Grade 8 focuses on the periodic table of elements, types of chemical reactions, endothermic and exothermic processes, and fractals. This module focuses on space exploration, the Earth, its motion, and its place in the universe to understand the scientific principles of properties, patterns, and models. Educators study force and motion, tilt and revolution, and characteristics of the universe. In this module students investigate how genetic characteristics are passed from one generation to another and how changes occur in flowering plants and moths. As students investigate genetic patterns and genetic combinations they predict whether species survive or perish.
Activities enhance student knowledge of the micro-world and student skill in the use of microscopes.
Each vista contains numerous assessment strategies including pre-assessment, embedded assessment, demonstration assessments, concept mapping, performance assessments, and student self assessment. The acquisition of scientific data from instruments and computing technology on offshore drilling project ships is described and modeled. Topics include motion, waves, energy transformations, properties of matter, changes in matter, and solution chemistry. Specific attention is given to laboratory investigations of the natural world, the use of scientific methods, and the use of critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. Special emphasis is placed on real-world applications of knowledge and skills.