In this year-long class, we will learn how to use the language of science to explain the exciting world around us! We will start the course by learning how scientists use the scientific method to answer questions about everything from the theory of gravity to how flies can walk on the ceiling! When we are comfortable with the language and process of science, we will discuss matter, what it’s made of, and the awesome changes it can undergo. All of the matter on earth can be characterized down to the level of an atom! That sounds complicated but after we get a better understanding of subatomic particles, elements and the periodic table you will have a new perspective of the world around you! After we understand matter, we will explore motion, force, work and energy! We will finish the course by exploring phenomena that we cannot touch like sound, light, electricity, and magnetism! This course will use CK-12 Physical Science for Middle School, which can be accessed for free online.
Instructor: Nate Degoeden
Instructor Bio: Nate is a Cornell PhD student researching how to convert ocean waves into useable resources like electricity and clean drinking water. In the past, Nate has worked on different projects in renewable energy ranging from concentrated solar (think burning leaves under a magnifying glass, but at a much larger scale like this) to using hydrogen fuel cells to power Caterpillar trucks. When Nate isn’t busy with research he enjoys exploring the aerodynamics of frisbees and taking in all the natural beauty that surrounds Ithaca.
Required Materials: pencil; notebook and folder or looseleaf notebook
TEEN DAY Ithaca 