Eighth Grade
(Science & History)

Mr. Ted Nelson

In the 7th grade we study "Life Science." Students will learn the functions of living things, parts of the cell (plant and animal), cell theory, cell processes, cell reproduction, heredity, simple living things, more complex plants and animals, classification, animal behavior, the human body and good health. Students will learn to work cooperatively and by themselves. Students will dissect the worm, frog, and pig. It will be a very exciting year studying life science for 7th graders.

In the 8th grade we study earth science. Students will study the earth, the environment, geological and meteorological studies, the four natural disasters and they will learn to chart and graph data. They will study plate tectonics and how it relates to certain events on the earth. Students will begin to study rocks and gems and the forces that make them. Students will learn more about our atmosphere, air, water, and space.

History

In the 7th grade Texas history is taught. The students will learn about the geographic features of our state, the natural resources (especially rivers, lakes, and wildlife), early history, and the Native American culture, the fight for independence, Texas as a nation, and finally joining the Union, growth and development, and modern Texas.

Students in the 8th grade study U. S. history from its early days of exploration to 1877. Students will study the first great civilization of the Americas, the explorers, the Original Thirteen Colonies, expansion west, manifest destiny, the early presidents, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Revolutionary War, the French and Indian War, the development of our nation, the Civil War, and Reconstruction. This study will then be completed in high school.

Students prepare and enter their projects in the History Fair and the Science Fair as one of the culminating activities of the year.