Grade 8 Biology Semester 2 Final Exam Outline

Important Dates

• Review Day: Week 16, Class Meeting 3 (May 15 or 16, 2025)
• Office Hours: Tue 5/27 and Wed 5/28 (2:30-3:30pm)
• Final Exam Days:
  • Tue, May 27th (Periods 8, 7, 6)
  • Wed, May 28th (Periods 5, 4, 3)
  • Thu, May 29th (Periods 2, 1)

Topics Covered

• Genetics
• Evolution
• Intro to Anatomy & Physiology / Homeostasis
• Endocrine System
• Reproductive System
• Immune System
• Skeletal System
• Circulatory System
• Nervous System

Exam Format

• Duration: 60 minutes
• Total Points: 95
  • 70 points: Scantron
  • 30 points: Free response

Study Tips

• Write potential test questions as you study
• Use end-of-chapter questions in textbooks
• Create flashcards for vocabulary
• Use Quizlet
• Draw diagrams for anatomy
• Study with a peer
• Review labs for main ideas
• Use online resources and videos for review

Study Resources (Ranked by Importance)

1. Old tests and lab checks
2. Lab notes and handouts on Schoology
3. Lectures and study guides on Schoology
4. Weekly Agenda Doc
5. Main textbook ideas and keywords
6. Dissection binders (available during OH)
7. Class handouts and assignments
8. Youtube playlists on Genetics, Evolution, Human Anatomy
9. Quizlets (via Ms. Peng's class)

Key Knowledge Areas

Genetics

• Asexual vs. Sexual reproduction
• Predict offspring genotypes using Punnett squares
• Solve problems in non-Mendelian genetics
• Interpret pedigrees

Evolution

• Definition and evidence for evolution
• Mechanisms of evolution

Anatomy & Physiology (Homeostasis)

• Negative vs. Positive feedback
• Feedback loops examples

Endocrine System

• Label diagrams of glands
• Match gland names and functions

Reproductive System

• Hormonal changes and reproductive structures
• Preventive measures for STIs and pregnancy

Chicken Wing Dissection

• Identify structures and their functions

Skeletal System

• Identify bones from the skeleton song

Circulatory System

• Label heart diagrams and understand functions

Immune System

• Layers of defense and herd immunity

Nervous System

• Structure of the nervous system
• Neuron diagram and function
• Cow’s eye anatomy

Vocabulary & Textbook Modules

• Review vocabulary from textbooks, labs, and class
• Focus on specific textbook modules for each topic

Labs, Homework, and Activities

• Genetics: Punnett squares, breeding labs, Harry Potter pedigree
• Evolution: Workshops, lab comparisons, design challenges
• Anatomy & Physiology: Feedback loops, homeostasis labs
• Endocrine System: Glands, disorders, breakout activities
• Reproductive System: Anatomy, menstrual cycle, STIs
• Skeletal System: Song, stations, x-rays
• Circulatory System: Sheep heart dissection
• Immune System: Simulations and symposiums
• Nervous System: Experiments and dissections

Note:

• Fetal Pig Dissections are not included on the final exam.