Science
The science curriculum of the Hampton City School system places heavy emphasis on providing laboratory experiences for all students. Opportunities are provided for students to investigate their environments through a balanced program of life science, physical science, and earth-space science. Students who may consider applying for the Governor’s School in Science and Technology should review the prerequisite science courses listed for the Governor's School programs..
GRADE 6 - SCIENCE The sixth-grade standards continue to emphasize data analysis and experimentation. Methods are studied for testing the validity of predictions and conclusions. Scientific methodology, focusing on precision in stating hypotheses and defining dependent and independent variables, is strongly reinforced. The Earth’s environment is explored through the role of water, the sun’s energy, the atmosphere, and the impact of man. A more detailed understanding of the solar system becomes a focus of instruction. Natural resource management and its relation to public policy and cost/benefit tradeoffs are introduced.
GRADE 7 - LIFE SCIENCELife science deals with the diversity of living things. This science encompasses all aspects of living things from the study of cells to the complex interrelationships of all living organisms and their interaction within their environment. Laboratory investigations and activities are the primary means for developing problem-solving and for understanding scientific concepts and principles. Whenever possible, these investigations and activities will relate to the students’ own life experiences.
GRADE 8 - PHYSICAL SCIENCEPhysical science contains certain general topics common to physics and chemistry. Some of the common topics covered include work, power, energy, physical and chemical properties of matter, and electricity. Many experiments completed by the teacher and the students will enable students to gain a greater depth of understanding of their environment. Students enrolled in this course will take the grade 8 Science Standards of Learning test. This test covers grades 6 and 7 (Life Science) standards as well.
GRADE 6 - SCIENCE The sixth-grade standards continue to emphasize data analysis and experimentation. Methods are studied for testing the validity of predictions and conclusions. Scientific methodology, focusing on precision in stating hypotheses and defining dependent and independent variables, is strongly reinforced. The Earth’s environment is explored through the role of water, the sun’s energy, the atmosphere, and the impact of man. A more detailed understanding of the solar system becomes a focus of instruction. Natural resource management and its relation to public policy and cost/benefit tradeoffs are introduced.
GRADE 7 - LIFE SCIENCELife science deals with the diversity of living things. This science encompasses all aspects of living things from the study of cells to the complex interrelationships of all living organisms and their interaction within their environment. Laboratory investigations and activities are the primary means for developing problem-solving and for understanding scientific concepts and principles. Whenever possible, these investigations and activities will relate to the students’ own life experiences.
GRADE 8 - PHYSICAL SCIENCEPhysical science contains certain general topics common to physics and chemistry. Some of the common topics covered include work, power, energy, physical and chemical properties of matter, and electricity. Many experiments completed by the teacher and the students will enable students to gain a greater depth of understanding of their environment. Students enrolled in this course will take the grade 8 Science Standards of Learning test. This test covers grades 6 and 7 (Life Science) standards as well.