8th Grade

Advisory

The middle school advisory program at our school is tailored to ensure the academic and social success of students. These advisory sessions, held twice a week, cover various crucial topics such as grades, personal and academic goals, time management, screen time management, health and wellness, and more. Comprising a mix of 6th, 7th, and 8th graders, each advisory group is led by eighth graders who serve as mentors in the small group setting. This mentorship model fosters a supportive environment, promoting connections and guidance throughout the students' entire middle school experience. The advisory program plays a vital role in enhancing the middle school schedule, providing valuable time for connection and support.

Social Studies

In 8th-grade Social Studies, students explore American History and Government, delving into pivotal events such as the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, the Gettysburg Address, WWII, and 9/11. The curriculum provides a comprehensive examination of these historical milestones, fostering a deep understanding of their impact on the nation. To enrich their learning experience, students can access suggested resources such as The Split History of the Civil War by Stephanie Fitzgerald, The Emancipation Proclamation and The Gettysburg Address by Karen Price Hossell, Lincoln’s Last Days by Bill O’Reilly, The Split History of WWII by Simon Rose, Living Through World War II by Andrew Langley, Bomb by Steve Sheinkin, and Witness to History, September 11, 2001 by Brendan January. These resources provide diverse perspectives and in-depth insights into key historical events, enhancing students' understanding of American history and government.

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.

Math

In 8th-grade Math, students encounter an engaging curriculum structured around Big Ideas by Houghton Mifflin. The program offers two distinct options to cater to varying mathematical abilities. Students can opt for an overarching program covering a comprehensive range of mathematical concepts, providing a strong foundation and introducing them to algebraic principles. Alternatively, for those seeking a more advanced challenge, there's the option to be placed directly into Algebra 1. This flexible approach ensures that each student can tailor their mathematical learning experience based on their individual proficiency and readiness for algebraic concepts. The curriculum aims to equip students with the necessary skills for continued success in their mathematical journey.

Science

In 8th-grade Science, students delve into a comprehensive exploration of biological concepts using Biology – A Human Approach by BSCS. The curriculum is structured around key themes, including Evolution, focusing on change in living systems, Homeostasis, addressing the maintenance of dynamic equilibrium in living systems, Energy, Matter, and Organization, emphasizing relationships in living systems, Continuity, delving into reproduction and inheritance, Development, covering growth and differentiation, and Ecology, exploring interaction and interdependence in living systems. Through this curriculum, students gain a deep understanding of the intricate workings of biological systems, from evolutionary processes to ecological dynamics, preparing them for advanced studies in the life sciences.