(1) An eighth-grade student at the novice level in science is beginning to attain the prerequisite knowledge and skills that are fundamental in science. He/she:

(a) identifies and describes a testable question, plans for a safely controlled investigation, makes simple observations, and communicates that observation is a key inquiry process used by Montana American Indians;

(b) with direction, describes the physical world, identifies simple chemical reactions, chemical formulas, and demonstrates a limited understanding of physical models;

(c) with direction, describes some basic interactions of the biotic (living) and abiotic (nonliving) parts of the biosphere and, with direction, provides basic descriptions of structure and function;

(d) with direction, identifies and describes the basic function and structure of the earth's lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere and the universe;

(e) with direction, identifies connections and interactions between technology, science, and society;

(f) with direct instruction, can discuss basic scientific information in current events and how it impacts local problems;

(g) with direction, identifies and describes examples of how science and technology are the results of human activity throughout history and, with direction, describes influences of science and technology on Montana American Indian cultures; and

(h) with direction, describes examples of Montana American Indian contributions to scientific and technological knowledge.