Course Description
In this course students will focus on earth science, astronomy, physical and life sciences. Instructional methods will consist of didactic, application methods, intellectual discussion, inquiry-based learning, projects, word studies and labs. Vocabulary will be taught directly and through contextual format.
Assessments will include tests and quizzes, writing assignments, projects, and labs. Students will explore key thematic questions such as:
• How do the accounts of creation found in the scriptures help us understand the formation of the universe?
• What role does gravity play in sustaining the motion of the solar system?
• How can life exist in such a vast array of environments?
Students will demonstrate their understanding of the topics by completing an independent research project on a topic of their choosing, participating in a space simulator program wherein they will demonstrate problem solving and team building skills, build a scale model of the universe and explain the different objects found in the universe.
Course Details
Sixth Grade Science
Course Objectives
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of earth science, astronomy, physical sciences, and life sciences.
- Explore scientific concepts through various instructional methods and hands-on learning.
- Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to real-world scientific questions.
- Understand the connections between science and broader perspectives, including scriptural accounts of creation.
- Build skills in teamwork, research, and project-based learning.
Course Outline
Unit 1: Introduction to Earth Science
- Overview of Earth Science
- Understanding the scope of earth science and its key concepts.
- Exploring the Earth’s structure, including layers of the Earth and tectonic activity.
- Weather and Climate
- Learning about weather patterns and climate systems.
- Discussing the impact of weather on the environment and human activities.
Unit 2: Astronomy and the Universe
- Basics of Astronomy
- Exploring the solar system and its components.
- Understanding the role of gravity in the motion of celestial bodies.
- Stars, Galaxies, and the Universe
- Examining the life cycle of stars and the structure of galaxies.
- Building a scale model of the universe to understand the different objects found in space.
Unit 3: Physical and Life Sciences
- Physics and Chemistry in Earth Science
- Understanding the role of physics and chemistry in earth science.
- Learning about energy transfer, heat, and the behavior of matter.
- Life Sciences
- Exploring the diversity of life and ecosystems.
- Discussing how life can exist in various environments.
Unit 4: Thematic Questions and Inquiry-Based Learning
- The Accounts of Creation
- Examining scriptural accounts of creation and their connection to scientific understanding.
- Discussing how these accounts provide a broader perspective on the formation of the universe.
- The Role of Gravity
- Exploring the impact of gravity on the solar system and beyond.
- Conducting experiments to demonstrate the principles of gravity and motion.
Unit 5: Projects and Hands-On Learning
- Independent Research Project
- Choosing a topic for an independent research project related to the course.
- Conducting research and gathering information to support the project.
- Space Simulator Program
- Participating in a space simulator program to develop problem-solving and teamwork skills.
- Applying scientific concepts to simulated scenarios.
Expected Outcomes
By the end of this course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of earth science, astronomy, physical and life sciences. They will have developed critical thinking and problem-solving skills, participated in hands-on learning, and demonstrated their knowledge through independent research projects and presentations. This course aims to prepare students for further studies in science and encourage a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the universe and Earth.
Coming soon.
No texts are required for this course.
Miss Casia Holzer
Casia graduated from Utah State University with a degree in biology. While she enjoyed her education, her true passion lies in teaching chemistry. If you stepped into her class on a random day, you would most likely find her doing a science experiment. She believes nothing beats hands-on learning! When not enjoying students in the classroom, Casia tutors, writes biographies, and arranges piano music. Her motto is “Life is beautiful!”