The Upper School Science program provides a strong foundation in life and physical sciences by cultivating observational, experimental, and problem-solving skills. Through an intensive study in the major fields of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, students develop an appreciation of historic achievements in science, the spirit of scientific investigation, and the dynamic relationship between science and technology. Social engagement is fostered through exposure to contemporary scientific literature and discussions of the social and ethical implications of technological advancements. From there, students can choose whether to pursue the study of the mind via Psychology or to pursue the rigor of AP Science courses.

List of 6 items.

  • Ninth Grade: Biology

    Students begin their high school science studies by exploring the nature of living organisms and their physical environment through hands-on activities and laboratory-based inquiry. Subjects include the chemical properties of life, ecology, cell structure and function, the molecular basis of genetics, biotechnology, evolution and taxonomy, plant diversity, animal form and function, and the human body. Laboratory and class activities emphasize critical thinking, problem solving, and scientific writing skills. Students are also exposed to contemporary scientific literature.
  • Tenth Grade: Chemistry

    Chemistry is the study of the interplay of matter and energy. The first half of the year consists of learning about the historical development of the periodic table and the atomic model. Those two topics are then integrated into a detailed examination of chemical bonding.  The remainder of the year focuses on how certain driving forces affect various reactions such as solution formation, acids and bases, oxidation and reduction, and radioactive decay.
  • Eleventh Grade: Conceptual Physics

    The Conceptual Physics approach engages students with analogies and imagery from real-world situations to build a strong conceptual understanding of physical principles ranging from classical mechanics to modern physics. With this strong conceptual foundation, students are better equipped to understand the equations and formulas of physics and to make connections between the concepts of physics and the everyday world.
  • Eleventh and Twelfth Grades: AP Biology

    In this AP-level course, students hone skills such as data collection and analysis, application of mathematical formulae to biological problems, and connection of concepts across scientific domains. The curriculum begins with a detailed exploration of evolution as the driving force of the diversity and unity of life. Students are exposed to molecular explanations for the origins of life and the relatedness of all living things. Next, students investigate the role of DNA and RNA in maintaining an organism’s dynamic homeostasis. Students further explore the heritability of genetic material, cell processes such as DNA replication, transcription and translation, the cell cycle and its role in genetic variation, and cell signaling pathways. Finally, students learn about the interaction of biological systems from the molecular to the ecosystem level. Emphasis is placed on investigative learning through hands-on laboratory experiments ranging from DNA sequencing to organismal dissection.
  • Twelfth Grade: Abnormal Psychology

    This demanding course provides an examination of various psychological disorders including problems of stress and anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, addictive personality disorders, sex and gender disorders, schizophrenia, and life-span problems. Students explore historical perspectives as well as current trends in treatment and research of these psychological conditions. Coursework includes exams, projects, and a mini-review of contemporary scientific literature on a given topic. After having completed the course, students should be able to distinguish between normal and abnormal behavior patterns as well as demonstrate knowledge of symptoms and therapeutic techniques.
  • Twelfth Grade: AP Physics II

    The AP Physics II course is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of Physics through inquiry-based investigations as they explore topics such as fluid statics and dynamics; thermodynamics with kinetic theory; PV diagrams and probability; electrostatics; electrical circuits with capacitors; magnetic fields; electromagnetism; physical and geometric optics; and quantum, atomic, and nuclear physics.

The Kew-Forest School

119-17 Union Turnpike
Forest Hills, NY 11375
(718) 268-4667