Life Sciences

In this course, students explore fundamental concepts in biology from cellular structures to ecosystem dynamics. They engage in a variety of hands-on activities and experiments that encourage scientific inquiry, enhancing their understanding of how life is interconnected. Key topics include the characteristics of life, the structure and function of plant and animal cells, human anatomy, and the relationships within ecosystems. Students also explore the impact of human activities on natural systems, fostering an awareness of environmental stewardship. Through projects like creating stop motion videos to illustrate cellular processes and analyzing data from ecological studies, the course integrates multiple disciplines, helping students see the relevance of science in everyday life.

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.