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8th Grade  Project 4 weeks

Science Quest: Conquer NYC Grade 8 Test!

Adeayo P
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RST.6-8.10
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Content Expertise
+ 1 more
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Purpose

This project aims to deepen students' understanding of genetics and cellular biology through immersive, hands-on experiences that connect classroom learning to real-world applications. By engaging with community partners and participating in interactive workshops, students will explore essential questions about genetic traits, cellular functions, and reproductive processes. The project encourages students to develop critical thinking, effective communication, and self-directed learning skills as they collaborate, reflect, and present their findings. Through this comprehensive approach, students will build a strong foundation for the NYC Grade 8 Science Test while fostering a sense of belonging and academic confidence.

Learning goals

Students will investigate how genetic information influences traits and predict these traits using Punnett squares. They will explore the structures and functions of cells and their impact on the health and survival of organisms. Through interactive workshops and peer-led activities, students will deepen their understanding of mitosis, meiosis, and the differences between asexual and sexual reproduction, focusing on genetic diversity. They will develop skills in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and effective communication, culminating in a Genetic Showcase Night to present their findings.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RST.6-8.10 - By the end of grade 8, read and comprehend science/technical texts in the grades 6—8 text complexity band independently and proficiently.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.

Products

Students will collaboratively design and create interactive digital presentations to illustrate genetic traits and heredity principles, incorporating data from their experiments at the science museum. They will also develop a series of creative skits or animations to demonstrate their understanding of cellular processes such as mitosis and meiosis. Additionally, students will compile a comprehensive digital portfolio that includes their reflections, predictions using Punnett squares, and insights gained from peer-led workshops and community feedback sessions.

Launch

Kick off the project with an immersive visit to a local science museum, where students participate in a hands-on workshop exploring cell biology and genetics. During the visit, students engage in interactive experiments that demonstrate the principles of heredity and reproduction, sparking curiosity and setting the stage for inquiry. This initial experience will serve as a foundation for their upcoming projects and discussions, encouraging them to connect real-world observations with scientific theories.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Genetic Showcase Night' where they present their projects on genetic traits and heredity to family members and community partners. They will use interactive displays and digital presentations to communicate their understanding of genetic principles. The event will feature hands-on activities and demonstrations from their experiments conducted at the science museum, allowing students to engage the audience in discussions about genetic diversity and cellular functions.