Science 8

Course Description:

The North Carolina K-12 Science Standards are intended to foster conceptual understanding and help develop scientifically

literate students. The standards provide foundational knowledge and practices within each grade band and course. The standards

are organized within 11 strands which articulate vertical alignment. As students progress from one grade to the next, the depth of

knowledge and level of sophistication increases.

Engaging in science encourages students’ curiosity, interests, and prepares them for the broadest range of postsecondary

opportunities, be it college, career, or military service. The K-12 Science Standards are designed to allow students to become

active participants in science - building their understanding of the natural world through observations and investigations.

The scientific method provides a common framework for introducing the traditional experimental design and hypothesis-testing

process. The methodologies or approaches utilized by scientists can vary depending on the nature of their research questions and

available tools. Steps that all scientists follow when conducting scientific investigations usually involve asking questions, the

collection and analysis of relevant data, the use of logical reasoning, opportunities to communicate and collaborate with others, and

the development of explanations.

The Science and Engineering Practices (SEP) are embedded in the standards to support a greater emphasis on how students

develop science knowledge and the durable skills within the NC Portrait of a Graduate. While one practice is identified in each

objective, teachers should utilize other practices to support students’ progress towards mastering the standards.

Course Goals:

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the properties of matter and changes that occur when matter interacts in open and closed systems.

• Understand the hazards caused by agents of diseases that affect living organisms.

• Understand how organisms interact with and respond to the biotic and abiotic factors in their environment.

• Understand the evolution of organisms over time based on evidence and processes.

• Understand the history of Earth and its life forms based on evidence of change recorded in fossil records and landforms.

• Understand the hydrosphere including freshwater, estuarine, ocean systems.

• Understand the reciprocal relationship between the hydrosphere and humans. 

• Understand the environmental implications associated with the various methods of obtaining, managing, and using energy resources.