Mrs. Benson 8th grade science and 9th grade Biology extended
room 414 in 8th grade wing
WELCOME: Hi my name is Sandy Benson and I have been teaching science for Holland Public Schools for the past 21 years. I hold a B.S. in Biology and M.ed both from GVSU. I also hold a General Science endorsement through Hope. In addition to teaching, I am a wife and mother. I have two wonderful children who attend school in Grand Haven and a husband who teaches math at Muskegon High School. In my leisure time, I enjoy reading, softball, water sports and walking.
8TH GRADE SCIENCE: 8th grade science is a comprehensive study of Earth Science. First trimester we study Earth's structure, plates tectonics, earthquakes,volcanoes and the rock cycle. In the second trimester, we delve into the areas of hydrology, weather and climate. We complete the year with the study of global climate change, man's impact on the earth, earth's history and finally space.
9TH GRADE BIOLOGY EXTENDED: Biology Extended is a three trimester class geared toward teaching the state standards in biology. We begin the year with the chemistry of life, cell biology, cellular energy and cell division. In the second trimester, we study DNA, genetics, and the characteristics of living things. We complete the year by looking into the areas evolution, body systems, homeostasis and health, ecosystems and populations.
LOOKING AHEAD:
8th - We will be spending time in the computer lab researching Tornadoes and Hurricanes to complete our study of weather. In the middle of March we will begin to tackle the concept of seasons. A fun activity called "Pasta Parallels" will help kids better understand direct and indirect sun rays and seasons. Students will also begin work on a seasons poster which will be due shortly after spring break.
9th - We are starting our study of living things and body systems. Students will be working in the computer lab to become experts on the body systems of organisms found in Michigan ecosystems. They will present their findings to their classmates and eventually use their research to develop food web projects in our ecology unit.
