1. Welcome to Ms. Huggins’ Science Classroom

3. 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

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

5. 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

6. 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.

9. 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.

11. 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!

12. 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

13. 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

14. 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.