In this semester-long class, students will learn how to approach real world problems using STEM, research, and writing.  We will explore topics where the student is a scientist who discovers potential solutions to problems our world is facing.

Students will need the following throughout this class:
-Access to Microsoft Word or similar.
-Internet access.
-MLA Handbook 9th Edition.
-Access to library (encouraged).
-Various crafting materials of the student's choice based on the project for that week.

Prerequisites: Students should be able to compose paragraphs, know how to do basic research on the internet, in books, or with other resources.  Students should be able to read on their own in order to research topics.  The age range is based on the average age for these skills to be developed, but students outside (younger and older) of this age range are welcome to join the class as long as they are able to complete all of the work outlined below.  Please reach out to the teacher with any questions if your child is outside of the age range.

This class has 39 weeks of instruction with each topic being broken down into three weeks each.  The first week will provide the student with background information on the topic and set them up to research the topic through asking questions, discussion as a class, and exploring possible solutions.  This is broken down as follows:

Week 1
Day 1 Monday: Define the problem in class with background information and discussion and take notes.
Day 2 Tuesday: Analyze the problem in class and share notes for discussion, create an outline to guide research.  Homework - choose resources for research.
Day 3 Wednesday: Homework - research the problem based on outline and take notes.
Day 4 Thursday: Explore and discuss potential solutions with shared notes in class.
Day 5 Friday: Homework - Research solutions based on discussions and notes from the week.

Week 2
Day 6 Monday: Evaluate the solution options and select the best choice (in your opinion) from the research completed on Day 5 in class.  Revise the outline as needed and create a thesis (this may become homework depending on the length of discussion for this day).
Day 7 Tuesday: Begin writing a paper in class with real time support; three paragraphs will be completed: introduction and two body paragraphs (this can be completed as homework if more time is needed based on the student's writing level).  The paper will be in MLA formatting, with real time support available during class.
Day 8 Wednesday: Write remaining 2 paragraphs to finish the paper with MLA formatting: one body paragraph and conclusion.
Day 9 Thursday: Implement the solution by discussing it in class and creating construction designs for a hands on model or other appropriate project.
Day 10 Friday: Homework - Build the model and prepare to explain and discuss it.  Proofread and edit your paper to prepare to read it in class.

Week 3
Day 11 Monday: Read papers aloud in class and discuss them.
Day 12 Tuesday: Share your hands on project in class and discuss the results (half of the class will share this day).
Day 13 Wednesday: Homework - free day
Day 14 Thursday: Share your hands on project in class and discuss the results (the other half of the class will share this day).
Day 15 Friday: Free day before the next topic begins

This pattern will continue for all topics over the following dates:

Topic 1: Preventing soil erosion.
Dates: September 2-20, 2024

Topic 2: Building earthquake-resistant structures.
Dates: September 23-October 11, 2024

Topic 3: Reducing noise pollution.
Dates: October 14-November 1, 2024

Topic 4: Stopping apple oxidation.
Dates: November 4-22, 2024

Break: November 25-29, 2024

Topic 5: Design an inclusive playground for individuals with various physical disabilities.
Dates: December 2-20, 2024

Break: December 23, 2024-January 3, 2025

Topic 6: Stop/slow the spread of disease.
Dates: January 6-24, 2025

Topic 7: Designing a neighborhood.
Dates: January 27-February 14, 2025

Topic 8: Reducing light pollution.
Dates: February 17-March 7, 2025

Topic 9: Building fireproof homes.
Dates: March 10-28, 2025

Topic 10: Solving the problem of recycling not all getting recycled.
Dates: March 31-April 18, 2025

Topic 11: Smog prevention
Dates: April 21-May 9, 2025

Topic 12: Affordable community garden.
Dates: May 12-30, 2025

Topic 13: Habitat preservation - How can animals and people live together safely?
Dates: June 2-20, 2025

For hands on projects, students will need to be creative about the materials they choose to use.  They are welcome to discuss their ideas in class in order to choose the best materials for their project depending on the topic.

Please note that because there is a high level of discussion, collaboration, and sharing time, a minimum of 5 learners must be enrolled for class to be run.