Explore Our Curriculum

Natural Sciences

  • Biology

    What is life? Is genetic engineering safe? How can biotechnology be used to solve a crime? This course prepares students for college-level biology and inspires a genuine love and curiosity in life. The course will include labs (like isolating DNA), dissections (including starfish, frog, worm, crayfish, cricket, and shark), microscope work, and detailed observations of nature using “field notebooks.” The course also covers important chemistry topics, including principles of biochemistry, atomic structure, and covalent and ionic bonding. The crossover between the two scientific disciplines makes each topic stronger. Multimedia presentations, including radio, movies, and group work, help students grasp concepts, speak the language, and develop a love of science. The first semester will survey the life (including the evolution) of Homo sapiens, bacteria, slime molds, viruses, plants, and fungi. Semester two will delve into the details that make it all work, such as DNA, cellular biology, genetic diseases, cloning, and genetic engineering. We finish the year with ecology and some environmental science.

  • Chemistry

    Chemistry is often described as the central science; an empowering discipline which is central to virtually all areas of modern science and technology, especially the new, exciting inter- and multi-disciplinary areas of molecular genetics, molecular biology, nanotechnology, medicinal chemistry, drug design, and green (environmentally sustainable) chemistry/industry. Chemical principles underpin both the physical environment in which we live and biological systems. In addition, this subject develops problem-solving skills and logical thinking. 

    Apart from being a subject worthy of study in its own right, chemistry is also a prerequisite for many other courses, such as medicine, veterinary science, pharmacy, and environmental science, as well as (chemical) engineering. Chemistry serves as a useful preparation for employment and life! By its very nature, chemistry lends itself to an experimental approach, and this will be reflected throughout the course. Topics we will focus on include kinetics (rates of reaction); bonding, structure, and properties; an introduction to organic chemistry; electrolysis and its uses; and energy changes during reactions through a quantitative lens.

  • IB Computer Science HL I

    IB Computer Science HL offers students individualized attention as they explore the logical, creative, and ethical dimensions of computing. The course emphasizes project-based learning, guiding students through real-world scenarios that strengthen their problem-solving and programming skills. With a focus on algorithmic thinking, data organization, and computational logic, students gain tools to become critical thinkers and effective communicators. Through collaborative and independent projects, students investigate the social and global impact of technology, fostering principled and reflective learners. As part of the IB curriculum, students also complete the Internal Assessment—a hands-on solution to a problem of their choosing—cultivating inquirers and risk-takers. This course provides a strong foundation in computer science while supporting each student’s personal growth as outlined in the IB Learner Profile.

  • IB Computer Science SL I

    This course provides an in-depth introduction to the core principles of computer science, with a strong emphasis on both theory and practical application. It covers advanced topics such as complex data structures, algorithms, and system design, alongside foundational concepts like system fundamentals and networking. The aim is to foster advanced computational thinking and problem-solving abilities, preparing students to tackle complex programming challenges and understand the intricacies of computer systems and networks. This first-year course builds a robust foundation for the more advanced topics covered in the second year.

  • IB Environmental Systems SL I

    Environmental Systems and Society (ESS) incorporates the broadest range of sciences, including biology, chemistry, physics, geology, and climatology, along with an equally broad range of social sciences, including politics, economics, environmental justice, and human bias. Together, students develop a critical and informed personal response to this ongoing crisis, both locally in Austin and globally. Students will complete original research of their own design and choosing, using field techniques or data analysis from existing global or local datasets.

  • IB Environmental Systems SL II

    Year two of this course covers topics of energy, water resources, soil, food, succession, and pollution. This year wraps up an international as well as a local view of the Earth and its peoples, the problems we face and some possible solutions. It includes both work from textbook and hands-on activities and work in the laboratory and in the field. Students will submit practical work they have been working on since year one. This work, an IB “internal assessment,” will be evaluated on planning, data collection and processing, discussion, evaluation and conclusion, and personal skills. The students will also sit for a two-part exam in May, which is comprised of short answer data-based questions, a case study, and two essay responses.

  • IB Physics HL I

    Students who choose to take Physics in their IB years will study at the higher level. The Physics HL course exposes students to this most fundamental experimental science, which seeks to explain the universe itself—from the very smallest particles to the vast distances between galaxies. Students develop traditional practical skills and techniques and increase facility in the use of mathematics, the language of physics. This course will include a special topic exploration of astrophysics in the second year. Through the study of physics, students will also develop interpersonal skills as well as information and communication technology skills, which are essential in modern scientific endeavors—and are important life-enhancing, transferable skills in their own right. Students, moreover, study the impact of physics on society, the moral and ethical dilemmas, and the social, economic and environmental implications of the work of physicists. Throughout this challenging course, students become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other. Further, students enjoy multiple opportunities for scientific study and creative inquiry within a global context. The first year topics include kinematics, thermodynamics, waves, electricity and magnetism, and circular motion and gravitation. Prerequisite: None.

  • IB Physics HL II

    Approval by the teacher, based on high achievement and work ethic

    A student taking physics at the higher level will study four additional topics: wave phenomena, fields, electromagnetic induction, and quantum physics. Students electing the HL option should be prepared for a quick pace of material coverage and a hefty reading load.

  • IB Physics SL I

    The Physics SL course exposes students to this most fundamental experimental science, which seeks to explain the universe itself—from the very smallest particles to the vast distances between galaxies. Students develop traditional practical skills and techniques and increase facility in the use of mathematics, the language of physics. This course will include a special topic exploration of astrophysics in the second year. Through the study of physics, students will also develop interpersonal skills as well as information and communication technology skills, which are essential in modern scientific endeavors—and are important life-enhancing, transferable skills in their own right. Students, moreover, study the impact of physics on society, the moral and ethical dilemmas, and the social, economic, and environmental implications of the work of physicists. Throughout this challenging course, students become aware of how scientists work and communicate with each other. Further, students enjoy multiple opportunities for scientific study and creative inquiry within a global context. The first year topics include kinematics, thermodynamics, waves, electricity and magnetism, and circular motion and gravitation.
  • Chia-Chee Chiu
    Long-Term Substitute Guide
  • Photo of Grady Eglin
    Grady Eglin
    HS Science Guide
    Bio
  • Photo of David Heroy
    David Heroy
    MS/HS Science Guide & Outdoor Leadership
    Bio
  • Photo of Kassi Hormuth
    Kassi Hormuth
    MS Science Guide
    Bio
  • Photo of Caitlin McDermott
    Caitlin McDermott
    MS/HS Science Guide
  • Photo of Lesley Regan
    Lesley Regan
    MS Science Guide
    Bio
  • Photo of Stephanie Roach
    Stephanie Roach
    River Campus & High School Director
    Bio
  • Photo of David Xu
    David Xu
    HS IB Computer Science Founding Guide
    Tufts University
    University of California - Davis

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As a 501(c)3 non-profit school, Headwaters School does not discriminate because of race, color, creed, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other classes protected by federal, state, or local law in its admissions, financial aid, hiring, or board membership processes.