Meeting NYS Standards in Science

Palmyra-Macedon Middle School Science Department

8th Grade Science

Use appropriate tools and conventional measurement techniques to solve problems about the natural world.

Use conventional techniques for graphically displaying information, particularly information from independent observations.

Define the characteristic properties and phases of matter—solid, liquid and gas.  Investigate density and phase changes in substances.

Independently formulate a hypothesis.  Conduct an experiment.  Identify variables;  interpolate and extrapolate from data.

Measurement

Matter

Graphing

Scientific Method and Writing Experiments

All matter is made of atoms. Atoms may join with other atoms to form molecules. The Periodic Table is a model for classifying elements.

Atoms

During reactions substances react in characteristic ways. Some reactions absorb energy (endothermic) and some give off energy (exothermic).  Some chemicals mix with others easily (solubility).

Chemical Reactions

Simple machines include a lever, a pulley, a wheel and axle, an inclined plane, wedge and screw.  A complex machine is made of interacting simple machines.

Simple Machines

Define motion by its position, direction of motion,  and speed.  Use forces to explain motions.

Motion

Study vibrations and waves.  Define different parts of the waves.  Use light and sound as models of energy.

Waves

Review all content from the Intermediate Science level (grades 5—8) in preparation for the NYS Science Exam.

Review for NYS Assessment

Explore Newton’s Three Laws of Motion. 

Forces