Science, Grade 8

Unit 1: Cells, Tissues, Organs, and Systems

The characteristics of cells and the structures of plant and animal cells, using a compound light microscope, the organization of cells into tissues, organs, and systems, and the interdependence of human organ systems.

• The cell as a living system
• Single-celled, multicellular, and cell division
• Plant and animal cell structures

• Microscope proficiency

• Levels of organization in the body
• Careers in health and the human body

• Systems working together
• Lifestyle and body systems
• The body's responses and support technologies

Unit 2: Optics and Vision

The sources and properties of visible light, optics-related technologies including mirrors and lenses, human vision compared with optical devices, and electromagnetic radiation-based technologies.

• Light travels in straight lines
• Reflection
• Refraction

• Concave and convex mirrors and lenses
• Ray diagrams and optical devices

• The eye as an optical instrument
• Colour and vision technologies

• The electromagnetic spectrum
• Radiation-based technologies

Unit 3: Forces, Fluids, and Density

The density of solids, liquids, and gases, forces in fluids including buoyancy, physical properties of fluids such as viscosity and compressibility, and the scientific principles behind fluid systems.

• Measuring density
• Calculating density and temperature effects

• Buoyancy and Archimedes' Principle
• Forces and pressure in fluids
• Designing a floating cargo vessel

• Viscosity
• Compressibility and pressure

• Hydraulic and pneumatic systems

Unit 4: Water Systems on Earth

The distribution of water and threats to water systems, how wind, water, and ice shape the landscape, and the natural factors and human practices that affect aquatic productivity and species distribution.

• Water distribution and the water cycle
• Threats to water systems

• Weathering, erosion, and deposition by water
• Glaciation and icecaps

• Factors affecting aquatic life
• Measuring water quality