-motivation and self-advocacy. A willingness to read and an ability to ‘think visually’ are often predictors of success in this process-driven course. 

    Summer work is required.

    Prerequisites: Honors Biology and departmental approval

  • AP Chemistry

    AP Chemistry

    AP Chemistry is equivalent to a first year college general chemistry course, and closely follows the College Board curriculum. The pace of this course is rigorous and the standards for student work are high. The course begins with work over the summer and students typically work over school breaks. Building on the thinking protocols developed in Honors Chemistry, AP Chemistry involves the study of chemical topics in greater detail. Students are asked to solve more sophisticated problems and analyze more complex laboratory work. Students who take this course should be able to consistently complete all assignments fully and on time, work and think independently, contribute positively to class, and have a genuine interest in and enthusiasm for the study of atoms and their interactions.

    Successful students typically have a deep passion for science, strong organization and time management skills, and are comfortable with self-motivation and self-advocacy. Strong mental math skills and completion or concurrent enrollment in Precalculus, Honors Precalculus, or Honors Functions/Calculus A is recommended, but not required. 

    Summer work is required. 

    Prerequisites: Honors Chemistry and departmental approval 

     

  • AP Environmental Science

    AP Environmental Science

    AP Environmental Science is a college-level course in which students engage in scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships within the natural world. Students will identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. The course begins with work over the summer and students typically work over school breaks. Twenty-five percent of this course is devoted to laboratory work, so students are required to regularly use the scientific method to collect and analyze data. Students who take this course should have strong math skills in the areas of dimensional analysis, calculating growth rates, half-life, and the use of scientific notation. Students who demonstrate a high level of organization, are highly motivated, and have a strong ability to think and learn independently will be well suited for this course. 
    Summer work is required. 
    Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in Honors Biology or successful completion of Honors Biology or Biology, and department approval


  • AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based

    AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based  

    AP Physics 2 is a college-level, algebra-based physics course that is designed to prepare students to take the College Board AP exam. This course closely follows the College Board curriculum and is an extension of Severn’s Honors Physics and College Prep Physics courses that are typically taken during freshman year. The course begins with work over the summer and students typically work over school breaks.   
    There is a substantial laboratory component to the course and critical thinking skills are necessary to complete the laboratory activities. This course moves at a fast pace, and the workload is high, therefore a strong physics background is recommended. Students who have good time-management, problem-solving skills, and a strong math-background, will be well suited for this course. 
    Summer work is required.
    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Physics or Honors Physics, successful completion of Algebra II, and department approval


  • AP Physics C: Mechanics

    AP Physics C: Mechanics

    This college-level, calculus-based physics course closely follows the College Board curriculum.  The course begins with work over the summer and students typically work over breaks. AP Physics C: Mechanics is more rigorous than AP Physics 2 and covers mechanics topics similar to the topics covered in the Honors Physics/Physics courses.  
    There is a substantial laboratory component to the course and critical thinking skills are necessary to complete the laboratory activities. This course moves at a fast pace and the workload is high, therefore a strong physics background is recommended. Students who have good time-management, problem-solving skills, and a strong math background will be well suited for this course. 
    Summer work is required.
    Prerequisites: Successful completion of Physics or Honors Physics, successful completion of Honors Calculus or concurrent enrollment in AP Calculus AB or BC, and departmental approval


Lower School

Chesapeake Campus—PS-Grade 5
1185 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd
Arnold, MD  21012
410-647-7700

Upper School

Teel Campus—Grade 6-12
201 Water Street
Severna Park, MD  21146
410-647-7700