Science
Students will explore the basic principles of metric measurement, motion, chemistry, light, sound, energy, and conservation of natural resources.  Students are encouraged to “learn by doing” and through hands-on activities, as well as math manipulation and graphing skills, they will be able to relate concepts learned in the classroom to daily life.  Current environmental issues will be researched and possible solutions explored.  Through group work, the students should complete a project that will demonstrate their stewardship of the environment.

Mathematics
Pre-Algebra refines and reinforces basic computation with instruction and practice in problem-solving strategies.  Through career and consumer applications, the students have an opportunity to solve real-life problems.  Constructions, modeling, and manipulations reinforce basic information processing when performing operations using decimals, fractions, percents, integers, measurements, units, charts, graphs, and geometric properties.

Algebra One is an option intended for the accelerated math student who is beginning a five-year sequence of courses culminating in calculus.  Qualified students must exhibit excellent study habits and assume personal responsibility for learning the basic terms, facts, and arithmetic computation skills.  Entrance requirements combine performance on standardized tests, a prognosis test, grade B or better in Mathematics 7, Pre-Algebra, and teacher recommendation.

Integrated Language Arts
The reading curriculum focuses on developing a lifelong enjoyment of reading through use of material such as novels, literature books, newspapers, and various books.  Students receive instruction in literal and inferential comprehension, vocabulary development, study skills, and literacy appreciation skills.

Usage and mechanics are included as well as public speaking and library research skills.  The three areas of vocabulary, spelling, and grammar are united in composition focusing on narrative, descriptive, expository, and persuasive.

History & Geography
Eighth grade social studies deals with the history of the United States from 1763-1900.  The students will develop, define, and compare cultures with the United States, be exposed to ideas of the democratic process, free enterprise system, social relationships, and our religious heritage.  They will also learn of man’s ingenuity to change his environment in order to fulfill his future vocations.  A study of the War of 1812 and the role played by the U.S. Brig Niagara is used as a major interdisciplinary unit.

Foreign Language
An academic course designed to explain the language learned in earlier grades.  The proficiency-based content includes a review of the materials learned the previous year as well as new materials which will make the eighth grade student able to deduct the meaning of English words from their roots.

Health
The students will learn about the wellness concept and the prevention of disease and disorders.  Topics on sexual abstinence, decision making in sexuality, and sexually transmitted diseases will be studied.

Physical Education
Students will continue their development of skills, rules, and game strategies in team, dual, and individual sports.  They will continue using their knowledge of the components of physical fitness and improving their levels of fitness.  Students will also practice the principles of conditioning or training.

Eighth grade students will develop and display desirable social behavior, sportsmanship, cooperation, and competition.  Students will participate in low organizational games and work independently at various stations.  Students should be prepared with gym clothes and are encouraged to use the showers.

Art
This course is designed to teach an understanding and appreciation for studio art and history as they relate to each other.  Art history will be taught in chronological order.  A bases for teaching art skill learning by doing is the concept behind this course.  Students will develop a portfolio.  An art skills problem will follow each discussion of an art history period.  Media will include:  pencil, pen and ink, colored pencil, markers, tempera paints, printing materials, and sculpting materials.

Technology Education
Students will study materials and processes related to industry.  A product will be constructed by using a safe manner, hand, and machine tools.  Students will program and produce small parts on the CNC lathe.

Family and Consumer Science
Students will complete their middle school experience with units on family relationships and dating, careers and goal setting, wardrobe planning, clothing construction, shopping for food, meal planning, and meal preparation.