Hello from 8th grade
science!
So far this quarter students have
been working hard learning about motion and Isaac Newton. Combining new material with lab experiments
helps engage students while also increasing their level of understanding. In studying average speed, students used
bubble gum to gather data about their chomp speed and then graphed their
results using Microsoft Excel. In
studying mass and momentum, students measured the time it takes for gravity to
accelerate balls of various masses down a ramp.
They then related that data to momentum when they measured the distance
the balls would push a cup. In learning
about Isaac Newton, we have had great class discussions about gravity, rockets
and inertia. Students competed in a lab
to see which group could accelerate a golf ball with the most force, using
Newton’s second law which says force = mass x acceleration. We will transition into talking about simple
machines later this week when students will draw their own “Rube Goldberg
Cartoon” to demonstrate their understanding.
To the parents of rising 9th
graders: I want to draw your attention to 3 academies that Albemarle County
Public Schools offers next year for your child.
They are: MESA (Math, Engineering and Science Academy) at Albemarle High
School, HMSA (Health and Medical Sciences Academy) at Monticello High School and
the new Environmental Studies Academy at Western Albemarle High School. While offering all course work necessary for
graduation, each academy also offers a rigorous curriculum in their area of
concentration. Check out the academy
webpages (from this link: http://www2.k12albemarle.org/acps/schools/Pages/default.aspx)
if your child is interested in applying. There you will find applications and
information to answer any questions you might have.
Thanks!
Heather Kepple
8th grade physical
science
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