8th Grade Science Fair Projects
An eighth grader will learn much about association during this year of school.
Students will study how organisms live in association with each other and will learn terms such as symbiosis, commensalism, mutalism, and parasitism.
Oceanology
A great deal of attention will be focused on oceanic life such as sponges, seaweed, and other small sea creatures that must depend on each other for survival. Studies will include habitats and adaptation, biomes, and why different animals are only found in particular parts of the world.
Reproduction
Methods of reproduction, both sexual and asexual, will appear in your child's textbook. This is part of his study of heredity and genetics, which is a continuation of what was introduced in seventh grade. Of course, the study of genetics is not complete without the mention of DNA. Your child will learn about how important DNA is to humans' unique build up. This will lead to a discussion on genetic engineering and even mutation of genes.
Earth Sciences
Students will also continue their study of the Earth and its make up. Your child will learn what makes up the earth's core and crust. He will extrapolate his knowledge from previous years on the subject of plate tectonics and continental drift. Different kinds of rock will be studied and you may hear your child referring to sedimentary, igneous, or metamorphic rock. (This is a fantastic time to take a family trip to Hawaii or the Grand Canyon!) Even a simple trip to the nearest coast or mountain range will help solidify your child's interest in rocks.
Geological Occurrence
Including your child in activities like these will not only help spark interest, but will help your child appreciate where he comes from. Rarely do children notice geological occurrences in their home town, even if it is a prime location for such studies. Getting your child out to see other parts of the world will help him come up with science fair project ideas all on his own.
Social Development
Eighth grade is an important time in a child's social development as well. You may find your child seeking advice from a school tutor or doing his own research, rather than asking you for help on his project. This independence is important in developing your child's self esteem. However, you can still help him think of ideas or overcome obstacles in his search for ideas. If you are unable to take a trip with your child, try surfing the Internet or watching the Discovery Channel or National Geographic together. There are many resources that can be used at home in the same manner.
