WikiSpaces

All of the students in Ms. Costa's Science classes are in the process of researching self-selected or randomly chosen topics. The students have written at least four questions they want to know about their topic. They will record their information and write summary paragraphs on a private Internet space called WikiSpaces. Students can access and edit their work on any computer. Since it is private, only members of our WikiSpace can view and edit our pages. The 8th graders are researching weather related topics, such as hurricanes, sand storms, and blizzards. The 7th graders are researching Health and Genetics topics, such as Down's Syndrome, Sickle Cell Anemia, measles, and MRSA.

New Marking Period

We are now in the second marking period.

The 8th graders will begin their Weather and Climate unit by viewing the extreme weather in the movie "Twister." They will collect daily weather data, learn how to forecast the weather, and examine climate patterns around the world.

The 7th graders will continue their study of the Diversity of Life by conducting laboratory investigations to determine how viruses travel. Then, they will study the patterns of genetics. They will study genetic traits and use DNA fingerprinting to investigate real and simulated scenarios involving forensics.

8th Grade

We are currently investigating the transformation of energy. Students will conduct experiments, analyze and interpet data, create graphs, and draw conclusions about mechanical energy, heat energy, and energy waves. Their final assessment will include designing the perfect heat insulator.

7th Grade

We are currently investigating microscopic life, specifically elodea cells, paramecium, amoebae, euglenas, and several types of flagellates. Students will compare and contrast animal and plant cells, searching for evidence of the characteristics of life.