Students study earthquakes, volcanoes, the outer layer, the metallic core and oceanic plates. Critical thinking skills are developed with laboratory oriented projects including artesian wells, erosion by water, simple machines and photosynthesis. Activities primarily use commonly found items. Ecosystems, fossil fuels, solar energy, thermodynamics and biodiversity are also learned. Students also study worldwide weather, the five biomes, and energy and matter in the environment. Traditional assessment tools, such as oral presentations, science fair projects and cooperative activities are incorporated into the sixth grade program.
Starline Press Science is a character-based, state standards aligned, individualized and independent learning curriculum. Each grade level provides self-directed instruction with minimal teacher supervision. Grades 3-8 complete twelve units (booklets) per year, with a suggested 3-week completion timeframe per booklet. Grades 9-11 complete 10 booklets per year. Each grade level incorporates vocabulary lists, fill in the blank questions, chapter reviews, unit review/tests, and labs at most levels. Consumable worktexts are colorfully illustrated soft covers, although newer printings are more like booklets and do not have the perfect binding and glossy covers. Please see publisher website for CA state standards correlation. Available only in complete sets with answer/test keys. ~ Deanne
