Honors Hist of Science

The History of Western Science is an online course taught by Barbara Williams, covering the development of science from ancient natural philosophers to modern times. The course emphasizes the scientific method, documentation, and communication of scientific discoveries. It explores specific areas such as geologic time, mass extinctions, evolution, and the Big Bang theory. Students will learn about scientific ideals, collaboration, peer review, hypothesis formation, and evolutionary mechanisms. The course encourages discussion of scientists traditionally left out of the conversation.

The course is designed for homeschooled students in 9th-12th grade, with no prerequisites but strong study skills, writing ability, and deadline management. The course provides a non-lab science, history, or elective credit on a transcript. Students will need reliable internet access, a computer capable of running Zoom meetings, and familiarity with word processing, slide show creation, and online classroom technology. The course uses Canvas for assignments. The main text is The Story of Western Science by Susan Wise Bauer, with additional readings and primary source articles.