8th Grade Physical Science
The Physical Science course stresses an in-depth understanding of the nature and structure of matter and the characteristics of energy.
The course places emphasis on the technological application of physical science principles.
Major areas covered include:
· nature of matter
· physical and chemical changes
· atomic structure
· the periodic table
· chemical and nuclear reactions
· work, force and motion
· temperature and heat
· sound
· light
· electricity and magnetism
The Physical Science course continues to build on skills of systematic investigation with a focus on variables and repeated trials. Students will
· plan and conduct classroom experimentation and literature reviews from written and electronic resources.
· use research methods and skills that highlight practical problems and questions.
· use their acquired scientific skills to formulate conclusions from reading, lecture, observed evidence, and collected data. This skill becomes increasingly important in this course.
· share their work using written reports and other presentations.
· submit written laboratory reports and design and conduct an individual project that is experimental in nature.
· research and write 12 biographies on various scientists and inventors worldwide.
Participation in the annual Piedmont Regional Science Fair, or our in-school Science Fair will be encouraged (and required for SCOPE students). Chancellor Middle School is often ivvited to compete in the U.S. Dept of Energy Middle School Science Bowl. The regional (Maryland/Virginia) Science Bowl is held at the Jefferson National Accelerator Facility in Newport News, Virginia in March each year.