Physical Science

Class Time: 9:00-10:00

Grade Level: 8th-10th or above

Instructor: Laura Burke

Contact Information: lauraburke703@gmail.com

Course Description: 

This class will explore the physical world by focusing on God’s

laws of chemistry, physics, and earth science. Topics include: the scientific method and

the limitations of science; unit conversion, atomic structure, chemical bonds, and the

wonder of water; motion, forces, and Newton’s laws; energy, waves, sound, light, and

electricity and magnetism. Earth science topics such as earth’s structure and

atmosphere, and a discussion of physics and chemistry in the life sciences will round out

the course. Class time will be used for lectures and demonstrations, with clarification of

concepts through labs and activities. Students will be expected to complete the reading

and homework assignments, and grades will be assigned based on quizzes, tests, and

activities.

Tuition: $400

Class Size: 6-20

Course Materials: Exploring Creation with Physical Science 4th Edition (Apologia)

Teacher Qualifications: Laura Burke has been teaching for NCHS since its inception

in 2014. She earned her doctorate in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research at

University of California, Berkeley, and was Associate Professor of Industrial Engineering

at Lehigh University. She retired from academia to homeschool her children, and has

enjoyed teaching Physics, Physical Science, Math Appreciation, and Faith and Science to middle and high school students as a community homeschool instructor since 2010. In

2021, the youngest of her three children graduated from homeschooling. Laura is a

parishioner at St. Catherine of Siena Church.