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 Civil War is used as a major interdisciplinary unit. Interdisciplinary Culminating Unit of Gettsyburg with an overnight student field trip.

Health/Wellness
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
Students will confidently and creatively approach new experiences in various media which will aid them in developing creative ideas, utilizing art room equipment safely, enhancing their art vocabulary, recognizing the Elements and Principles of Art, and understanding the artist’s place in history and culture. Eighth grade students will fulfill these curricular requirements in an Art History program in which they will keep a portfolio of art period information and create an art piece in conjunction with each art period (Prehistoric, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Middle Ages, Renaissance and “Final Four” Hundred Years).

Ceramics Students will confidently and creatively approach new experiences in clay which will aid them in developing creative ideas, utilizing art room equipment safely, enhancing their art vocabulary, recognizing the Elements and Principles of Art, and understanding the artist’s place in history and culture. Students in Ceramics class will create a pinch pot, slab pot, clock, rattle, and coil pot.

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.