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NGSS Aligned Earth & Space Science For Middle School Course (2/3)

As a former geologist, teacher Nicole absolutely LOVES Earth and Space Science - and has the field experience to provide real-world context to your middle schooler that excites them about Earth's Atmosphere and Weather!
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What's included

8 live meetings
7 hrs 20 mins in-class hours
Homework
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 6 - 9
Beginner Level
Taught by an actual geologist and M.Ed., this Earth and Space Science (Part 2/3 in the Full Year NGSS Aligned Course) course immerses middle school students in a comprehensive laboratory experience. As budding Earth Scientists, students explore 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. *****Virtual Field Trips Included!*****

Learning Goals

NGSS MS-ESS3-2 Analyze and interpret data on natural hazards to forecast future catastrophic events and inform the development of technologies to mitigate their effects.
NGSS HS-ESS2-4 Use a model to describe how variations in the flow of energy into and out of Earth's systems result in changes in climate.
learning goal

Syllabus

Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum
Standards
Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
2 Units
8 Lessons
over 8 Weeks
Unit 1: Earth's Atmosphere
Lesson 1:
Layers & Characteristics of the Atmosphere
 "How do scientists describe the composition of Earth’s atmosphere?" Students dive into the intricacies of meteorology, studying the composition of the atmosphere, air, particulates, aerosols, atmospheric pressure, density, barometer, temperature, and the distinct layers of the atmosphere including the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, and thermosphere. 
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Heat Transfer In The Atmosphere
 How is heat transferred throughout our environment?"
Students delve into the fundamental principles of heat transfer, covering topics such as kinetic energy, convection, convection currents, conduction, radiation, & more! 
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Phase Changes of Water
 Students explore the dynamic states of matter, the energy gained and released during phase changes, the intricacies of the water cycle, and the critical roles of latent heat, joules, and specific heat in these processes. 
55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Local Winds (Land & Sea Breezes)
 "Why do local winds occur?" Students delve into the concept of density and its role in driving local wind patterns, gaining a deeper understanding of the dynamic forces shaping weather patterns in their own backyard. 
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.
Joined August, 2024
New on Outschool
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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!

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Live Group Course
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$50

weekly
1x per week, 8 weeks
55 min

Live video meetings
Ages: 11-14
5-12 learners per class

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