8th Grade Science

The science courses for eighth grade contain components of life, physical, and earth/space sciences. They are designed to engage thought processes necessary to build a foundation, which encourages all students to further enhance their understanding of an appreciation for the basic concepts of science. The students will research, examine, experiment, and draw conclusions about various science themes through hands-on demonstrations and laboratory activities. The Science Safety Manual Grades 6-12 guidelines must be adhered to whenever experiments, laboratory activities, and hands-on demonstrations are performed.

A scope and sequence, health outline, unit and lesson plans, supplemental activities and exercises, and website addresses are located in this document. This information is intended to be a guide for the themes, topics, and laboratory activities to be covered throughout the year. Additional resources are available within the curriculum and should be incorporated into each teacher’s program.

The concept of portfolio assessment is relatively new to Shelby County Schools. There are various ways that it can be used for assessment. Examples include the use of science notebook entries, expository writing, individual research and reports, current events, journal entries, lab reports, work samples, activity sheets, self-critiques, and unit project summaries. Performance-based assessment is another relatively new method to assess students’ understanding. It can be an enjoyable learning experience for students. Laboratory investigations or activities which require simple tasks provide an alternative to other assessment methods.
In the following document you will encounter these abbreviations in the course outline and curriculum map:

• CD = Interactive Exploration CD-ROM
• Demo = Demonstrations
• IL = Inquiry Lab
• LE = Learning Expectation
• LYCE = Labs You Can Eat
• PI = Performance Indicators
• TE = Teacher Edition
• WB = Whiz Bang Demonstrations

The courses are designed to accentuate the thought processes and enhance the scientific competencies so that the student can fully develop his maximum potential. The course work is designed to utilize and heighten cognitive abilities through knowledge and concept attainment. Laboratory experiences will emphasize problem solving, information gathering, observing, analyzing, and decision-making. It is crafted to examine the nature of scientific enterprise; to evaluate the historical and current relationship of science and society; and to broaden the horizons of each student.

The desire of Shelby County Schools is to provide comprehensive science courses that engage each student in the understanding of basic scientific processes and principles; provide hands-on experiences; and promote self-directed inquiry skills. The programs are further crafted to clarify the primary significance of science as a “real world” catalyst for life changes.

The students within Shelby County Schools who require modifications due to their Individualized Education Program (IEP) are legally entitled to curriculum adjustment. An IEP is a legal document which must be followed in accordance with the laws set forth by the federal government, state statutes and Shelby County Schools’ policy.

All educators must examine the student’s IEP to determine exactly what modifications are necessary to meet the student’s educational needs. For example, many IEPs require extended time for student reading, writing, test taking, and other assignments. However, it is not a question of whether the IEP should be followed, rather, it is a question of how best to effectively implement the required modifications of the IEP to benefit the student. Educators should read each student’s IEP and review curriculum plans. Interviewing the students individually provides and excellent means of finding techniques to maximize the student’s educational progress. School resource departments are also invaluable resources.