Back In the Lab Again: 8th Grade Science Foundations

By Lori Altenbaumer, 7th/8th Math & Science

There’s no better way to start a new year of science than by getting out of our seats and into the lab! Our 8th graders have officially kicked off IPC (Integrated Physics & Chemistry), and before diving into the physics and chemistry ahead, we spent some time building the laboratory skills they’ll use all year long.

Students rotated through a series of Lab Equipment Stations, where they got hands-on experience with many of the tools they’ll encounter during investigations this year. From glassware and heating equipment to measuring and transferring tools, students learned not only the names of each piece of equipment, but—more importantly—how and when each tool should be used.

At each station, students examined equipment, learned its purpose, and completed small tasks designed to help them become more comfortable working independently in the lab. Beakers, graduated cylinders, Erlenmeyer flasks, test tubes, Bunsen burners, hot plates, balances, thermometers, tongs, pipettes, funnels, and more were all part of the experience!

These stations are an important part of our Science Foundations Unit, but they also set the stage for everything to come. As our 8th graders move through IPC this year, they’ll be expected to design experiments, make precise measurements, collect reliable data, and choose the appropriate tools for the job. Knowing their way around the lab is the first step!

Most importantly, our students were moving, exploring, asking questions, and learning by doing—exactly what science should look like. This was only the beginning, and there will be plenty more opportunities to put these skills to work throughout the year.

The lab is officially open, and our 8th grade scientists are ready to investigate!