In Year 8 Science, students compare physical and chemical changes and use the particle model to explain and predict the properties and behaviours of substances. They identify different forms of energy and describe how energy transfers and transformations cause change in simple systems. They compare processes of rock formation, including the timescales involved. They analyse the relationship between structure and function at cell, organ and body system levels. Students examine the different science knowledge used in occupations. They explain how evidence has led to an improved understanding of a scientific idea and describe situations in which scientists collaborated to generate solutions to contemporary problems. They reflect on implications of these solutions for different groups in society.
Students identify and construct questions and problems that they can investigate scientifically. They consider safety and ethics when planning investigations, including designing field or experimental methods. They identify variables to be changed, measured and controlled. Students construct representations of their data to reveal and analyse patterns and trends and use these when justifying their conclusions. They explain how modifications to methods could improve the quality of their data and apply their own scientific knowledge and investigation findings to evaluate claims made by others. They use appropriate language and representations to communicate science ideas, methods and findings in a range of text types.
CONTENT
The following topics provide the framework for learning in Year 8 Science:
ASSESSMENT
Students are assessed through a range of tests, assignments and practical reports.
In semester 1, students research nuclear power and whether it should be used in Australia. Students observe different types of chemical reactions, and measure the energy found in different foods. They investigate how enzymes aid digestion. Students research organ donation and how cancer may be treated or cured in the future.
In semester 2 students investigate how changing temperature affects rates of reactions and the causes of different crystal sizes in rocks. They research an element from the Periodic Table and how its uses have changed over time.
Students are assessed against the IB MYP Science assessment criteria:
Criteria A: Knowledge and Understanding
Criteria B: Inquiring and Designing
Criteria C: Processing and Evaluating
Criteria D: Reflection on the Impact of Science
CARE • COMMITMENT • CO-OPERATION • RESPECT
