Natural Science II

Natural Science is designed to provide the background in earth, life, and physical sciences necessary for success in more intensive college-preparatory courses in biology, chemistry, and physics. The core concepts of modern science are presented in their social and historical context, rather than as abstract theories isolated from each other or their historical roots. We will encounter the basic principles underlying both the physical and life sciences, including atomic theory, chemical reactions, motion, energy, electricity and magnetism, classification of living things, ecology, evolution, and cellular biology, along with overviews of the sciences of geology, meteorology, astonomy, oceanography, zoology and botany as we move through the history of scientific ideas from the ancient world to our own time. Students will learn to apply and recognize the limitations and advantages of scientific methodology, experimental and observational methods, to use mathematical methods for data analysis, and to appreciate not only the interrelations between different areas of scientific knowledge, but how the methods of critical analysis of observations developed, and how social forces shaped modern science. The second year covers the development of modern science since the Renaissance, including the development of genetics, quantum mechanics, relativity, information science, and cosmology.

This course is taught using the Scholars Online Chat software, which allows the teacher to embed graphics, mathematical equations, and movies in the chat session, with complete logging available for the entire year. Audio software is not used to allow students with limited internet access to participate fully, and to encourage precise thinking and writing skills.

Prerequisites

Natural Science I or equivalent background.

Recommended background

Junior high level courses in life, earth, and physical sciences are useful but not required. Students should have taken a survey course in world history or western civilization, or be taking one concurrently.

Teacher's notes:

Parents: please read the Procedures page at the teacher's website above, which describes the course in more detail.

Textbooks and Materials

There are no textbook or materials currently required for this course.

Check instructor‘s notes above for additional information, or contact the instructor.