Science

Students model, provide evidence to support arguments, and obtain and display data about relationships and interactions among observable components of different systems. By studying systems, grade 5 students learn that objects and organisms do not exist in isolation and that animals, plants and their environments are connected to, interact with, and are influenced by each other. They study the relationships between Earth and other nearby objects in the solar system and the impact of those relationships on patterns of events as seen from Earth. They learn about the relationship among elements of Earth’s systems through the cycling of water and human practices and processes with Earth’s resources. They also learn about the connections and relationships among plants and animals, and the ecosystems within which they live, to show how matter and energy are cycled through these (building on the theme of grade 4). An ability to describe, analyze, and model connections and relationships of observable components of different systems is key to understanding the natural and designed world.

The curriculum stresses earth and space science, along with technology and engineering. Emphasis will be on using the content to further students scientific and inquiry skills. Students will also continue their ability to problem-solve with the incorporation of STEM programs and activities. Students will further enhance their analytical and  expository skills through the utilization and comparison of information gathered through various media.

The curriculum focuses on life science.  There are five major units of study, including living and non-living objects, life over time, environmental science, genetics, and the human body.  In Living and Non-Living Objects, students identify the characteristics of a living organism and distinguish biotic and abiotic factors.  Students also practice the proper use and handling of a microscope.  During Life Over Time, students are required to identify and classify living organisms as well as the three domains and four major kingdoms.  Students also analyze the characteristics of living organisms to identify bacteria, viruses, protists and fungi.  Evolution is explored throughout this unit as well.  In Environmental Science, students identify populations and communities as well as ecosystems and biomes.  Students also demonstrate understanding and appreciation for environmental issues along with living and non-living resources.  In the Genetics unit, students investigate cell structure and function and then study the science of genetics and inheritance.  Furthermore, students learn about probability and genetics and design their own organism.  In The Human Body students are required to demonstrate understanding of the levels of organization in the human body along with the functions and parts of body systems including skeletal, muscular, digestive, respiratory and circulatory.

The 8th Grade Science Course is a one-year introductory course that focuses on introductory inorganic and organic chemistry and an introduction to the principles of physics and engineering.  In addition, students will review the standards for Earth and space science, biology, and emerging technologies as they prepare for the MCAS exam in science. The accelerated class moves at a master pace and incorporates the PLTW unit of Medical Detectives.