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.

Completion of this course requires regular access to a laptop or desktop computer with working microphone and webcam, as well as a reliable internet connection.

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.