This course will cover content typically taught in eighth-grade science classes. Students will explore the nature of matter, the structure of atoms, and how the Periodic Table of Elements can be used to predict properties of the elements. We will look at different types of chemical bonds, compounds, and reactions. Other topics include states of matter, density, solubility, colligative properties, and conservation of mass and energy, with connections to physics, biology, astronomy, and earth sciences.

Live Classes: Thursdays, 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time

Student Expectations: Students will read, watch supplemental videos, and complete projects to reinforce their understanding of concepts or to explore topics of particular interest.

Student Support: The instructor is available by email.

Feedback/Assessment: Students will demonstrate their understanding of key concepts through weekly assignments.

Materials/Supplies: Students will need a Periodic Table of Elements (free copies to print are available online, as are informative posters, for a price). Common household supplies and cooking ingredients will be used for activities. The textbook Holt Science Spectrum: A Physical Approach, by Ken Dobson, is available used from online sources and would be a useful reference text for students.

Prerequisites: None