In 7th grade, students are enrolled in Life Science, a year-long class covering topics such as cell biology, genetics, evolution and structure and function in living systems; embedded in this content is an emphasis on the scientific method through investigations and experimental design. In 8^th grade, students study physical science through investigations with motion, forces and buoyancy.  Eighth grade students also study chemistry including the structure of matter, chemical reactions, the periodic table and the chemistry of living systems. Exploration in astronomy allows 8^th graders to learn about the structure and evolution of our solar system, galaxies and the universe.