NGSS Aligned Earth & Space Science for Middle School Course (1/3)
What's included
6 live meetings
5 hrs 30 mins in-class hoursHomework
2-4 hours per week. Each lesson will come with practice, and typically will have an accompanying a lab to complete (printable materials).Projects
There are several projects included with the Earth & Space Science Class, designed to inspire curiosity and open new thought patterns and perspectives.Certificate of Completion
All students who demonstrate proficiency with concepts (85% or better) will be awarded a certificate of completion.Class Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
Beginner Level
Taught by an actual geologist and M.Ed., this Earth and Space Science (Part 1/3 in the Full Year NGSS Aligned Course) course immerses middle school students in a comprehensive laboratory experience. As budding Earth Scientists, students explore Astronomy, Geology, Meteorology, and Oceanography, unraveling the vital relationships and mechanisms within these disciplines. The curriculum not only boosts students' evidence-based reasoning but also integrates enhancements in reading, writing, and math skills. It cultivates creative problem-solving and informed decision-making, preparing students to address complex scientific queries with confidence.
Learning Goals
NGSS HS-ESS1-4 Use mathematical or computational representations to predict the motion of orbiting objects in the solar system.
NGSS HS-ESS1-6 Apply scientific reasoning and evidence from ancient Earth materials, meteorites, and other planetary surfaces to construct an account of Earth’s formation and early history.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created CurriculumStandards
Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)4 Units
6 Lessons
over 6 WeeksUnit 1: Earth's Measures & Models
Lesson 1:
Latitude & Longitude
"How can latitude and longitude help us locate places on Earth's surface?" Students delve into the world of geographical positioning.
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Models & Maps
How are maps used to represent Earth’s surface?", with a particular focus on isolines and topographic maps. This not only facilitates a deep understanding of mapping techniques but also equips students with the skills to interpret and create accurate representations of Earth's diverse landscapes.
55 mins online live lesson
Unit 2: Studying Space
Lesson 3:
Reasons for Seasons
"How does the tilt of Earth’s axis and Earth’s movement cause seasons?"
Students delve into the intricacies of Earth's orbit and axial tilt, shedding light on the mechanisms behind the changing seasons.
This unit is essential for any astronomy curriculum as it equips students with foundational knowledge about Earth's movements and their direct impact on seasonal changes. Students will grasp concepts such as rotation, revolution, axis, tilt, seasons, angle of insolation, & more!
55 mins online live lesson
Unit 3: Solar System
Lesson 4:
Our Solar System
"Why are we considered a solar system?" This lesson guides students through a captivating journey to understand the intricacies that define our celestial neighborhood. Students delve into the captivating realms of asteroids, comets, meteors, and the contrasting geocentric and heliocentric models that shaped our understanding of the cosmos throughout history.
55 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Supply List
All materials provided, printable, or downloadable to tablet.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Teacher Nicole's first career was as a field geologist/field geochemist. She spent time atop Kiluea Iki on the big island of Hawaii, studying gas pressure inside the volcano, followed by time at the Hanford Nuclear Waste Superfund Site in the groundwater sector. Once it was "time to settle down" Nicole earned a Masters in Education, making her the ultimate blend of real, lived field experience and educational best practices, for an unmatched learning experience for your student!
Reviews
Live Group Course
$50
weekly or $300 for 6 classes1x per week, 6 weeks
55 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-15
5-12 learners per class