The study of the chemical structure and properties of the Earth's rocks and minerals is included in this unit. Students learn the vital role the Earth's natural resources plays in our society and the importance of proper stewardship of those resources. The unit concludes with students actively participating in a discussion of plate tectonics and how their movement causes volcanoes and earthquakes. Light and Sound Students study the electromagnetic spectrum and stellar spectra in this physics mini-course. They work with a variety of lenses.
Students research the most current tools of astronomers.
Students also explore the phenomenon of waves, including resonance, frequency, and transmission through different media. Chemistry Topics in this unit include the properties of different elements and classification of the elements based on these characteristics, chemical and physical changes, conservation of mass, and chemical reactions. This special unit is taught to coincide with the eighth grade Florida trip.