Middle School Science

Mrs. Ellie Farnham
p: 317-786-4013 ext. 219
e: efarnham@stmarkindy.org
Below is a list of the skills and knowledge that students will acquire during Science class at St. Mark Catholic School. 

6th Science
Students will be able to: 
  • differentiate between various celestial bodies and their role in the universe.
  • discuss the rotation and revolution of the Earth and their implications.
  • identify the moon in its different phases, as well as both lunar and solar eclipses.
  • relate the moon to the changing of Earth's tides.
  • differentiate between living and nonliving things.
  • discuss the structure of all living things on a cellular level.
  • relate photosynthesis and cellular respiration.
  • describe the interactions both inside and between ecosystems.
  • differentiate between various types of energy and their relationship to the Law of Conservation of Energy.
  • investigate their own role in use of energy on Earth.
  • differentiate between speed and velocity.
  • use the engineering design process during various units throughout the year. 

7th Science
Students will be able to:
  • predict the function of a cell based on the presence of certain organelles.
  • explain the connection between mitosis and cancer.
  • use the engineering design method to construct and sell an original product.
  • use Newton's Laws in real world situations (i.e. Egg Drop Challenge)
  • relate the structure of matter in its various phases to the laws of conservation and energy.
  • describe the structure of Earth and its implications.
  • identify rocks of various types using their knowledge of the rock cycle.
  • use a geologic time scale based on evidence from rock strata.
  • use the engineering design process during various units throughout the year. ​

8th Science
Students will be able to: 
  • differentiate between asexual and sexual reproduction.
  • discuss various genetic research topics (cloning, selective breeding), citing the Catholic Church's belief on these topics.
  • apply genetic principles to solve genetic problems.
  • explain the steps of replication, transcription, and translation.
  • construct models of atoms and their particles.
  • differentiate between the different types of matter and non-matter.
  • use the periodic table to solve chemistry problems.
  • model both covalent and ionic bonding patterns.
  • compare various types of chemical reactions.
  • use the fossil record, dating, and population trends to support Darwin's ideas of evolution.
  • analyze the human impact on our environment including water supply, natural resources, climate change, and our overall impact on nature.
  • use the engineering design process during various units throughout the year. ​