Introduction to Earth Science
This 6th grade course is new for 2021-22 as part of our restructuring of the science sequence in 6th-8th grades. It is not the same as the Earth Science (Bridge) class and is not challenging enough for 8th graders.
At Wilson Hill Academy we believe that teaching science in the grammar stage should equip students to begin thinking about God’s creation both “Christianly” and “scientifically.” This means reinforcing the child’s natural wonder for the world God created and helping each child see God’s glory as revealed in His creation.
For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead. Romans 1:20
It also means equipping the student with “tools” that can be used as he or she begins to explore God’s world and discover the depths of His creation. These tools include observation and classification, exercises in comparison and contrast, and a beginning appreciation for concepts like cause-and-effect, process thinking, and systems thinking.
Introduction to Earth Science is aimed at the grade 6 student and will introduce topics of Earth Science not covered in Grammar of Science: Sky and Space. Topics will include aspects of geology such as matter and minerals, rocks and the rock cycle, plate tectonics, landforms, volcanoes, earthquakes, as well as water and oceanography.
Students will carry out several lab activities to observe and engage with the concepts taught in the course.