Course Descriptions

8th Grade: Grade eight language arts classes address the state mandated standards. Over the course of the year, students will engage in numerous activities designed to help them achieve these standards and perpare them for high school.

Students will study novels, short stories, plays, essays, and poetry. They will learn to recognize and interpret theme, setting, plot, tone, conflict and methods of characterization as well as identify such literary devices as symbolism, irony, imagery, and figurative language. Vocabulary development will be an integral patr of their study. In addition to works read in class, students will participate in the Accelerated Reader Program, an independent reading program.

Students will devlop fluency, form and correctness in a variety of writing modes. Grammar, usage, spelling, and punctuation will be learned through reading, writing, and speaking as they pursue maning in literature. In addition, these skills will be developed through grammar instruction.

Content 2

Content 3

8th Grade Science: Welcome to Physical Science! The units of study will include the following: astronomy, structure of matter, chemical interactions, and motion and forces. Throughout the entire course, students will learn how to communicate scientific findings orally and in written forms. Special emphasis will be placed on Cooperative Learning and SDAIE (Specially Designed Academic Instruction In English) strategies to target both English language learner students, and struggling readers. Such strategies are research-based and proven to provide access to scientific concepts to all students in a fun, interactive, and hands-on environment.

Textbook: Glencoe, Focus on Physical Science. This text is aligned with the State of California Science Content Standards for 8th grade physical science.

7th Grade Science:

Course Textbook:
Holt – Life Science

Course Description:
Life science is a one-year course that provides students a survey of biological concepts and principles, develops science process skills, and gives an insight into health, biological, and ecological issues that will confront students as adults. Laboratory opportunities will help students understand the concepts and theories presented in class and in their textbook.

T.V. Production/Digital Media: Student run news station- The Eagle Eye!

Drama: Theater games, playwriting, set building, directing the action, costuming, rehearsals and acting.

Yearbook: Students prouce the yearbook.

Computer Applications: Learn to use the computer as a problem-solving tool to complete a variety of projects.

Web Design: Design and publish your own website.

Where Everyone Belongs (WEB): An opportunity to mentor 7th graders, attend special lunchesm parties, and movie nights.

Spanish: Listening and speaking from day one! Conversational and comprehension skills.

Art: Produce a variety of 2D and 3D projects using the elements of art.

Band: Beginning, internediate, and advanced bands. Travel opportunities and off-campus festivals.

 

Content 6