Creatures of Biosomnium: A Speculative Evolution Project (Ages 9-11)
What's included
1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hours per weekClass Experience
Welcome to Creatures of Biosomnium, a captivating and immersive online speculative evolution club available through Outschool. Prepare to embark on a journey that combines scientific inquiry with boundless creativity as we delve into the realm of building scientifically plausible speculative creatures and exploring their unique worlds. Speculative evolution is an academic and artistic endeavor that involves in-depth examination, contemplation, and modification of existing organisms to envision their adaptation to new and possible environments. In the absence of human influence, imagine how rats might transform into formidable pack hunters akin to wolves, or utilize their innate intelligence and dexterity to construct their own intricate societies. Picture an octopus evolving over three million years, shaping its form in response to a shifting climate. These are the kinds of extraordinary concepts we will explore and bring to life in this ongoing club. Our focus lies within Biosomnium, a network of fantastical worlds whose name translates to the "dream of life." Through the vivid landscapes of this imaginative realm, learners will unravel the mysteries of various planets and moons. Engaging in a dynamic exchange of ideas, learners will share their creations with one another and seek valuable feedback from both their peers and the instructor. Drawing inspiration from our knowledge of modern flora and fauna on Earth, we will apply scientific principles to the organisms we craft, ensuring their plausibility within the realm of speculative evolution. This holistic approach cultivates an environment where scientific inquiry and artistic expression seamlessly intertwine. Creatures of Biosomnium is a haven for those who possess an unwavering passion for both science and science fiction. Here, you will find a warm and supportive community that nurtures the development of your artistic and scientific skills. It is the perfect opportunity to channel your boundless imagination and explore the endless possibilities of life on alternate worlds. Learners have the opportunity to contribute to a world-building Padlet between classes. Each week, our club follows a consistent format. Learners will receive detailed information about the conditions prevailing in the chosen biome and planet, along with a curated selection of ancestral creatures. From this diverse array, participants will choose the organisms they wish to adapt, crafting them to thrive within the given environmental constraints. Join us in the captivating world of Creatures of Biosomnium, where scientific exploration and speculative creativity merge to create extraordinary beings and their vibrant habitats. Unleash your imagination, and let the wonders of speculative evolution unfold before your eyes.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
All classes are based on the accepted consensus of the secular scientific community, and may include discussions of evolution by natural selection, the cellular and hormonal mechanics of sexual and asexual reproduction, and other aspects of studying living systems.
Procreate and Sketchbook are digital drawing apps that can be downloaded for use on a tablet and are only for personal use for the learner. They do not require user accounts, and are not required for the class.
Google Drive links are used to share a pdf file each week, containing all of the Creatures of Biosomnium and updates on new creatures added and story elements that have been developed. Learners will not use a login or navigate to a website to access this guide. The guide is not to be shared outside of learners enrolled in Biosomnium.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Teacher expertise and credentials
4 teachers have teaching certificates
Georgia Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
Non-US Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
Georgia Teaching Certificate in Special Education
North Carolina Teaching Certificate in Secondary Education
4 teachers have a Graduate degree
Doctoral Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from University of Arts in Belgrade
Master's Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from University of Arts in Belgrade
Master's Degree in Education from Georgia College and State University
Master's Degree in Education from Georgia State University
Master's Degree in Education from University of Georgia
9 teachers have a Bachelor's degree
Bachelor's Degree in English from Kennesaw State University
Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science from Vassar College
Bachelor's Degree in Education from Georgia Southern University
Bachelor's Degree in Communications from Ramapo College of New Jersey
Bachelor's Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from University of Georgia
Bachelor's Degree in Education from UNCP
Bachelor's Degree in Science from Oglethorpe University
Bachelor's Degree in Science from Hampshire College
Bachelor's Degree in History from Georgia State University
Teacher Ben has a Bachelor's of Science degree in Biology from Oglethorpe University and and a Masters of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Science Education from Georgia State University. He has been teaching sciences to inclusion classes for 16 years to grades 7-12, and has certifications from the states of Georgia and California. He is deeply knowledgeable on the structure of the Next Generation Science Standards and best practices of science instruction.
Teacher Nathaly has an MA in illustration, DA in archaeological illustration and has completed several accredited university and museum courses that specialize in natural science and scientific illustration. She is passionate about blending artistic creativity with scientific exploration.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$18
weekly1x per week
55 min
Completed by 38 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-11
3-12 learners per class