Advisory
Social Studies
English: Reading and Language Arts
In 8th-grade English and Language Arts, students engage in an academically rigorous, high school prep class that encompasses various facets of a quality language arts curriculum. The course covers compositional writing, grammar practice, challenging vocabulary exercises, public speaking opportunities, and exposure to excellent literature. Students explore literary works such as To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, offering a unique perspective on human behavior through the eyes of an 8-year-old, as Scout Finch narrates the story of an accused young black man in Maycomb, Alabama. They also delve into Lord of the Flies by William Golding, a chilling exploration of humanity's descent into darkness. Additionally, students encounter The Power of One by Bruce Courtenay, set against the backdrop of Hitler's rise to power and exploring the transformative journey of the protagonist, Peekay, in 1939 South Africa. Through these literary works, students not only hone their language arts skills but also gain profound insights into the complexities of human nature and societal dynamics.