8th Grade Science

8th Grade Science

Course Title: 8th Grade Science (Click here for printable version)

Course Description

The 8th grade Science course uses reading,writing, listening, and speaking skills to explore scientific concepts.

The primary objective of the course is to teach students to think like scientists who  become well-informed, global citizens. Students will examine scientific concepts through The Scientific Method.

Power Standards

  1. Comprehend vocabulary and explain scientific processes.
  2. Show precision  
  3. Apply and interpret scientific concepts.

Course Outline

Quarter One: Astronomy (How does astronomy impact our daily lives on Earth?)

Guiding Questions Learning Objectives 
  • How do the inter-planetary systems affect us?
  • How does using the scientific method allow you to discover more about your role in our universe?
  • Explain the role and function of inter-planetary systems
  • Describe theories of how the universe was formed
Summative Project: “What If…” Argumentative R.A.F.T.

Quarter Two: Genetics (How did we become the way we are?)

Guiding Questions Learning Objectives 
  • How do living things interact with one another and their environment?
  • How does using the scientific method allow you to discover more about your role in our universe?
  • Explain the theory of Darwin and natural selection
  • Explore how fossils form and age
  • Describe the main events of the Geologic Time Scale
  • Examine Mendel’s genetics experiments and principles of probability in order to apply them to inheritance
Summative Project: Zoogle Family Narrative R.A.F.T.

Quarter Three: Physics (What is the relationship between the movement of objects?)

Guiding Questions Learning Objectives 
  • How does the motion of objects apply and explain real-life situations?
  • How does using the scientific method allow you to discover more about your role in our universe?
  • Analyze Newton’s three laws of motion
  • Calculate an object’s speed, velocity, and acceleration
  • Graph objects in motion showing changes in distance and time
Summative Project: Laws of Motion Informational R.A.F.T.

Quarter Four: STEM (How does science connect to other fields?)

Guiding Questions Learning Objectives 
  • How do we use science concepts in the real-world?
  • How does using the scientific method allow you to discover more about your role in our universe?
  • Define a real-world issue/problem through a scientific perspective
  • Immerse in hands-on inquiry and open-ended exploration
  • Work productively in a team
  • Discover solutions to real-world issue/problem
  • Seek multiple right answers and understand failure is a part of learning
Summative Project: Mad Scientist Multi-Genre R.A.F.T.


Career and Life Skills
Social and Cross Cultural

The student respects and contributes to the diverse learning community by:

  • Honoring the ideas and opinions of others and
  • Interacting effectively and appropriately with others
Productivity and Accountability

The student takes ownership of work and actions by:

  • Completing assignments on time
  • Arriving prepared and on time
  • Managing time
Initiative and Self Direction

The student demonstrates independence by:

  • Self-advocating for assistance or resources
  • Persevering through rigorous/challenging tasks
  • Utilizing feedback