Enroll in Science 6 with Dolphin STEM Academy
Course Overview
Science is the study of the natural world. It relies on investigations and evidence to
describe the natural events that occur around us. Science 6A is an integrated science
course that covers topics selected from Earth and space science and physical science.
This course discusses the structure and properties of matter, force interactions between
objects, and Earth and space systems. In the first unit, you’ll explore the composition of
matter and atomic arrangements of substances. In the second unit, you’ll identify forces
and analyze the motion of objects using words, equations, and graphs. In the last unit,
you will study interactions in the solar system and the role that gravity plays in the
motion of celestial bodies.
Course Goals
By the end of this course, you will be able to do the following:
Apply the steps of the scientific method to explain phenomena involving matter and energy.
Classify matter by its composition and properties.
Model atomic and molecular structures of substances.
Explain the relationship between thermal energy and states of matter.
Describe the Bohr model of an atom.
Research historical models of the atom developed by scientists.
Identify and sketch forces that act on real-world objects.
Analyze the motion of objects using words, equations, and graphs.
Explain how the concepts of force and motion are related.
Analyze input and output forces in simple machines.
Solve problems involving work and power.
Design, build, test, and modify a device that uses one or more simple machines.
Develop and use a three-dimensional model of the Moon phases.
Construct a model of the solar system, and explain how its parts interact.
Develop and use a model to describe the role of gravity in the universe.
Explain the cyclic patterns of the seasons, the lunar phases, and eclipses of the Sun
and the Moon.
Compare and contrast properties of planets, moons, stars, asteroids, and comets.
General Skills
To participate in this course, you should be able to do the following:
Complete basic operations with word processing software, such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs.
Complete basic operations with presentation software, such as Microsoft PowerPoint
or Google Docs presentation.
Perform online research using various search engines and library databases.
Communicate through email and participate in discussion boards.
For a complete list of general skills that are required for participation in online
courses, refer to the Prerequisites section of the Plato Student Orientation
document, found at the beginning of this course.
Credit Value
Science 6A is a 0.5-credit course.
Course Materials
notebook
computer with Internet connection and speakers or headphones
Microsoft Word or equivalent
Microsoft PowerPoint or equivalent
equipment listed in Appendix B
Course Pacing Guide
This course description and pacing guide is intended to help you stay on schedule with
your work. Note that your course instructor may modify the schedule to meet the
specific needs of your class.
Unit 1: Structure and Properties of Matter
Summary
This unit begins with an introductory lesson where you’ll learn about the scientific
method and the kinds of phenomena studied in physical science. You will classify
matter by its composition and properties, including matter that you find around your
home. You’ll develop models for the molecular structure of matter and explain how
matter changes state with the addition or removal of thermal energy. Finally, you’ll
describe the model of the atom developed by Niels Bohr and explain how the model of
the atom has changed over time based on the work of Bohr and other scientists.
Unit 2: Forces and Motion
Summary
This unit focuses on the relationship between force and motion. You’ll identify and
sketch forces that act on objects and predict how the objects will move. You’ll analyze
the motion of objects using words, equations, and graphs. You will apply the concepts
of force and motion to design a car bumper that will reduce the force on riders during a
collision. Finally, you’ll analyze the forces involved in simple machines that make our
lives easier and solve problems involving work and power.
Unit 3: Earth and Space
Summary
This unit begins with a course activity in which you will study the phases of the Moon
over the course of three weeks. Afterward, you’ll build a three-dimensional model of the
phases. You’ll also explore what natural systems are in the context of our solar system.
You’ll create and use a model to show how gravity holds planets and moons in orbit and
holds the entire universe together. Later, you’ll study the interactions between Earth, the
Moon, and the Sun. You’ll also analyze data to find the properties of celestial objects in
space, which include planets, moons, stars, asteroids, and comets.
Appendix A: Safety Notes and Disclaimer
Each Course Activity and Unit Activity that includes a lab/experiment component will
highlight key safety guidelines using the safety icon (
), which appears directly in the
activity. In addition to adhering to those guidelines, you must ensure that you follow
these general safety practices:
Work slowly and safely at all times, and abide by the safety notes and icons.
Pay attention and be alert at all times. Limit any distractions.
Keep your hands away from your nose, eyes, mouth, and skin. Wash your hands
before and after experiments.
If you don’t understand something, ask a teacher or an adult before proceeding.
Wear the required protective gear.
Adult supervision is required for all activities involving an experiment/lab component.
Do not perform experiments that have not been approved. Follow the procedure.
Follow good housekeeping practices. Keep your work area clean.
Abide by all disposal instructions and icons to protect yourself and our planet.
Report any problems or complications to an adult.
Note: Edmentum assumes no liability for personal injury, death, property damage,
equipment damage, or financial loss resulting from the instruction included in this
course.
