High School Biology: NGSS - Aligned Science With Hands-On Labs
๐ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ ๐ธ๐ถ๐ฑ๐ ๐บ๐ฒ๐บ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒโ๐๐ต๐ฒ๐ ๐ฑ๐ผ๐ปโ๐ ๐น๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐ถ๐. Learners build core biology knowledge through hands-on labs, inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and real-world science applications.
What's included
2 live meetings
1 hrs 30 mins in-class hours per weekClass Experience
US Grade 8 - 10
๐ ๐๐ญ๐ซ๐จ๐ง๐ ๐ฌ๐๐ข๐๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐งโ๐ญ ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐ฆ๐๐ฆ๐จ๐ซ๐ข๐ณ๐ ๐๐๐๐ญ๐ฌโ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ฒ ๐ฎ๐ง๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ง๐ ๐ก๐จ๐ฐ ๐ฅ๐ข๐๐ ๐ฐ๐จ๐ซ๐ค๐ฌ. ๐๐ญ๐ซ๐จ๐ง๐ ๐ฅ๐๐๐ซ๐ง๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐งโ๐ญ ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐๐ญ๐ ๐ฅ๐๐๐ฌโ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ฒ ๐๐ฉ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐ฐ๐ก๐๐ญ ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ฒ ๐ฅ๐๐๐ซ๐ง. ๐๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฌ๐ ๐ก๐๐ฅ๐ฉ๐ฌ ๐ญ๐ก๐๐ฆ ๐๐จ ๐๐จ๐ญ๐ก. This full-year high school ๐ฏ๐ถ๐ผ๐น๐ผ๐ด๐ course brings together everything learners needโwithout parents having to assemble piecemeal resources on their own. Each week includes two 45-minute live sessions: the first focused on ๐ฏ๐ถ๐ผ๐น๐ผ๐ด๐ instruction and guided discussion, and the second focused on a hands-on ๐น๐ฎ๐ฏ that complements and reinforces the material. We progress through foundational ๐ฏ๐ถ๐ผ๐น๐ผ๐ด๐ topics including ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐น๐น๐, ๐๐ก๐, ๐ด๐ฒ๐ป๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ฐ๐, ๐ฏ๐ผ๐ฑ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ฒ๐บ๐, evolution, and ๐ฏ๐ถ๐ผ๐๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ต๐ป๐ผ๐น๐ผ๐ด๐. Learners build true scientific understandingโnot just surface-level factsโthrough structured ๐น๐ฎ๐ฏ๐, ๐บ๐ผ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐น๐, and ๐ถ๐ป๐พ๐๐ถ๐ฟ๐-๐ฏ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ฑ 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 suppliesโno special equipment required. Itโs not about memorizing termsโitโs about building real scientific reasoning that carries into every lab, classroom, and conversation. ---------- ๐ 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. ---------- ๐ฌ ๐ ๐จ๐ซ ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐๐ฑ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐ข๐๐ง๐๐, ๐ฅ๐๐๐ซ๐ง๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐ฌ๐ก๐จ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ญ๐ญ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐จ๐ญ๐ก ๐ฌ๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ, ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐๐ญ๐ ๐ฌ๐ข๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐ ๐ฉ๐ซ๐๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐ฌ ๐ง๐๐๐๐๐, ๐๐ง๐ ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐ญ๐ข๐๐ข๐ฉ๐๐ญ๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐ข๐ง ๐ฅ๐๐๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ. ---------- ๐ ๐๐ก๐๐ญ ๐๐๐ค๐๐ฌ ๐๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ ๐๐๐๐ฌ ๐๐ข๐๐๐๐ซ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ป๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ๐ฑ๐ผ๐ปโ๐ ๐ท๐๐๐ ๐ณ๐ผ๐น๐น๐ผ๐ ๐๐๐ฒ๐ฝ๐โ๐๐ต๐ฒ๐ ๐ฒ๐ป๐ด๐ฎ๐ด๐ฒ ๐๐ถ๐๐ต ๐ต๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ๐-๐ผ๐ป ๐บ๐ผ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐น๐ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฎ๐น-๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐น๐ฑ ๐๐ถ๐บ๐๐น๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป๐, building true understanding through active exploration and inquiry. Labs are designed to help learners discover how biological systems function. Whether extracting ๐๐ก๐, modeling ๐บ๐ถ๐๐ผ๐๐ถ๐, or simulating ๐ฐ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ณ ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ป๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ฎ๐น ๐ฐ๐ต๐ฎ๐ป๐ด๐ฒ๐, students practice real ๐๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ถ๐ฐ ๐๐ต๐ถ๐ป๐ธ๐ถ๐ป๐ด each week. Labs include: Bubble membrane models Edible cell projects ๐๐ก๐ extraction using household items Egg osmosis experiments Reflex and reaction testing Bird beak natural selection challenges Coral reef bleaching and environmental simulations โฆand more Labs are simple to set up and use common materials whenever possibleโscience shouldnโt require expensive kits to be meaningful. ---------- ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฐ ๐๐ ๐๐ฉ๐ฉ๐ซ๐จ๐๐๐ก ๐๐๐ข๐๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐๐ข๐ ๐๐ก๐ข๐ง๐ค๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ต ๐๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ธ ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฐ๐๐๐ฒ๐ ๐ผ๐ป ๐ฎ ๐๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ณ๐ถ๐ฐ ๐๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ณ๐ถ๐ฐ ๐๐ธ๐ถ๐น๐นโ๐น๐ถ๐ธ๐ฒ ๐บ๐ผ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐น๐ฏ๐๐ถ๐น๐ฑ๐ถ๐ป๐ด, ๐ฐ๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฐ๐ผ๐บ๐ฝ๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ผ๐ป, ๐ฐ๐น๐ฎ๐๐๐ถ๐ณ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐๐ฎ, ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฎ๐น๐๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฝ๐ฎ๐๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ป๐. 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 literacyโnot just memorization. ---------- ๐ง ๐๐ก๐ฒ ๐๐๐ข๐๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐๐ข๐ ๐๐ก๐ข๐ง๐ค๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐ฆ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ ๐ถ๐๐ปโ๐ ๐ท๐๐๐ ๐ฎ ๐๐๐ฏ๐ท๐ฒ๐ฐ๐โ๐ถ๐โ๐ ๐ฎ ๐๐ธ๐ถ๐น๐น๐๐ฒ๐ ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐น๐ถ๐ณ๐ฒ. Students who understand systems, patterns, and evidence become stronger critical thinkers, problem-solvers, and communicatorsโskills 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 ๐๐ก๐๐ญ ๐๐๐ญ๐ฌ ๐๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐๐ฅ๐๐ฌ๐ฌ ๐๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐ญ ๐ ๐ง๐๐ผ ๐ฐ๐ฑ-๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐๐๐ฒ ๐น๐ถ๐๐ฒ ๐๐ฒ๐๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป๐ ๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ต ๐๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ธ: instruction + lab ๐ ๐๐น๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ฟ ๐ณ๐ผ๐น๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ฐ๐ฒ๐๐: weekly lab guides, study tools, and project materials ๐ ๐ฆ๐ถ๐บ๐ฝ๐น๐ฒ, ๐ฒ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐น๐ ๐ฎ๐๐ฎ๐ถ๐น๐ฎ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ ๐๐๐ฝ๐ฝ๐น๐ถ๐ฒ๐โ๐ป๐ผ ๐๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฎ๐น ๐ฒ๐พ๐๐ถ๐ฝ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ฐ๐๐๐ฒ๐ฑ ๐๐ธ๐ถ๐น๐น-๐ฏ๐๐ถ๐น๐ฑ๐ถ๐ป๐ด: inquiry, analysis, and real-world application ๐ ๐ฆ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ ๐ฒ๐ ๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ ๐ฏ๐๐ถ๐น๐ ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐ด๐ฟ๐ผ๐๐๐ตโ๐ป๐ผ๐ ๐ฏ๐๐๐๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ธ ๐ฌ ๐๐๐๐๐ฒ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐ฎ๐ข๐ฅ๐ ๐ฌ๐๐ข๐๐ง๐ญ๐ข๐๐ข๐ ๐๐จ๐ง๐๐ข๐๐๐ง๐๐, ๐๐ซ๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐๐๐ฅ ๐ฌ๐ค๐ข๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฌ, ๐๐ง๐ ๐ ๐ฅ๐ข๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐ฆ๐ ๐จ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ซ๐ข๐จ๐ฌ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ? ---------- Learners can drop in any time without feeling lost, as each week features a brand-new topic that's engaging and easy to jump intoโno matter how long the class has been running. Every day is a great day to start! _______ Weekly Breakdown: Week of September 7 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Introduction to Cells (Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic) ๐๐๐: Bubble Cell Membrane Lab (Soap + Straw) Week of September 14 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Cell Organelles and Their Functions ๐๐๐: Edible Cell Model (Candy/Food) Week of September 21 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Cell Membranes and Transport (Diffusion & Osmosis) ๐๐๐: Egg Osmosis Lab (Egg + Vinegar) Week of September 28 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Cell Division: Mitosis ๐๐๐: Mitosis Model (Yarn/Beads Simulation) Week of October 5 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Cell Division: Meiosis and Genetic Diversity ๐๐๐: Meiosis Card Sort Simulation Week of October 12 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: DNA Structure and Replication ๐๐๐: Strawberry DNA Extraction Week of October 19 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Mutations and Genetic Disorders ๐๐๐: Mutation Model Building (Pipe Cleaners, Paper) Week of October 26 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Introduction to Heredity and Traits ๐๐๐: Build a Monster Genetics Project (Roll Dice for Traits) Week of November 2 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Punnett Squares and Probability ๐๐๐: Punnett Square Breeding Game Week of November 9 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Dominant vs. Recessive Traits (Real-World Genetics) ๐๐๐: Family Traits Survey (Thumbs, Tongues, Earlobes) Week of November 16 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Genetic Technologies (CRISPR Basics) ๐๐๐: CRISPR Gene Editing Simulation (Paper Cutout Activity) Week of November 23 No Class โ Late November Break Week of November 30 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Introduction to Body Systems (Overview) ๐๐๐: Build-a-Body Puzzle (Simple Cutouts) Week of December 7 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Circulatory System (Heart and Blood Flow) ๐๐๐: Balloon Heart Model (Plastic Bottle Pump) Week of December 14 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Respiratory System (Lungs and Oxygen Exchange) ๐๐๐: 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 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Digestive System (Nutrients and Absorption) ๐๐๐: Simulate Digestion (Banana + Crackers in Bag) Week of January 11 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Nervous System (Brain and Reflexes) ๐๐๐: Reflex Reaction Time Test Week of January 18 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Muscular System ๐๐๐: Rubber Band Muscle Simulation Week of January 25 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Skeletal System ๐๐๐: Build a Spaghetti and Marshmallow Skeleton Week of February 1 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Endocrine System and Hormones ๐๐๐: Reaction Time and Hormone Influence Challenge Week of February 8 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Homeostasis and Body Balance ๐๐๐: Homeostasis Simulation (Body Temperature Regulation) Week of February 15 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Energy in Body Systems ๐๐๐: Food Calorie Burning Experiment (Optional Safe Foods) Week of February 22 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Introduction to Biotechnology ๐๐๐: Genetic Engineering Role-Play (Choose Traits Activity) Week of March 1 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Cloning and Genetic Engineering ๐๐๐: DNA Cloning Simulation (Paper Model) Week of March 8 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Genetic Disorders and Case Studies ๐๐๐: Medical Detective: Diagnose the Genetic Disorder Week of March 15 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Evolution and Natural Selection (Darwin, Selection) ๐๐๐: Natural Selection Simulation (Peppered Moth Game) Week of March 22 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Adaptations and Survival ๐๐๐: Bird Beak Adaptation Challenge Week of March 29 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Fossil Record and Evolution Evidence ๐๐๐: Create a Fossil Imprint Model Week of April 5 No Class โ Spring Break Week of April 12 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Comparative Anatomy (Homologous Structures) ๐๐๐: Homologous Structures Card Sort Week of April 19 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Artificial Selection and Selective Breeding ๐๐๐: Dog Breeding Genetics Game Week of April 26 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Biotechnology in Medicine ๐๐๐: Biotech Invention Pitch (Create Your Own Innovation) Week of May 3 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Human Impact on Ecosystems (Intro to Environmental Science) ๐๐๐: Coral Bleaching Simulation Week of May 10 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Genetics and DNA Review ๐๐๐: Genetics Jeopardy Game Week of May 17 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Human Body Systems Review ๐๐๐: Human Body Relay Challenge (Diagram Match Game) Week of May 24 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Evolution Review (Natural Selection and Fossils) ๐๐๐: Evolution Mystery Game Week of May 31 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Final Topic โ How Biology Shapes Society (Genetics, Health, Tech) ๐๐๐: Future Biotech Idea Design (Students Create Concepts) Week of June 7 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Reflection and Celebration ๐๐๐: Build Your Own Organism (Design Traits Project) Week of June 14 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Energy Flow in Ecosystems (Food Webs, Trophic Levels) ๐๐๐: Build a Food Web Model Week of June 21 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Human Impact on the Environment (Climate Change, Habitat Loss) ๐๐๐: Carbon Footprint Challenge (Simple Data Collection) Week of June 28 ๐๐ข๐จ๐ฅ๐จ๐ ๐ฒ: Review and Wrap-Up: Biology in Action ๐๐๐: 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 methodsโlike videos and carefully chosen presentationsโwith 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 teamโs 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 ๐ ๐ง๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ต๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ฃ๐ต๐ถ๐น๐ผ๐๐ผ๐ฝ๐ต๐ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ฝ๐ฝ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ต 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. ๐ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ณ๐๐ป๐ฑ ๐ฃ๐ผ๐น๐ถ๐ฐ๐ 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. ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐บ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฎ ๐ฃ๐ผ๐น๐ถ๐ฐ๐ 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. ๐ ๐๐ป๐ฐ๐น๐๐๐ถ๐๐ถ๐๐ ๐ฆ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐ 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. ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ ๐ฃ๐ผ๐น๐ถ๐ฐ๐ 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. ๐ ๐๐ผ๐บ๐ฒ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ธ ๐ฃ๐ผ๐น๐ถ๐ฐ๐ 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 theyโve 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 formatโeither 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. ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐บ๐ถ๐น๐ ๐๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐ฏ๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ธ ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ผ๐บ๐บ๐๐ป๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป 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 itโs celebrating successes or discussing areas to improve, weโre 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 schoolโlevel 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 7 ๐๐๐: Bubble Cell Membrane Lab (Soap + Straw) Dish soap Water Drinking straw Shallow plate or bowl Week of September 14 ๐๐๐: 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 21 ๐๐๐: 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 28 ๐๐๐: Mitosis Model (Yarn/Beads Simulation) Yarn pieces (4+ colors) Beads or small buttons Scissors Paper and pencil (for drawing phases) Week of October 5 ๐๐๐: Meiosis Card Sort Simulation Printed meiosis cards (provided in folder) Scissors Flat surface to work on Week of October 12 ๐๐๐: 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 19 ๐๐๐: Mutation Model Building (Pipe Cleaners, Paper) Pipe cleaners (various colors) Index cards or paper strips Markers or pens Week of October 26 ๐๐๐: Build a Monster Genetics Project (Roll Dice for Traits) Regular dice Printable trait chart (provided) Paper and colored pencils Week of November 2 ๐๐๐: Punnett Square Breeding Game Printable game sheets (provided) Dice or coin (optional for randomization) Week of November 9 ๐๐๐: Family Traits Survey (Thumbs, Tongues, Earlobes) Survey worksheet (provided) Pencil Family members available for observation Week of November 16 ๐๐๐: CRISPR Gene Editing Simulation (Paper Cutout Activity) Scissors Printed CRISPR templates (provided) Glue stick or tape Week of November 30 ๐๐๐: Build-a-Body Puzzle (Simple Cutouts) Printable body system cutouts (provided) Scissors Glue stick or tape Week of December 7 ๐๐๐: Balloon Heart Model (Plastic Bottle Pump) Small plastic bottle (16โ20 oz) Balloons (at least 2) Scissors Water Week of December 14 ๐๐๐: Lung Model Using Balloons Plastic bottle Balloons Straw Tape Scissors Week of January 4 ๐๐๐: Simulate Digestion (Banana + Crackers in Bag) Banana Crackers (plain) Resealable plastic bag Water Spoon Week of January 11 ๐๐๐: Reflex Reaction Time Test Ruler (12-inch or longer) Stopwatch (optional, or phone timer) Week of January 18 ๐๐๐: Rubber Band Muscle Simulation Rubber bands Pencils or chopsticks Week of January 25 ๐๐๐: Build a Spaghetti and Marshmallow Skeleton Dry spaghetti Mini marshmallows Week of February 1 ๐๐๐: Reaction Time and Hormone Influence Challenge Stopwatch or timer Small objects to catch (coin, small ball) Week of February 8 ๐๐๐: Homeostasis Simulation (Body Temperature Regulation) Thermometer (kitchen, medical, or digital) Cups of warm and cold water Week of February 15 ๐๐๐: 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 22 ๐๐๐: Genetic Engineering Role-Play (Choose Traits Activity) Printed trait options (provided) Colored pencils or markers Week of March 1 ๐๐๐: DNA Cloning Simulation (Paper Model) Printable paper model sheets (provided) Scissors Glue stick or tape Week of March 8 ๐๐๐: Medical Detective: Diagnose the Genetic Disorder Printable case studies (provided) Pencil Week of March 15 ๐๐๐: Natural Selection Simulation (Peppered Moth Game) Printed moth and background sheets (provided) Timer or stopwatch Week of March 22 ๐๐๐: Bird Beak Adaptation Challenge Different tools (tweezers, clothespins, spoon) Small objects (beans, marbles, rice) Week of March 29 ๐๐๐: Create a Fossil Imprint Model Modeling clay or playdough Small objects to imprint (shells, coins) Week of April 12 ๐๐๐: Homologous Structures Card Sort Printed homologous structure cards (provided) Scissors Week of April 19 ๐๐๐: Dog Breeding Genetics Game Printed trait cards (provided) Dice Week of April 26 ๐๐๐: Biotech Invention Pitch (Create Your Own Innovation) Paper Markers or pens Week of May 3 ๐๐๐: Coral Bleaching Simulation Clear cups Warm water Cold water White items (mini marshmallows, pieces of paper) Food coloring (optional) Week of May 10 ๐๐๐: Genetics Jeopardy Game Printable Jeopardy board (provided) Paper and pencil Week of May 17 ๐๐๐: Human Body Relay Challenge (Diagram Match Game) Printable diagram sheets (provided) Scissors Week of May 24 ๐๐๐: Evolution Mystery Game Printed scenario sheets (provided) Pencil Week of May 31 ๐๐๐: Future Biotech Idea Design (Students Create Concepts) Paper Markers or pens Week of June 7 ๐๐๐: Build Your Own Organism (Design Traits Project) Paper Colored pencils or markers Week of June 14 ๐๐๐: Build a Food Web Model Printable templates (provided) Scissors Glue or tape Week of June 21 ๐๐๐: Carbon Footprint Challenge (Simple Data Collection) Printable data collection sheet (provided) Pencil ๐ฏ Smart "Year-Ready" Shopping List (High Priority Supplies) Families can realistically buy once and use for the whole year: โ Scissors โ Water (general use โ theyโll need access to water often) โ Pencils (and paper) โ Glue stick or tape โ Dish soap (small bottle) โ Spoons (plastic spoons or kitchen spoons) โ Resealable plastic bags (quart or sandwich size) โ Markers or pens โ Balloons (buy a small bag of assorted balloons) Optional but helpful to buy once early: โ Straw โ Dice โ Timer/stopwatch (phone works too, but a simple $5 one helps) โ 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.
Teacher expertise and credentials
11 teachers have teaching certificates
New Jersey Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
New Jersey Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
New Jersey Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Ohio Teaching Certificate in Mathematics
Georgia Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Oregon Teaching Certificate in Special Education
New Jersey Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
Texas Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
California Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
California Teaching Certificate in Special Education
New York Teaching Certificate in Social Studies/History
Washington Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Georgia Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
Maryland Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
North Carolina Teaching Certificate
New York Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
9 teachers have a Graduate degree
Doctoral Degree in Special Education from University of Alberta
Doctoral Degree in Sports Management from Concordia University Chicago
Master's Degree in Forensic Science and Technology from Walden University
Master's Degree in Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Master's Degree in Education from Rutgers University
Master's Degree in Animal Science from The Ohio State University
Master's Degree in International Relations from University of Oklahoma
Master's Degree in Education from City University of Seattle
Master's Degree in Education from Towson University
Master's Degree in Education from Clarkson University
11 teachers have a Bachelor's degree
Bachelor's Degree in Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences from University of Florida
Bachelor's Degree in Social Sciences from Florida State University
Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science from The Ohio State University
Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from Long Island University
Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from Ashford University
Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Portland State University
Bachelor's Degree in Foreign Language from University of California, Berkeley
Bachelor's Degree in Spanish Language and Literature from University of California, Berkeley
Bachelor's Degree in History from SUNY Empire State University
Bachelor's Degree in Education from North Carolina State University
Bachelor's Degree in English Language and Literature from University of Maryland
Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from Bowie State University
Bachelor's Degree in Education from SUNY Cortland
1 teacher has an Associate's degree
Associate's Degree in Theatre Arts from Randolph College for the Performing Arts
See all of our educators teacher video bios:
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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 Masterโs 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.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$50
weekly ($25 per class)2x per week
45 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-16
1-6 learners per class