Ostara: States of Matter & Civil War
Gas Laws, Phase Changes & the War Between States
🌸 Unit Overview
At the spring equinox, day and night stand in perfect balance—yet change is coming. In chemistry, we study states of matter and the laws that govern gases. In history, we witness the Civil War: a nation divided, fighting over fundamental questions of freedom and union. We write short stories, exploring narrative craft. In geometry, we master the elegant mathematics of circles.
📚 Learning Goals
English II
- • Analyze short story elements
- • Identify narrative techniques
- • Write original short stories
- • Workshop and revise writing
Geometry
- • Identify parts of circles
- • Apply arc and angle relationships
- • Work with tangent and secant lines
- • Write equations of circles
Chemistry
- • Explain kinetic molecular theory
- • Apply gas laws to problems
- • Interpret phase diagrams
- • Describe phase changes
U.S. History
- • Explain Civil War causes
- • Analyze key battles and turning points
- • Evaluate Emancipation Proclamation
- • Understand war's human cost
Weekly Lessons
🕯️ Hearth Circle
Balance of light and dark; states of being
📖 Language Arts
Short story study; elements of fiction; narrative techniques
📐 Math
Circles; parts of circles; central angles
⚗️ Science
Kinetic molecular theory; solids, liquids, gases
🇺🇸 History
Causes of Civil War; slavery debate; compromises fail
🎨 Art
State of matter art; depicting phases
🏃 Movement
Movement in different states; fluid to rigid
😫 "Just Can't" Day Alternatives
When the full lesson feels like too much, try these lighter alternatives:
- 📺 Watch gas law demonstrations (YouTube science channels)
- 🎧 Listen to Civil War podcasts or audiobooks
- 🎮 Play Civil War strategy games
- 📱 Explore Desmos for circle graphing
- 🎨 Read and illustrate short stories
See the supply list for optional "Just Can't" Day purchase suggestions.