Enrolling Now for 2026-27 School Year.
Enrolling Now for 2026-27 School Year.
Dear Learning Coach,
Thank you for partnering with CCA and investing in your learner’s education. This Learning Coach Guide is intended to help you support your learner in their Earth Science course.
Within this guide, you will find the goals, components, and features of the online course. Please take time to read and review this information so you understand how to help your learner interact with all the course’s elements.
The Learning Coach Guide also includes information about each of the units in this course. On each page of unit information, you will discover the following.
CCA wishes you and your learner a terrific school year!
Your role as a Learning Coach is very important. Here are a few ways you can help your learner do their very best in the course.
In Earth Science, your learner will use the foundations they learned in previous science courses to explore the basic concepts of Earth Science. Your learner will apply their scientific knowledge to exploring and researching new information about Earth and its processes. By the end of the year, your learner will be able to:
Lesson Components:
Each day, your learner will spend 45–60 minutes completing an Earth Science lesson. Some days may take less time, while other days may take a little more time. The lesson does not need to be completed in one sitting. Encourage your learner to take short breaks as they need.
This section will help you to understand how your learner’s course is structured in edio.
Lesson Bundling:
A lesson bundle is a collection of lessons that stack up to equal one full class period. On some days, learners will see bundles, such as a Knowledge Check and the daily lesson or a combination of a Quiz Review and Quiz. See example below.
Within the lesson bundles, your learner will interact with different components, some of which will not be used every day.
Lesson Components:
Each lesson has its own components to help guide your learner through the lesson.
Assignments and Projects Components:
The course includes assignments and projects. These graded assignments allow your learner to show what they have learned and apply their new skills. All CCA assignments and projects include these components.
Quiz and Test Components:
In addition to assignments and projects, this course also includes quizzes and tests.
This course includes and uses unique features such as:
Science Labs: Science labs include hands-on or virtual investigations that provide your learner with opportunities to engage in scientific practices and solve real-world problems.
Curriculum Kit: Your learner will receive a box of science supplies that include materials for science labs and hands-on activities throughout the course.
Earth Science Notebook: Your learner will receive an EarthScience Notebook in which they can take notes and reflect on their learning to support the online lesson. Earth Science Notebooks will be used to collect data during science labs.
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will learn about the field of Earth Science. They will learn and explore different fields of Earth Science along with different types of tools that are used to study parts of Earth. Learners will also explore career options in the field of Earth Science and the types of certifications required to pursue these careers.
Unit Assessments
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
What did you learn about the field of Earth Science?
What tools are used by scientists to study Earth?
What did you like most about this unit?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will review the fundamentals of scientific practices and the steps used to develop conclusions and create scientific theories that are evidence-based.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook
Curriculum Kit
Household Materials
erasers, pencils, pens
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will learn about the field of Earth Science. They will learn and explore different fields of Earth Science along with different types of tools that are used to study parts of Earth. Learners will also explore career options in the field of Earth Science and the types of certifications required to pursue these careers.
Unit Assessments
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
What did you learn about the field of Earth Science?
What tools are used by scientists to study Earth?
What did you like most about this unit?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will review the fundamentals of scientific practices and the steps used to develop conclusions and create scientific theories that are evidence-based.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook
Curriculum Kit
Household Materials
erasers, pencils, pens
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will explore the universe and the solar system. Your learner will understand how different types of celestial objects, such as stars and planets, form and interact with one another. Your learner will also compare different types of planets and evaluate their properties to determine the possibility of life existing there.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How was the universe formed?
What are the ways the sun influences Earth?
What are the differences between the terrestrial planets and gas giants in the solar system?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will complete their first Earth Science project, in which they will investigate and prepare a presentation on two different planets. Encourage your learner to choose the planets they find most interesting to explore. Remind your learner to read the instructions carefully to complete all parts of the project.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook
Household Materials
erasers, pencils, pens
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will explore the universe and the solar system. Your learner will understand how different types of celestial objects, such as stars and planets, form and interact with one another. Your learner will also compare different types of planets and evaluate their properties to determine the possibility of life existing there.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How was the universe formed?
What are the ways the sun influences Earth?
What are the differences between the terrestrial planets and gas giants in the solar system?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will complete their first Earth Science project, in which they will investigate and prepare a presentation on two different planets. Encourage your learner to choose the planets they find most interesting to explore. Remind your learner to read the instructions carefully to complete all parts of the project.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook
Household Materials
erasers, pencils, pens
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will learn about the composition of Earth and its interior layers. They will learn about how
convection cycles in Earth’s mantle create the plate tectonic movement of Earth’s crust. Your learner will evaluate the motions of tectonic plates and make connections to the formation of landforms such as volcanoes and mountains.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How does convection in the mantle affect Earth’s crust?
What is the evidence for plate tectonics?
How are earthquakes and volcanoes related to plate tectonics?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will take their first unit test on plate tectonics. Encourage your learner to complete the review lesson before taking the test. Tell your learner to be sure to carefully read each question and choose the best answer. Also, tell your learner to answer each prompt when responding to a text answer question.
Kit Materials
calculator, Discovering Topographical Maps Kit, Earth Science Notebook, ruler, scissors, tape, waxed paper
Household Materials
Colored water, paper towels, pencils, pens, white paper
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will learn about the composition of Earth and its interior layers. They will learn about how
convection cycles in Earth’s mantle create the plate tectonic movement of Earth’s crust. Your learner will evaluate the motions of tectonic plates and make connections to the formation of landforms such as volcanoes and mountains.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How does convection in the mantle affect Earth’s crust?
What is the evidence for plate tectonics?
How are earthquakes and volcanoes related to plate tectonics?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will take their first unit test on plate tectonics. Encourage your learner to complete the review lesson before taking the test. Tell your learner to be sure to carefully read each question and choose the best answer. Also, tell your learner to answer each prompt when responding to a text answer question.
Kit Materials
calculator, Discovering Topographical Maps Kit, Earth Science Notebook, ruler, scissors, tape, waxed paper
Household Materials
Colored water, paper towels, pencils, pens, white paper
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will diagram the carbon and nitrogen cycles. They will also examine how carbon and nitrogen interact with each other and are influenced by different parts of Earth, including humans. Your learner will also identify different sources of energy that drive Earth’s processes.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How is energy cycled through Earth?
How are humans impacting the carbon and nitrogen cycles?
How is the carbon cycle changing, and what impact does that have on Earth?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will graph real-world data on carbon levels in the atmosphere. They will then analyze the carbon data to create evidence-based conclusions about carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere and how it will impact the environment.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook
Household Materials
erasers, pencils, pens
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will diagram the carbon and nitrogen cycles. They will also examine how carbon and nitrogen interact with each other and are influenced by different parts of Earth, including humans. Your learner will also identify different sources of energy that drive Earth’s processes.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How is energy cycled through Earth?
How are humans impacting the carbon and nitrogen cycles?
How is the carbon cycle changing, and what impact does that have on Earth?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will graph real-world data on carbon levels in the atmosphere. They will then analyze the carbon data to create evidence-based conclusions about carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere and how it will impact the environment.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook
Household Materials
erasers, pencils, pens
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will investigate different types of rocks and minerals and their uses. Your learner will also explore the rock cycle and how different rocks are made by various Earth processes. They will also learn about the rock structures of Pennsylvania and how they shape the landforms throughout the state.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How do you identify minerals?
How are different rocks formed?
What types of rocks can be found in Pennsylvania?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will participate in multiple hands-on rock and mineral activities. Remind your learner about laboratory safety practices and how to handle rock and mineral samples with care. Encourage your learner to compare the properties of the samples to fully appreciate the formation process of rocks and minerals.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook, Mineral Identification Kit, Rock and Mineral Sample Set, Mineral Test Kit, Rock Identification Kit
Household Materials
pens, pencils, erasers
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will investigate different types of rocks and minerals and their uses. Your learner will also explore the rock cycle and how different rocks are made by various Earth processes. They will also learn about the rock structures of Pennsylvania and how they shape the landforms throughout the state.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How do you identify minerals?
How are different rocks formed?
What types of rocks can be found in Pennsylvania?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will participate in multiple hands-on rock and mineral activities. Remind your learner about laboratory safety practices and how to handle rock and mineral samples with care. Encourage your learner to compare the properties of the samples to fully appreciate the formation process of rocks and minerals.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook, Mineral Identification Kit, Rock and Mineral Sample Set, Mineral Test Kit, Rock Identification Kit
Household Materials
pens, pencils, erasers
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will learn about the processes of weathering, erosion, and deposition and how they impact the formation of different landscapes. Your learner will explore the landscapes around Pennsylvania and understand how they formed.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How did the Grand Canyon form?
What is the difference between weather, erosion, and deposition?
How are landscapes shaped by weathering, erosion, and deposition?
Unit Notables
Your learner will have the opportunity to explore how different places on Earth formed such as the Grand Canyon, New England, and glaciers.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook
Household Materials
pens, pencils, erasers
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will learn about the processes of weathering, erosion, and deposition and how they impact the formation of different landscapes. Your learner will explore the landscapes around Pennsylvania and understand how they formed.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How did the Grand Canyon form?
What is the difference between weather, erosion, and deposition?
How are landscapes shaped by weathering, erosion, and deposition?
Unit Notables
Your learner will have the opportunity to explore how different places on Earth formed such as the Grand Canyon, New England, and glaciers.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook
Household Materials
pens, pencils, erasers
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will learn about the water cycle and the presence of water on Earth’s surface and atmosphere. Your learner will explore the oceans and the types of life that exist in the different ocean zones. Your learner will also learn about different careers in Earth Science.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How does life exist in the different ocean zones?
What sources of freshwater exist on Earth?
Which Earth Science careers did you find most interesting?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will complete a two-day project where they will explore the careers found in the field of Earth Science. They will choose a career field they are interested in and create a resume as if they are applying for a particular position. You can give your learner a completed resume as an example.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook
Household Materials
pens, pencils, erasers
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will learn about the water cycle and the presence of water on Earth’s surface and atmosphere. Your learner will explore the oceans and the types of life that exist in the different ocean zones. Your learner will also learn about different careers in Earth Science.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How does life exist in the different ocean zones?
What sources of freshwater exist on Earth?
Which Earth Science careers did you find most interesting?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will complete a two-day project where they will explore the careers found in the field of Earth Science. They will choose a career field they are interested in and create a resume as if they are applying for a particular position. You can give your learner a completed resume as an example.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook
Household Materials
pens, pencils, erasers
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will explore the structure and composition of Earth’s atmosphere. They will investigate the role of water in weather patterns and cloud formation and the impact of winds and global circulation on the type of weather experienced in various locations.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Lab _________________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How do changes in air pressure form severe weather?
What causes wind and global circulation?
Can you predict what the weather will be like tomorrow?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will complete an assignment where they will practice reading and interpreting weather maps. Your learner will apply the knowledge of weather systems learned in this unit to forecast the weather.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook
Household Materials
pens, pencils, erasers
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will explore the structure and composition of Earth’s atmosphere. They will investigate the role of water in weather patterns and cloud formation and the impact of winds and global circulation on the type of weather experienced in various locations.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Lab _________________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How do changes in air pressure form severe weather?
What causes wind and global circulation?
Can you predict what the weather will be like tomorrow?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will complete an assignment where they will practice reading and interpreting weather maps. Your learner will apply the knowledge of weather systems learned in this unit to forecast the weather.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook
Household Materials
pens, pencils, erasers
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will investigate how human populations impact the different environments they live in. They will explore the factors that are calculated into an ecological footprint. Your learner will compare renewable and nonrenewable resources and how humans use them.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
What is population density?
What are some examples of renewable and nonrenewable resources?
What are some ways humans can minimize their impact on natural resources?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your leaner will learn about the relationship between humans and Earth’s systems. They will investigate what happens when humans overuse available resources and ways that humans can create more sustainable living practices.
Kit Materials
calculator, Earth Science Notebook
Household Materials
pens, pencils, erasers
Unit Overview
In this unit, your learner will investigate how human populations impact the different environments they live in. They will explore the factors that are calculated into an ecological footprint. Your learner will compare renewable and nonrenewable resources and how humans use them.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
What is population density?
What are some examples of renewable and nonrenewable resources?
What are some ways humans can minimize their impact on natural resources?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your leaner will learn about the relationship between humans and Earth’s systems. They will investigate what happens when humans overuse available resources and ways that humans can create more sustainable living practices.
Kit Materials
calculator, Earth Science Notebook
Household Materials
pens, pencils, erasers
Unit Overview
In this unit, your leaner will explore climate change. They will investigate the role greenhouse gases play in climate change and how they are released into the atmosphere. Your learner will analyze evidence to show how climate change impacts different parts of Earth’s systems.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How does climate change impact Earth’s oceans?
What strategies can be used to reduce the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere?
What are some ways that you can reduce your carbon footprint?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will calculate their own carbon footprint to see how they impact the environment. Your learner may need help with some of the household information to complete this calculation. Encourage your learner to think about how they can reduce their carbon footprint.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook
Household Materials
pens, pencils, erasers
Unit Overview
In this unit, your leaner will explore climate change. They will investigate the role greenhouse gases play in climate change and how they are released into the atmosphere. Your learner will analyze evidence to show how climate change impacts different parts of Earth’s systems.
Unit Assessments
Quiz _________________________
Test _________________________
Assignment ________________
Project _____________________
Exam _______________________
Have your learner identify which assessment type they see in their unit. Check all that apply.
Unit Discussion Questions
How does climate change impact Earth’s oceans?
What strategies can be used to reduce the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere?
What are some ways that you can reduce your carbon footprint?
Unit Notables
In this unit, your learner will calculate their own carbon footprint to see how they impact the environment. Your learner may need help with some of the household information to complete this calculation. Encourage your learner to think about how they can reduce their carbon footprint.
Kit Materials
Earth Science Notebook
Household Materials
pens, pencils, erasers
Enrolling Now for 2026-27 School Year.
