8th Grade Science Curriculum

Eighth-grade science provides a deeper understanding of the living world and its functions while wrapping up middle school science as a whole! 

At this stage, students are ready for complex biological concepts such as cells, genetics, body systems, ecosystems, and the interdependence of organisms. 

Learning about life science builds critical thinking and observation skills essential for scientific literacy. In this course, middle schoolers prepare for high school biology while thinking critically about health, sustainability, and the positive changes we can make for life on our planet.

Sample Lesson

You can find more science for eighth grade on YouTube at The Miacademy Learning Channel!

Is my student ready for 8th grade science topics?

Before starting eighth-grade science, we recommend a good understanding of seventh-grade science topics or completion of our seventh-grade science curriculum, Astronomy.

Your student is likely ready for eighth-grade science if they can:

1. Understand basic properties of matter (solid, liquid, gas) and simple changes in state
2. Recognize basic elements (like oxygen and carbon) and understand the concept of atoms and molecules
3. Describe the difference between physical and chemical changes
4. Explain how simple forces work, like gravity, friction, and magnetism
5. Describe energy’s ability to do work, with examples like heat, motion, and light
6. Use scientific tools like thermometers, rulers, and microscopes with guidance
7. Measure length, volume, mass, and temperature using metric units
8. Read and interpret simple graphs, tables, and diagrams
9. Follow steps in a scientific investigation: asking questions, making predictions, and recording data
10. Organize ideas logically and write short explanations of scientific observations

Sample – 8th Grade Science Curriculum PDF Download

Each video lesson has printable science worksheets with additional activities to extend learning beyond the screen with a hands-on approach!

Click here to download a free sample PDF of our eighth-grade science worksheets:

What are the 8th grade science standards?

Eighth grade science standards focus on major biological concepts, such as cells, genetics, and body systems; basic chemistry concepts, such as atoms and elements; and physics properties, such as force and energy.

Miacademy meets these important standards thoughtfully, encouraging students to deeply explore each area of science while building on their learning every year. For example, physical sciences in early grades introduce students to energy, while the eighth-grade course deepens their understanding of energy transfers within both ecosystems and organisms. Students will learn to:

• Understand atoms, elements, and how they combine to form molecules and compounds
  
• Recognize physical and chemical changes, states of matter, and how matter behaves
  
• Explore the structure of atoms and how the periodic table organizes elements
  
• Investigate forces, motion, and energy, including Newton’s laws and energy transformations
  
• Study cells, their functions, and how traits are inherited through genetics
  
• Explore ecosystems, food chains, environmental changes, and natural selection
  
• Examine Earth’s structure, including the rock cycle, tectonic activity, and natural disasters
  
• Understand weather, climate, the water cycle, and Earth’s place in the solar system
  
• Practice scientific thinking by forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, and analyzing data

Standards can vary by state, so be sure to check what’s required where you live.

Scope and Sequence

Life Science

In this course, students explore the fundamentals of biology, diving deep into cells, cellular processes, DNA, and body systems. With hands-on labs, independent research projects, and thought-provoking lessons, students gain an in-depth understanding and appreciation for the intricacies and wonders of life on Earth.

Our 8th Grade Science Homeschool Curriculum

Our eighth grade Life Science course offers middle school students an engaging and comprehensive introduction to the wonderful world of biology. Through interactive lessons, videos, and hands-on activities, this course emphasizes scientific thinking and real-world connections, helping students understand key biological concepts while developing an appreciation for the miracle of life.

Plus, one of the best things about our homeschool science curriculum is its flexibility! You get full customization over your lesson plans and assignments to fit your child’s unique learning needs. Students can pick up where they left off and begin working on new topics.

Our family of accredited curricula covers everything from lab safety to physics and chemistry and adapts easily to your child’s educational needs.

Whether you homeschool full time or are looking to supplement a public school education, we’re here to support you! Wondering if Miacademy’s eighth-grade homeschool curriculum can be a good fit for your student? Start a chat with one of our friendly customer service agents below! They’ll be happy to help you with any questions you may have.