Homeschool Natural Science Program for 12-13* Year-Olds
This lab-based course will focus on using the scientific method to ask questions, form hypotheses, collect data in the field, and present our findings in charts and graphs. Using the variety of outdoor environments at the Heard, we will explore topics such as water quality testing, wildlife surveys, oil spill cleanup, and animal behavior studies.
*We use the age of each student on September 1 for class placement for the entire academic year.
COVID-19 Impact:
Our plan is to offer in-person classes with class sizes limited by the ability to maintain appropriate physical distancing in each classroom (max. 8 – 12 students per room). If for any reason we need to halt in-person classes, we will switch to an online format with prerecorded instruction and live class “chat” time.
Students and staff will be subject to a health screening each class meeting and are required to wear a mask while inside when appropriate physical distancing cannot be maintained and while in public areas in and near the museum buildings (ex. Animals of the World and Butterfly garden). Staff and students only will be allowed in class areas. Additional cleaning and disinfection will be utilized in the classrooms and frequently touched areas. Click here to learn more
Class Schedule
Class will be held two Tuesdays per month from 1-3pm:
Spring Dates: Jan 19 & 26; Feb 9 & 16; Mar 2 & 23; Apr 6 & 13
Student Expectations
Students will be expected to:
- hike outdoors for part of each class
- work together and independently
- read and follow instructions and stay on task
- keep a lab notebook
- complete a 1-hour homework assignment to share with the class at the next meeting. This will
involve creating charts and graphs or researching some aspect of what we are studying.
Tuition
Per semester: $160/members, $180/non-members
Refund Policies
Spring 2021 Refund Cancellation Dates
- Full refund minus $10 admin fee by January 2
- 50% refund by January 11
- No refunds after January 12