Course Description
In accordance with the 2016 Science and Technology/Engineering Standards, students will use abstract reasoning skills to explain causes of complex phenomena and systems that often cannot be seen. These include for example, seasons and tides; causes of plate tectonics and weather or climate; the roles of genetics in reproduction, heredity, and artificial selection; and how atoms and molecules interact to explain substances that make up the world. The major areas of study will be physical science, earth science, life science, and astronomy. Students will explore concepts individually as well as in teams. While exploring these concepts, they will create and use models, plan and carry out investigations, analyze and interpret data, and develop other grade specific science and engineering skills.
Student Expectations
Student expectations include; coming to class prepared with binders, writing utensils, homework, and agendas; paying attention and taking notes; participating in class discussions; recording assignments; studying for tests and quizzes; and completing coursework including material missed during absences.
Class Materials: Textbooks
Primary Resource - Massachusetts Grade 8 IScience - Glencoe McGraw Hill 2017
Supplemental Resources - Earth's Changing Surface - Prentice Hall Science Explorer 2009
Astronomy - Prentice Hall Science Explorer 2009