In eighth grade, the students will move from classroom to classroom as their classes change and experience a variety of teachers and teaching styles. There are two levels in Language Arts and math determined by the student’s ability.
Eighth graders are paired with students in the second grade for Mass and special occasions. The eighth graders act as mentors to their second grade buddies and help them with their sacramental preparation.
Curriculum Summary
Language Arts
- Language arts in the 8th grade is designed to encourage students to develop strategies that deal with language in real life situations. Writing focuses on prewriting, composing and editing with emphasis on narrative, expository, persuasive and descriptive texts. Reading comprehension and vocabulary stresses development of reading and thinking skills that enable students to comprehend and react critically to various genres. The student will continue to develop an appreciation for literature through a study of literary elements contained in classic works as well as contemporary selections of both fiction and non-fiction. Language objectives stress mechanics, language expression and organization of ideas. Information and research skills emphasize organization and analysis to synthesize information
Mathematics – students will either study 8th grade math or Algebra 1 based on the student’s ability
- 8th grade math
- Solve proportions
- Work with percents greater than 100 or less than 1
- Add/subtract/multiply/divide with integers
- Simplify using order of operations
- Find perimeter/area/volume/surface area of geometric shapes and solids
- Solve fractional part problems and equations with variables on both sides
- Solve equations with variables on both sides
- Algebra
- Understand operations, numbers, ways of representing numbers, relationships among numbers and number systems.
- Represent and analyze mathematical situations and structures using algebraic thought.
- Use equations in problem solving
- Solve problems involving inequalities
- Understand the connection between relations and functions
- Apply knowledge of graphs and linear equations
- Solve systems of equations by multiple methods
- Demonstrate understanding of exponents and polynomials
- Use factoring to solve equations
- Understand rational and radical expressions and use them to solve equations
Science
- Physical science concepts focus on matter, energy and the interactions of matter and energy. Physical science progresses students from exploring physical characteristics of materials to knowing how atoms and molecules are arranged. Students have the opportunity to investigate and apply the basic concepts of physical science as a foundation for other science disciplines.
Social Studies
- The student will describe and analyze the major causes, key events and important personalities of the American Revolution. The student will examine in greater depth the factors, events, documents significant individuals and political ideas that led to the formation of the United States of America. These will be pursued through a chronological study of the establishment of the 13 colonies, early national development and understanding of constitutional government in the United States. The student will continue to develop and put to use a variety of Social Studies Process and Literacy Skills.
Religion – Church History
- Trinity
- The Church and it’s growth
- Church Leaders
- Church Councils
- The Christian response
- Morality and ethics
- Social Issues
- Human Life
- Prayer
The complete Diocesan Curriculum is available here.
Enrichment
- Art
- Music
- P.E.
- Library
- Computer
- Spanish
Special Activities and Celebrations
- 8th grade/2nd grade buddy activities
- Ropes course
- Ribbon Mass
- End of year trip
- Graduation ceremony