Lesson Plan for August 9 - 16, 2013

Friday:  Introduction to 8th grade science:  Students will be assigned an online science textbook.  Students will also be given an informational letter concerning classroom and lab policies and expectations.  This paper needs to be read and signed by parents and returned. These papers are also available on MYB (My Big Campus). Students will then watch the video segment "The Times and Troubles of the Scientific Method."

Monday:  Due:  Parent letter (10 pts.).  Students will be introduced to the vocabulary for the introductory chapter.  Using the directions provided, students will write the definition of each term and identify the part of speech it represents.  Students will then use the internet to find a picture or diagram that helps define each term.
Students will  read pages NOS4-7 in their online science textbook.  Students will then complete the class activity "Where is my Peanut?"

Tuesday:  (due Friday):  Students will choose a scientist from a list provided during class and conduct online research.  Research report should include:

• a photo or drawing of the scientist
• date of birth and death
• educational history
• area of speciality
• major contribution to science
• list of resources

Report should be submitted through MBC.

Wednesday:  Students will use their online text and my website to complete an online scavenger hunt.  Students will then explain how Myth Busters use the scientific method to answer the question "Are elephants really afraid of mice?"

Thursday:  Students will read page NOS8.  Students will then work to determine the difference between a scientific law and a scientific theory during an interactive group activity.  Students will complete "Write Now:  Vocabulary for Intro. to Science."

Friday:   Lab:  Splatter vs Height
Due on MBC:  Introduction to Science Vocabulary (25 pts.), Scientist report (25 pts.), "Write Now:  Vocabulary for Intro. to Science." (10 pts.),