Frequently Asked Questions:
- What classes are available?
We offer classes in Youth Science, Physical Science, Physics & Chemistry.
- How long will it take to complete each course and how much time will my child spend on it?
Each of the four classes has a minimum completion of 24 lessons and 15 labs. Students are likely to spend 6-10 hours per week for 24 weeks to complete a course.
- What are the course prerequisites?
- SSE has a math placement test to help identify the best course for each student. All the courses require students to have some background in math and writing.
- The Youth Science course would require basic math, such as multiplication and division. Knowledge of fractions and the ability to use a calculator are also beneficial. Following written instructions to complete labs is needed.
- The Physical Science class will have a limited writing component and will introduce basic pre-algebra and geometric concepts.
- The Physics course will expand the writing component. It will continue with pre-algebra,, algebra, geometry and also include some basic trigonometry.
- The Chemistry course will focus on the student mastering scientific documentation. Math topics will expand into more advanced algebra.
- How do the classes work?
Each course has options for interaction. Labs, worksheets, exams, materials/instruments, & reference material is provided with each option. SSE provides online office hours throughout the week for each course. Choose from the following different levels of interaction to best suit your needs.
- Students work independently on labs and course exercises. Secondary Science will be responsible for exam and worksheet grading. Evaluations of lab work through reports or worksheets will also be provided. Parents will be responsible for student direction. Secondary Science will provide student support via email and chat.
- Students work independently on labs and course exercises. Parents will be responsible for the majority of the student direction and grading with the help of course answer keys. Secondary Science will provide student support via email and chat.
- Students work with an educator on labs and course exercises. The educator will be responsible for exam and worksheet grading. Evaluations of lab work through reports or worksheets will also be provide by the educator with assistance from SSE. The educator will be responsible for student direction. Secondary Science will provide educator support via email.
- How does SSE accommodate group classes?
SSE can work with educators, tutors or parents in a variety of ways with student groups. Whether it's an individual student looking for a group, a group of students looking for a private class, or independent learning centers looking for alternatives involving the science classes we offer. We can arrange materials for most group situations. Please use our contact us form with your details and we can help create a class.
- When are the class options available?
The Spring session starts at the begining of March 2012. Registration and payment should be complete late february for students entering the regular session. Other sessions can be arranged at anytime based on demand so please contact us if you are interested. Our normal Fall session starts late September - early October.
- How do the labs work?
Each course will require a kit of lab equipment and materials. Secondary Science will provide the necessary measuring instruments needed. Some of the materials will be household items (sugar, salt, etc.) and parents will be required to obtain these materials necessary for labs.
- What type of academic credit can my student expect to receive upon completing the SSE labs and coursework?
Currently all curriculum reviewed by public high schools has met or exceeded requirements for the high schools standards for corresponding science classes. SSE will provide necessary documents(syllabus, receipts, etc.) upon completion of the course to assist parents with obtaining educational credit for the student.
