Research Your Own Topic! Middle School Science Summer Camp
In this creative, research-based class, students explore science topics using real scientific articles. They'll learn how to interpret research, then choose their own project format to present their findings on a topic they've chosen!
What's included
14 live meetings
14 in-class hoursHomework
2-4 hours per week. Students will be assigned scientific research articles and are expected to read the article and be prepared to discuss it.Projects
To wrap up the course, students will present their research and conclusions in a format that best fits their communication style and creativity.Letter Grade
Students can request a final letter grade based on a clear rubric evaluating: --Understanding of content within chosen topic --Organization of final project --Participation in group discussionsClass Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
Curious about the world? In this hands-on science class, students will explore research questions that interest them using accessible, peer-reviewed articles from sources such as the Science Journal for Kids and Frontiers for Young Minds. Along the way, students will learn how to read and understand scientific research, take notes like a scientist, and build a project that shows what they’ve learned. Whether they choose to create a slideshow, poster, essay, video, or art piece, students will be guided step-by-step with personalized feedback from an experienced science educator. The course ends with a student showcase to celebrate their discoveries!
Learning Goals
Identify and explore a scientific question based on personal interest.Understand the basic structure and purpose of a scientific research article.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum7 Units
14 Lessons
over 7 WeeksUnit 1: What’s Research, Anyway?
Lesson 1:
What Makes a Good Question?
Learn how to form clear, researchable questions in science. Explore how curiosity and specific inquiries drive scientific discovery.
Brainstorm topic ideas and explore the journal article websites we will use in class. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Reading & Note-Taking Like a Scientist
Get an overview of the structure of a research article (abstract, introduction, methods, results, conclusion).
Journal club: Learn how to take useful notes from scientific articles. 60 mins online live lesson
Unit 2: Understanding Research Articles: Part 1
Lesson 3:
Dissecting the Introduction
Learn how to analyze the introduction of a research article. Focus on understanding the background, hypothesis, and research question. 60 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Understanding Methods and Results
Dive into the methods and results sections of an article. Learn how to understand experimental design and interpret results.
Journal Club: Discuss the positives and negatives of a scientist's methodology. If you redid the study, what would you change? 60 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Pre-Requisites
It is recommended that students be able to do the following, but additional support from the teacher is available:
--Middle School level reading comprehension
Supply List
Scientific articles and discussion questions will be provided. Art Supplies (Optional): If students choose to present their findings through creative formats like posters, art pieces, or infographics.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
We will use peer-reviewed science articles adapted for kids and teens: https://www.sciencejournalforkids.org/
https://kids.frontiersin.org/articles
Joined October, 2024
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Animal Science from Clemson University
Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science from Pennsylvania State University
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science (with a minor in Equine Science) from Penn State and a Master’s in Animal & Veterinary Science from Clemson University. With both academic and hands-on experience, I specialize in breaking down complex animal science topics in a way that’s engaging and clear.
Additionally, I have published peer-reviewed research articles and have taught scientific writing at various levels. Reviews
Live Group Course
$43
weekly2x per week, 7 weeks
60 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-14
2-6 learners per class
