BPS Middle School Course Catalog 2025-2026 - Flipbook - Page 20
8th Grade Science
In the 8th Grade Science course, students will leverage the knowledge gained in previous years
to delve into more complex scientific concepts, including changes in the Earth, energy
transformations in chemical reactions within living systems, genetics, the impact of
environmental conditions on organisms, and the principles of force, energy, and motion. This
curriculum emphasizes the application of science and engineering practices and crosscutting
concepts as outlined by the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), encouraging students to
plan investigations, collect and analyze data, and use models for constructing explanations. By
actively engaging in these scientific processes, students will develop a deeper understanding of
the world around them, enhancing their analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
This course is designed to empower students to apply scientific principles to real-world
situations, fostering a generation of informed and inquisitive individuals ready to tackle future
challenges.
Schools offered:
BCS: 7th grade
Berkshire: 7th grade
Derby: 7th grade
Social Studies
6th Grade Social Studies
Throughout the year, 6th-grade students will immerse themselves in the integrated study of
social sciences, history, geography, civics, and economics, focusing on ancient history. This
comprehensive course delves into the civilizations of the ancient world, including the study of
various river valley civilizations and the empires of Afro-Eurasia, as well as the exploration of
Greece and Rome. Students will learn to analyze different types of evidence used by social
scientists to understand human life in the past. Additionally, the course will cover the world's five
major religions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—providing students with
insights into the diverse cultural beliefs that have shaped human history. The curriculum also
examines the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, offering a broad perspective on global cultures and
histories. By incorporating current events, the course also links past civilizations with
contemporary issues, emphasizing their relevance to the world outside the classroom and their
significance to students' lives today. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of ancient
history and cultural diversity and encourages students to think critically about historical and
current global challenges.
Schools offered:
BCS: 6th grade
Berkshire: 6th grade
Derby: 6th grade
