Science Curriculum

Science 7 

During the seventh grade year of science students continue to develop skills of scientific inquiry as they focus their studies on the cycles and patterns of the Earth and the Moon, conservation of mass and energy, and the cycles of matter and flow of energy.  Energy and matter are often changed from one form to another, which then affects systems in various ways.  These three themes are taught to show how earth, life, and physical science are interconnected.  Students will also work to improve their ability to communicate in the scientific world by completing projects throughout the year.

Honors Science 7 

The seventh grade Honors Science program is designed to meet the needs of the inquisitive science students who wish to immerse themselves in inquiry.  Students in the seventh-grade program will meet all appropriate grade-level indicators and benchmarks for science.  This program will facilitate a broader understanding of the scientific process, place emphasis on scientific inquiry, collaborative learning, and scientific projects.

Science 8 

The eighth-grade science curriculum follows the Ohio Learning Standards for Grade 8 Science established by the Ohio Department of Education.  The course will explore how geologic processes formed the Earth’s surface and interior and explain how the geologic record contains evidence of these changes.  Understanding and communicating that the characteristics of organisms are the result of inherited traits passed on by reproduction and describing how fossils provide evidence of these changes and diversity of life over geologic time will be covered.  The course will end with an examination of how forces can affect motion.

Honors Science 8 

The eighth grade Honors Science program is designed to build upon the foundation of concepts and inquiry learned in seventh-grade science.  Students in the eighth-grade program will meet all appropriate grade-level indicators and benchmarks for science.  This program will expand upon a broader understanding of the scientific process that started in seventh grade.  Eighth grade honors science students will be expected to synthesize skills learned of scientific inquiry, collaborative learning, and scientific projects.  There is an emphasis on the technology component of this course in an effort to promote collaborative learning.

Honors Biology

HS Credit: 0.50 per semester

Prerequisite: Honors Science 8 or qualifying placement requirements. This course is designed for the high ability, college bound student with a keen interest in the biological sciences. Areas of study include cell theory, process, and function; genetics; evolution; and ecology. Some areas of study incorporate chemical as well as biological aspects. Labs are in the nature of investigations and the student centered inquiry method is emphasized. Written lab reports are required. A research paper is required. Students in Honors Biology are expected to use initiative and to be self-motivated. This course culminates with an End of Course Exam. Grades earned will appear on high school transcripts and count toward high school GPA.