Science
Jane’s 9th–11th Grade Homeschool Science Portfolio
Over the last three years, Jane Thompson has studied high-school science through hands-on labs, research projects, and real-world investigations. This page highlights her work from Biology → Earth Science → Chemistry, showing a clear, college-prep progression.
Multi-Year Science Progress at a Glance
School Year
Grade
Course Focus
Status
2024-2025
11th Grade
Chemistry
In Progress / On Track
2023-2024
10th Grade
Earth & Environmental Science
Completed
2022-2023
9th Grade
Biology
Completed
This shows complete high-school science coverage through junior year.
11th Grade – Chemistry (2024–2025)
Course Focus
Investigating matter, chemical reactions, and atomic structure through online modules and home-lab experiments.
Core Skills Developed
- Balancing equations & predicting reaction outcomes
- Understanding periodic trends & atomic structure
- Collecting and analyzing lab data
- Connecting chemistry to everyday products and health
Curriculum & Learning Tools
- Apologia Chemistry + interactive simulations
- At-home lab kit (beakers, indicators, safety gear)
- Data tracking with Google Sheets
Major Assignments & Projects
- Reaction Rates Lab: Temperature vs. reaction time (data table + graphs)
- Density Investigation: Measuring unknown liquids and solids
- Acids & Bases Test: Household materials & pH scale
- Women in Science Research Report: Profile on a female chemist (Grade: 96%)
Projects
Chemistry Lab Report (Preview)
When we increased the temperature of the water, the reaction happened faster. I learned that heat gives the particles more energy, so they collide more often. I used a data chart to compare each trial and saw a clear pattern between temperature and reaction rate.
(Full Lab Report: PDF Download)
10th Grade – Earth & Environmental Science (2023–2024)
Course Focus
Understanding ecosystems, Earth systems, climate change, and responsible use of resources.
Core Skills Developed
- Identifying biotic vs. abiotic interactions
- Mapping environmental issues in local regions
- Collecting field observations & long-form reporting
- Interpreting environmental data and graphs
Curriculum & Learning Tools
- Earth Science curriculum + National Geographic resources
- Local field work + community science data apps
- Videos and documentaries on climate topics
Major Assignments & Projects
- Environmental Field Study: Jane conducted an outdoor study documenting native species, human impact, and habitat conditions.
She collected photos, a species list, and soil observations, and wrote a reflection on conservation. - Geology Hands-On Lab: Classifying rocks/minerals using streak, hardness, and luster.
- Water Quality Awareness Project: Poster + data chart comparing bottled vs. tap water sources.
Projects
Environmental Study Reflection (Preview)
I noticed fewer native plants near the parking area and more trash where people walk. It made me think about how even small changes, like where people leave their bottles, can slowly harm a habitat. Conservation matters because nature can’t fix everything on its own.
(Full Field Study Project: PDF Download)
9th Grade – Biology (2022–2023)
Course Focus
Studying life systems, genetics, cells, and the structure of living organisms.
Core Skills Developed
- Microscope skills & slide observations
- Punnett square predictions (dominant vs. recessive traits)
- Human body systems basics
- Organization of life from cells → ecosystems
Curriculum & Learning Tools
- Basic biology curriculum + CK-12 simulations
- Microscope for cell observation
- Human body system diagrams and models
Major Assignments & Projects
- DNA Extraction Lab (strawberry sample)
- Cell Structure Observation (onion vs. cheek cell drawings)
- Genetics Mini-Research: Heredity traits in the family
- Ecosystem Model: Aquarium habitat demonstration
Projects
Biology Essay (Preview)
Cells are the building blocks of every living thing. They look different depending on their job, but they all work together to keep the organism alive. When I saw the plant and animal cells under the microscope, I understood how tiny differences can make a huge impact.
(Full Essay: PDF Download)
Skills & Standards Mastery
By the end of 11th grade, Jane demonstrates:
- Use of scientific method in labs
- Ability to collect & analyze data
- Understanding of fundamental biology and chemistry concepts
- Awareness of environmental issues and responsible decision-making
- Preparedness for senior-level science and college courses
Parent/Evaluator Progress Summary
Jane shows strong curiosity and effort in science, especially in hands-on learning. Her lab skills and ability to communicate findings have improved each year. She is recommended to complete Physics or Advanced Biology in 12th grade.
Evaluator/Parent Signature: Joel Doe
Date: __________________