Grade 8 Science GSE Standards

Physical Science

Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information about the structure and properties of matter.

Develop and use a model to compare and contrast pure substances (elements and compounds) and mixtures.

Develop and use models to describe the movement of particles in solids, liquids, gases, and plasma states when thermal energy is added or removed.

Plan and carry out investigations to compare and contrast chemical (i.e., reactivity, combustibility) and physical (i.e., density, melting point, boiling point) properties of matter.

Construct an argument based on observational evidence to support the claim that when a change in a substance occurs, it can be classified as either chemical or physical.

Develop models (e.g., atomic-level models, including drawings, and computer representations) by analyzing patterns within the periodic table that illustrate the structure, composition, and characteristics of atoms (protons, neutrons, and electrons) and simple molecules.

Construct an explanation based on evidence to describe conservation of matter in a chemical reaction including the resulting differences between products and reactants.

Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information about the law of conservation of energy to develop arguments that energy can transform from one form to another within a system.

Analyze and interpret data to create graphical displays that illustrate the relationships of kinetic energy to mass and speed, and potential energy to mass and height of an object.

Plan and carry out an investigation to explain the transformation between kinetic and potential energy within a system (e.g., roller coasters, pendulums, rubber bands, etc.).

Construct an argument to support a claim about the type of energy transformations within a system [e.g., lighting a match (light to heat), turning on a light (electrical to light)].

Plan and carry out investigations on the effects of heat transfer on molecular motion as it relates to the collision of atoms (conduction), through space (radiation), or in currents in a liquid or a gas (convection).

Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information about cause and effect relationships between force, mass, and the motion of objects.

Analyze and interpret data to identify patterns in the relationships between speed and distance, and velocity and acceleration.

Construct an explanation using Newton's Laws of Motion to describe the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on the motion of an object.

Construct an argument from evidence to support the claim that the amount of force needed to accelerate an object is proportional to its mass (inertia).

Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information to support the claim that electromagnetic (light) waves behave differently than mechanical (sound) waves.

Ask questions to develop explanations about the similarities and differences between electromagnetic and mechanical waves.

Construct an explanation using data to illustrate the relationship between the electromagnetic spectrum and energy.

Design a device to illustrate practical applications of the electromagnetic spectrum (e.g., communication, medical, military).

Develop and use a model to compare and contrast how light and sound waves are reflected, refracted, absorbed, diffracted or transmitted through various materials.

Analyze and interpret data to predict patterns in the relationship between density of media and wave behavior (i.e., speed).

Develop and use a model (e.g., simulations, graphs, illustrations) to predict and describe the relationships between wave properties (e.g., frequency, amplitude, and wavelength) and energy.

Develop and use models to demonstrate the effects that lenses have on light (i.e., formation an image) and their possible technological applications.

Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information about gravity, electricity, and magnetism as major forces acting in nature.

Construct an argument using evidence to support the claim that fields (i.e., magnetic fields, gravitational fields, and electric fields) exist between objects exerting forces on each other even when the objects are not in contact.

Plan and carry out investigations to demonstrate the distribution of charge in conductors and insulators.

Plan and carry out investigations to identify the factors (e.g., distance between objects, magnetic force produced by an electromagnet with varying number of wire turns, varying number or size of dry cells, and varying size of iron core) that affect the strength of electric and magnetic forces.

Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture

Global Collaborator

Collaborating Around Computing

Creative Communicator

Human Computer Interaction

Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts

Creating Computational Artifacts

Programming

Algorithms

Data and Information

Recognzing and Defining Computational Problems

Computational Thinker

Innovative Designer and Creator

Data and Analysis

Knowledge Constructor

Digital Citizen

Empowered Learner

Identify sub-problems to consider while addressing a larger problem.

Recognize when it is appropriate to solve a problem computationally; Make sense of computational problems and persevere in solving them.

Develop through application, logical observations relative to computational thinking procedures to analyze and solve problems current to everyday life.

Identify characteristics of computational thinking (decomposition, pattern recognition, algorithmic thinking and abstraction).

Explain issues and analyze routine hardware and software problems current to everyday life.

Apply troubleshooting concepts to issues regarding compatibility, data, and identity.

Describe ways to resolve operational problems caused by hardware errors.

Explain how technology can create ethical and legal issues in the business world and a technology-based society and how it can be used to solve & manage those issues.

Utilize computational thinking to solve problems.

Make observations and organize the concepts of modularity, including functions and methods, as it relates to programming code reusability and cloud computing in the software industry.

Develop a working vocabulary of computational thinking including sequences, algorithms, binary, pattern matching, decomposition, abstraction, parallelization, data, automation, data collection, data analysis, boolean, integer, branches (if...then...else), and iteration {loops (For, While)}.

Analyze the problem-solving process, the input-process-output-storage model of a computer, and how computers help humans solve problems.

Develop an algorithm to decompose a problem of a daily task.

Recognize when to use the same solution for multiple problems.

Evaluate the storage and representation of data; Analyze how data is collected with both computational and non-computational tools and processes.

Discuss binary numbers, logic, sets, and functions and their application to computer science.

Explain that searches may be enhanced by using Boolean logic (e.g., using "not", "or", "and").

Understand and use the basic steps in algorithmic problem solving in computing and other authentic applications.

Select basic steps to solve algorithmic problems.

Evaluate basic steps of algorithmic problem solving to design solutions.

Solve algorithmic problems of increasing complexity.

Use and compare simple coding control structures (e.g., if-then, loops)

Use a visual block-based and/or text-based programming language individually and collaboratively to solve problems of increasing complexity.

Create a program individually and collaboratively using a text-based programming. language; Identify variables and compare the types of data stored as variables.

Consider the purpose of computational artifacts for practical use, personal expression, and/or societal impact.

Compare and contrast examples of high level and low-level programming languages.

Investigate the notion of hierarchy in computing including high level languages, translations, instruction sets, and logic circuits.

Develop problem solutions using a programming language, including all of the following: looping behavior, conditional statements, expressions, variables, and functions.

Test computational artifacts systematically by considering multiple scenarios and using test cases.

Describe how humans and machines interact to accomplish tasks that cannot be accomplished by either alone.

Identify what distinguishes humans from machines focusing on human intelligence versus machine intelligence (e.g., robot motion, speech and language understanding, and computer vision); Explain why some tasks can be accomplished more easily by computers.

Describe ways in which computers use models of intelligent behavior (e.g., robot motion, speech and language understanding, and computer vision) and how they differ (e.g., emotional decision making versus logical decisions, common sense, literal versus abstract).

Design and demonstrate the use of a device (e.g., robot, e-textile) to accomplish a task, individually and collaboratively.

Use online resources to participate in collaborative activities for the purpose of developing solutions or products.

Improve teamwork and collaboration skills: providing useful feedback, integrating feedback, understanding, and accepting multiple perspectives.

Understand the difference between CC and BCC as well as Reply and Reply All and when to use each appropriately.

Collaborate productively and recognize the value of working with individuals of varying perspectives, skills, and backgrounds.

Set and implement equitable expectations and workloads when working in teams.

Demonstrate correct keyboarding techniques while increasing speed and maintaining accuracy.

Use productivity technology tools (e.g. word processing, spreadsheet, presentation software) for individual and collaborative writing, communication, and publishing activities.

Recognize that equitable access to computing benefits society as a whole.

Consider others' perspectives as well as one's own perspective when developing computational solutions.

Consider the needs of a variety of end users regarding accessibility and usability.

Use software applications to collaborate and create authentic products.

Identify and utilize the appropriate software application for productivity.

Use various applications in a professional manner to share and communicate with peers and teachers.

Share documents created using word processing, presentation, and spreadsheet software.

Create original works using software applications in a collaborative manner.

Collaborate in small groups to create and edit online documents in real time.

Identify and use appropriate file sharing strategies (e.g., copy and paste, links, posts, and attachments).

Understand benefits and risks of digital citizenship and practices safe, responsible, legal, and ethical behavior while using technology tools and resources, especially related to personal information.

Understand that digital content is permanent and cannot be deleted.

Discuss the benefits and risks of using password management systems and storing personal information online.

Understand how browser settings such as cookies collect data and track personal information.

Articulate ideas responsibly by observing intellectual property rights and giving appropriate attribution.

Understand the pervasiveness and tradeoffs of computers and computing in daily life.

Find and adjust privacy settings for online accounts; discuss the positive and negative effects that social media can have on one's life.

Recognize how the overuse of technology can impact mental, physical, and emotional health.

Identify phishing emails, insecure websites (e.g., not https), and risky links when on the Internet; build a positive digital footprint (e.g., blog, website, social media).

Apply strategies for troubleshooting hardware and software problems that may occur during use.

Choose the correct settings for printing and troubleshoot common printing issues (printer not turned on, printer not connected).

Connect devices (including internet/WIFI and Bluetooth) and troubleshoot common connection issues (e.g., disrupted Internet connection, website that is not loading).

Manage and deploy software updates and troubleshoot simple software issues (i.e., look up solutions to issues).

Explore the relationship between computer hardware and software.

Develop a working vocabulary of embedded computing including digital, analog, events, microcontrollers, sensors, LED, switch, servo, cloud computing, and internet of things.

Investigate how software interacts with hardware in the boot process.

Analyze and explain how computers communicate information with simple hardware inputs and outputs.

Create a product that analyzes how simple computer hardware can be used to develop innovative new products that interact with the physical world.

Design a computer program that senses something in the real world and changes an output based on the input.

Use technology resources to increase self-direction and self-regulation in learning, including for problem solving and collaboration (e.g., using the Internet to access online resources, edit documents collaboratively).

Understand the difference between editing a shared document and suggesting edits (e.g. track changes).

Use digital tools or platforms to organize, display, annotate, and/or share a curated collection.

Complete an individual project (e.g., research or design) using technology resources.

Evaluate the accuracy, relevance, appropriateness, comprehensiveness, and biases that occur in electronic information sources.

Demonstrate an understanding of the credibility, bias, accuracy, relevance, age appropriateness, and comprehensiveness of electronic information sources.

Evaluate and discuss of the credibility, bias, accuracy, relevance, age appropriateness, and comprehensiveness of electronic information sources.

Apply strategies for determining the reliability of information found on the Internet.

Gather, manipulate, and analyze data using a variety of digital tools to identify solutions and make informed decisions.

Gather data and calculate numerical equations using spreadsheet formulas and functions.

Use spreadsheet data to create tables, charts, and graphs.

Use spreadsheets and databases to make predictions, solve problems, and draw conclusions.

Traverse online environments using critical thinking to find valid sources of information.

Analyze various ways to visually represent data.

Interpret tables, charts, and graphs created by someone else.

Discuss design decisions in choosing between text, tables, charts, and graphs.

Discuss design decisions to make visualizations of data clear and concise.

Recognize that there may be multiple approaches to solving a problem.

Approach problem solving iteratively, using a cyclical process.

Design, develop, debug and implement computer programs.

Develop a working vocabulary of programming including flowcharting and/or storyboarding, coding, debugging, user interfaces, usability, variables, lists, loops, conditionals, programming language, events.

Debug a program with an error.

Utilize the design process to brainstorm, implement, test, and revise an idea.

Cite evidence on how computers represent data and media (sounds, images, video, etc.).

Design a user interface and test with other users using a paper prototype.

Implement a simple algorithm in a computer program.

Develop an event driven program.

Create a program that accepts user and/or sensor input and stores the result in a variable.

Create a computer program that implements a loop.

Develop a program that makes a decision based on data or user input.

Create digital artifacts to address a current issue requiring resolution.

Summarize ethical, privacy, and legal issues of a digital world using current case studies.

Collaborate as a team to develop an artifact that represents multiple perspectives regarding a global crisis.

Analyze and explain the functionality and suitability (or appropriateness) of a computational artifact.

Develop a program for creative expression or to satisfy personal curiosity which may have visual, audible, and/or tactile results.

Develop a program specifically with the goal of solving a problem, creating new knowledge, or helping people, organizations, or society.

Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture

Global Collaborator

Collaborating Around Computing

Creative Communicator

Human Computer Interaction

Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts

Creating Computational Artifacts

Programming

Algorithms

Data and Information

Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems

Computational Thinker

Innovative Designer and Creator

Networks and the Internet

Digital Citizen

Empowered Learner

Develop through application, logical observations relative to computational thinking procedures to analyze and solve problems current to everyday life.

Identify characteristics of computational thinking (decomposition, pattern recognition, algorithmic thinking and abstraction).

Explain issues and analyze routine hardware and software problems current to everyday life.

Apply troubleshooting concepts to issues regarding compatibility, data, and identity.

Describe ways to resolve operational problems caused by hardware errors.

Explain how technology can create ethical and legal issues in the business world and a technology-based society and how it can be used to solve & manage those issues.

Utilize computational thinking to solve problems.

Make observations and organize the concepts of modularity, including functions and methods, as it relates to programming code reusability and cloud computing in the software industry.

Develop a working vocabulary of computational thinking including sequences, algorithms, binary, pattern matching, decomposition, abstraction, parallelization, data, automation, data collection, data analysis, boolean, integer, branches (if...then...else), and iteration {loops (For, While)}.

Analyze the problem-solving process, the input-process-output-storage model of a computer, and how computers help humans solve problems.

Develop an algorithm to decompose a problem of a daily task.

Recognize when to use the same solution for multiple problems.

Evaluate the storage and representation of data; Analyze how data is collected with both computational and non-computational tools and processes.

Discuss binary numbers, logic, sets, and functions and their application to computer science.

Explain that searches may be enhanced by using Boolean logic (e.g., using "not", "or", "and").

Understand and use the basic steps in algorithmic problem solving in computing and other authentic applications.

Select basic steps to solve algorithmic problems.

Evaluate basic steps of algorithmic problem solving to design solutions.

Solve algorithmic problems of increasing complexity.

Use and compare simple coding control structures (e.g., if-then, loops)

Use a visual block-based and/or text-based programming language individually and collaboratively to solve problems of increasing complexity.

Create a program individually and collaboratively using a text-based programming. language; Identify variables and compare the types of data stored as variables.

Consider the purpose of computational artifacts for practical use, personal expression, and/or societal impact.

Compare and contrast examples of high level and low-level programming languages.

Investigate the notion of hierarchy in computing including high level languages, translations, instruction sets, and logic circuits.

Develop problem solutions using a programming language, including all of the following: looping behavior, conditional statements, expressions, variables, and functions.

Test computational artifacts systematically by considering multiple scenarios and using test cases.

Describe how humans and machines interact to accomplish tasks that cannot be accomplished by either alone.

Identify what distinguishes humans from machines focusing on human intelligence versus machine intelligence (e.g., robot motion, speech and language understanding, and computer vision); Explain why some tasks can be accomplished more easily by computers.

Describe ways in which computers use models of intelligent behavior (e.g., robot motion, speech and language understanding, and computer vision) and how they differ (e.g., emotional decision making versus logical decisions, common sense, literal versus abstract).

Design and demonstrate the use of a device (e.g., robot, e-textile) to accomplish a task, individually and collaboratively.

Use online resources to participate in collaborative activities for the purpose of developing solutions or products.

Improve teamwork and collaboration skills: providing useful feedback, integrating feedback, understanding, and accepting multiple perspectives.

Understand the difference between CC and BCC as well as Reply and Reply All and when to use each appropriately.

Collaborate productively and recognize the value of working with individuals of varying perspectives, skills, and backgrounds.

Set and implement equitable expectations and workloads when working in teams.

Demonstrate correct keyboarding techniques while increasing speed and maintaining accuracy.

Use productivity technology tools (e.g. word processing, spreadsheet, presentation software) for individual and collaborative writing, communication, and publishing activities.

Recognize that equitable access to computing benefits society as a whole.

Consider others' perspectives as well as one's own perspective when developing computational solutions.

Consider the needs of a variety of end users regarding accessibility and usability.

Use software applications to collaborate and create authentic products.

Identify and utilize the appropriate software application for productivity.

Use various applications in a professional manner to share and communicate with peers and teachers.

Share documents created using word processing, presentation, and spreadsheet software.

Create original works using software applications in a collaborative manner.

Collaborate in small groups to create and edit online documents in real time.

Identify and use appropriate file sharing strategies (e.g., copy and paste, links, posts, and attachments).

Evaluate and provide a rationale for the levels of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model.

Summarize from multiple sources the physical and digital aspects of computing networks.

Trace the layers required to transmit data from one node to another (the OSI model).

Construct and explain the basic functions of the OSI model.

Examine the basics of cybersecurity needs for business, government, and organizations.

List and define the elements of the confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA) triad.

Explain components of access control: Identification, Authentication, Authorization, Accountability, and Non-repudiation.

Identify the characteristics of strong vs. weak passwords in data and identity security.

List and describe the basic steps in security risk management.

Develop a logical argument for the importance of physical security.

Cite evidence regarding the principles of cybersecurity and basic mechanisms used for protecting data and resources.

Define the cybersecurity first principles of least privilege, minimization, abstraction, domain separation, process isolation, information hiding, layering, simplicity, modularity, and resource encapsulation.

Apply concepts related to the principles behind encryption, including the purpose of cryptography, hashing, and steganography.

Draw conclusions illustrating a basic understanding of internet protocol (IP) packets, ports and network transmission.

Summarize from multiple sources a basic understanding of anti-malware, firewalls, intrusion detection system/intrusion prevention system (IDS/IPS), and virtual private network (VPN).

Analyze and describe the characteristics of cybersecurity ethics, digital citizenship, and laws governing privacy.

Explain the differences between a white hat (ethical) hacker and a black hat (unethical) hacker.

Cite evidence regarding the practice of ethical digital decision-making, including plagiarism, copyright law, and software licensing types (freeware, public domain, shareware, etc.).

Summarize and provide examples regarding security and privacy laws and their impact on society, citing recent cases.

Analyze cyberbullying to include legal and social consequences

Develop a set of guidelines to prevent cyberbullying.

Develop arguments for policy-driven and technology-driven security.

Explore computer science and computing-related careers.

Investigate a career that requires computing and technology.

Describe how computer science enhances other career fields.

Predict the role of computer science in future careers.

Investigate and identify the basic components of computers and networks.

Identify the basic components of the computer by disassembling and reassembling a demonstration model personal computer (can be done 'virtually' online if demo model is not available).

Demonstrate an understanding of key functional components (input devices, output devices, processor, operating system, software applications, memory, storage, wi-fi and/or ethernet ports, and IP addresses).

Demonstrate an understanding of the terms and units used to describe major hardware components (RAM, ROM, GHz, MHz, GB, MB, CD, DVD, RW).

Explain the interrelation of the operating system software, application software, and utility software, citing specific examples of each.

Develop a basic vocabulary of networks including the Internet, wired, wireless, cellular, wi-fi, messages, packets, connections, bandwidth, broadband, firewall, hacking, cybersecurity, encryption, local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and OSI model.

Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental concepts for how computers process programming commands (hex, binary language, sequence of commands, conditional structures, looping structures).

Investigate ways to differentiate networks and how they are used in business and industry.

Create diagrams to illustrate types of network topologies to include star, ring, bus, mesh, and hybrid.

Differentiate networks based on coverage area including local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and personal area network (PAN)

Differentiate between different network mediums including Wi-fi, wired, satellite, and microwave.

Use technology resources to increase self-direction and self-regulation in learning, including for problem solving and collaboration (e.g., using the Internet to access online resources, edit documents collaboratively).

Understand the difference between editing a shared document and suggesting edits (e.g. track changes).

Use digital tools or platforms to organize, display, annotate, and/or share a curated collection.

Complete an individual project (e.g., research or design) using technology resources.

Develop a plan to create, design, and build a website with digital content to a specific target market.

Identify the objectives (e.g., increase sales, promote new products, increase company awareness, target new customers) for the website's target market.

Specify website requirements, including timeline and resources, and organize them into a requirements document.

Find and evaluate similar websites (in terms of overall function and layout) using an evaluation instrument for side-by-side comparison. Consider major design elements (ease of use, responsiveness, adaptability to mobile, tablet and desktop, etc.).

Evaluate a variety of web design tools and development platforms using an evaluation instrument and choose the appropriate platform.

Design digital products that reveal a professional layout and look by applying design principles to produce professional quality digital products.

Identify graphical elements and the appropriate use of elements on a web site.

Explore and apply color principles to digital products.

Establish a brand through consistent use of graphics, color, layout and text.

Analyze the look and layout of a website based on the first impression of content and page elements. Get feedback from independent people and incorporate where appropriate.

Create a single functional web page using a web development platform based on a design mockup and user requirements.

Create and edit images and graphics for website publication.

Plan, produce, and edit digital audio for website publication.

Plan, produce, edit, and post a multimedia-rich video project to a website.

Plan, produce, and edit animations for website publication.

Develop and use a test plan to debug each new website version to ensure it runs as intended and meets the end-user requirements for a responsive site.

Create a test and debug plan. Resolve issues and fix any errors that surface during the test and debug process.

Create an end user testing plan, get user feedback, and incorporate feedback into the final website.

Prepare website for publishing and promotion.

Develop a plan to create, design, and build a game with digital content for a specific target market.

Explore various game types including role-playing games (RPG), real-time strategy (RTS), simulations, puzzles, educational, massively multiplayer online (MMO), and others.

Create a Game Design Document (GDD), which includes, characters, story, theme, and gameplay mechanics.

Develop a visual model of a game from the Game Design Document (GDD).

Create storyboards from the GDD that demonstrate game progression and consistent use of a theme.

Use the GDD to design the wireframes and comprehensive layout for the user experience (UX).

Create a functional game, using a game development platform, based on the storyboards, wireframes, and comprehensive layout.

Create game elements, backgrounds, and characters.

Use scripting languages to create desired game mechanics, and to control the environment, user interface (UI), and character behaviors.

Plan, produce, and edit graphics and animations for game publication.

Plan, produce, and edit digital audio for game publication.

Develop and use a test plan to debug use each time a version of the game is released to ensure it runs as intended and meets the end-user requirements.

Create a test and debug plan. Resolve any issues and fix any errors that surface during the test and debug process.

Create an end user testing plan, get user feedback, and incorporate feedback into the final game.

Prepare final game for publishing prior to publishing to the target audience.