Information for Eighth Graders

Course Descriptions

English - A review of the parts of speech and correct usage including capitalization and punctuation skills applied to composition, various types of writing, and speech. Research, spelling, vocabulary building, and writing skills are emphasized.

Reading - A comprehensive study of writing and reading skills with emphasis on the elements of fiction, non-fiction, drama, poetry, etc. Career education is included with research, writing and presentations.

Math - A complete review of operations involving whole numbers, fractions, decimals, ratios/proportions and percents, continuation of development of problem solving strategies, reasoning skills, and applying these to problem solving situations. Other topics include geometry, signed numbers, equation solving and probability/statistics.

Pre-Algebra - A bridge to algebra which includes equation solving, properties of operation, integers, using algebra in geometry, inequalities, probability/statistics, introduction to polynomials and an introduction to trigonometry. Students should plan on maintaining a "B" average.

Algebra - Study of rational numbers, graphs and solution of equations in one and two unknowns.  Factoring quadratic equations, powers, roots, formulas and proportions are other topics covered. Students will be screened and invited to participate based on teacher recommendation, Orleans-Hanna test, basic computational skills test, and ISTEP/CTBS scores in mathematics. Parent nominations are accepted to allow students to participate in the screening process.

U. S. History - The social, political and economic aspects of U. S. History from early exploration to the Industrial Revolution.  Students will learn map reading and reasoning skills necessary for continued growth in social studies.

Science - The first trimester is spent studying cell and plant biology. The second trimester includes a study of heredity and genetics.  The final trimester is a laboratory-centered study of basic chemistry and matter. Individual and/or group student projects during all trimesters are aimed at developing organizational and critical thinking skills.

Health - A comprehensive instructional program intended to promote wellness through the understanding and prevention of disease and the development of decision-making skills related to health and healthy behavior. Topic discussions include growth and development, mental and emotional health, community and environmental health, family life education, consumer health, accident prevention, safety, loss education and substance use, misuse, and abuse.

Physical Education - A trimester-long course designed to learn more advanced sport skills and to encourage an interest in fitness and activity. Students will wear appropriate clothes, tennis shoes and white socks.

Life Tech - A trimester-long component that includes the following courses:

• Industrial Technology - Students will be exposed to the application of technolog in the following areas: aerodynamics, animation, automation and robotics, biotechnology, computer-aided design and problem solving analysis, exploratory electronics, fiber optics and lasers, flight simulation, computer servicing, mechanical power, radio broadcasting and video production.

• Life Management - A nine-week course which allows students to choose modules from the following life skills areas: food and nutrition, child care, sewing skills, money management, self-awareness, clothing care and interior decorating. Responsibility, record keeping and cooperative learning are emphasized.

Fine Arts - A trimester-long study of art and music that includes the following courses:

• Art - Students will discover the importance of innovative thinking, personal expression and development of civilization's traditions, religion and recorded history. Students will study artists artworks and art styles from around the world and create in two- and three-dimensional media. They will visit an art museum, later critiquing and discussing personal opinions about art from Indiana to Egypt.

• Music - A six-week overview of basic music concepts. Students learn listening skills, simple rhythm and melody lines, music careers and history of music (Classical through 20th Century.)

Students with a stronger interest in music may choose one of the following courses in place of the Fine Arts component:

• Choir - Continuation of an advanced choral group. Review of good choral reading is stressed. Maximum academic achievement requires attendance at performances.

• Orchestra - Continuation of advanced orchestra for 7th and 8th grade students. Advanced string techniques will be stressed.  Students must provide their own instruments. Maximum academic achievement requires attendance at performances.

• Band - A performing and learning experience for continuing 8th grade band students. Additional experiences will be available for outstanding students. Students must provide their own instruments. Maximum academic achievement requires attendance at performances.