Curriculum Detail

Select A Department

School Level

Department

Science

Middle School

The Middle School Science curriculum is a series of laboratory-oriented disciplines that are required at the indicated grade levels. The curriculum is designed to provide broad exposure to the many fields of science, while also taking students on deep explorations of selected topics that encourage scientific inquiry, build enthusiasm for learning, and provide the gratifying experience of developing subject-specific expertise. Each course attempts to bring students and science together in such a manner that students gain knowledge, skills, and a sense of confidence about their environment. Class activities, labs, and projects aim to balance content instruction with skill development and application, with the goal of helping students grow as independent thinkers. Beyond the laboratory, courses are enriched with learning opportunities in the St. Mark’s Greenhouse, Planetarium, and Makerspace.

Upper School

The Upper School Science curriculum offers a program of studies by which students gain a knowledge of modern scientific principles and ideas and an understanding of the methods and significance of science in contemporary society. Courses are enriched by frequent laboratory activities where students are encouraged to develop and employ independent, scientific thought. There is a three-year science graduation requirement, and all students must take Biology and either Chemistry or Applied Chemistry. For most students, the third year is completed by taking Physics or AP Physics 1, though elective courses may be taken to meet the requirement. Students are encouraged to continue their study of science beyond the three-year requirement, and those who are successful in the full complement of core courses (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or AP Physics 1) may qualify for Advanced Placement courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. A variety of non-AP elective options are also available, including DNA Science, Information Engineering, Astronomy, Geology, and Human Evolution. Special activities sponsored by the Science Department include the STEM Conference, Science Bowl and Olympiad competitions, Robotics Team, Scientific Marksman Magazine, and the Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Pre-Med, Rocketry, Nature, Food Science, Gardening, and Green clubs.

Criteria and Selection Process for AP Courses

• Students completing Chemistry are given a recommendation by their current teacher of either Physics or AP Physics 1. Students recommended for AP Physics 1 may opt to take the less rigorous Physics instead, but the reverse is not permitted.

• For all AP courses other than AP Physics 1, a student does not need to receive a recommendation. Students choose, based on guidance from teachers and personal enthusiasm for the subject, to apply for the AP course by signing up during the spring scheduling process.

• Specific AP courses have detailed prerequisites which are outlined under each course in the Course Catalog descriptions. Students must read and meet those prerequisites.

• Students must have demonstrated high and consistent levels of achievement in each of the prerequisites.

Selection to AP:

• Final selection into an AP course is subject to review by the AP teacher, with appeals made to the Department Chair.

Science 5: Physical Science

Grade 5 | Full Year

Science 5: Physical Science introduces the skills and processes that form the basis for investigating science and includes units in introductory physics and chemistry. Components of the scientific method including hypothesis formation and testing, measurement, observation, data collection, and data analysis are developed through class work and laboratory investigations, and students have the opportunity to creatively apply these skills in special projects. Specific topics include motion, forces, energy, elements and the period table, states of matter, chemical reactions, and electricity and magnetism. Lab and fire safety are also presented and emphasized throughout the year. The development of a keen interest in science is stressed in approaching each topic. Math and language skills are integrated and reinforced in each unit. Additionally, study and organizational skills are incorporated to help build a strong foundation for success in subsequent courses.
Science 6: Life Science

Grade 6 | Full Year

Science 6: Life Science is a full-year, interdisciplinary course which deals exclusively with living organisms. In this introductory biology course, students learn about the nature of science, basic biochemistry, evolution, genetics, cell biology, the diversity of living things, and human systems. Multiple dissections, as well as a significant focus on introductory microscopy, highlight the laboratory work which is integral to this course.
Science 7: Earth & Space Science

Grade 7 | Full Year

Science 7: Earth & Space Science offers an introduction to geology, astronomy, and meteorology. Topics include rocks, minerals, surface processes, oceanography, the universe, space exploration, the solar system, and the elements of weather as they operate as a system. Planetarium and laboratory activities are used to enhance these studies.
Science 8: Physics/Chemistry

Grade 8 | Full Year

Science 8: Physics/Chemistry is an introductory course in physical science designed to equip students with the skills they will use in future science courses. Basic physics and chemistry topics are covered, with an emphasis on specific problem-solving strategies and clear presentation of work. Laboratory experiences will stress measurement, clear presentation of data, hypothesizing, and error analysis.
Biology

Grades 9 & 10 | Full Year

This course covers basic biological concepts as they apply to all levels of life. Unifying themes of biology that connect all topics are emphasized. Topics include cellular structure and function, molecular biology, metabolism, genetics, anatomy, and physiology. Students gain skills in knowledge application, logical reasoning, and data analysis. Laboratory investigations, outside readings, and projects supplement an intense course of study.
Applied Chemistry

Grades 10 & 11 | Full Year

This course covers the basic concepts of chemistry, including both the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the material. Students will explore fundamental chemical principles and their applications. Major topics include atomic theory, periodic properties, chemical bonding, properties of compounds, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, heat, nuclear chemistry, acids and bases, and the behaviors of gases, liquids, and solids. Concepts are reinforced and experimental technique is developed during laboratory experiments. Emphasis is placed on understanding of concepts, quantitative problem solving, and the written analysis of experiments. Prerequisites: Biology and Algebra I. Limitations: Dept. Chair approval required.
Chemistry

Grades 10 & 11 | Full Year

This course provides an introduction to major theories and applications of inorganic chemistry at the college preparatory level. Topics include atomic theory and periodicity, chemical bonding and compound behavior, equilibrium, acids and bases, chemical reactions, stoichiometry and quantitative control, and behavior of gases, liquids, and solids. The student is asked to share in the excitement of discovery through the laboratory experience, and qualitative and quantitative analyses are both required. Theory and mathematical concepts are highly stressed. Prerequisites: Biology and Algebra I.
Physics

Grades 11 & 12 | Full Year

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to a mathematical perspective of the world by examining the fundamental laws of physics. Students study a wide range of physical phenomena, including motion, forces, energy, momentum, electricity, circuits, light, sound, and waves. Concepts are reinforced and experimental technique is honed during frequent laboratory experiments. Problem-solving skills using the fundamental physical laws are developed through regular practice. Students develop the ability to explain phenomena and make predictions using conceptual reasoning and quantitative relationships. Prerequisites: Algebra II and Chemistry or Applied Chemistry.
AP Physics 1

By using a mathematical approach to study a wide range of physical phenomena, this course seeks to provide a deep quantitative and conceptual understanding of the fundamental physical interactions of the universe. Students study the laws governing motion (including equilibrium, acceleration, projectile motion, circular motion, rotation, and oscillation), electricity, circuits, sound, waves, and optics. Emphasis is placed on conceptual reasoning, quantitative problem solving, oral discussion of physical phenomena, and written analysis of experiments. Concepts are reinforced and experimental technique is honed through frequent laboratory experiments. Students are prepared to take the Advanced Placement Physics 1 exam in May. Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, and Algebra II.
Astronomy

Grades 10-12 | 1 Semester

Astronomy is an elective course that covers topics found in most introductory college astronomy courses. Students will examine the motion of the moon, Earth, and planets and how the motions appear in the sky. Students will learn about the instrumentation and the historical developments that led to our understanding of our place in the solar system, our galaxy, and the universe. The course will also cover how the composition of stars is determined from their spectra and brightness, and evidence for the Big Bang will be introduced through the study of galaxies and their observed red shifts. Time in the planetarium will be devoted to illustrating principles studied in class, familiarizing students with celestial objects and constellations, and providing students an opportunity to present their understanding by programming a lesson with Starry Night. Students will be expected to spend some time each week making observations of the night sky.
Geology

Grades 10-12 | 1 Semester

Geology is an elective course that introduces students to topics covered in an introductory college course. Topics include historical geology, rock cycle, minerology, petrology, plate tectonics and geomorphology. Aspects of economic geology are included throughout. Students will gain knowledge of the materials that make up Earth and their properties and uses in modern society. The forces at work to alter the surface and features of Earth will also be examined. Laboratory activities include mineral, rock and fossil identification, as well as topographic map interpretation.
Human Evolution

Grades 10-12 | One Semester

This semester course in paleoanthropology will serve as an introduction to the history and science of human origins, covering the development of evolutionary theory and its application to the human branch of the tree of life. Students will study the specific discoveries of all significant hominin fossils since the initial discovery of Neanderthal fossils in Germany in 1856. Each discovery will be placed in historic context as well as looked through the lens of how each find changed the ways in which paleoanthropologists analyzed and interpreted their discoveries. In addition to being a story of “Stones & Bones,” this course will teach students how both ideas and technology changed over the past 160+ years. The class will have virtual interactions with leading researchers in the field as well as curators of human evolution exhibits at premier museums around the world. Students will have the opportunity to study and analyze an ongoing new, unpublished hominin fossil discovery from a site adjacent to the Rising Star Cave where Homo naledi was found.
DNA Science

Grades 11 & 12 | Full Year

This elective is primarily a biotechnology laboratory course of cumulative investigations that presupposes no prior DNA experience on the part of the student. The laboratory experiments cover the basic techniques of sterile bacterial culturing, DNA restriction digest and ligation, rapid colony transformation, purification and identification of plasmid DNA, recombination of antibiotic resistance genes, replica plating, and purification and identification of recombinant DNA. The course incorporates bioinformatics—using online database tools to do molecular search and analysis—and proteomics—the isolation and analysis of proteins from microorganisms. The course includes student preparation of reagents, development of flowcharts to help in the scheduling of experiments, and analysis of results. Students keep a daily journal of record much like a bench scientist. Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry.
AP Biology

Grades 11 & 12 | Full Year

This course is intended for those students seeking Advanced Placement. It is the equivalent of a college freshman course in biology. The course features a biochemical approach to the study of life functions. Emphasis is on the basic principles as they apply to both plants and animals. Laboratory work is an integral part of the course, with specific mandatory lab investigations. To acquaint students with procedures used by the College Entrance Examination Board, tests include both objective and essay questions. Students are prepared to take the Advanced Placement Biology exam in May. Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or AP Physics 1. The physics class may be taken concurrently.
AP Chemistry

Grades 11 & 12 | Full Year

This course emphasizes the mathematical and theoretical aspects of inorganic and organic chemistry on selected topics according to the College Board course schedule. In addition to the major topics from the first‑year chemistry course which are reviewed and expanded, topics include: buffer systems; electrochemistry; thermodynamics and chemical kinetics; and solutions. Laboratory work includes advanced experiments in inorganic chemistry. Laboratory-based qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses are required. Students enrolled in this class will be preparing to take the Advanced Placement Chemistry exam in May. Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or AP Physics 1. The physics class may be taken concurrently.
AP Environmental Science

Grades 11 & 12 | Full Year

AP Environmental Science is designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester, introductory college course in environmental science. Students are taught the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand interrelationships found in the natural world. Environmental science is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from geology, biology, environmental studies, environmental science, chemistry, and geography. Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or AP Physics 1. The physics class may be taken concurrently.
AP Physics 2

Grades 11 & 12 | Full Year

This course involves the study of some of the most interesting topics in college‑level physics. The content includes fluids, thermodynamics, electric fields, potential, circuits, magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction, electromagnetic waves, optics, interference, relativity, modern physics, and nuclear physics. Additional topics may include particle physics and alternating current. It seeks to develop deep conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills, with emphasis on laboratory experience. The course requires knowledge of algebra and trigonometry but not calculus. Students taking this course are prepared to take the Advanced Placement Physics 2 exam in May. Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, AP Physics 1 and Precalculus.
AP Physics C: Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism

Grade 12 | Full Year

The AP Physics C course is designed with the future scientist in mind. Classical and relativistic mechanics are studied in the first half of the year, followed by electricity, magnetism, and electromagnetism in the second half. The workload demands that only students interested in a career in science or engineering sign up for the course. Since mathematics is the language of science, the AP Physics C course speaks most fluently in calculus. Therefore, not only is previous success in physics necessary, but the student also must have a strong mathematics background. A diligent student will do very well on the Advanced Placement Physics C exam and have a firm foundation of understanding of the physical world around him. Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, AP Physics 1 and concurrent (or prior) enrollment in AP Calculus BC.
Engineering I

Grades 9-12 | Full Year
This full year course is designed for students interested in developing technological skills in a project-based environment. Programming of robotic systems, computer-aided design, and use of the automated manufacturing tools in the makerspace will be among the core skills developed. Students will learn how to think like an engineer as they design and build technological solutions to real-world problems and other engineering challenges. This course is an excellent fit for students who are interested in STEM fields and who enjoy doing hands-on work, thinking creatively, and collaborating in small teams.

Faculty

Fletcher Carron

Stephen M. Seay ’68 Science Department Chair

214-346-8292

Rice University - B.S.

CarronF@smtexas.org
Bio
Appointed as the department chair in 2013, Fletcher Carron holds the Stephen M. Seay ‘68 Science Department chair position. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Rice University and teaches Upper School and eighth grade students in the field of physical science (physics and chemistry). He began his St. Mark’s career in 2002 and coaches seventh grade basketball, sponsors the Upper School Robotics Team and has served as Pecos Wilderness Trip group leader. A dad to Fletcher Carron ‘32, he is an advisor in the junior-senior advisory rotation. Carron received the John H. Murrell Excellence in Teaching Award in 2008 and was named the Texas Middle School Coach of the Year in 2019-2020.
Mark Adame

Cecil H. and Ida Green Master Teaching Chair in Science

214-346-8664

Texas A&M University - B.S.
University of Texas at Dallas - MAT Science Education

adamem@smtexas.org
Bio
As holder of the Cecil H. & Ida Green Master Teaching Chair in Science, Mark Adame teaches classes in biology, AP biology and DNA science. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University and an M.A.T. from the University of Texas at Dallas. A member of the St. Mark’s community since 2007, he sponsors various clubs including the Cycling Club, the Anatomy Club and the Biology Club. Adame has led nine Pecos Wilderness trips and participated in four seventh and eighth grade campouts. He began his teaching career in 1996 in Little Rock, Arkansas as instructor of pre-AP biology and AP biology. Adame also taught in the Carrollton-Farmers Branch school district, where he was the lead science teacher for the district. A recipient of the John H. Murrell Excellence in Teaching Award, he has a minor planet (32379 Markadame) named for him.
Sofia Avendaño

Seventh Grade Science Teacher

214-346-8346

Rice University - BS
New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology - MS

AvendanoS@smtexas.org
Ryan Brewer

Biology & Life Science Teacher

214-346-8427

Morehouse College - B.S.
University of North Florida - M.Ed.

brewerr@smtexas.org
Bio
Ryan Brewer began his St. Mark’s career in 2020 and currently serves as biology and life science teacher as a member of the Science Department. Brewer earned his bachelor’s degree from Morehouse College and a master’s degree in education from the University of North Florida. Before joining St. Mark’s, he taught biology at The Bolles School in Jacksonville, FL and also served as a basketball coach and a member of the residential life staff. Brewer serves as an Upper School class sponsor and coaches JV basketball and Middle School football.
P. Dillon

Lower School Science Specialist

214-346-8348

Toccoa Falls College - B.S.
Columbia University - M.A.

DillonM@smtexas.org
Bio
P. Matthew Dillon joined the St. Mark’s faculty in 2018 and currently serves as Lower School science specialist. Dillon earned his bachelor’s degree from Toccoa Falls College and a Master of Arts degree from Columbia University. He previously taught elementary grades in public schools in New York and Texas. He also developed and taught science programs (which incorporated technology, reading, art, engineering and math) in private schools in Hawaii. He was the recipient of the John H. Murrell Excellence in Teaching Award in 2023.
Stephen Houpt

Physics Teacher

214-346-8198

Lafayette College - A.B.
University of Texas at Dallas - M.S.

HouptS@smtexas.org
Bio
A member of the Science Department since 2001, Stephen Houpt teaches physics to upper schoolers. He earned his A.B. from Lafayette College and an M.S. from the University of Texas at Dallas. Before joining St. Mark’s, Houpt taught physics at Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas, Lincoln High School and Walden Prep School. He sponsors the Blues Club and the Physics Competition Club. Houpt was honored as Teacher of the Year at Walden and received the DISD Humanitarian Award while at Lincoln. At Jesuit, he received the Green Math-Science faculty Award. He received the John H. Murrell Excellence in Teaching Award in 2011 and is a member of the National Association of Physics Teachers.
Wesley Irons

Physics Teacher

214-346-8180

IronsW@smtexas.org
Bio
A member of the Science Department faculty, Wesley Irons joined St. Mark’s in 2021 and currently teaches physics to Upper School students. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin and is an avid movie buff and historian. He worked for six years at the Oakridge School in Arlington, where he taught all levels of physics and calculus. Irons is an adviser in the junior-senior class rotation and has participated as an AP reader three times.
Donald Kiehn

Fifth-Grade Physical Science Teacher

214-346-8347

Southwestern Oklahoma State University - B.S. in Education
Southwestern Oklahoma State University - M.S. in Elementary Education

kiehnd@smtexas.org
Bio
Coming to St. Mark’s in 2018, Don Kiehn serves as fifth grade physical science teacher. He earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, OK. Prior to joining St. Mark’s, Kiehn served as a public school teacher for 39 years. He also serves as a fifth grade class adviser.
Michael Lane

Science Teacher and Director of the Planetarium

214-346-8165

LaneM@smtexas.org
Bio
Dr. Michael Lane joined the St. Mark’s faculty in 2023 as holder of the Leonard N. “Doc” Nelson Alumni Master Teaching Chair. Lane earned his bachelor’s degree and Ph.D. from the University of California-Berkeley. Before joining St. Mark’s, Lane worked for 24 years at the College Preparatory School in Oakland, CA, teaching physics, chemistry, astronomy and neuroscience, and coaching a variety of sports. Besides teaching Middle School science classes, Lane is the director of the Winn Science Center Planetarium. In 1991, Lane was the winner of the American Chemical Society (Division of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology) Charles D. Coryell Award in nuclear chemistry.
Daniel Lipin

Biology Teacher

214-346-8340

University of Manchester - BEng/MEng
University of Queensland - PhD

LipinD@smtexas.org
Bio
Dr. Daniel Lipin is a member of the Science Department where he teaches courses in biology to Upper School students. Lipin, who came to St. Mark’s in 2022, earned his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from the University of Manchester and a doctorate from University of Australia, Brisbane. Before he arrived at St. Mark’s, Lipin taught chemistry, biology, earth science, physics and astronomy at the Hackley School in Tarrytown, N.Y. A dad to Marksman Ron Drori-Lipin ’31, he also has more than ten years of experience coaching Lego robotics. He co-directs the Lower and Middle School Robotics Program and also sponsors the Scientific Marksmen magazine and the Middle School Lego Club. Upon completion of his Ph.D., Lipin won the Dean’s Award for Outstanding Higher Degree by Research Theses (2010). While teaching at the Hackley School, he earned the Mary Lambos Award for excellence in teaching (2013) and the McLean Chair in Mathematics and Science (2020-2022).
Stewart Mayer

Makerspace Director

214-346-8364

Southern Methodist University - B.A.

MayerS@smtexas.org
John Mead

Eugene McDermott Master Teaching Chair in Science

214-346-8164

Duke University - B.A.
Duke University - M.A.T.

Mead@smtexas.org
Bio
Holding the Eugene McDermott Master Teaching Chair in Science, John Mead joined the St. Mark’s faculty in the fall of 1990. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Duke University, where he maintains a fierce loyalty to the Blue Devils’ basketball team. Having previously served as the sixth grade class sponsor and assistant head of Middle School, Mead now teaches sections of life science to sixth graders. Since the 1990’s, Mead has been one of the leaders of the School’s Wilderness Program, guiding Marksmen through the outdoors on dozens of Middle School campouts and Pecos Wilderness Trips. Mead has also traveled across the globe with scientific research teams from Peru’s Boiling River to the Rising Star Cave in South Africa. Through his friendship with world-renown paleoanthropologist Dr. Lee Berger, Mead has facilitated in-person visits and live video calls with the research team excavating fossils of the early hominin homo naledi in Africa. He has earned recognition from the National Association of Biology Teachers, including the Outstanding Biology Teacher Award for the state in 2018 and the Evolution Education Award in 2019.
John Milam

Middle School Science Teacher

214-346-8251

MilamJ@smtexas.org
Jonathan Moody

Chemistry Teacher

214-346-8201

UT Southwestern Medical Center - PhD
Texas A&M University - BS

MoodyJ@smtexas.org
Bio
After 15 years at Ursuline Academy of Dallas, where he taught earth science, chemistry and physics, Dr. Jonathan Moody arrived at St. Mark’s as a chemistry teacher in 2021. Moody coaches Middle School cross-country and track & field, is a freshman adviser and participated as a group leader in the Wilderness Program. He earned his B.S. from Texas A&M University and Ph.D. from UT Southwestern Medical Center. Moody has twice received the Work of Heart award from the Catholic Foundation of Dallas, was named a Regional Coach of the Year in 2021 by the Positive Coaching Alliance and was named the 2017 Texas Cross-Country Coach of the Year by the Lone Star Christian Sports Network.
Kenneth Owens

Chemistry Teacher

214-346-8503

Rice University - B.A.
University of Michigan - M.S. (Chemistry)

kowens@smtexas.org
Bio
Ken Owens is a 1989 graduate of St. Mark’s and now serves as a chemistry teacher. He earned a B.A. from Rice University and an M.S. from the University of Michigan. Owens previously taught at The Oakridge School in Arlington and worked for the Rice University Police Department, volunteered at Mount Rushmore and ran blood drives. He sponsors the U.S. Department of Energy Science Bowl competition for Upper School students. Owens received the John H. Murrell Excellence in Teaching Award in 2003 and belongs to the National Science Teaching Association, the Associated Chemistry Teachers of Texas, the Science Teachers Association of Texas and the American Geophysical Union.
Douglas Rummel

Science Teacher

214-346-8504

Oregon State University - B.S.
University of Texas at Dallas - M.A.T.

Rummel@smtexas.org
Bio
Doug Rummel is the holder of the Founders Master Teaching Chair (2016) and teaches 8th grade physical science and Information Engineering for juniors and seniors. He joined St. Mark’s in 1998 after nearly a decade teaching 8th grade at the Greenhill School in Addison, Texas. He received his M.A.T. in Science Education from the University of Texas at Dallas in 1988 while working as adjunct faculty in Biology at Brookhaven Community College. He received his B.S. in General Science from Oregon State University in 1983. Doug helped develop a high school introductory engineering curriculum for the Infinity Project, a joint venture between SMU, Texas Instruments, and the National Science Foundation. A co-coach for the St. Mark’s robotics teams, he is heavily involved in engineering education and managing the new shop, makerspace, and biotechnology areas in the Winn Science Center. Doug and his wife Kerrin have two grown children, Jason (a programmer) and Shannon (a middle school science teacher). His outside interests are gardening, fishing, and traveling the world off the beaten path.

St. Mark’s School of Texas

10600 Preston Road
Dallas, Texas 75230
214-346-8000

About Us

St. Mark’s School of Texas is a private, nonsectarian college-preparatory boys’ day school for students in grades 1 through 12, located in Dallas, Texas. St. Mark’s aims to prepare young men to assume leadership and responsibility in a competitive and changing world.

St. Mark’s does not discriminate in the administration of its admission and education policies on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin.