Primary Grade: 8
Grade Range: 8
Credit Equivalency:
Semester: 0.5 Credits
Full Year: 1 Credit
COURSE DESCRIPTION
NCAA Eligible Course
Science 8 combines the subjects of life science, Earth and space science, and physical science while incorporating both engineering and scientific methods. Students further their knowledge of the interactions of matter, learning about the properties of the periodic table and how reactions occur. Next, students learn about reproduction in cells and inheritance. In this part of the course, students analyze the difference between types of reproduction in cells, leading them to determine how traits and genetic differences in DNA occur. Students travel back in time and determine how clues from life in the past help to explain, map, and classify existing life on Earth. Students also explore ecosystems and how precious they are to life on Earth, analyzing how even the smallest impacts can have large effects on populations. Finally, students investigate wave technologies and how those technologies are used on Earth for advancements in science and economic growth.
COURSE TOPICS
- Science and Engineering
- Properties of Matter
- Definitions of Energy
- The Periodic Table
- Chemical Reactions
- Solutions, Acids, and Bases
- Characteristics of Cells
- Reproduction
- Heredity
- DNA: A Deeper Look
- Evolution of Life
- History of Life on Earth
- Classifying Life
- Interactions in Ecosystems
- Human Impacts
- Climatic Hazards
- Waves and Communication
TEACHER SERVICES
All course teachers are certified, subject-area content experts. The teacher will grade student assessments and provide detailed feedback. The course teacher is available to answer student questions via email, during scheduled office hours, or by virtual appointment. The teacher will carry out documented modifications and accommodations that are applicable to the online course. Progress monitoring and supplemental material will be provided by the teacher as needed.
AUTO-GRADED COURSE
Auto-graded courses are self-paced, multimodal, and standards-aligned. Students progress independently and are assessed frequently through weekly checkpoints and Mastery Assessments. Upon submission of assessments, students receive immediate answers and feedback and can mark the completion of work via a completion button in the learning management system. These courses allow students to work at their own pace and spend the necessary time on course content to ensure mastery.