Download Grade 8

Grade 8
Objective
Students will be able to:
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Identify and explain the function of chloroplasts,
Describe how the functions of chloroplast are related to photosynthesis and respiration,
Explain the carbon cycle in more detail, and
Explain how these concepts relate to agriculture and greenhouse gases.
Key Concepts
Introduce students to the major structures (and their functions) in plant and animal cells. When
describing the role of chloroplasts, discuss photosynthesis and cellular respiration and how this relates
to agriculture and greenhouse gas emissions (carbon cycling).
Water Systems:
You can tie in information form this section into soil erosion in agriculture and how that is also a source
of greenhouse gases (see Grade 7 Lesson Plan 7-4-10 and 7-4-11). Relate these concepts to erosion and
deposition and how the layout of the land is influenced by the presence and type of agriculture in an
area. Discuss the management techniques that attempt to limit erosion and therefore, greenhouse
gases emission caused by erosion. (See Grade 7 Lesson Pan for information on soil erosion).
Cluster 1: Cells and Systems
8-1-05 Identify and compare major structures in plants and animal cells, and explain their function.
Include: cell membrane, cytoplasm, mitochondria, nucleus, vacuoles, cell wall, and chloroplasts.
(Connection: The function of chloroplasts (and indirectly the structures and functions of many plants) are
related to photosynthesis and respiration, as occurs in all agricultural crops and affects the cycling of
carbon (from the gas to the plant and a gas again); It should also be noted that since all living things
contain carbon, the investigation into the carbon cycle could be beneficial)
Discuss photosynthesis and the carbon cycle: See Grade 7 Lesson Plan 7-1-02 for information on the
carbon cycling in agriculture. As well, see Grade 7 Lesson Plan 7-1-08 for information on photosynthesis
and cellular respiration and how it connects to the carbon cycle.