This class begins every September.

Earth Science Class Information

Other classes in the series include:
Earth Science Session 2: Our Dynamic Earth (starts in October)
Earth Science Session 3: The Hydrosphere and Atmosphere (starts in January)

This class is taught in two different levels. Level 1 for younger students and Level 2 for older students and younger students who are academically advanced. 

ONLINE EARTH SCIENCE CLASS DESCRIPTION

This session will cover the following key topics. Full syllabus and optional lab materials on our website. 

• Earth Systems & Mapping
  We'll cover the fundamentals, exploring what earth science encompasses (and what it does not). Then we'll dig into the five main earth systems we'll study throughout the year and learn the basics of mapping using latitude/longitude and topographic methods.
  
  

• Earth's Chemistry
  Our focus will shift to Earth's chemistry, starting with the basics of atoms. This foundational knowledge will help us understand the elements that constitute the various Earth systems. 

• Minerals
  We'll explore their formation, different groups, and hands-on identification methods using scratch tests, hardness, luster, and other characteristics.

• Rocks
  We'll cover their formation, the three main types (sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous), and the processes of weathering, erosion, and deposition that break them down.
  
  

EARTH SCIENCE COURSE FORMAT

Classes are asynchronous. No live meetings. View lessons on your schedule within the designated timeframe (2 weeks to complete each lesson plan). Expect 1.5-2 hours to work through the lesson plan each week, and an additional 2-5 hours working on assignments (depending on the chosen assignment and time management skills). 

Each lesson includes a fully narrated PowerPoint presentation, complete with images and videos to enhance the learning experience. Students will use our learning management system, Canvas, to access their lessons, print worksheets, take quizzes, view and submit assignments, participate in discussions, and check grades and instructor feedback.