Eighth Grade Physical Science Curriculum

Using the Edmonds School District 8th Grade Science Curriculum Frameworks and the Middle School Science Scope and Sequence, the 8th grade physical science curriculum is broken down into the following units:

Measurement

• Linear
• Volume
• Mass
• Density

Buoyancy and its relationship to Density

Properties of Matter

• Characteristic Properties of Matter
• Mixtures and Solutions
• Compounds, Elements, and Chemical Reactions

Catastrophic Events

• Storms
• Earthquakes
• Volcanoes

Sound and Light-Properties of Waves

Force, Motion and Energy

• Forms of Energy
• Energy Transfer and Conservation
• Properties of Heat

Astronomy-The Solar System

Each of these units uses hands-on work to engage the student in the learning. They first focus on what they already know about each topic. They then explore the topic using scientific investigation techniques. After gathering the data, they reflect on what they have observed, draw conclusions and share their findings. What is learned in each unit is then applied to real-life situations and other units of the curriculum. The culminating activity of each unit is an Anchor Task that will require one of the following to occur:

• Design to a Criterion
• Show Cause and Effect in a System
• Complete a Formal Investigation Report

Grading for the class is consistent with the grading in all core academic classes:

A	Superior effort and quality	Exceeds standards	Constructive/Positive participation
B	Excellent effort and very good quality	Exceeds/Meets standards	Positive participation
C	Average/good effort and quality	Meets standards	Some positive participation
F	Work missing or unacceptable	Fails to meet standards	Participation absent or negative