The basic essence of science is a search for answers in natural order of the universe and can be expressed in three questions: Why is that? How do we know? And evidence is there to prove the idea is wrong? Claims without evidence are unscientific.

The goals of 8^th Grade Science are twofold. Those are to meet the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and to provide students with an opportunity to develop academically, all while promoting a desire to be a life long learning. NGSS have three dimensions. One; the Disciplinary Core Ideas, which is the content of Physical, Life, Earth and Space, and Engineering domains of science. Two; Scientific and Engineering Practices, which is how to inquire, explain, or use scientific knowledge. Three; the Crosscutting Concepts, which are the connections or cause and effect relationship the four domains of science have.