Embedded Files
The Grade 8 Science Curriculum focusses on four clusters (units):
Cells and Systems
Optics
Fluids
Water Systems
The practices of science and technological design support students in acquiring a better understanding of how scientific knowledge is produced and how solutions to practical problems are designed. Students engaging in scientific inquiry and design activities simultaneously use both knowledge and skills, which deepens their understanding of concepts and provides exposure to the many approaches that are used in science and technology.
Cells and Systems:
In this cluster, students investigate living things through a focus on cells and systems. Cell theory provides the basis for exploring cells and unicellular and multicellular organisms. Students identify major events and technological innovations that have enabled scientists to increase our understanding of cell biology.
Optics
In this cluster, students broaden their understanding of how light is produced, transmitted, and detected. Students identify colours as different wavelengths of light, and explore why objects appear to have colour. Students explore the principles and properties of reflection and refraction, and their application in everyday situations.
Fluids
In this cluster, students investigate the properties of fluids, including viscosity, density, and compressibility. Students identify products in which viscosity is an important characteristic, and plan and conduct experiments to determine factors that affect flow.
Water Systems
In this cluster, students investigate the properties of water, its global manifestations, and its impacts. They compare and contrast fresh and salt water, describe factors that affect ocean currents, and recognize the impact of large bodies of water and ocean currents on regional climates.
Land & Nature Education
Land & Nature Education
Piloting in 2025-26, the grade 8 students will be exploring the Science Curriculum through Nature Based Learning, and Outdoor Education. Through this lense, students will have the opportunity to for practical, Land Based Learning in our community and beyond.
Grade 8 Science classes will also be collaborating with the Grade 4 classrooms for their Nature Based Learning classes.
Land & Nature Education Core Components
Land & Nature Education Core Components
Experiential Learning
Students participate in activities such harvesting medicinal plants, gaining practical skills and observing natural phenomena firsthand
Environmental Consciousness
Cultivates a deep appreciation for the environment and fosters a sense of stewardship and reciprocal relationship with nature.
Holistic Learning
Recognizes that learning is not confined to the classroom, but happens through sensory experiences and direct interaction with the environment, supporting spiritual, emotional, and social well-being
Elders and Knowledge Keepers
Experienced community members share traditional teachings, cultural stories, and knowledge of natural cycles, acting as vital educators
Discovery 3
Discovery 3
In our Science class, students will have the opportunity to explore the clusters above in the areas that the STUDENT finds interesting. In each cluster, there is a lot of content to cover, some of which certain teachers miss, omit, or do not touch on. D3 allows for students to dig deep into each of the clusters, research what they find interests them, conference with the teacher, and then present their findings. This allows STUDENTS to be at the center of THIER learning. Students choose one of the following to be their focus for their Discovery 3:
Image Response
Image Response
Students list questions and discuss their responses to different images based on each cluster.
Learning Outcome
Learning Outcome
Students choose one of the learning experiences listed for each cluster. Each learning experience is a topic that we cover in the Manitoba Science Curriculum.
Article Review
Article Review
Students read provided articles that relate to each cluster. Students are then asked to discuss what was brought up in the article and what information they can use going forward.
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