SCIENCE 6/LIFE SCIENCE The Life Science curriculum emphasizes a more complex understanding of change, cycles, patterns, and relationships in the living world. Students explore the cellular organization and classification of organisms; the dynamic relationships among organisms, populations, communities, and ecosystems; and change as a result of the transmission of genetic information from generation to generation. Inquiry skills at this level include organization and mathematical analysis of data, manipulating variables in experimentation, and identifying sources of experimental error. TEACHERS Mrs. Brown Mr. Deacon SCIENCE 7/PHYSICAL SCIENCE The Physical Science curriculum builds skills of systematic investigation by focusing on variables, repeated trials, and validation of conclusions through the use of evidence and data. Students acquire an in-depth understanding of the nature and structure of matter and the characteristics of energy. Major areas of study include the periodic table, physical and chemical changes, nuclear reactions, temperature and heat, sound, light, electricity and magnetism, and work, force, and motion. TEACHERS Mrs. Webster Mrs. Jaffke SCIENCE 8/EARTH SCIENCE This course connects the study of the Earth’s composition, structure, processes and history; its atmosphere, fresh water and oceans; and its environment in space. Historical contributions in the development of scientific thought about the Earth and space are emphasized. The course focuses on the interpretation of maps, charts, tables and profiles; the use of technology to collect, analyze and report data; and the utilization of science skills in systematic investigation. Problem solving and decision making are an integral part of the course, especially as they relate to the costs and benefits of utilizing the Earth’s resources. Major topics of study include plate tectonics, the rock cycle, Earth history, the oceans, the atmosphere, weather and climate, and the solar system and universe. Students taking this course will take an end-of-course SOL test in Earth Science. Students must pass both the course and SOL test to earn a verified credit. TEACHERS Mr. Neuman Mrs. Sangston |