Welcome to Ms. Huggins’ Science Classroom

Problem based Learning Foster critical thinking and problem solving Learn to collaborate with peers and lead with influence Develop flexibility and adaptability Encourage initiative and independence Build Effective Oral and Written communication Nurtures students’ curiosity and imagination

Building independence Classroom Jobs Voice level reminders Tickets/ Raffle Google Classroom Google Calendar Google Apps for Education

8th Grade Stem Curriculum Science Content Covered Math Content Covered Chemistry Interactions in the Hydrosphere and Atmosphere Force and Motion Human Impact on the Environment The Number System Expressions and Equations Geometry Functions Statistics and Probability

What have we been up to? Developing classroom routines Creating a safe classroom Learning about Atomic structure and properties by completing an “Adopt-an-Element” advertising challenge. Students used online resources, encyclopedias and knowledge from class to research an element and create a catchy advertisement.

Project Based Learning 8th grade science students planted starter plants and seeds for a fall crop. Plants included kale, broccoli, lettuce, radishes, and spinach. Students researched the plants, tested soil pH, and payed close attention to how much space each plant required. The raised bed and aquaponics system continue to provide opportunities for students to have hands on science experiences and make direct connections with local food systems. The 8th grade will be using the garden in their studies of applied chemistry, by focusing on soil pH and its effect on plant growth.

Problem Based Learning Students in middle school science investigated a pest in the raised bed and aquaponics system. After doing close observations and research, they discovered cabbage worms larvae and eggs! Cabbage worms are known to devour broccoli and kale. Students are currently looking for organic solutions to this dilemma!

Science Fair 3rd Quarter Student chosen topics Structured timeline and sequence Many supports built into the process 8th grade may have the opportunity to work on action projects

Google Classroom Address executive functioning and independence by helping students manage calendar, assignments and turn-in work Provide a new way to collaborate with teacher and classmates Provides built-in supports and assistive technology

Homework Science homework will be assigned Tuesday nights on Google Classroom. All homework will be title “Homework” followed by the due date. Students now have logins and experience using the platform; please ask them to show you how to login and access homework.