Science (Grade 8)

In Grade 8, students are able to evaluate scientific ideas. They begin to apply facts.

For more information see: A Framework for Science Education: http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=13165

Scientific and Engineering Practices -skills needed to do science successfully

1. Asking questions (for science) and defining problems (for engineering)
2. Developing and using models
3. Planning and carrying out investigations
4. Analyzing and interpreting data
5. Using mathematics and computational thinking
6. Constructing explanations (for science) and designing solutions (for engineering)
7. Engaging in argument from evidence
8. Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information

Crosscutting Concepts – knowledge connecting the sciences

1. Patterns
2. Cause and effect: Mechanism and explanation
3. Scale, proportion, and quantity
4. Systems and system models
5. Energy and matter: Flows, cycles, and conservation
6. Structure and function
7. Stability and change

Physical Science

Focuses on:

• Structure and Properties of Matter
• Chemical Reactions
• Forces and Motion
• Interactions of Forces
• Energy
• Waves and Electromagnetic Radiation

Life Science

Focuses on:

• Structure, Function, and Information Processing
• Growth, Development, and Reproduction of Organisms
• Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems
• Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems
• Natural Selection and Adaptations

Earth and Space Science

Focuses on:

• Space Systems
• History of Earth
• Earth’s Interior Processes
• Earth’s Surface Processes
• Weather and Climate
• Human Impacts

Engineering and Technology- Understanding how the human-built world affects your life   

Focuses on:

• Engineering Design
• Links Among Engineering, Technology, Science and Society