8th Grade Science Syllabus

Mattie V. Rutherford Alternative Education Center

8th Grade Science Syllabus

Holt Science & Technology

Teacher: Mr. Heller

Phone Number: (904) 630-6782 Ext. 126

E-Mail: HellerL@duvalschools.org

Webpage: http://dcps.oncoursesystems.com/school/webpage.aspx?id=592728

Course Description:

Comprehensive Science 3 is a year long science course for students enrolled in grade 8. The comprehensive approach to science spirals throughout middle school, making connections among the science disciplines and increasing in complexity from grade to grade. The disciplines of science that students study are earth/space, life, and physical science. Earth/Space science in Comprehensive Science 3 includes the solar system. Life science topic is genetics. In physical science, students will be studying forces, motion, light and properties of matter. Scientific inquiry is woven throughout the year as students investigate testable questions that uncover concepts embedded in the Sunshine State Standards for Science. Students receiving advanced credit are required to complete an experimental science project.

Course Objectives:

1. Students will understand the Scientific Method.
2. Students will understand the characteristics of force and motion as it relates to Newton’s law.
3. Students will understand various aspects of our solar system.
4. Students will understand the Earth’s systems as it relates to matter, energy, and the affects people have on ecosystems.
5. Students will understand the patterns of heredity.
6. Students will understand the periodic table and atomic structure.

Grading Policy:

Tests = 25%

Participation= 25%

Compass Odyssey= 25%

Projects = 25%

* Students will be given the opportunity to complete make-up work every early release day*

Grading Scale:

A = 90-100

B = 80-89

C = 70-79

D = 60-69

F = 59- below

All completed student work is to be placed in the students’ Class Folder. No exceptions, no excuses. A course grade of 100% consists of a completed class folder 25%, End of Chapter Tests 25%, Compass Odyssey Quizzes 25%, and Projects 25%. Mid-Term and Finals will be counted as tests and homework will be counted as part of the Class Folder.

Course Outline:

First 9 weeks

Unit 1: Introduction to Matter

Lab Safety procedures and equipment Measurement Density Procedures

Difference between mass and weight Volume Physical and chemical changes

Unit 2: Space Science

Electromagnetic radiation Waves, light, and sound Cause of Earth’s seasons Solar system

Causes of moon phases Mass, weight, and gravity Causes of Earth’s tides Stars and galaxies

Second 9 weeks

Unit 3: Your Genes and You

Patterns of heredity Asexual and sexual reproduction Meiosis Science ethics involving humans and animals Adaptations in organisms over time; fossils Ethical treatment of animals and humans in scientific research

Third 9 weeks

Unit 4: Amusement Parks

Speed and acceleration Contact and non-contact forces Newton’s laws of motion; inertia Simple machines and work Mechanical efficiency

Unit 5 Benchmark Investigations

Review of all annually assessed benchmarks through a series of hands-on investigations and exit questions.

Fourth 9 weeks

Unit 6: It’s Elementary

Characteristic properties of matter, including density and boiling point Atomic structure; atoms and ions The significance of the atomic number of elements and compounds; periodic table Pure substances and mixtures Acids and bases.

My Classroom Expectations will be visibly posted in class. Please look for them and follow them. Disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.