Earth Science

Course Overview

The Earth Science curriculum builds on the natural curiosity of students. By connecting them to the beauty of geological history, the amazing landforms around the globe, the nature of the sea and air, and the newest discoveries about our universe, it gives students an opportunity to relate to their everyday world. Students will explore topics such as: 

  • Fundamentals of geology, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy. 
  • Earth’s minerals and rocks. 
  • Earth’s interior. 
  • Plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, and the movements of continents.
  • Geology and the fossil record. 
  • Oceans and the atmosphere. 
  • The solar system and the universe.
Scope and Sequence
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Materials

Standard Curriculum Items

  • Wall Map Set (Science/History)
  • Graduated cylinder, 250 mL
  • Pipe cleaners
  • Advanced Rock and Mineral Kit
  • Diffraction grating film
  • Stopwatch
  • Latch magnet
  • Safety glasses
  • Magnifying glass
  • Centimeter gram cubes
  • Clay (four colors)
  • Fine sand
  • White tile
  • Advanced thermometer

NOTE: List subject to change.

Lesson Time and Scheduling

Total lessons: 96

Lesson time: 60 minutes; one or two 90 minute labs per unit


You might choose to split the lessons into smaller segments and take breaks as needed. The K¹² online lesson tracking system allows you to pick up wherever you left off in any given lesson.

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Sample Lessons: Science

  • Third Grade Science

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