Science

The Kimball Union Academy Science Department believes that science education is fundamental and essential to the overall development of our students. The diverse areas of study within the sciences work together to:

Instill a practical knowledge of our world
Introduce students to methods of critical analysis
Improve students’ problem-solving skills

These skills are invaluable as students face the process of informed and mature decision-making in today’s technological society.

The study of the traditional science subjects of biology, chemistry, and physics, is complemented by additional courses, many of which relate to the environment. This allows students to explore more specific interests and provides them with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world.

A general progression of Science courses is as follows:

Physics
Chemistry
Biology (required for graduation)
Electives

Please note:

All Science courses are one credit.
All Honors and Advanced Placement classes require department approval.
All Advanced Placement (AP) Courses culminate in an end-of-year AP exam. Students may choose to take this exam. Please note there is an additional fee.

Anatomy and Physiology (Honors)

(11th, 12th; Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry)

This course is an honors-level biology course that begins with an overview of all the organ systems that comprise the human body. It follows with an in-depth explanation of these complex systems. The course is complemented with lab work investigating the physiological effects of exercise on the body in addition to required dissections. Local medical facilities are utilized as learning resources. Students leave the course with an appreciation for and understanding of their complex body and how it functions.
AP Biology

(11th or 12th; Prerequisites: Chemistry)

This course is a hands-on, inquiry-driven course. Through labs, fieldwork, and independent research, students investigate key biological concepts, from ecology and evolution to genetics and physiology. This course emphasizes scientific communication, with opportunities for public speaking, data analysis, and argumentation based on case study evidence. Students connect biology to real-world issues by studying current scientific journal publications, ethical dilemmas, and emerging research. This fast-paced course makes intentional time to cultivate critical thinking, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of the living world. This class prioritizes experiential learning through outdoor exploration, ecological monitoring, and biotechnology applications.
AP Chemistry

(11th, 12th; Prerequisites: Precalculus, Chemistry)

The primary goal of this course is to provide students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills necessary for college-level work in chemistry. The course follows the Advanced Placement syllabus and allows for in-depth study of laboratory concepts using advanced laboratory techniques.
AP Environmental Science

(11th or 12th; Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry)

This course details the environmental constraints that humankind confronts and describes actions that can be taken in order to cope successfully with them. Students develop a deeper understanding of and appreciation for nature through discussions regarding ecological principles, population, conservation, pollution, natural resources, and other issues. The class utilizes a college-seminar approach in which students discuss and answer questions in class from assigned out-of-class reading or research. The laboratory section of the course is geared to each student, helping them to develop problem-solving skills and work as part of a research team. The class is complemented by local field trips and prepares students for college courses on environmental issues.
AP Physics C

(11th, 12th; Prerequisites: Conceptual Physics, Calculus)

The Physics C: Mechanics course is equivalent to a one-semester, calculus-based, college-level physics course. It is especially appropriate for students planning to specialize or major in physical science or engineering. The course explores topics such as Kinematics; Force and Translational Dynamics; Work, Energy, and Power; Linear Momentum; Torque and Rotational Dynamics; Energy and Momentum of Rotating Systems; and Oscillations. Introductory differential and integral calculus is used throughout the course.
Biology

(10th, 11th, 12th; Prerequisites: Chemistry; Biology is required for Graduation)

This course encourages students not only to see how structure and function interrelate across the spectrum of various biological systems but also to begin to understand how biological science affects the world they experience. Students are encouraged to be curious, creative, and think critically. This course follows a natural progression starting with the smallest living thing, the cell, and concludes by looking at patterns in the biosphere. Students learn about a variety of topics, including cell reproduction, genetics, evolution, and human anatomy. This course features regular laboratory work, which reinforces skills necessary to be successful in science; students are encouraged to ask probing questions and look for ways to answer them in a controlled setting.
Biology Honors

(10th, 11th, or 12th; Prerequisites: Chemistry; Biology is required for Graduation)

Honors Biology is an inquiry-driven, hands-on course that immerses students in the study of life through exploration, experimentation, and real-world applications. Students develop scientific thinking skills by designing investigations, analyzing data, and collaborating on problem-solving. The curriculum covers fundamental biological concepts—including ecology, evolution, genetics, and cellular biology—through fieldwork, lab experiments, and interactive projects. With an emphasis on curiosity and discovery, students engage with current biological research, ethical discussions, and environmental challenges. Scientific communication is a key focus, with opportunities for public speaking, collaborative discussions, and independent research projects. This course builds a strong foundation for advanced scientific study while fostering a lifelong appreciation for the natural world.
Chemistry

(10th, 11th; Prerequisites: Algebra 1)

Introductory Chemistry develops fundamental principles of the structure of matter with primary emphasis on problem solving. Students are asked to think independently and apply patterns of reasoning to a variety of situations. Students discuss the roles of matter and energy in atomic and molecular structure, chemical reactions, and states of matter. This course covers basic concepts of measurement and calculation. Regular laboratory experience is used to emphasize material covered in class as well as to hone analytical skills.
Chemistry Honors

(10th, 11th; Prerequisites: Algebra 1)

This course provides an introduction to a number of fundamental chemical principles using qualitative and quantitative analysis. This course includes atomic structure, bonding, thermochemistry, stoichiometry, pure substances, equilibrium, acids and bases, kinetics, and electrochemistry. Students complete a number of experiments using traditional and small scale techniques.
Conceptual Physics

(9th)

Conceptual Physics is designed to prepare students to understand the forces governing the world and their everyday interactions with it. Aimed at providing an experimental and structured approach to discovering why things happen, this course provides not only an introduction to the theories of Physics but also a solid foundation in the experimental and data analysis skills students need to be successful in future work in the sciences at KUA and beyond. Concrete and observable, the hands-on and inquiry-based foundations of this course make it an age-appropriate introduction to the science course offerings at KUA. Of special note, this course provides an opportunity to highlight the connections between the knowledge of science and the applications available in the STEM field to enhance participation and preparation for the STEM scholar program.
Design Thinking

(10th, 11th, 12th)

Design Thinking teaches students the principles of human-centered problem solving through a collaborative project-based curriculum where students develop and practice skills that serve them well at and beyond KUA. The Design Thinking approach to problem solving emphasizes empathy, creativity, iteration, and communication. The projects in this class draw from aspects of engineering, business, marketing, and design, and help students build skills across this wide array of different challenges. In this course, students gain experience with multiple forms of visual and verbal presentation and get hands-on experience with modern graphic design software.
Design Thinking Honors

(10th, 11th, 12th)

Design Thinking teaches students the principles of human-centered problem solving through a collaborative project-based curriculum where students develop and practice skills that serve them well at and beyond KUA. The Design Thinking approach to problem solving emphasizes empathy, creativity, iteration, and communication. The projects in this class draw from aspects of engineering, business, marketing, and design, and help students build skills across this wide array of different challenges. In this course, students gain experience with multiple forms of visual and verbal presentation and get hands-on experience with modern graphic design software.

STEM Scholars must take this course at the Honors level.
Environmental Chemistry

(Sophomore or Junior; 1 credit; Prerequisites: Algebra 1)

This course is concerned with the effect of chemistry on the earth’s dynamic systems and environment; we must understand how natural chemical systems and cycles work. Students will study the chemistry of the natural environment from soil to sky, from the geologic history of the earth to the greenhouse effects of carbon dioxide and other gases, the implications of human action on the environment. Current issues, such as climate change, ozone depletion, air and water pollution, use of pesticides in the food supply, and alternative sources of energy, are discussed. Chemical theories and principles are introduced as needed, recognizing that before we can evaluate the changes to our environment, we must understand how natural chemical systems and cycles work. Students will study the chemistry of the natural environment from soil to sky, from geologic history of the earth to the greenhouse effects of carbon dioxide and other gasses.
Environmental Studies

(10th, 11th, 12th; Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry)

This is a course for students who are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the environment through problem solving. Specific issues such as ecology, population dynamics, air and water pollution, atmospheric change, natural resource management, biodiversity, and energy sources are covered using a variety of learning techniques. A major portion of the course is devoted to student-designed and driven projects tied to the school community and local environment. Intensive fieldwork in the Academy’s outdoor classroom aids the students in their ongoing development of a sense of place and respect for the world around them. All of these components of the course are combined to improve laboratory, research, public speaking, writing, and critical-thinking skills. Offered every other year (offered 2026-27).
Marine Biology

(10th, 11th, 12th; Prerequisite: Biology)

Earth is a water planet. Oceans cover over 70% of Earth’s surface and represent 99% of the planet’s living space. Marine Biology introduces students to the diversity of marine life, the structure and function of marine ecosystems, and the impact of human activity on the oceans. During the fall trimester emphasis is on the diversity of organisms. Students are guided through a survey of the marine phyla and learn about their biology, physiology and life histories. In the winter, students learn about marine ecology within the organizing context of the major marine ecosystems. Students study the structure and function of each ecosystem while examining the constraints of the physical and chemical environment and the interactions among organisms. The focus of spring trimester is on human influences on the marine environment and on conservation of habitats and species. Coursework includes laboratory exercises, field trips to the New Hampshire seacoast, research projects and outside guest speakers

Alternates every other year with Wildlife Biology
Physics

(9th*, 10th*, 11th, 12th; Prerequisites: Algebra II)

This class introduces basic concepts in physics. A goal of the course is for students to gain a greater understanding of the processes driving the physical world around them. Major components of the course include the principles governing the motion of objects, forces, and momentum, work and energy, oscillating systems, and torque. Practical applications to the everyday world are emphasized. Laboratory exercises are designed both to reinforce important concepts and to foster analytical thinking. It is expected that students are familiar with algebraic and geometric operations. *9th and 10th graders may take this course with departmental approval
Physics Honors

(10th, 11th, 12th; Prerequisites: Precalculus)

Physics Honors covers essentially the same topics as Physics, but in greater depth. Students make connections to the real world throughout the course, but theoretical development of concepts are more rigorous than in Physics. Problems are generally more difficult, require combining two or more physical concepts, and are more mathematically challenging than those found in Physics. To be successful in this course, students must be competent in solving equations involving trigonometric functions, systems of equations, quadratic functions, and be proficient with a graphing calculator
Wildlife Biology

(10th, 11th, 12th; Prerequisite: Biology)

This course will offer students a fresh and engaging perspective on the natural world. During the year, students will delve into the various classes of vertebrate animals on both local and global levels, studying anatomy, conservation, evolutionary history, human impacts, and habitat management. All aspects of the animals in our world are explored, with a significant emphasis placed on direct and indirect human/animal interactions. Students can expect to work outdoors, be introduced to various live animals, and use various forms of scientific and computer technology. This course further offers a significant reflective writing component designed to help students explore how humans can appropriately and responsibly share the planet with wild animals.

Alternates every other year with Marine Biology
Environment and Anthropology “Decarbonize Your Life”

(11th, 12th; Prerequisite: US History or US History concurrently)

This is an action-biased, transformative course designed to empower students with a comprehensive understanding of the imperative and practice of individual-level decarbonization. Grounded in an interdisciplinary approach, the course integrates insights from philosophy, critical social science, climate science, engineering, economics, medicine and public policy. By the end of the year, students will be equipped with the knowledge and the tools to critically analyze their carbon footprints and develop actionable, informed strategies to reduce their personal environmental impact. This course may be taken for either a history or lab science credit.
Climate, Ecosystems, and Landscapes

(10th, 11th, 12th)

This course takes advantage of our New England landscape as a natural laboratory to supplement content and processes from the classroom. The class is composed of three major sections, one for each trimester of the schedule. Throughout the course, students work with data sets that underpin their understanding of earth processes and history. In the fall term, the course starts with the present day and an investigation of what drives weather and climate and therefore the distribution of ecosystems around our planet. In the winter term, students take a longer view of climate history to better understand our planet’s past and future, given rising atmospheric CO2 levels and climate change. Finally, during the spring term, the course increases its timescale to geologic proportions, and students learn about how the physical properties of rocks and minerals lead to plate tectonics and the evolution of the landscapes we live and play in.
Sustainable Food and Agriculture Systems

(11th, 12th)

This experiential course delves into the dynamic world of sustainable food and agriculture systems, blending hands-on learning with interdisciplinary exploration. In this course, students actively engage in the operation of a small farm, gaining practical experience in sustainable farming practices, while also analyzing the broader food systems that shape our food supply. Through working directly with the land, students will understand the complexities of growing food, managing resources, and maintaining ecological balance.

Select a Department

Department

Department Faculty

Elysia Burroughs

Science Department Chair

eburroughs@kua.org
Bio
Elysia has been a member of the Kimball Union faculty since 2013. She teaches Honors Biology, AP Environmental Science, and Anatomy and Physiology Honors. She is a STEM Scholar Program Co-Director and advisor to the KUA Neuroscience Club. Prior to coming to the Hilltop, Elysia worked as a science teacher at Lebanon High School. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in environmental science from Southern New Hampshire University, attended graduate school for Cognitive and Behavioural Ecology at Memorial University in Newfoundland, Canada and is currently working toward a Master of Science in Science Education degree through Montana State University. Her classroom pets are Madagascar hissing cockroaches who enjoy being held and eating freshly cut strawberries! In her spare time, she enjoys reading, embroidery, and being a lifelong learner. She lives in Plainfield, NH with her husband Scott and dogs Taters (terrier mix), Pearl (dachshund), and Rapunzel (basset hound).
Blaine Kopp

Louis Munro Chair, Environmental Science

603-469-2354

bkopp@kua.org
Bio
Blaine Kopp joined the faculty in 2010 as Louis Munro Chair of Environmental Studies. He received his Ph.D. in Biological Oceanography from the University of Rhode Island and his undergraduate degree from Dartmouth College in Biological Sciences. In the years before moving to Kimball Union, Blaine was a research scientist with interests in the conservation, restoration and monitoring of coastal and marine ecosystems. He has held research appointments with the U.S. Geological Survey, the University of New Hampshire, and Colby College, and was coordinator of science and monitoring for the Penobscot River Restoration Trust. Before working in research, Blaine was on the faculties of Maine Maritime Academy and Proctor Academy, and was an instructor at the University of Rhode Island and Hurricane Island Outward Bound School.
Moira Anderson

Chemistry Teacher

603 469-2357

manderson@kua.org
Andrew Bridges

Physics Teacher

(603) 469-2356

abridges@kua.org
Bio

Andrew is joining the KUA faculty in the fall of 2023 as a physics teacher. Previously, he taught 5th- and 8th-grade science for eight years in Arlington, Virginia. Andrew received his BA in history and Italian from Dartmouth College, and his MA in Italian literature from UCLA. Before becoming a teacher, Andrew worked as a science reporter, including for The Associated Press. Later, while at Sally Ride Science, he published 10 books on key concepts in science for students.

After years away, including long stints spent living in Bulgaria, Serbia, and Kosovo, Andrew and his wife (and fellow Dartmouth grad) Maury Wray are excited to be returning to the Upper Valley. They look forward to introducing their favorite trails to their son Roland and dog Zaida.
Thomas Lord

Science Teacher

tlord@kua.org
Bio

Tom earned a BA from Dartmouth College before going to the University of Maryland for a JD in environmental law. He worked as an attorney for Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources and for Johns Hopkins University before starting his teaching career at the Taft School in Connecticut. Tom has also taught at Dartmouth and other independent secondary schools, serving as the Headmaster of Berkshire School in Sheffield, MA. He has coached football, basketball, and lacrosse, and served as the head boys’ lacrosse coach of Hanover High School near Dartmouth for most of the 1990s, and was named New Hampshire Coach of the Year during his tenure at Hanover.

Tom also served KUA as the Director of its Summer Program which included sessions for language learning through the Rassias Foundation at Dartmouth, In fact, Tom was taught by John Rassias when he was a student at Dartmouth. Tom is very involved in environmental issues from legal and planning perspectives and is also an avid fly fisherman and hiker who loves visiting the National Parks out west with his wife, Lyn, a teacher in KUA’s History Department. Tom also plays bass guitar and sings in Dr. Tom’s Band, a group comprised of present and former KUA students and faculty, which can be heard in venues throughout the Upper Valley.

Tom and Lyn have seven children, including Alexandra, who graduated from KUA in 2009, and a yellow lab named Teddy. Tom, Lyn, and Teddy live in a home across from Meriden’s covered bridge just down the hill from the KUA campus.
Whit Lower

Biology Teacher

603 469-2355

llower@kua.org
Ryan McKeon

STEM Director and Computer Science Teacher

rmckeon@kua.org
Bio
Ryan McKeon joined KUA in 2021 as the STEM Director. Ryan holds a Ph.D. in Earth and Environmental Sciences from Lehigh University, an M.Sc. in Earth Sciences from Montana State University, and a B.A. from Colorado College. Prior to starting at KUA, he was a postdoctoral fellow at Caltech, a research scientist at the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Lab, and most recently he taught in the Geography Department at Dartmouth College where he also maintains a Visiting Scholar appointment in the Earth Sciences Department.

On The Hilltop, Ryan teaches computer science classes and design thinking along with co-directing the STEM Scholars Program. Ryan is the Head Coach of the Freeskiing team and is the house head for the new Howe-Dewdney residence hall. Ryan lives in Kilton with his wife Tricia, their children Hadleigh and Opal, and their two dogs.
Jake Shechter

Physics Teacher

603 469-2351

jshechter@kua.org

Curriculum Detail

Science

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Department Faculty