The Eighth Grade Science Students Will Investigate The Following Science Topics, In Accordance With The Standards Set Forth By The DOE :


Note: Standards will be added as we investigate them.

1. Classification of Organisms

a. Classify organisms into the currently recognized kingdoms according to characteristics that they share. Be familiar with organisms from each kingdom.

2. Structure and Function of Cells

a. Recognize that all organisms are composed of cells, and that many organisms are single-celled (unicellular), e.g., bacteria, yeast. In these single-celled organisms, one cell must carry out all of the basic functions of life.

b. Compare and contrast plant and animal cells, including major organelles (cell membrane, cell wall, nucleus, cytoplasm, chloroplasts, mitochondria, vacuoles).

c. Recognize that within cells, many of the basic functions of organisms (e.g., extracting energy from food and getting rid of waste) are carried out. The way in which cells function is similar in all living organisms.

3. Energy and Living Things

a. Explain the roles and relationships among producers, consumers, and decomposers in the process of energy transfer in a food web. Example: Distribute pictures of various producers, consumers, and decomposers to groups of students. Have each group organize the pictures according to the relationships among the pictured species and write a paragraph that explains the roles and relationships.

b. Explain how dead plants and animals are broken down by other living organisms and how this process contributes to the system as a whole. Example: Observe decomposer organisms in a compost heap on the school grounds, a compost column in a plastic bottle, or a worm bin. Use compost for starting seeds in the classroom or in a schoolyard garden.