KMS eighth grade science is a general science course, although there is an emphasis on Earth and Physical sciences with reference to the New Hampshire Frameworks for Science Literacy. The course embraces a constructivist approach using modifications of the FAST program while maintaining a commitment to the importance of science content knowledge. Through a variety of assignments and projects students develop and apply conceptual learning. The topics studied and their typical sequence are as follows:
Properties and Changes in Matter

The unique properties of matter give it the characteristics we can observe in the laboratory. Scientists can take advantage of these differences to sort and classify matter. Making connections between heat, energy, molecular motion and the state of matter give insight into larger scale phenomena such as heat transfer.

Properties of Fluids

Liquids and gases differ in some of their properties. Gases in particular can be attenuated and compressed leading changes in volume, density and gas pressures. Pressure imbalances lead to a net force and therefore tend to seek equilibrium. This phenomena is critically important in understanding convection and therefore, cloud formation, storm formation, heat redistribution.

Climate

The Earth’s climate represents a complex and dynamic system. Using a variety of conceptual, data based and experimental models we explore some of the main factors controlling climate on the planet. This unit draws on previous knowledge of matter and the properties of fluids.

Heat and Energy

Our initial studies of energy will reinforce and give explanations to our previous study of changes in state of matter. We will explore the way that that energy can be transformed from one form to another and look closely at how these concepts are put to use in our modern world. During this extended unit, we will take a very real look at our society and energy usage as well as the future of energy.

Science Fair

Science Fair is a great opportunity to work on a topic of your own choosing. During this time you will apply your knowledge of “the work of science” to put together your own project. If you wish, you can then take your project on to the valley wide science fair in the spring!

Force and Motion

During this unit we will begin to apply some basic mathematical models to the concepts of force and motion. A number of lab activities will allow us to explore the dynamics of motion.

Solar System

During this unit we will take a look at some of our closest neighbors, the planets and moons of our solar system. We will explore the similarities and differences between the various objects in our solar system and explore the role of gravity in maintaining the patterns we observe. We will also take a look at modern space exploration and the future of space exploration.

Plate Tectonics

The Earth has gone through many changes over time, some are fast while others are slow. During this unit we will explore some of the largest change forces on Earth. At the same time we will investigate the interaction between evidence in science and human bias. We will look at one great example of a revolution of thinking in science.

Climate Change and Water

Issues surrounding both climate change and water are global in scale. We can develop an understanding of these issues through local study. Both climate change and water resource issues provide excellent platforms from which to learn first hand the interactions between science and society and to practice making the decisions that will face us throughout our lives.