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High School Biology: NGSS - Aligned Science With Hands-On Labs

๐— ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐˜† ๐—ธ๐—ถ๐—ฑ๐˜€ ๐—บ๐—ฒ๐—บ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐—ถ๐˜‡๐—ฒ ๐˜€๐—ฐ๐—ถ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—ฒโ€”๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ๐˜† ๐—ฑ๐—ผ๐—ปโ€™๐˜ ๐—น๐—ถ๐˜ƒ๐—ฒ ๐—ถ๐˜. Learners build core biology knowledge through hands-on labs, inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and real-world science applications.
Kindred Scholars Academy / Christine Santos LLC
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What's included

2 live meetings
1 hrs 30 mins in-class hours per week

Class Experience

US Grade 8 - 10
๐ŸŒŸ ๐’๐ญ๐ซ๐จ๐ง๐  ๐ฌ๐œ๐ข๐ž๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐งโ€™๐ญ ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐ฆ๐ž๐ฆ๐จ๐ซ๐ข๐ณ๐ž ๐Ÿ๐š๐œ๐ญ๐ฌโ€”๐ญ๐ก๐ž๐ฒ ๐ฎ๐ง๐๐ž๐ซ๐ฌ๐ญ๐š๐ง๐ ๐ก๐จ๐ฐ ๐ฅ๐ข๐Ÿ๐ž ๐ฐ๐จ๐ซ๐ค๐ฌ. ๐’๐ญ๐ซ๐จ๐ง๐  ๐ฅ๐ž๐š๐ซ๐ง๐ž๐ซ๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐งโ€™๐ญ ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐œ๐จ๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐ž๐ญ๐ž ๐ฅ๐š๐›๐ฌโ€”๐ญ๐ก๐ž๐ฒ ๐š๐ฉ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐ฐ๐ก๐š๐ญ ๐ญ๐ก๐ž๐ฒ ๐ฅ๐ž๐š๐ซ๐ง. ๐“๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐œ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฌ๐ž ๐ก๐ž๐ฅ๐ฉ๐ฌ ๐ญ๐ก๐ž๐ฆ ๐๐จ ๐›๐จ๐ญ๐ก.

This full-year high school ๐—ฏ๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—น๐—ผ๐—ด๐˜† course brings together everything learners needโ€”without parents having to assemble piecemeal resources on their own.
Each week includes two 45-minute live sessions: the first focused on ๐—ฏ๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—น๐—ผ๐—ด๐˜† instruction and guided discussion, and the second focused on a hands-on ๐—น๐—ฎ๐—ฏ that complements and reinforces the material.

We progress through foundational ๐—ฏ๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—น๐—ผ๐—ด๐˜† topics including ๐—ฐ๐—ฒ๐—น๐—น๐˜€, ๐——๐—ก๐—”, ๐—ด๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ฒ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ฐ๐˜€, ๐—ฏ๐—ผ๐—ฑ๐˜† ๐˜€๐˜†๐˜€๐˜๐—ฒ๐—บ๐˜€, evolution, and ๐—ฏ๐—ถ๐—ผ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฐ๐—ต๐—ป๐—ผ๐—น๐—ผ๐—ด๐˜†. Learners build true scientific understandingโ€”not just surface-level factsโ€”through structured ๐—น๐—ฎ๐—ฏ๐˜€, ๐—บ๐—ผ๐—ฑ๐—ฒ๐—น๐˜€, and ๐—ถ๐—ป๐—พ๐˜‚๐—ถ๐—ฟ๐˜†-๐—ฏ๐—ฎ๐˜€๐—ฒ๐—ฑ lessons.

There are no passive lectures, no overwhelming supply lists, and no busywork. Instead, learners get direct instruction, thoughtful modeling, guided exploration, and active participation. Labs use simple, easily available suppliesโ€”no special equipment required.
Itโ€™s not about memorizing termsโ€”itโ€™s about building real scientific reasoning that carries into every lab, classroom, and conversation.

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๐Ÿ“ Learners also receive access to a class folder with weekly lab guides, project instructions, printable worksheets, and optional study tools to stay organized and prepared.

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๐Ÿ”ฌ ๐…๐จ๐ซ ๐ญ๐ก๐ž ๐Ÿ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐ž๐ฑ๐ฉ๐ž๐ซ๐ข๐ž๐ง๐œ๐ž, ๐ฅ๐ž๐š๐ซ๐ง๐ž๐ซ๐ฌ ๐ฌ๐ก๐จ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ ๐š๐ญ๐ญ๐ž๐ง๐ ๐›๐จ๐ญ๐ก ๐ฌ๐ž๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ, ๐œ๐จ๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐ž๐ญ๐ž ๐ฌ๐ข๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐ž ๐ฉ๐ซ๐ž๐ฉ๐š๐ซ๐š๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐š๐ฌ ๐ง๐ž๐ž๐๐ž๐, ๐š๐ง๐ ๐ฉ๐š๐ซ๐ญ๐ข๐œ๐ข๐ฉ๐š๐ญ๐ž ๐š๐œ๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐ž๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐ข๐ง ๐ฅ๐š๐›๐ฌ ๐š๐ง๐ ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐œ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ.

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๐Ÿ“š ๐–๐ก๐š๐ญ ๐Œ๐š๐ค๐ž๐ฌ ๐Ž๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ ๐‹๐š๐›๐ฌ ๐ƒ๐ข๐Ÿ๐Ÿ๐ž๐ซ๐ž๐ง๐ญ

๐—Ÿ๐—ฒ๐—ฎ๐—ฟ๐—ป๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐˜€ ๐—ฑ๐—ผ๐—ปโ€™๐˜ ๐—ท๐˜‚๐˜€๐˜ ๐—ณ๐—ผ๐—น๐—น๐—ผ๐˜„ ๐˜€๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฝ๐˜€โ€”๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ๐˜† ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ด๐—ฎ๐—ด๐—ฒ ๐˜„๐—ถ๐˜๐—ต ๐—ต๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฑ๐˜€-๐—ผ๐—ป ๐—บ๐—ผ๐—ฑ๐—ฒ๐—น๐˜€ ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฑ ๐—ฟ๐—ฒ๐—ฎ๐—น-๐˜„๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐—น๐—ฑ ๐˜€๐—ถ๐—บ๐˜‚๐—น๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป๐˜€, building true understanding through active exploration and inquiry.
Labs are designed to help learners discover how biological systems function. Whether extracting ๐——๐—ก๐—”, modeling ๐—บ๐—ถ๐˜๐—ผ๐˜€๐—ถ๐˜€, or simulating ๐—ฐ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—น ๐—ฟ๐—ฒ๐—ฒ๐—ณ ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐˜ƒ๐—ถ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—ป๐—บ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐˜๐—ฎ๐—น ๐—ฐ๐—ต๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ด๐—ฒ๐˜€, students practice real ๐˜€๐—ฐ๐—ถ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐˜๐—ถ๐—ณ๐—ถ๐—ฐ ๐˜๐—ต๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ธ๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด each week.

Labs include:
Bubble membrane models
Edible cell projects
๐——๐—ก๐—” extraction using household items
Egg osmosis experiments
Reflex and reaction testing
Bird beak natural selection challenges
Coral reef bleaching and environmental simulations โ€ฆand more

Labs are simple to set up and use common materials whenever possibleโ€”science shouldnโ€™t require expensive kits to be meaningful.

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๐Ÿ“– ๐‡๐จ๐ฐ ๐–๐ž ๐€๐ฉ๐ฉ๐ซ๐จ๐š๐œ๐ก ๐’๐œ๐ข๐ž๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐Ÿ๐ข๐œ ๐“๐ก๐ข๐ง๐ค๐ข๐ง๐ 

๐—˜๐—ฎ๐—ฐ๐—ต ๐˜„๐—ฒ๐—ฒ๐—ธ ๐—ณ๐—ผ๐—ฐ๐˜‚๐˜€๐—ฒ๐˜€ ๐—ผ๐—ป ๐—ฎ ๐˜€๐—ฝ๐—ฒ๐—ฐ๐—ถ๐—ณ๐—ถ๐—ฐ ๐˜€๐—ฐ๐—ถ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐˜๐—ถ๐—ณ๐—ถ๐—ฐ ๐˜€๐—ธ๐—ถ๐—น๐—นโ€”๐—น๐—ถ๐—ธ๐—ฒ ๐—บ๐—ผ๐—ฑ๐—ฒ๐—น๐—ฏ๐˜‚๐—ถ๐—น๐—ฑ๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด, ๐—ฐ๐—ฟ๐—ถ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ฐ๐—ฎ๐—น ๐—ฐ๐—ผ๐—บ๐—ฝ๐—ฎ๐—ฟ๐—ถ๐˜€๐—ผ๐—ป, ๐—ฐ๐—น๐—ฎ๐˜€๐˜€๐—ถ๐—ณ๐˜†๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด ๐—ฑ๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ฎ, ๐—ผ๐—ฟ ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฎ๐—น๐˜†๐˜‡๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด ๐—ฝ๐—ฎ๐˜๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐—ป๐˜€.

Rather than memorizing vocabulary, learners practice the skills scientists use every day: observing, questioning, testing, analyzing, and explaining.

Every lesson combines instruction, modeling, and active exploration to build deep scientific literacyโ€”not just memorization.

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๐Ÿง  ๐–๐ก๐ฒ ๐’๐œ๐ข๐ž๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐Ÿ๐ข๐œ ๐“๐ก๐ข๐ง๐ค๐ข๐ง๐  ๐Œ๐š๐ญ๐ญ๐ž๐ซ๐ฌ

๐—ฆ๐—ฐ๐—ถ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—ฒ ๐—ถ๐˜€๐—ปโ€™๐˜ ๐—ท๐˜‚๐˜€๐˜ ๐—ฎ ๐˜€๐˜‚๐—ฏ๐—ท๐—ฒ๐—ฐ๐˜โ€”๐—ถ๐˜โ€™๐˜€ ๐—ฎ ๐˜€๐—ธ๐—ถ๐—น๐—น๐˜€๐—ฒ๐˜ ๐—ณ๐—ผ๐—ฟ ๐—น๐—ถ๐—ณ๐—ฒ.
Students who understand systems, patterns, and evidence become stronger critical thinkers, problem-solvers, and communicatorsโ€”skills that last far beyond biology class.
This course is built to strengthen scientific thinking so learners can apply it across every field they pursue.

โญ ๐–๐ก๐š๐ญ ๐’๐ž๐ญ๐ฌ ๐“๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐‚๐ฅ๐š๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐€๐ฉ๐š๐ซ๐ญ
๐Ÿ“˜ ๐—ง๐˜„๐—ผ ๐Ÿฐ๐Ÿฑ-๐—บ๐—ถ๐—ป๐˜‚๐˜๐—ฒ ๐—น๐—ถ๐˜ƒ๐—ฒ ๐˜€๐—ฒ๐˜€๐˜€๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป๐˜€ ๐—ฒ๐—ฎ๐—ฐ๐—ต ๐˜„๐—ฒ๐—ฒ๐—ธ: instruction + lab

๐Ÿ“˜ ๐—–๐—น๐—ฒ๐—ฎ๐—ฟ ๐—ณ๐—ผ๐—น๐—ฑ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ ๐—ฎ๐—ฐ๐—ฐ๐—ฒ๐˜€๐˜€: weekly lab guides, study tools, and project materials

๐Ÿ“˜ ๐—ฆ๐—ถ๐—บ๐—ฝ๐—น๐—ฒ, ๐—ฒ๐—ฎ๐˜€๐—ถ๐—น๐˜† ๐—ฎ๐˜ƒ๐—ฎ๐—ถ๐—น๐—ฎ๐—ฏ๐—น๐—ฒ ๐˜€๐˜‚๐—ฝ๐—ฝ๐—น๐—ถ๐—ฒ๐˜€โ€”๐—ป๐—ผ ๐˜€๐—ฝ๐—ฒ๐—ฐ๐—ถ๐—ฎ๐—น ๐—ฒ๐—พ๐˜‚๐—ถ๐—ฝ๐—บ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐˜

๐Ÿ“˜ ๐—™๐—ผ๐—ฐ๐˜‚๐˜€๐—ฒ๐—ฑ ๐˜€๐—ธ๐—ถ๐—น๐—น-๐—ฏ๐˜‚๐—ถ๐—น๐—ฑ๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด: inquiry, analysis, and real-world application

๐Ÿ“˜ ๐—ฆ๐—ฐ๐—ถ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—ฒ ๐—ฒ๐˜…๐—ฝ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐—ถ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—ฒ ๐—ฏ๐˜‚๐—ถ๐—น๐˜ ๐—ณ๐—ผ๐—ฟ ๐—ด๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐˜„๐˜๐—ตโ€”๐—ป๐—ผ๐˜ ๐—ฏ๐˜‚๐˜€๐˜†๐˜„๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐—ธ

๐Ÿ”ฌ ๐‘๐ž๐š๐๐ฒ ๐ญ๐จ ๐›๐ฎ๐ข๐ฅ๐ ๐ฌ๐œ๐ข๐ž๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐Ÿ๐ข๐œ ๐œ๐จ๐ง๐Ÿ๐ข๐๐ž๐ง๐œ๐ž, ๐œ๐ซ๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐œ๐š๐ฅ ๐ฌ๐ค๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฌ, ๐š๐ง๐ ๐š ๐ฅ๐ข๐Ÿ๐ž๐ญ๐ข๐ฆ๐ž ๐จ๐Ÿ ๐œ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ข๐จ๐ฌ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ?

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Learners can drop in any time without feeling lost, as each week features a brand-new topic that's engaging and easy to jump intoโ€”no matter how long the class has been running. Every day is a great day to start!
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Weekly Breakdown:

Week of September 7
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Introduction to Cells (Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic)
๐‹๐š๐›: Bubble Cell Membrane Lab (Soap + Straw)

Week of September 14
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Cell Organelles and Their Functions
๐‹๐š๐›: Edible Cell Model (Candy/Food)

Week of September 21
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Cell Membranes and Transport (Diffusion & Osmosis)
๐‹๐š๐›: Egg Osmosis Lab (Egg + Vinegar)

Week of September 28
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Cell Division: Mitosis
๐‹๐š๐›: Mitosis Model (Yarn/Beads Simulation)

Week of October 5
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Cell Division: Meiosis and Genetic Diversity
๐‹๐š๐›: Meiosis Card Sort Simulation

Week of October 12
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: DNA Structure and Replication
๐‹๐š๐›: Strawberry DNA Extraction

Week of October 19
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Mutations and Genetic Disorders
๐‹๐š๐›: Mutation Model Building (Pipe Cleaners, Paper)

Week of October 26
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Introduction to Heredity and Traits
๐‹๐š๐›: Build a Monster Genetics Project (Roll Dice for Traits)

Week of November 2
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Punnett Squares and Probability
๐‹๐š๐›: Punnett Square Breeding Game

Week of November 9
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Dominant vs. Recessive Traits (Real-World Genetics)
๐‹๐š๐›: Family Traits Survey (Thumbs, Tongues, Earlobes)

Week of November 16
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Genetic Technologies (CRISPR Basics)
๐‹๐š๐›: CRISPR Gene Editing Simulation (Paper Cutout Activity)

Week of November 23
No Class โ€” Late November Break

Week of November 30
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Introduction to Body Systems (Overview)
๐‹๐š๐›: Build-a-Body Puzzle (Simple Cutouts)

Week of December 7
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Circulatory System (Heart and Blood Flow)
๐‹๐š๐›: Balloon Heart Model (Plastic Bottle Pump)

Week of December 14
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Respiratory System (Lungs and Oxygen Exchange)
๐‹๐š๐›: Lung Model Using Balloons

Week of December 21
No Class โ€” Winter Break

Week of December 28
No Class โ€” Winter Break

Week of January 4
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Digestive System (Nutrients and Absorption)
๐‹๐š๐›: Simulate Digestion (Banana + Crackers in Bag)

Week of January 11
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Nervous System (Brain and Reflexes)
๐‹๐š๐›: Reflex Reaction Time Test

Week of January 18
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Muscular System
๐‹๐š๐›: Rubber Band Muscle Simulation

Week of January 25
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Skeletal System
๐‹๐š๐›: Build a Spaghetti and Marshmallow Skeleton

Week of February 1
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Endocrine System and Hormones
๐‹๐š๐›: Reaction Time and Hormone Influence Challenge

Week of February 8
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Homeostasis and Body Balance
๐‹๐š๐›: Homeostasis Simulation (Body Temperature Regulation)

Week of February 15
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Energy in Body Systems
๐‹๐š๐›: Food Calorie Burning Experiment (Optional Safe Foods)

Week of February 22
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Introduction to Biotechnology
๐‹๐š๐›: Genetic Engineering Role-Play (Choose Traits Activity)

Week of March 1
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Cloning and Genetic Engineering
๐‹๐š๐›: DNA Cloning Simulation (Paper Model)

Week of March 8
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Genetic Disorders and Case Studies
๐‹๐š๐›: Medical Detective: Diagnose the Genetic Disorder

Week of March 15
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Evolution and Natural Selection (Darwin, Selection)
๐‹๐š๐›: Natural Selection Simulation (Peppered Moth Game)

Week of March 22
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Adaptations and Survival
๐‹๐š๐›: Bird Beak Adaptation Challenge

Week of March 29
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Fossil Record and Evolution Evidence
๐‹๐š๐›: Create a Fossil Imprint Model

Week of April 5
No Class โ€” Spring Break

Week of April 12
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Comparative Anatomy (Homologous Structures)
๐‹๐š๐›: Homologous Structures Card Sort

Week of April 19
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Artificial Selection and Selective Breeding
๐‹๐š๐›: Dog Breeding Genetics Game

Week of April 26
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Biotechnology in Medicine
๐‹๐š๐›: Biotech Invention Pitch (Create Your Own Innovation)

Week of May 3
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Human Impact on Ecosystems (Intro to Environmental Science)
๐‹๐š๐›: Coral Bleaching Simulation

Week of May 10
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Genetics and DNA Review
๐‹๐š๐›: Genetics Jeopardy Game

Week of May 17
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Human Body Systems Review
๐‹๐š๐›: Human Body Relay Challenge (Diagram Match Game)

Week of May 24
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Evolution Review (Natural Selection and Fossils)
๐‹๐š๐›: Evolution Mystery Game

Week of May 31
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Final Topic โ€” How Biology Shapes Society (Genetics, Health, Tech)
๐‹๐š๐›: Future Biotech Idea Design (Students Create Concepts)

Week of June 7
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Reflection and Celebration
๐‹๐š๐›: Build Your Own Organism (Design Traits Project)

Week of June 14
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Energy Flow in Ecosystems (Food Webs, Trophic Levels)
๐‹๐š๐›: Build a Food Web Model

Week of June 21
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Human Impact on the Environment (Climate Change, Habitat Loss)
๐‹๐š๐›: Carbon Footprint Challenge (Simple Data Collection)

Week of June 28
๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Review and Wrap-Up: Biology in Action
๐‹๐š๐›: Final Quiz Game and Biology Showcase

_______

Our classrooms are rooted in the Socratic teaching approach, where curiosity and critical thinking come to life. Learners are guided through open dialogue and meaningful conversations, allowing them to explore topics more deeply and develop a thorough understanding.

To accommodate diverse learning styles, we thoughtfully combine traditional methodsโ€”like videos and carefully chosen presentationsโ€”with interactive discussions. This balanced approach ensures that every learner feels engaged and supported in their journey.

_______

Please note that we value mental health and are committed to preventing teacher burnout. 

To support our teamโ€™s well-being, we take company-wide breaks during which no classes will be held and emails will not be answered.

You may experience a delay in responses during the following dates:


2025

April 19 - April 20 (Easter Break)
Week of June 30 (Beginning of Summer Break)
Week of Sept 1 (End of Summer Break)


Week of November 23, 2025 OFF (Late November Break)
Week of December 22, 2025 OFF - (Winter Break)
Week of December 28, 2026 OFF - (Winter Break)

2026

Week of April 5, 2026 - OFF - (Spring Break)


In addition, teachers may need time off outside of these breaks as emergencies do happen. We always try our best to give ample notice when we can. You will never be charged for a day that we cancel classes.

_______

Policies and Guidelines 

๐ŸŒŸ ๐—ง๐—ฒ๐—ฎ๐—ฐ๐—ต๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด ๐—ฃ๐—ต๐—ถ๐—น๐—ผ๐˜€๐—ผ๐—ฝ๐—ต๐˜† ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฑ ๐—”๐—ฝ๐—ฝ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—ฎ๐—ฐ๐—ต
We believe in empowering educators to teach from the heart, embracing their unique styles and approaches. Each of our instructors brings their own passion and expertise to the classroom, which means not all classes will be taught in exactly the same way or use the same materials and assignments.

While the core topics and themes will always remain consistent, the teaching methods and resources may vary from class to class. This diversity enriches the learning experience and allows students to benefit from a range of perspectives and approaches.

We encourage our educators to stay true to their individual teaching styles while maintaining the high standards of engagement and quality that define our programs. This approach not only supports the creativity and authenticity of our teachers but also ensures that every class is an authentic and meaningful experience.

๐ŸŒŸ ๐—ฅ๐—ฒ๐—ณ๐˜‚๐—ป๐—ฑ ๐—ฃ๐—ผ๐—น๐—ถ๐—ฐ๐˜†
We strictly adhere to Outschool's refund and rescheduling policy for all of our classes. Once a class has been paid for, there will be no deviation from Outschool's guidelines. We do not offer refunds or rescheduling outside of what Outschool allows.

We follow a structured classroom weekly breakdown schedule to maintain consistency. In cases where an instructor is unavailable, we will provide a substitute teacher whenever possible to ensure the course or club/enrichment classes remain on track. If no substitute is available for a scheduled class, refunds will be issued. Please note that no refunds will be given for choosing not to attend a substitute-led session.

๐ŸŒŸ ๐—–๐—ฎ๐—บ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐—ฎ ๐—ฃ๐—ผ๐—น๐—ถ๐—ฐ๐˜†
To ensure a safe and secure learning environment, students are required to keep their cameras on for an initial visual verification at the beginning of class. After verification, students are welcome to turn their cameras off if they prefer, unless they have been verified by Outschool and have the verification badge, which exempts them from this requirement.

We understand that every learner has different comfort levels, and we strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and supported. We meet students where they are, honoring their individuality and comfort while maintaining a safe, welcoming space for all.

๐ŸŒŸ ๐—œ๐—ป๐—ฐ๐—น๐˜‚๐˜€๐—ถ๐˜ƒ๐—ถ๐˜๐˜† ๐—ฆ๐˜๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—บ๐—ฒ๐—ป๐˜
We believe that every learner deserves to feel valued and included. Our classrooms are welcoming and safe spaces for students of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an environment where everyone is treated with kindness, respect, and dignity.

๐ŸŒŸ ๐—–๐—ผ๐—ป๐˜๐—ฎ๐—ฐ๐˜ ๐—ฃ๐—ผ๐—น๐—ถ๐—ฐ๐˜†
In compliance with Outschool's policies, we do not accept friend or contact requests from current or former families on any social networking site (e.g., Facebook, LinkedIn). Additionally, we do not provide or ask for any personal information, including email addresses or phone numbers.

๐ŸŒŸ ๐—›๐—ผ๐—บ๐—ฒ๐˜„๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐—ธ ๐—ฃ๐—ผ๐—น๐—ถ๐—ฐ๐˜†
Our approach to homework prioritizes meaningful reinforcement rather than quantity. We assign one targeted activity each week that directly aligns with the material covered in class. These assignments are thoughtfully designed to help students apply what theyโ€™ve learned in a purposeful and effective way.

It is important to note that our organization does not offer classes that guarantee an hour of homework each week. Instead, we focus on comprehension and retention through thoughtful in-class discussions and purposeful assignments, avoiding excessive or repetitive work.

All homework assignments must be submitted during the week the lesson was taught in order to receive feedback. Writing assignments must be submitted in a typed formatโ€”either as a Google Doc, Word document, comment, or private email on the platform.
Photos of handwritten work will not be accepted since they are often too difficult to read and provide feedback on.

Learners who need assistance with typing are welcome to have someone type for them, as long as the work itself remains the student's own ideas and words.

All writing assignments will be assessed based on a rubric, and feedback will be given using that rubric to ensure clarity and consistency.

๐ŸŒŸ ๐—™๐—ฎ๐—บ๐—ถ๐—น๐˜† ๐—™๐—ฒ๐—ฒ๐—ฑ๐—ฏ๐—ฎ๐—ฐ๐—ธ ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฑ ๐—–๐—ผ๐—บ๐—บ๐˜‚๐—ป๐—ถ๐—ฐ๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป
We believe that learning is a collaborative process that involves the whole family. We regularly provide feedback to families because we value open communication and want to make sure everyone feels informed, supported, and involved in the learning journey. Our goal is to ensure that both learners and families feel confident and happy with their progress and experience.

We truly value family input and encourage open communication. Whether itโ€™s celebrating successes or discussing areas to improve, weโ€™re here to make sure everyone feels included in the process.

Other Details

Learning Needs
This course is designed to support a wide range of learners, including those who benefit from hands-on activities, visual modeling, inquiry-based discussion, and structured weekly focus.
Parental Guidance
This is a high schoolโ€“level biology course that includes discussion of life science topics such as DNA, reproduction (in the context of genetics), genetic mutations, natural selection, and human impact on ecosystems. All material is presented in a scientific, respectful, and age-appropriate manner. Some labs involve basic kitchen or household items (such as eggs, vinegar, balloons, and candy). Parents may wish to assist learners with gathering supplies or setting up certain experiments. No formal dissection, graphic imagery, or controversial political content is included. Biotechnology, cloning, and genetic technologies are introduced from a scientific perspective only. Parental supervision is recommended during lab activities that involve food handling (for experiments like edible cell models or digestion simulations) or potential mess (such as vinegar or water use).
Pre-Requisites
No formal prerequisites. A basic understanding of middle school science concepts is recommended. Learners should be prepared to engage with hands-on labs, structured inquiry, and academic skill-building.
Supply List
Week of September 7
๐‹๐š๐›: Bubble Cell Membrane Lab (Soap + Straw)
Dish soap
Water
Drinking straw
Shallow plate or bowl

Week of September 14
๐‹๐š๐›: Edible Cell Model (Candy/Food)
Paper plate or shallow dish
Various candies (for organelles: jelly beans, gummy worms, marshmallows, etc.)
Frosting or peanut butter (to act as "cytoplasm")
Spoon or butter knife

Week of September 21
๐‹๐š๐›: Egg Osmosis Lab (Egg + Vinegar)
Raw egg
White vinegar
Clear cup or jar
Spoon
Optional: corn syrup for a second stage of the experiment

Week of September 28
๐‹๐š๐›: Mitosis Model (Yarn/Beads Simulation)
Yarn pieces (4+ colors)
Beads or small buttons
Scissors
Paper and pencil (for drawing phases)

Week of October 5
๐‹๐š๐›: Meiosis Card Sort Simulation
Printed meiosis cards (provided in folder)
Scissors
Flat surface to work on

Week of October 12
๐‹๐š๐›: Strawberry DNA Extraction
Fresh strawberries
Dish soap
Salt
Water
Resealable plastic bag
Coffee filter or cheesecloth
Clear cup
Rubbing alcohol (chilled in freezer)
Wooden stir stick or skewer

Week of October 19
๐‹๐š๐›: Mutation Model Building (Pipe Cleaners, Paper)
Pipe cleaners (various colors)
Index cards or paper strips
Markers or pens

Week of October 26
๐‹๐š๐›: Build a Monster Genetics Project (Roll Dice for Traits)
Regular dice
Printable trait chart (provided)
Paper and colored pencils

Week of November 2
๐‹๐š๐›: Punnett Square Breeding Game
Printable game sheets (provided)
Dice or coin (optional for randomization)

Week of November 9
๐‹๐š๐›: Family Traits Survey (Thumbs, Tongues, Earlobes)
Survey worksheet (provided)
Pencil
Family members available for observation

Week of November 16
๐‹๐š๐›: CRISPR Gene Editing Simulation (Paper Cutout Activity)
Scissors
Printed CRISPR templates (provided)
Glue stick or tape

Week of November 30
๐‹๐š๐›: Build-a-Body Puzzle (Simple Cutouts)
Printable body system cutouts (provided)
Scissors
Glue stick or tape

Week of December 7
๐‹๐š๐›: Balloon Heart Model (Plastic Bottle Pump)
Small plastic bottle (16โ€“20 oz)
Balloons (at least 2)
Scissors
Water

Week of December 14
๐‹๐š๐›: Lung Model Using Balloons
Plastic bottle
Balloons
Straw
Tape
Scissors

Week of January 4
๐‹๐š๐›: Simulate Digestion (Banana + Crackers in Bag)
Banana
Crackers (plain)
Resealable plastic bag
Water
Spoon

Week of January 11
๐‹๐š๐›: Reflex Reaction Time Test
Ruler (12-inch or longer)
Stopwatch (optional, or phone timer)

Week of January 18
๐‹๐š๐›: Rubber Band Muscle Simulation
Rubber bands
Pencils or chopsticks

Week of January 25
๐‹๐š๐›: Build a Spaghetti and Marshmallow Skeleton
Dry spaghetti
Mini marshmallows

Week of February 1
๐‹๐š๐›: Reaction Time and Hormone Influence Challenge
Stopwatch or timer
Small objects to catch (coin, small ball)

Week of February 8
๐‹๐š๐›: Homeostasis Simulation (Body Temperature Regulation)
Thermometer (kitchen, medical, or digital)
Cups of warm and cold water

Week of February 15
๐‹๐š๐›: Food Calorie Burning Experiment (Optional Safe Foods)
Food items (small crackers, marshmallows)
Candle
Lighter/matches
Metal pie tin or safe non-flammable base
Adult supervision required

Week of February 22
๐‹๐š๐›: Genetic Engineering Role-Play (Choose Traits Activity)
Printed trait options (provided)
Colored pencils or markers

Week of March 1
๐‹๐š๐›: DNA Cloning Simulation (Paper Model)
Printable paper model sheets (provided)
Scissors
Glue stick or tape

Week of March 8
๐‹๐š๐›: Medical Detective: Diagnose the Genetic Disorder
Printable case studies (provided)
Pencil

Week of March 15
๐‹๐š๐›: Natural Selection Simulation (Peppered Moth Game)
Printed moth and background sheets (provided)
Timer or stopwatch

Week of March 22
๐‹๐š๐›: Bird Beak Adaptation Challenge
Different tools (tweezers, clothespins, spoon)
Small objects (beans, marbles, rice)

Week of March 29
๐‹๐š๐›: Create a Fossil Imprint Model
Modeling clay or playdough
Small objects to imprint (shells, coins)

Week of April 12
๐‹๐š๐›: Homologous Structures Card Sort
Printed homologous structure cards (provided)
Scissors

Week of April 19
๐‹๐š๐›: Dog Breeding Genetics Game
Printed trait cards (provided)
Dice

Week of April 26
๐‹๐š๐›: Biotech Invention Pitch (Create Your Own Innovation)
Paper
Markers or pens

Week of May 3
๐‹๐š๐›: Coral Bleaching Simulation
Clear cups
Warm water
Cold water
White items (mini marshmallows, pieces of paper)
Food coloring (optional)

Week of May 10
๐‹๐š๐›: Genetics Jeopardy Game
Printable Jeopardy board (provided)
Paper and pencil

Week of May 17
๐‹๐š๐›: Human Body Relay Challenge (Diagram Match Game)
Printable diagram sheets (provided)
Scissors

Week of May 24
๐‹๐š๐›: Evolution Mystery Game
Printed scenario sheets (provided)
Pencil

Week of May 31
๐‹๐š๐›: Future Biotech Idea Design (Students Create Concepts)
Paper
Markers or pens

Week of June 7
๐‹๐š๐›: Build Your Own Organism (Design Traits Project)
Paper
Colored pencils or markers

Week of June 14
๐‹๐š๐›: Build a Food Web Model
Printable templates (provided)
Scissors
Glue or tape

Week of June 21
๐‹๐š๐›: Carbon Footprint Challenge (Simple Data Collection)
Printable data collection sheet (provided)
Pencil

๐ŸŽฏ Smart "Year-Ready" Shopping List (High Priority Supplies)

Families can realistically buy once and use for the whole year:

โœ… Scissors
โœ… Water (general use โ€” theyโ€™ll need access to water often)
โœ… Pencils (and paper)
โœ… Glue stick or tape
โœ… Dish soap (small bottle)
โœ… Spoons (plastic spoons or kitchen spoons)
โœ… Resealable plastic bags (quart or sandwich size)
โœ… Markers or pens
โœ… Balloons (buy a small bag of assorted balloons) Optional but helpful to buy once early:
โœ… Straw
โœ… Dice
โœ… Timer/stopwatch (phone works too, but a simple $5 one helps)
โœ… Basic crafting supplies: pipe cleaners, yarn, beads
ย 1 file available upon enrollment
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
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Teacher expertise and credentials
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Alana Yeager
New Jersey Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Alana Yeager
New Jersey Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Alana Yeager
Ohio Teaching Certificate in Mathematics
Alana Yeager
Georgia Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Christina Schmelzle
Oregon Teaching Certificate in Special Education
Jonah
New Jersey Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
Natalie DiCarlo
Texas Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
Joy Ferguson
California Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
Dave Tolbert
California Teaching Certificate in Special Education
Dave Tolbert
New York Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
Jeremy Valdes-Riccardi
Washington Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Lauren Garcia
Georgia Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
Mallorie Pirita
Maryland Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
Mallorie Pirita
North Carolina Teaching Certificate
Patricio Vidal Kuker
New York Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Kristina Visniesky
Doctoral Degree in Special Education from University of Alberta
Jonah
Doctoral Degree in Sports Management from Concordia University Chicago
Sharisse May
Master's Degree in Forensic Science and Technology from Walden University
June Kraholik
Master's Degree in Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Sandra Harper
Master's Degree in Education from Rutgers University
Natalie DiCarlo
Master's Degree in Animal Science from The Ohio State University
Amanda Kin
Master's Degree in International Relations from University of Oklahoma
James Meers
Master's Degree in Education from City University of Seattle
Lauren Garcia
Master's Degree in Education from Towson University
Sharisse May
Master's Degree in Education from Clarkson University
Jeremy Valdes-Riccardi
Bachelor's Degree in Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences from University of Florida
Muntaha Islam
Bachelor's Degree in Social Sciences from Florida State University
Sandra Harper
Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science from The Ohio State University
Amanda Kin
Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from Long Island University
Christine Santos
Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from Ashford University
June Kraholik
Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Portland State University
Sandra Harper
Bachelor's Degree in Foreign Language from University of California, Berkeley
Ellie
Bachelor's Degree in Spanish Language and Literature from University of California, Berkeley
Ellie
Bachelor's Degree in History from SUNY Empire State University
Jeremy Valdes-Riccardi
Bachelor's Degree in Education from North Carolina State University
Caroline Lilley
Bachelor's Degree in English Language and Literature from University of Maryland
James Meers
Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from Bowie State University
Sharisse May
Bachelor's Degree in Education from SUNY Cortland
Kristina Visniesky
Associate's Degree in Theatre Arts from Randolph College for the Performing Arts
Alana Randall
See all of our educators teacher video bios:

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGbVl13Znw/TfxGX-w2arMDPvlWtgTaZQ/edit?utm_content=DAGbVl13Znw&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton 

KRISTINA VISNIESKY

I graduated from Cortland State University with a Bachelor's degree in Inclusive Childhood Education and a minor in English Language and Arts. Additionally, I hold a certification in Grades 7-12 English, and I am currently pursuing my Masterโ€™s degree in Literacy. Throughout my journey as an educator, I have had the opportunity to work with students across various age groups and learning environments, each experience deepening my passion for teaching and learning.

My teaching career began at a preschool that provided essential support to children with disabilities. Witnessing their growth each day was truly awe-inspiring, and it was here that I developed a profound love for working with these incredible kids. Their resilience and joy taught me valuable lessons about patience, empathy, and the power of education in transforming lives.

I also worked as a substitute teacher in high schools while simultaneously conducting observations at nearby elementary and middle schools. This experience allowed me to interact with students of varying ages and backgrounds, enriching my understanding of the diverse needs and perspectives within the classroom. The opportunity to guide and support students through different stages of their educational journey has been both enjoyable and fulfilling.

My initial interest in teaching was sparked by my involvement with the First Tee Program of Western New York, a remarkable initiative focused on teaching young golf athletes valuable life skills. Beyond the correct golfing techniques, I instilled important values such as perseverance, respect, honesty, and confidence. Witnessing their enthusiasm for these life skills, alongside their intellectual growth, was immensely rewarding and solidified my commitment to becoming an educator.

With a wealth of experience working with students and a deep belief in the transformative power of education, I am confident that I am destined to be an educator. I am passionate about fostering a love of learning in my students, helping them to grow both academically and personally, and making a positive impact on their lives.

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Live Group Class
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$50

weekly ($25 per class)

2x per week
45 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-16
1-6 learners per class

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