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Discover Science: Hands on Middle School Comprehensive Science S1 (Self Paced)
Class experience
US Grade 5 - 8
This course will provide a comprehensive and engaging approach to learning that covers the Nature of Science, Physical science, Life Science, and Earth Science. It will include labs and demonstrations of scientific concepts. It will meet your student's science curriculum needs! Semester 1-3 covers 6th, 7th & 8th-grade science content and can be taken in any order. Many learners begin their middle school science journey apprehensive and little interest/knowledge in science. After the...
28 lessons//14 Weeks
Week 1Lesson 1Unveiling Science: The Adventure Begins!Embark on a thrilling journey to uncover the secrets of science and understand its power. Unveil the traits that make science captivating – it's like solving puzzles, making predictions, and testing theories!Lesson 2The Art of Scientific DesignIn our second meeting, "Unleashing Science: The Art of Scientific Design," students delve into experimental design and variables. They learn to formulate hypotheses, identify variables, and understand the significance of precise experimental planning. This session aims to deepen their grasp of scientific inquiry and the essential role of meticulous experimental design in obtaining reliable results.Week 2Lesson 3Repetition/Replication; Branches of Science; Twirly-Bird LabIn Meeting 3, we explore the concepts of repetition and replication in experiments, understand different branches of science, and engage in the Twirly-Bird Lab. Students learn how repeating experiments ensures reliability, discover various branches like biology and physics, and apply these principles in a fun lab activity where they design and test twirly-bird toys to understand aerodynamics.Lesson 4Review Scientific Method & Variables and Drops on a Penny LabWe revisit the Scientific Method and delve deeper into variables. We also conduct the Drops on a Penny Lab, where students investigate surface tension by experimenting with water droplets on a penny. This hands-on activity reinforces their understanding of experimental design and variables while exploring scientific concepts in a fun and engaging way.Week 3Lesson 5Forms of Energy, Transformation of Energy & Law of Conservation of EnergyIn this session, we explore the diverse forms of energy, from kinetic to potential and beyond. We delve into how energy transforms from one form to another, unraveling the fascinating processes of energy conversion. Lastly, we introduce the Law of Conservation of Energy, highlighting how energy is neither created nor destroyed but merely changes its form, fostering a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of energy in our world.Lesson 6States of Matter & Thermal EnergyWe will delve into the properties and behaviors of different states of matter, from solids to liquids and gases. We also explore the concept of thermal energy and its relationship to temperature, discussing how thermal energy affects the states of matter and their transitions. Through engaging discussions and activities, students gain a comprehensive understanding of states of matter and the role of thermal energy in our everyday lives.Week 4Lesson 7Mechanical WavesWe will be captivated by the world of mechanical waves. We explore how these waves propagate through mediums like air, water, and solids, discussing their characteristics such as amplitude, frequency, and wavelength. Through interactive demonstrations and discussions, students uncover the principles behind wave behavior, including reflection, refraction, and interference. This hands-on exploration fosters a deeper understanding of how mechanical waves work.Lesson 8Electromagnetic Spectrum & Behavior of LightIn this lesson, we unravel the electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves to gamma rays, exploring their uses and properties. We also investigate the behavior of light, including reflection, refraction, and absorption, uncovering how these phenomena shape our understanding of optics and the world around us.Week 5Lesson 9Heredity/Asexual & Sexual ReproductionWe delve into the fascinating world of genetics, exploring how traits are passed down through generations. Students compare asexual and sexual reproduction, understanding how genes contribute to diversity and inheritance in living organisms.Lesson 10DNA & Traits LabIn the DNA lesson & Traits Lab, students compare phenotypes to understand human diversity and the range of observable traits we exhibit. This experience bridges the gap between genetic information (DNA) and its expression in physical traits (phenotypes), providing a comprehensive understanding of our genetic makeup and diversity.Week 6Lesson 11Genotypes, Phenotypes & Punnett SquaresIn this session, we explore genotypes and phenotypes, unraveling how genes (genotypes) determine observable traits (phenotypes). Through Punnett squares and interactive activities, students decipher genetic inheritance patterns, gaining insights into the complexities of genetics and trait expression.Lesson 12Minerals, Rocks & Rock CycleIn this lesson, we delve into geology, exploring minerals, rocks, and the rock cycle. Students uncover how minerals form, combine to create rocks, and undergo continuous transformation through the rock cycle. Through hands-on activities and discussions, they gain a deeper understanding of Earth's dynamic processes and the interconnectedness of geological phenomena.Week 7Lesson 13Layers of the Earth & Rock Cycle LabStudents explore the Earth's layers, investigating their composition and properties. Following this, they participate in a Rock Cycle Lab, simulating rock formation, weathering, erosion, and metamorphism to understand Earth's dynamic geological processes.Lesson 14Tectonic Plates & Continental Drift TheoryWe dive into the theory of continental drift, exploring how tectonic plates move and shape Earth's surface. Through interactive discussions and map activities, students unravel the evidence supporting plate tectonics and its impact on geological features and natural phenomena.Week 8Lesson 15Tectonic Plates Lab & Plate Boundary EventsIn the Tectonic Plates Lab, students investigate plate boundaries and their associated geological events. Through hands-on simulations, they explore the types of plate boundaries (convergent, divergent, and transform) and learn about earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and mountain formation at these boundaries. This interactive experience deepens their understanding of plate tectonics and Earth's dynamic processes.Lesson 16Producers & Consumers/Energy Transfer Food Chain & WebsLet's dive into the dynamic world of ecosystems. We'll uncover the roles of producers and consumers, tracing energy transfers through food chains and webs. This exploration will reveal how energy flows from plants to herbivores and carnivores, illuminating the intricate relationships within ecological communities.Week 9Lesson 17Exploring Energy PyramidsIn our lesson on energy pyramids, we unravel how energy flows through ecosystems from producers to consumers. Using graphical representations, we explore trophic levels, energy transfer efficiency, and the pyramid shape reflecting energy loss. Through activities and examples, students grasp the vital role of energy flow in maintaining ecosystem balance and sustainability.Lesson 18Limiting Factors & Human Impacts on the EnvironmentExploring limiting factors in ecosystems and examine how human activities impact the environment. Students explore factors such as resources, competition, and carrying capacity, analyzing how human actions like deforestation and pollution disrupt natural balances.Week 10Lesson 19Photosynthesis & Cellular RespirationLearn about the interconnected processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration. Students explore how plants convert sunlight into energy (photosynthesis) and how organisms, including humans, use that energy through cellular respiration. Through interactive activities and discussions, students gain a comprehensive understanding of these essential processes in sustaining life on EarthLesson 20Photosynthesis & Cellular Respiration Review & LabIn this review and lab session, we revisit photosynthesis and cellular respiration, the fundamental processes driving life on Earth. Through hands-on experiments and data analysis, students deepen their understanding of how plants convert sunlight into energy and how cells utilize this energy. The lab provides a tangible exploration of these vital processes, reinforcing key concepts and their interconnectedness in the web of life.Week 11Lesson 21Exploring AtomsEmbark on a journey to explore the building blocks of matter: atoms. Students delve into atomic structure, learning about protons, neutrons, and electrons. Through interactive activities and models, they uncover how atoms combine to form molecules and compounds, laying the foundation for understanding chemistry and the natural world.Lesson 22Matter, Physical & Chemical PropertiesStudents explore how physical properties describe the appearance and state of matter, while chemical properties involve its ability to undergo chemical reactions. Through experiments and demonstrations, they gain hands-on experience in identifying and categorizing different properties, setting the stage for deeper explorations in chemistry.Week 12Lesson 23Changes in Matter Lab & Introduce Final ProjectsStudents engage in a hands-on lab to observe and categorize these changes, gaining a deeper understanding of how matter transforms. Additionally, we introduce final projects, encouraging students to apply their knowledge creatively and showcase their understanding of key concepts learned throughout the course.Lesson 24Structure & Size of the UniverseDive into the vastness of the universe, exploring its structure and size. Students learn about galaxies, stars, and other celestial bodies. Through visual aids and discussions, we unravel the mysteries of the universe's immense size and the structures that make up our cosmic home.Week 13Lesson 25Gravity and the Solar System/StarsIn this lesson, we unravel the force that governs our cosmos: gravity. Students explore how gravity shapes the structure and behavior of our solar system, from the orbits of planets to the formation of stars.Lesson 26Stars & Our SunThrough interactive discussions and visual aids, they uncover the unique characteristics of our Sun and how it sustains life on Earth. This exploration fosters a deeper appreciation for the role of stars in shaping our universe and our place within it.Week 14Lesson 27Planets - Terrestrial & Gas GiantsStudents distinguish between terrestrial planets like Earth and gas giants like Jupiter, analyzing their unique characteristics and compositions. Through interactive activities and discussions, they unravel the mysteries of planetary formation, atmospheres, and surface features.Lesson 28Phases of the Moon & Oreo Cookie LabWe will uncover the captivating dance of the Moon's phases. Students delve into lunar cycles, understanding how the Moon transitions from new moon to full moon and back again and we will reinforce the moon's phases using Oreo cookies!
Students will improve their understanding of middle school science and how the different fields of science are intertwined with each other.
I've been teaching middle school comprehensive science since 2014 and I taught 5th-grade science prior to moving to middle school. I currently help design activities that support the 7th & 8th-grade curriculum for all of the science teachers. I will be incorporating reading and writing in this science course as well. I have a master's degree in reading and writing, and I am a firm believer of reading and writing in the content area.
Homework Offered
1 - 2 hours per week outside of class
Assessments Offered
Grades Offered
Here is the link for the course lab/activity materials: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fAqqpf3cUuXD2BnMnk6cuBjYYPZ7ScIq40WPMpihW94/edit?usp=sharing
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Week 9 will cover cellular reproduction, which will include asexual reproduction & sexual reproduction
“If a child can't learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn.” – Ignacio Estrada I am a certified teacher and a math & science instructional coach. I began my teaching career as a 5th-grade elementary teacher in Illinois in...
Self-Paced Class
$22
weekly or $299 for all content28 pre-recorded lessons
14 weeks of teacher support
Choose your start date
1 year of access to the content
Completed by 386 learners
Ages: 11-15
Financial Assistance
Tutoring
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