Class Overview
This Science class is designed to prepare students for success in high school science through a wide variety of engaging and foundational topics. Throughout the year, students will explore Chemistry, Physics, and Life Science in a hands-on and meaningful way.
Learning will go beyond the textbook. Students will participate in experiments completed both in class and at home, along with activities that encourage curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking.
While there will be occasional quizzes and tests to help students practice important academic skills for high school, they will be used in moderation. Test preparation will often take place in a fun, group-style trivia game format to reduce stress and build confidence. I truly believe the best way to learn science is to explore science—through observation, discussion, and hands-on discovery.
Above all, my hope is that students not only grow in their scientific understanding, but also develop a deep curiosity for God’s creation and His intentional design in the world around them.
Coursework + Coursework at Home (Homework):
At Ethos Academy, we offer core classes through a hybrid learning model, which means students will complete weekly coursework at home in addition to in-class instruction. This work is essential to student success in the course.
Please plan for an average of 60 minutes per week of homework.
Some weeks may take as little as 25 minutes, while others may take up to 90 minutes.
Coursework is completed in the General Science Student Notebook (the spiral-bound)
Learning science is a layered process. Not every detail needs to be fully understood right now for learning to be meaningful.
Many of the concepts introduced this year will be revisited in high school, where students will explore them in greater depth and detail. What matters most at this stage is building a strong foundation — understanding the big ideas, developing curiosity, and gaining confidence as learners.
If a student doesn’t grasp every detail today, that does not mean they are behind — it simply means they are right where they need to be in their learning journey.
Classroom Supplies
Please have the following items available for class use:
Composition book (for class labs and homework notes)
Loose-leaf notebook paper in a 3-ring binder
Mechanical pencils with extra lead
Colored pencils
Post-it notes
Scissors
Glue sticks
Required Curriculum
Apologia — Exploring Creation with General Science, 3rd Edition (Textbook)
Christianbook.com — $66.75Apologia — Exploring Creation with General Science, 3rd Edition (Student Notebook)
Christianbook.com — $36.75Optional: Audiobook version — $14.99
Payment Information
This one-hour course tuition is $240 per semester, plus a $20 materials fee for copies and classroom supplies.
The materials fee is collected during the registration period.
The materials fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Parent Partnership, Student Expectations & Classroom Culture
Middle school is an important season for students to grow in responsibility, organization, and independence, and this class is designed to support that growth. At the same time, strong parent partnership remains essential.
Parent Partnership
Parents play a vital role in encouraging and supporting their middle schoolers as they learn to manage assignments and develop strong study habits. Your encouragement, structure at home, and positive communication about learning make a meaningful difference in your student’s success.
Parents are always welcome to contact me with any questions, concerns, or clarification needed throughout the year.
Student Responsibility
To get the most out of our class time together, students are expected to take ownership of their learning by:
Writing down all assigned coursework during class
Completing assigned coursework at home (homework) in a timely and thoughtful manner
Checking Teacher Hero regularly to confirm what is expected to be completed at home
There is never a reason for a student to be unsure of what has been assigned. Between in-class directions, written notes, and Teacher Hero updates, expectations will always be clearly communicated.
Learning to track assignments and follow through is an important life skill, and I am excited to help students build that confidence this year.
Classroom Culture & Expectations
I strive to create a positive, fun, and engaging learning atmosphere in our classroom. At the same time, a strong learning environment requires students to be respectful of one another and focused during instruction.
This means that when I am speaking or giving directions, students are expected to listen attentively, avoid side conversations, and stay on task. Social time is valued and will be intgrated into activities, but it should never take away from learning time.
By working together to keep our classroom focused, respectful, and encouraging, we create a space where every student can learn well, feel supported, and truly enjoy the process.
Contact Information
I am excited to partner with you on your child’s learning journey and am committed to supporting both you and your student throughout the year. Please feel free to reach out anytime via text, phone call, or email with any questions, comments, or concerns.
It is a privilege to walk alongside your family in both learning and growth, and I pray that this year is one filled with curiosity, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for God’s design in creation. I look forward to working together to help your student thrive.
Mrs. Nichole Thomas
(925) 784-6783