EIGHTH GRADE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
8TH GRADE MATHEMATICS
Mathematics for the eighth grade is a review of all basic number facts, computational skills, basic geometry, statistics, and graphing of data. The course stresses mastery of all operations with signed numbers, solving multi-step equations and inequalities, and the application of a variety of problem solving techniques to new situations. GEPA style questions and concepts are incorporated throughout the year.
8TH GRADE ENGLISH/MATH ENRICHMENT
This course teaches students strategies for answering multiple choice and open-ended questions in Mathematics and Language Arts. In Mathematics, the students work on the four math clusters. In Language Arts, the students work on writing prompts, revising and editing, and narrative and persuasive reading. This course incorporates and reviews the strategies and skills needed for the district and/or state mandated test(s).
Math Enrichment for the eighth grade will include statistics, probability, percent problems, geometric concepts, patterns, and the application of a variety of problem solving techniques. The course will stress necessary skills and problem solving for the State testing. Multiple choice, free response and open-ended questions will be provided as well as hands-on activities to reinforce concepts.
Computer technology will provide a wide range of materials to meet a variety of learning styles, interests, and abilities. The students will be exposed to up-to-date, accurate information that will be easy to understand and applicable to them. The integration of software into the course will complement class instruction.
****This course meets on alternate days and will meet for approximately 18 weeks. The course is supplemental to the eighth grade pre-algebra/algebra and English courses in which all New Jersey State Core Content Standards are met.
8TH GRADE ENGLISH
English 8 offers sequential instruction in the fundamentals of grammar, usage, and mechanics, as well as literature, writing skills, and vocabulary. Certain stories, poems, and dramas together with specific concepts are presented in progressively more complex forms so that present learning reflects past experience and leads to the next level of achievement. In addition, a unit in classical mythology is completed for its intrinsic value and importance as a literary source. Furthermore, the course is designed to help students discover and develop ideas. The emphasis on prewriting, writing, and revising enables students to manage the writing process and stimulates critical thinking.
8TH GRADE SOCIAL STUDIES
This course is an overview of U.S. History from pre-Columbian times up to the Civil War. Concentration is given to learning organizational and study skills. Units on geography and New Jersey are included in order to help students identify their place in the greater world.
8TH GRADE SCIENCE
This is an integrated program designed to introduce eighth grade students to the discipline of science. The interrelationships of astronomy, geology, meteorology, and oceanography are emphasized. The course will include current science, environmental, and technological issues, as well as the physical and life sciences in order to prepare students to be responsible citizens of the 21st century.
8TH GRADE PHYSICAL EDUCATION/ HEALTH
The Eighth Grade Physical Education program provides direct instruction and appropriate experiences for the development of advanced physical skills, game strategies and human movement. Students have the opportunity to select units of study in physical fitness activities, individual, dual and team and lifetime sports. Fitness concepts and assessments are infused throughout the program as well as specific units of study.
The Eighth Grade Health Education program covers male/female reproductive systems, human sexuality, sexually transmitted diseases and AIDS education.
8th GRADE CHOIR
This course is designed to teach the following:
· Develop an awareness of the aesthetic value of musical blend, balance, style,
and phrasing of the individual voice in its relation to the entire group.
· Develop an understanding of appropriate audience behavior.
Choir is scheduled during the lunch period. Students attend lunch for half of the period and choir for the remaining half period.
8TH GRADE CYCLE COURSES
Art Cycle – This course is a sampler of the High School Level 1 course. Over the course of one marking period, students will be introduced to art room procedures and they will complete a series of short term assignments designed to expose them to a variety of art mediums. Students will learn the basics of color mixing, painting, basic drawing, and simple sculpture.
COIN - (Cooperative Occupational Interactive Network) This course is a 10 week continuation of the program for the seventh graders. Students will explore career opportunities using on-line resources. They will research career options, explore educational levels needed for the career, review salary projections, and explore advancement opportunities. In addition, students will engage in resume writing and take part in mock job interviews.
Word Processing – This course teaches touch keyboarding and efficient use of the computer. Students learn correct techniques as well as speed and accuracy. Mastery of the manipulative controls of the computer is stressed. Proofreading and utilizing proper grammatical functions are also emphasized.
World Issues – This course is designed to cause students to become socially, politically, culturally, and economically aware of current issues facing our planet. Students will be provided a taste of a full semester course available to them as an elective in the High School.
ADDITIONAL COURSES THAT MAY BE TAKEN IN 8TH GRADE
French I - See High School World Languages Department
Spanish I - See High School World Languages Department
Algebra I (H) - See High School Mathematics Department
English as a Second Language (ESL) - See High School English Department
Basic Skills Instruction (BSI)
Basic skills instruction in English and/or mathematics is for students who were identified by the district and/or state mandated tests as below proficient in language arts, mathematics or both. Throughout the year students will work on the NJ Core Standards. The English portion will focus on revising, editing, writing strategies, and persuasive reading. The mathematics portion will stress problem-solving techniques.