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Science

Woodberry Forest is a physics-first school, introducing its students to the science curriculum through a laboratory-intensive, conceptually-underpinned physics course for third formers. For students entering Woodberry in the third form year, the sequence of required courses is physics in the third form, chemistry in the fourth form, and biology in the fifth form. Those who enter in the 4th form take chemistry, then biology 5th form year if they haven’t already taken a high school laboratory-based biology course.

The science department believes not just in learning about science, but also in doing science. Every course, at every level, spends at least a quarter of the class time, and usually much more than that, doing hands-on laboratory activities. Students leave the general-level courses with an understanding of evidence-based scientific reasoning, as well as an understanding of how experimental evidence is gathered in each scientific discipline. Advanced coursework is available in all areas.

In summary, the Woodberry science sequence includes:

Entering 3rd form: physics, chemistry, biology.

Entering 4th form: chemistry, biology. Physics is not required, but is available to upperclassmen.

Entering 5th form: biology. Neither physics nor chemistry is required, but both are available to upperclassmen.

Science_Physics

Physics, a year-long course required of all third formers, emphasizes the principles of physics on a conceptual basis. The course begins with optics and waves and progresses through electric circuits before covering traditional mechanics topics. Students use the fundamental facts and equations of introductory physics as a vehicle for a thorough introduction to analytical thinking and creative problem-solving skills. Well over half of class time involves hands-on experimental work. Nightly problems require students to justify their answers with substantial verbal reasoning. Tests and exams questions are based on authentic items from New York Regents exams, adapted such that a calculator is not required, and adapted to require students to demonstrate their verbal as well as mathematical skills. It is expected that a successful physics student leaves with a solid understanding of qualitative mathematical approaches to problem-solving, including verbal justifications of answers; graphical analysis, both experimental and theoretical; order of magnitude estimation, including describing the physical meaning of numerical answers; and experimental verification and investigation of physical relationships.

Those who do not enter in the 3rd form are encouraged to take physics in the 5th or 6th form year. Such students are offered a separate section of physics from the 3rd form. This section follows the same curriculum, but in a different order, and in a style optimized for upperclassmen.
Biology

Biology

Biology is an introductory laboratory course which presents topics of basic biology. This survey course covers the ecological biology of plants and animals, evolution and speciation, and the interrelationships between organisms and their environment; it further includes the cellular biology topics of biochemistry, cell structure and function, and molecular genetics. Though all sections hold about ¾ of the course in common, each teacher spends ¼ of the course covering topics and laboratory investigations in an area of their personal interest, sometimes including deeper investigations into environmental ecology, forensic biology, anatomy, or marine biology. A minimum of one quarter of the class time is spent conducting laboratory investigations and related class activities. Topics are often presented within the context of how this study of life relates to technology and society. Reading and discussion of the class text along with current scientific literature is an integral part of the course. Biology (or honors biology) is a required course for all 5th formers, unless they have already taken a laboratory-based biology course during high school.
Science_Honors Physics 1

Honors physics 1 follows the course description for AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based provided by the College Board. This is an algebra-based, college-level survey course, covering important topics in classical mechanics. Students are expected to develop both a mathematical and conceptual understanding of the subject, with a substantial emphasis on the latter. The course is taught through the use of quantitative demonstrations and in-class laboratory exercises, paired with nightly assignments involving descriptive problem solving. Approximately half the course time is spent in hands-on experimental work in guided- and open- inquiry styles. Tests and exams are in the style of the AP Physics 1 exam. Students are encouraged to take the AP Physics 1 exam in May.

One section of this course is exclusively for 3rd formers, who are selected based on a holistic evaluation of their transcript and readiness assessment. Honors placement for upperformers is determined for returning students by their performance in their previous science course, and for new students by a holistic transcript evaluation. Honors physics 1 is also available as a second-year physics course to most students who have already completed physics.
Physics 3rd form
Chemistry

Chemistry

Chemistry introduces the student to a broad spectrum of chemical interactions and concepts. A development of the fundamental principles of chemistry, as well as their applications, is presented. Chemical nomenclature, stoichiometry, atomic structure, bonding theories, thermochemistry, periodic properties, solution calculations, gas laws, and the properties of solids and liquids are among the topics discussed. Regular inquiry-style laboratory investigations involve hands-on study of matter and its changes.
Physics

Physics

Physics, a year-long course required of all third formers, emphasizes the principles of physics on a conceptual basis. The course begins with optics and waves and progresses through electric circuits before covering traditional mechanics topics. Students use the fundamental facts and equations of introductory physics as a vehicle for a thorough introduction to analytical thinking and creative problem-solving skills. Well over half of class time involves hands-on experimental work. Nightly problems require students to justify their answers with substantial verbal reasoning. Tests and exams questions are based on authentic items from New York Regents exams, adapted such that a calculator is not required, and adapted to require students to demonstrate their verbal as well as mathematical skills. It is expected that a successful physics student leaves with a solid understanding of qualitative mathematical approaches to problem-solving, including verbal justifications of answers; graphical analysis, both experimental and theoretical; order of magnitude estimation, including describing the physical meaning of numerical answers; and experimental verification and investigation of physical relationships.

Those who do not enter in the 3rd form are encouraged to take physics in the 5th or 6th form year. Such students are offered a separate section of physics from the 3rd form. This section follows the same curriculum, but in a different order, and in a style optimized for upperclassmen.
Science_Honors Physics 2

Honors physics 2 follows the course description for AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based provided by the College Board. This is an algebra-based, college-level survey course, covering topics beyond mechanics: waves, optics, electricity, magnetism, fluids, thermodynamics, and atomic physics. Students are expected to develop both a mathematical and conceptual understanding of the subject, with a substantial emphasis on the latter. The course is taught through the use of quantitative demonstrations and in-class laboratory exercises, paired with nightly assignments involving descriptive problem solving. At least one-quarter of the course time is spent in hands-on experimental work in guided- and open- inquiry styles. Tests and exams are in the style of the AP Physics 2 exam. Students are required to take the AP Physics 2 exam in May.

Successful completion of honors physics 1 is required for placement into honors physics 2. This means earning a 3 or better on the AP Physics 1 exam; or, for those who took an honors physics equivalent course elsewhere, passing a rigorous placement test similar to the AP Physics 1 exam.
Introduction to Engineering

Introduction to Engineering Design - will only be offered in fall trimester, available to sophomores, juniors, and seniors, requirement: ECLIPSE (if student arrived in 3rd form)

This trimester-long course allows students the opportunity to have a taste of what being a design engineer is really like. This largely project-based experiential course introduces the spectrum from aesthetics to performance in design decision making, before leading students through a series of design cycles mimicking the processes typically encountered in engineering industry using industry-standard tools. Individual and group projects will teach computer-aided design (CAD) and finite element analysis (FEA) software by walking students through the creation of a radio-controlled airplane design and conceptualisation of a deployable bridge for humanitarian applications, culminating in a competitive physical testing process to find out how much weight each 3D printed bridge prototype holds before destruction. This course is perfectly suited to young students looking to turn design thinking and curiosity into a future career.
Honors Applications of Engineering
Independent Study - Physics
Science_Chemistry

Chemistry introduces the student to a broad spectrum of chemical interactions and concepts. A development of the fundamental principles of chemistry, as well as their applications, is presented. Chemical nomenclature, stoichiometry, atomic structure, bonding theories, thermochemistry, periodic properties, solution calculations, gas laws, and the properties of solids and liquids are among the topics discussed. Regular inquiry-style laboratory investigations involve hands-on study of matter and its changes.
Environmental Science: Woodberry Environment

Environmental Science: The Woodberry Environment

This is a course in environmental science designed to take advantage of the school’s vast and varied ecosystems. Students will discover and investigate the ecosystems on our 1200-acre campus. Most of the experimental work in the course will be spent outdoors investigating the interactions of organisms and our environment.

[We do not offer an honors section of environmental science. Those students who have deep interest in exploring the natural environment of Woodberry and the world should consider interviewing for Science Thesis Seminar.]
Honors Science Thesis Seminar
Science_Honors Chemistry

Like general chemistry, honors chemistry introduces the student to the broad spectrum of chemical interactions and concepts. The course places a heavier emphasis than the regular course on analytical thinking skills and problem-solving techniques. Top students in the class are encouraged (though not required) to take the AP Chemistry exam. Topics covered in Honors Chemistry include classification of matter, chemical nomenclature, reactions in solution, oxidation and reduction, atomic and molecular structure, gas laws, properties of solutions, chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, acids and bases, and chemical equilibrium. All of the topics are approached with the goal of conceptual understanding through the particulate model of matter, with the ability to recognize and work with quantitative relationships adding more depth to that understanding. Regular laboratory exercises give students a chance to discover relationships in a hands-on environment and to apply their classroom knowledge in chemical investigations. Honors chemistry is primarily taken by the most advanced fourth-form science students; honors placement is determined by performance in physics for returning students and by a holistic transcript evaluation for new fourth formers. Honors chemistry is also available as a second-year chemistry course to most students who have already completed chemistry.
Honors Biology

Honors Biology

The honors biology course offers students a more in-depth study of biological science, with considerable emphasis on molecular and cellular biology, biochemical pathways, genetics, and evolution. The course follows the Advanced Placement biology curriculum framework, emphasizing the four “big ideas” of biology and the core concepts students should master. Lab work and the process of science is an integral part of the course and will include, but not be limited to, the “seven science practices” as outlined in the Advanced Placement biology curriculum framework. Students in this course are expected to take the Advanced Placement biology examination. Honors biology is primarily taken by the most advanced 5th form science students; honors placement is determined by performance in chemistry for returning students, and by a holistic transcript evaluation for new 5th formers. Honors biology is also available as a second-year biology course to most students who have already completed biology.
Honors Physics 1

Honors Physics 1

Honors physics 1 follows the course description for AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based provided by the College Board. This is an algebra-based, college-level survey course, covering important topics in classical mechanics. Students are expected to develop both a mathematical and conceptual understanding of the subject, with a substantial emphasis on the latter. The course is taught through the use of quantitative demonstrations and in-class laboratory exercises, paired with nightly assignments involving descriptive problem solving. Approximately half the course time is spent in hands-on experimental work in guided- and open- inquiry styles. Tests and exams are in the style of the AP Physics 1 exam. Students are required to take the AP Physics 1 exam in May.

One section of this course is exclusively for 3rd formers, who are selected based on a holistic evaluation of their transcript and readiness assessment. Honors placement for upperformers is determined for returning students by their performance in their previous science course, and for new students by a holistic transcript evaluation. Honors physics 1 is also available as a second-year physics course to most students who have already completed physics.
Science_Biology

Biology is an introductory laboratory course which presents topics of basic biology. This survey course covers the ecological biology of plants and animals, evolution and speciation, and the interrelationships between organisms and their environment; it further includes the cellular biology topics of biochemistry, cell structure and function, and molecular genetics. Though all sections hold about ¾ of the course in common, each teacher spends ¼ of the course covering topics and laboratory investigations in an area of their personal interest, sometimes including deeper investigations into environmental ecology, forensic biology, anatomy, or marine biology. A minimum of one quarter of the class time is spent conducting laboratory investigations and related class activities. Topics are often presented within the context of how this study of life relates to technology and society. Reading and discussion of the class text along with current scientific literature is an integral part of the course. Biology (or honors biology) is a required course for all 5th formers, unless they have already taken a laboratory-based biology course during high school.
Honors Chemistry

Honors Chemistry

Like general chemistry, honors chemistry introduces the student to the broad spectrum of chemical interactions and concepts. The course places a heavier emphasis than the regular course on analytical thinking skills and problem-solving techniques. Top students in the class are encouraged (though not required) to take the AP Chemistry exam. Topics covered in Honors Chemistry include classification of matter, chemical nomenclature, reactions in solution, oxidation and reduction, atomic and molecular structure, gas laws, properties of solutions, chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, acids and bases, and chemical equilibrium. All of the topics are approached with the goal of conceptual understanding through the particulate model of matter, with the ability to recognize and work with quantitative relationships adding more depth to that understanding. Regular laboratory exercises give students a chance to discover relationships in a hands-on environment and to apply their classroom knowledge in chemical investigations. Honors chemistry is primarily taken by the most advanced fourth-form science students; honors placement is determined by performance in physics for returning students and by a holistic transcript evaluation for new fourth formers. Honors chemistry is also available as a second-year chemistry course to most students who have already completed chemistry.
Science_Honors Biology

The honors biology course offers students a more in-depth study of biological science, with considerable emphasis on molecular and cellular biology, biochemical pathways, genetics, and evolution. The course follows the Advanced Placement biology curriculum framework, emphasizing the four “big ideas” of biology and the core concepts students should master. Lab work and the process of science is an integral part of the course and will include, but not be limited to, the “seven science practices” as outlined in the Advanced Placement biology curriculum framework. Students in this course are expected to take the Advanced Placement biology examination. Honors biology is primarily taken by the most advanced 5th form science students; honors placement is determined by performance in chemistry for returning students, and by a holistic transcript evaluation for new 5th formers. Honors biology is also available as a second-year biology course to most students who have already completed chemistry.
Science_Human Anatomy & Physiology

This class is an introductory course to the structure of the human body and the functions of human cells and organ systems. Emphasis is placed throughout the course on homeostasis — how the body’s different systems work together for the overall organism. In addition to the typical topics found in the different body systems — skeletal, muscular, integumentary, nervous, digestive, endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive — we also cover topics such as nutrition, metabolism, and embryonic development. Laboratory activities, including both hands-on dissection of preserved specimens and virtual human cadaver dissection, reinforce major concepts. No prerequisite
Environmental Science: The Woodberry Environment

This is a course in environmental science designed to take advantage of the school’s vast and varied ecosystems. Students will discover and investigate the ecosystems on our 1200-acre campus. Most of the experimental work in the course will be spent outdoors investigating the interactions of organisms and our environment.

[We do not offer an honors section of environmental science. Those students who have deep interest in exploring the natural environment of Woodberry and the world should consider interviewing for Science Thesis Seminar.]
Science_Engineering Design

This project-driven class will challenge students to solve problems across the fields of mechanical, electrical, computer, and biomedical engineering. From designing buildings to constructing medical devices, students will gain hands-on experience while working as a team to meet project goals. The course instructors bring substantial engineering and project development experience to the creation of some new projects each year. Students are evaluated by the success of their projects, and by the process they undertake in developing those projects. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor.
Science_Honors Science Thesis Seminar

Science Thesis Seminar is an immersive, intensive dive into scientific disciplines and experiences beyond the scope of typical advanced-level high school courses. Participants are chosen based on their demonstrated interest in scientific pursuit and desire to continue their science education. In each half of the school year, students are assigned to do small-group undergraduate-level research projects or advanced coursework in an area of a faculty member’s interest. It is expected that one of these projects - the thesis project - will be evaluated externally by subject matter experts, in a manner similar to a scientific conference, thesis defense, or comprehensive examination. Successful completion of the external evaluation would earn the student “distinction in science.”

Placement into STS, an ungraded honors course, is by invitation only. To request an invitation, a student must himself contact the STS to arrange an interview. Invitations are issued based on a student’s demonstrated interest in science, as well as on their demonstrated ability and motivation to handle the advanced independent work required.

Our Faculty

Greg Jacobs

Science

Chair

(540) 672-3900

Haverford College - BS
Northwestern University - MS

greg_jacobs@woodberry.org

2000
Bio
Greg Jacobs, the Lipe Family Master, chairs Woodberry's science department and teaches physics. He joined the faculty in 2000. He is president of the US Association for Young Physicists Tournaments, the sponsoring organization for the national physics research and debate tournament in which Woodberry participates each February. Greg is the school's broadcast coach, calling games via internet audio and developing student broadcast talent. He holds a BS from Haverford College and an MS from Northwestern University. Mr. Jacobs has published four books, authored numerous articles for the College Board and for physics textbooks, and writes the physics teaching blog Jacobs Physics. Mr. Jacobs is a table leader at the AP physics reading, in which he has participated since 1999. He lives in the Barr Duplex East with his wife, Shari, a professional potter. Their son Milo is a member of the class of 2021.
Lewis Affronti

Science

(540) 672-3900 ext. 8602

Sewanee: The University of the South - BS
University of Virginia - MEd

lewis_affronti@woodberry.org

2013
Bio
Lewis serves as a faculty member in the science department. He came to Woodberry as a Kenan-Lewis fellow in 2013-2014 and returned to the faculty in 2016, departing in 2022 to teach at Ensworth School in Nashville, TN. He holds a B.S. from the University of the South in Forestry and an M.Ed. from UVa. Lewis teaches environmental science and leads the environmental stewardship initiatives at WFS. He serves as dorm head on Dowd House.
Henry Brooks

Science

(540) 672-8614

Davidson College - BS

henry.brooks@woodberry.org

2023
Bio
Henry serves Woodberry Forest as a science faculty member. He spent four years at the Webb School in Bell Buckle, Tennessee, where he served as the school’s lead physics teacher and won a teaching award in 2022. Henry is a 2019 Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Davidson College, where he won a scholarship for trombone performance and earned a B.S. in physics. At Woodberry, Henry teaches physics and lives with his wife, Charis, in the Upper Dick Gym Front Apartment.
Eric Hicks

Science

Science

(540) 672-3900 ext. 5013

College of Wooster - BA
Wesleyan University - MALS

eric_hicks@woodberry.org

2021
Bio
Eric Hicks comes to Woodberry as a boarding school veteran, having spent the last twenty-nine years as an award-winning biology teacher at Mercersburg Academy. Eric wore many hats at Mercersburg, coaching soccer and tennis (boys' and girls' head coach), and serving over the years as academic dean, registrar, and director of dormitories. Eric holds a BA in biology from the College of Wooster and a MALS from Wesleyan University. Eric teaches biology and the science thesis seminar; he and his wife Renee live in the Walker Family Apartment.
Renee Hicks

Science

Science

(540) 672-3900 ext. 5300

George Washington University - BA
Wesleyan University - MALS

renee_hicks@woodberry.org

2021
Bio
Renee serves the Woodberry faculty with extensive boarding school experience, having spent most of the last few decades as an award-winning teacher in the science department at Mercersburg Academy. At Mercersburg, she was the head girls' basketball coach and also coached track and field. She also traveled with Mercersburg students to countries all over the world, including France, Oman, and Costa Rica. Renee teaches chemistry and the science thesis seminar; she and her husband Eric live in the Walker Family Apartment.
Len Mills

Science

Head Varsity Soccer Coach

(540)672-3900 Ext. 5208

Denison University - BS

len_mills@woodberry.org

2011
Bio
Len Mills teaches biology and chemistry and serves as head coach of varsity soccer. He came to Woodberry in 2011 as a Kenan-Lewis intern. He earned a BS from Denison University, where he played varsity baseball and soccer. Mr. Mills and his wife, Abbie, assistant headmaster for academic affairs, live in the Rufus Duncan/Yellow House with their two sons.
Alexander Tisch

Science

(540) 672-3900 ext. 5257

Colby College - BA
Montana State University - M.S.

alex_tisch@woodberry.org

2010
Bio
Alex Tisch teaches physics and coaches varsity football and JV wrestling. He came to Woodberry in 2010 from St. Luke's School. Mr. Tisch graduated from Colby College with a major in physics, where he also played four years of varsity football. He also holds a masters in science education from Montana State University. Mr. Tisch, his wife Reanna, and their family live in River House.
Paul Vickers

Science, Outdoor Education

Vanderbilt University - BS
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute - MS

paul_vickers@woodberry.org

1993
Bio
Paul Vickers, who holds the Leonard W. Dick Chair, teaches chemistry and physics and works with the WFS Outdoors program. A member of the faculty since 1993, he earned a BS in chemistry and mathematics from Vanderbilt University and an MS from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Mr. Vickers and his wife, Samphois, live in the Barr Duplex West with their three children.
Truett Wason '19

Science

(540) 672-3900 ext. 6045

truett_wason@woodberry.org

2023
Bio
Truett teaches biology in the science department. He received a B.S. in biology from Wofford College, where he served as a teaching assistant in physiology, was president of Wofford’s chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and spent a summer studying abroad in Genoa, Italy. Truett was a three-sport athlete at WFS and lives in the Upper Infirmary apartment.

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Science

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