6 Science will begin looking at the different fields of science and also a little at the different ideas that go along with psuedo-science. We will then dive into our PLTW unit - Design and Modeling! I am hoping we can start the first lessons for PLTW next week.
7 Science is beginning the year by looking at physical science - specifically matter, its sates, characteristics and the changes it can go through. From there we will launch into a little bit of chemistry and look at the periodic table of elements, how the different atoms can combine, and the different laws that accompany physical science.
8 Science is starting off with biodiversity and looking at the necessities for life. We will then dive into the theory of evolution, changes of different species over time, and how the physical world has changed as well. From there we will start to look into the geographical changes that take place in our world, including the rock cycle, landform creation and change, and also some very tasty food labs!
7 Social Studies is starting out by learning about the fundamentals of history and the sources we use to learn about the past. We have established the differences and uses of primary and secondary sources, how we can use artifacts and fossils to learn about past species and cultures, and will slowly begin to make our way towards modern time by looking at early man's migration, use of tools, shelters, an origin of beliefs.
8 Social Studies is kicking off the year by learning about the continent of North America prior to Columbus and the European stampeded westward. The group is going to look at the many nations that inhabited and thrived prior to European exploration of the "New World", different cultural elements of the indigenous groups, and also at the mindset and beliefs of the explorers about the lands as they experienced new landforms, species, and peoples.