Grade 8 Science Newsletter
February 2019
Pearson Spotlight
In this section, your science team will look ahead into our Pearson textbook resources to find engaging activities that will help students connect learning throughout the units. It will also highlight opportunities to embed and reinforce our nature of science skills and practices. If you find activities that work well, please reach out to us and let us know!
Gr 8:
Virtual Lab: Shadows in Space
- This virtual lab allows students to manipulate simulations to understand the relationship between Earth, sun, and moon. Students are given the scenario that they are investigating this relationship to be able to explain the concept to elementary school students. As they move through the lab, they will understand the concept of eclipses and the frequency of their occurrence by seeing that the shadows of these objects and their tilt play a role in what we see on Earth's surface.
SC.8.E.5.9 Explain the impact of objects in space on each other including:
1. The Sun on the Earth including seasons and gravitational attraction
2. The Moon on the Earth, including phases, tides, and eclipses, and the relative position of each body.
Located in Topic 1, Lesson 3: Phases and Eclipses
Science Fair
Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!
Professional Development Opportunities
Human Growth & Development Training & Information
Please encourage teachers to register for the course through mypgs here.
Quarter 4 Science Academies to be Added!
Join us as we engage in a model lesson designed from the curriculum maps. See total participation strategies in action, deepen your understanding of the 5E model, network and collaborate with fellow Pasco Science teachers. This PD opportunity includes a stipend for your time and PD points for the follow up activity.
5E Virtual Science Academy
Register for the course through MyPGS (Course 2414) HERE to sign up to participate. Registration will remain open through Nov 30. MyPGS will automatically enroll you in the Canvas course. The courses are listed for 6th and 7th grade, as they are this year's identified grades, however it was built to support 6-8 Science Instruction. So all are welcome to join in our adventure. The course is 4 PD points if completed! See you Online!
Additional Information
Curriculum Map Feedback Form
Seven Springs Middle School's 7th grade science team organized an awesome collaborative project for students to showcase their understanding of energy transformations. Students designed arcade games and then put on a fair for the school so students of other grade levels could experience their learning. Great way to reinforce science standards throughout all 3 grade levels!
#PascoDoingScience
Want to Contact Us?
Mark Butler
813-794-2452
Lesley Kirkley
813-794-2257
Jessica Maxwell
Stephanie Sheridan