Year 8 Science
Overview
Year 8 Science builds on your understanding of how science explains the world around us and how it shapes society. You explore how evidence, ethics, and diverse perspectives influence scientific developments and responses to global issues.
Key learning areas include:
• Biological Sciences: Investigate cells in plants, animals and microorganisms, and explore how body systems function and interact.
• Chemical Sciences: Use particle and kinetic theory to explain the properties of substances, and learn how to classify and separate mixtures.
• Earth and Space Sciences: Study rock formation, resource use, and how geological processes and the Earth–Sun–Moon system impact the planet.
• Physical Sciences: Explore forces, motion, and energy transformations, and examine how electricity is transferred and used in circuits.
• Science Inquiry and Skills: Design and carry out experiments, interpret data, and communicate scientific ideas using accurate terminology and models. Through practical investigations and critical thinking, you deepen your understanding of scientific concepts and how they apply to real-life contexts.
What do you do?
In Semester 1 you will:
- investigate the different types of cells and how cells become specialised
- explore the various states of matter and its relation to elements and compounds
- conduct a science inquiry project
- describe the way energy transforms.
In Semester 2 you will:
- analyse light, lenses, and sound
- explore the human body and its systems
- investigate minerals and fossils
- participate in various science challenges.
Each Unit includes practical activities which are completed at home. There is an online lesson each week.
What skills do you develop?
You can build on your skills, including:
- inquiring (by asking questions)
- investigating (by finding stuff out)
- experimenting (by completing practical activities)
- applying your knowledge (by completing activities throughout each week).
By the end of the year you should be able to:
- think scientifically
- make informed decisions about your lifestyle, the environment and the kind of society you wish to live in
- be curious and inquire about the world around you.
Requirements
Internet is needed to access this course.
Work will be completed and submitted online weekly. You will use the Stile app to complete most of your work in this course.
You also need science notebook and drawing materials for different activities.
For practical investigations you need to use equipment and materials from around the house or they can be bought from local shops.
Things you can do now
Go to the VCAA website for more information about this subject.