2025 VAMPY Course List
After reading the descriptions and noting the qualifying ACT or SAT scores for each class, please write the name of your first, second, and third choices in the spaces provided on the application. Consider your choices carefully. You need to be interested in the class you choose as well as willing to give your best effort for three weeks. If your first choice is filled, you will be placed in the next available choice.
An ACT or SAT score is required for all VAMPY applicants. Students who have registered to take the ACT or SAT by April 5 may apply and provide scores at a later date.
Astronomy
Madison Staton
In this dynamic course, we'll unravel the mysteries of the universe by delving into topics such as the Golden Record and terraforming Mars as we study the historical, practical, and theoretical applications of astronomy through inquiry-based activities and discussions. We'll tackle apparent retrograde motion and tidal locking, while also engineering solutions to the challenges of the next generation of space exploration. By day, we'll dive into major astronomy concepts like motions in our solar system, astronomical navigation, the purpose of a national space program, and the structure of our universe. By night, we will learn to use different types of telescopes to make observations, navigate the cosmos, identify planets and constellations, and uncover the wonders of the night sky!
Qualifying Scores: ACT-M≥20 or ACT-ENG≥18 or ACT-S≥21 or ACT-R≥21 or
SAT-M≥520 or SAT-CR≥510
Chemistry
Jennifer Davis
Discover the exciting world of chemistry in this accelerated introductory course designed for those curious and motivated! Together, we’ll explore concepts such as experimental vs. engineering design, atomic theory, nomenclature, stoichiometry, gas laws, solutions, acids and bases, nuclear chemistry, introduction to inorganic and organic chemistry, and more. Beyond traditional lectures and lab experiments, this course brings chemistry to life through hands-on engineering challenges, real-world phenomena, and a thrilling chemistry magic show for the community. Students will investigate how chemistry shapes the world around us, solve creative problems, and develop critical thinking skills in a fun and engaging environment. Bring your scientific calculator—and get ready to experiment, innovate, and inspire!
Qualifying Scores: ACT-M≥20 or ACT-ENG≥18 or ACT-S≥21 or ACT-R≥21 or
SAT-M≥520 or SATCR≥510
DNA & Genetics
Colten Collings
Dive into the fascinating world of genetics, where science meets real-world innovation. In this engaging course, you'll explore the building blocks of life, uncovering the mysteries of DNA, genes, and inheritance. Starting with the basics of DNA structure and Mendelian genetics, you'll advance to tackle real-world genetic challenges, from understanding genetic disorders to exploring cutting-edge applications in medicine and biotechnology. This course will provide a scaffolded learning experience accessible to all students, starting with foundational genetics concepts and advancing to college-level studies in genetics. This course involves mixed methods of inquiry and explicit instruction, where minds-on learning takes center stage with daily lab experiments and interactive demonstrations that bring genetics to life. Whether you're passionate about biology or curious about how genetics shapes the world around us, this class offers an exciting journey into one of the most rapidly advancing fields in science.
View Letter to Guardians and Class Syllabus
Qualifying Scores: ACT-M≥20 or ACT-ENG≥18 or ACT-S≥21 or ACT-R≥21 or SAT-M≥520 or SAT-CR≥510
Mathematics
Lee Emanuel
Students in this class will have the opportunity to study mathematics starting at their own level of mastery. Students with the proper preparation may study Algebra I; Geometry; Algebra II; Precalculus; Calculus I, II, or II; discrete mathematics; or other abstract courses. Instruction is individualized, and students work independently at their own pace. Students move to new chapters as they demonstrate mastery by scoring at least 80% on chapter tests. Students must enjoy mathematics and be able to work independently to gain the most from this class. Afternoons will be reserved for collaborative work to discover various topics within higher mathematics.
Qualifying Scores: ACT-M≥22 or SAT-M≥520
Nazi Germany and the Holocaust
Ron Skillern
This class chronicles Adolf Hitler’s early life, his rise to power, and his policy
of antisemitism, focusing on how the members of the Nazi Party saw themselves and
the role of propaganda in molding popular opinion. The class will employ a variety
of activities and teaching methods: lecture, discussion, video, primary documents,
debate, mock trial, library research, and guest speakers. Additionally, students will
participate in one of the three projects: Holocaust Mural (six feet by nine feet),
Mock Trial of Adolf Hitler, and play based on The Anne Frank Story. All students will participate in researching the message of the mural and in selecting
the images created on the canvas. In 2017, Kentucky Educational Television created
a 26-minute documentary titled Murals of the Holocaust which can be viewed at this link. The course will conclude with an examination of the present-day manifestations of
racism in both America and Europe.
Qualifying Scores: ACT-M≥20 or ACT-ENG≥18 or ACT-S≥21 or ACT-R≥21 or SAT-M≥520 or SAT-CR≥510 or SAT-W≥500
Physics
Kenny Lee
Students will be introduced to the basic concepts of Newtonian mechanics as well as
electricity, magnetism, waves, light, and optics. Development of the concepts, laboratory
skills, and mathematical problem-solving will be stressed. Practical application will
be emphasized through student involvement in laboratory experiments and demonstrations.
Students should bring a scientific calculator capable of calculating sine, cosine,
and tangent.
Prerequisite: Algebra I or equivalent course and some experience with right-angle trigonometry
Qualifying Scores: ACT-M≥20 or ACT-S≥21 or SAT-M≥520
Pop Culture
Justin Mitchell
This American history class, taught through the lens of pop culture, explores how music, film, television, and digital media have shaped and reflected key historical moments. The course emphasizes creativity and leadership, examining influential movements and visionary leaders. Students will analyze iconic cultural shifts, develop their creativity, and explore how these vital 21st-century skills are sought after and applicable in their lives through projects, presentations, and discussions.
Qualifying Scores: ACT-ENG≥18 or ACT-R≥21 or SAT-CR≥510 or SAT-W≥500
Presidential Politics in the 21st Century
Dennis Jenkins
This class will explore a variety of issues and decisions that American presidents have faced during the 21st century. An emphasis will be given to the more pivotal decisions, events, and elections that have impacted our nation’s history during the past 25 years from the presidencies of George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden. We will also examine current events involving presidential politics from the 2024 presidential election to the present. Students will examine major issues involving the executive, legislative, and judicial branch during the last 25 years, and they will examine political campaign strategies, platforms, commercials, debates, satire in presidential elections, and Supreme Court cases that have shaped politics during the 21st century. Students will participate in debates, discussions, role-plays, and projects that enhance their knowledge of presidential politics with the goal of improving students’ analytical and critical thinking skills.
Qualifying Scores: ACT- ENG≥18 or ACT-R≥21 or SAT-CR≥510 or SAT-W≥500
Psychology
Kourtney Clark
This psychology course is designed to introduce students to the study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. They also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice. We will discuss topics such as biological principles of psychology, neuroscience, memory, learning, forensic psychology, social psychology, abnormal behavior, principles of sensation and perception, intelligence, and other topics to provide students with the tools necessary to understand human behavior.
Qualifying Scores: ACT-M≥20 or ACT- ENG≥18 or ACT-S≥21 or ACT-R≥21 or SAT-M≥520 or SAT-CR≥510 or SAT-W≥500
Writing: The Movie or the Book?
Leigh Johnson
We will look at the dynamic process of adapting literature into film while considering film genres, film theory, and choice of media. We will delve into the broader questions of fidelity, interpretation, and cultural impact. Why are some changes necessary when adapting a book into a movie? How do those choices change over time? How do filmmakers reinterpret texts to appeal to different audiences or reflect contemporary issues? Through debates, writing, and hands-on adaptation projects, students will gain a deeper appreciation of the artistic and technical craftsmanship required to reimagine stories across mediums.
Qualifying Scores: ACT-ENG≥18 or ACT-R≥21 or SAT-CR≥510 or SAT-W≥500
