8th Grade Science is a conceptual Physical Science class.  This means that we will really focus most of our attention on specific concepts (Forces and Motion, Energy, Weather and Climate, Chemistry, Astronomy) and how they relate to each other.  We will use science concepts to practice and develop specific skills.  The skills and concepts we will target are: critical thinking, problem solving, data analysis, argumentative writing, systems thinking, using models, detecting patterns, understanding the flow of energy and cycles of matter, recognizing and understanding appropriate scales, understanding cause and effect relationships, and identifying stability and change.  

I try to make my class as hands on as possible. I use physical experiments, computer simulators, physical models, classroom demonstrations, and direct instruction throughout the year to teach the concepts.  I use the Claim, Evidence and Reasoning format, multiple choice quizzes, and concept maps, as tools for assessing students' understanding of the content.