Julia Kohler, Science & cognitive capacities
Mrs. Kohler was born and raised locally in the DMV, a Montgomery County native. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland with a major in Health Education Reform (IVSP). This was an individually designed major incorporating classes from a plethora of majors including Biology, Nutrition, Education, Fitness, Public Health, Psychology, Business, and Kinesiology. She created a Tumblr blog for her capstone project on Holistic Health, titled Naturally-Active-Students which included ten different health related videos that she personally hosted and directed. Mrs. Kohler continued to graduate school and received her master's degree in education from Lesley University. Prior to working for GWCS, Mrs. Kohler worked for multiple schools and Mad Science, a company that provides engaging, hands-on science curriculum. Mrs. Kohler recently had her first child Kaylee, which now fills up her time with play, walks, and snuggles. In her free time, Mrs. Kohler practices yoga, swims, bakes, cooks, reads, makes floral arrangements, and writes poetry. Mrs. Kohler is a lifelong philanthropist. She donated her hair twice to Kids with Hair Loss, and over the years has volunteered for organizations such as the Special Olympics, Icing Smiles, WE The Readers, and Hyattsville Aging in Place. Mrs. Kohler loves to travel both locally and internationally. Internationally she has been to England, France, Colombia, Canada, and Costa Rica (she can’t wait for future exploration)! This year Mrs. Kohler is teaching Biology, Earth Science, and Chemistry. Mrs. Kohler runs Coyote Café weekly with help from GWCS students. She is also the Events Coordinator at GWCS, helping plan and facilitate action packed good times like the Camping Trip, Halloween, Prom, and GWCS Spring Palooza.
COURSES TAUGHT
Earth Science
Earth Science is a branch of science dealing with the physical, chemical, and biological complex constitutions and synergistic linkages of Earth's spheres: the biosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, atmosphere, and geosphere. In Earth Science students will learn about these spheres and their interactions, delving into topics like oceanography, volcanology, plate tectonics, rocks and minerals, weather and climate, and biomes. The course also emphasizes scientific inquiry, data analysis, and the impact of human activity on the planet. Get ready for fun labs, projects, and field trips which will all bring Earth Science to life!
Biology
Biology is the study of life and everything it encompasses. In this class, you will learn what factors spark life on our planet and how interaction between these factors influence organisms big and small. This class explores the world of biology from the smallest cell to the ecology of the environment in which organisms live. Students get to experience biology through hands-on experiments. Topics covered within the course include, proper use of laboratory equipment, a deep dive into the scientific method, ecology, levels of organization including a greater analysis of the kingdoms of life, photosynthesis, respiration, organelles, types of cells, genetics, evolution, mutations, DNA structure and fragmentation, and protein synthesis. This course offers students a basic understanding of the ideas found in biology and opportunities for students to independently choose and study topics about which they wish to know more.
Chemistry
Chemistry is the study of the components of matter and how these components behave and interact with one another. Students will learn all about the mole, how to balance chemical equations, types of chemical reactions, bonding, electron configurations, the structure and function of essential elements, and how to analyze chemical reactions within experimental labs. The periodic table of elements will be studied and analyzed throughout the course to increase understanding of the various components of matter and energy. Students will be expected to compute simple algebraic mathematical equations. This course offers students a basic understanding of the ideas found in chemistry and opportunities for students to independently choose and study topics about which they wish to know more.
Cognitive Capacities
Cognitive Capacities is a class designed to streamline your student through a successful educational career. This class offers a variety of integrative collaborative workshops that will elevate your student’s executive functioning skills. Students will become proficient in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Drive, and Teams and learn the basics of organization, note-taking, time management, study skills, email writing, and so much more. Students will receive personalized comprehensive feedback-based coaching to achieve their educational goals. The class will embark on multiple field trips throughout the year for experiential learning through real world applications. We will start the school year by attending a field trip to Staples and Dollar Tree to jumpstart our organization. Cognitive Capacities also offers opportunities for students to work on homework, outstanding class assignments, and receive direct tutoring support.
