Hoover offers a year long science course, required for all students. At the core of these classes are hands-on, activity-based programs. All science classes follow California state standards, which can be viewed at http://www.cde.ca.gov/be/st/ss/scmain.asp. The sixth grade course focuses on earth science, covering topics such as earthquakes and volcanoes. The seventh grade course centers on life science, including the study of genetics and the human body. The eighth grade course emphasizes physical science, incorporating ideas like forces, motion and chemistry. The fundamental skills and knowledge that the students will acquire in these classes will prepare them for further education beyond middle school.