Earth Sciences

This course takes students on a journey through Earth's dynamic systems and processes, fostering an understanding of how energy flows and matter cycles shape our planet. By exploring topics such as geologic time, the structure of the Earth, weather phenomena, and the fundamentals of plate tectonics, students will appreciate the forces that have sculpted Earth across millennia. Engaging in hands-on experiments and simulations, students apply the scientific method and engineering principles to real-world scientific questions. The curriculum, enriched with cross-curricular links to social studies and mathematics, encourages students to synthesize knowledge and think critically about Earth's past, present, and future.

To successfully complete this course, students will need access to a laptop or desktop computer with a reliable internet connection and a working webcam and microphone. This course may also require purchase of texts or other course materials.

This Fixed-Paced course incorporates a blend of synchronous and asynchronous elements. Students and teacher meet live via zoom on a regular weekly schedule. In addition, students complete coursework including guided readings, interactive videos, text and video-based discussion threads, problem sets, individual and collaborative projects, and so on. While these activities are time-flexible, teachers sequence them with weekly deadlines to help students keep on track and encourage and support the development of productive time management skills.

CLI’s Extended Core is a selection of essential course offerings in English, Math, Science and History. These courses are scheduled to meet for additional weeks each semester to allow students sufficient time to complete the course materials. In addition, where possible and consistent with partner school timetables, CLI works with schools and families to support student engagement by scheduling additional weekly live meetings and placing meetings during regular school hours.

In some cases, students’ on-campus calendars may require that they join an Extended Core course after its official start-date — or complete an Extended course prior to its official end-date. CLI will work closely with teacher and partner school to develop individualized paths to successful course completion for these students.