Science

410507 SCIENCE 6

Grade 6

Sixth grade Science emphasizes data collection and experimentation. The class focuses on stating hypotheses, defining variables, and testing the validity of predictions and conclusions. Students develop and refine these process skills while studying various topics from each of the main branches of Science: Life, Physical and Earth.

Topics of study include the study of matter and the experimental method, the unique properties of water, sources of energy and their transformations, and the impact various energy resources have on the environment. Students will investigate public policy decisions relating to energy use and discuss ways to conserve energy. Next we will complete our exploration of water by examining Virginia Watersheds, with a focus on the Chesapeake Bay. Students will examine the structure of watersheds and estuaries. We will explore the importance of watersheds and examine ways that human actions can damage this unique environment. Finally, we will examine ways to protect watersheds from future damage. We will also focus on public policy as it relates to climate change in our study of the properties of air which will also include the study of our atmosphere, weather patterns and weather forecasts.. We will complete our year with the study of Astronomy where we will investigate the solar system and the relationship among various bodies that comprise it. Emphasis will be placed on using scale models to demonstrate concepts, linear measurement, and observations.

411507 LIFE SCIENCE 7

Grade 7

Seventh grade Life Science reviews many concepts taught in 4th grade. The 7th grade standards focus on a deeper understanding of changes in living organisms, cycles, patterns, and relationships in the world. Students build upon prior knowledge of cellular organization, the classification of organisms, relationships among organisms, populations, communities, and ecosystems. Students are introduced to heredity and genetics ideas and they apply knowledge of survival of living organisms to changes that occur through the generations, as a result of genetic information. Scientific investigation and inquiry skills in 7th grade include using the experimental design model: collecting data, organization and analysis of data, manipulation of variables in experiments, and identification of sources of experimental error.

412507 PHYSICAL SCIENCE 8

Grades 8

Eighth grade Physical Science introduces students to the elementary principles of physics and chemistry.  Students use a hands-on approach to discover the properties and interactions of matter, forms of energy and the laws of motion. Topics covered include: describing matter, atoms and the periodic table, chemical reactions, energy, waves, light, sound, forces, motion, electricity, and magnetism. Lab activities are designed by students for the purpose of practicing and refining skills used in scientific problem solving. Critical thinking and the application of problem solving skills are an emphasis of this course.