Eighth Grade

English
The eighth grade English curriculum is designed to help students improve the effectiveness of their writing and expose them to reading strategies that will help improve their comprehension. Students are required to write memoirs, narrative and expository pieces, and also a little poetry. They will read To Kill a Mockingbird, Night, Romeo and Juliet, and A Raisin in the Sun in class; and Call of the Wild and The Outsiders independently. Components of literature such as character, setting, plot, theme and point of view will be further explored, and newer concepts such as archetypes, symbolism and figurative language become a more integral part of the course. Students are also required to read at least one book per quarter from the classroom library. In addition, students will learn vocabulary selected from their reading and learn conventions pertaining specifically to punctuation and common usage. Eighth graders take an exam in the fall and also one in the spring. The fall exam is worth 10% and the spring exam is worth 20%.

Foreign Language
French and Spanish 8: In these courses, there is a heavy emphasis on the structure of the language. Speaking, reading, writing and listening are addressed through a multifaceted approach that augments normal daily activities with guided essays, films and follow-up discussions. An increased awareness of French/Spanish speaking areas of the world is another benefit of this eclectic approach to the subject.

Latin 8: The course requires an increasing mastery of vocabulary and essential inflections and syntax. Students learn to think more logically as well as to memorize, to analyze, to organize and to correlate. A keener appreciation of the indebtedness of English to Latin is gained.

Mathematics
All eighth grade students are enrolled either in Algebra 1 or Geometry. Placement of the student in the proper course and level is an important decision and requires discussion with the math department. The program is designed to enable students to change levels at various times in their schooling. Students are separated by gender, a practice that has many academic and social benefits for both girls and boys. Problem solving is stressed and students are encouraged to participate in algebra and geometry contests.

Science
Encouraging students to become working scientists is the overarching goal of the science department at CCDS Middle School. A unique and dynamic thematic curriculum at each grade level provides a springboard to develop scientific thinkers and problem solvers. Our curriculum allows students to make authentic connections to the world around them and to previous scientific knowledge. Technology serves as a platform to explore and research topics generated by both students and faculty. Critical reading strategies and study skills allow our department to reinforce student skills as well as connect to other disciplines within the middle school.

Eighth grade science is an introduction to the multidisciplinary field of Environmental Science. Using specific environmental examples as a springboard, students are challenged to use their scientific knowledge to critically evaluate global environmental issues. Topics include basic chemistry, energy conservation, global warming, ozone pollution, availability of clean fresh water and coastline and species conservation. Significant emphasis is placed on evaluating multiple sides of an argument and understanding the complexity of the issues we face today.

Social Studies
Students spend the year exploring 20th century U.S. history. They examine various topics including the Spanish-American War, Teddy Roosevelt and the progressive era, World War I, the 1920’s, Great Depression, World War II, the Cold War, the Civil Rights Movement, Vietnam War, and Watergate. Investigation of these topics occurs through film, primary/secondary sources, literature, political cartoons and historical images. Emphasis is placed on thinking, writing, research, computer and study skills.

Computer
The computer program continues to be integrated within all disciplines in the Middle School and computer skills and applications are again taught by all of our teachers. Faculty use our four computer labs and laptop cart to help students use the computer in the daily production of their work.

Fine Arts
Students continue the study of their fine arts selection from seventh grade, completing two years of a concentrated study in visual arts, choir, orchestra, band or drama.

Physical Education
Eighth grade students may select their PE courses. The units are three weeks long and the activities rotate. Students choose from the following activities: football, rugby (boys), outdoor education, volleyball, soccer, team handball, lacrosse, street hockey, field hockey, basketball, softball, track, aerobics, biking, roller hockey and a circus unit which includes juggling, unicycling, diabolo and other activities. Students also participate in an intramural program that involves athletic and academic activities.

Health
In this course, students review the male and female reproductive systems, as well as learn about the viruses that cause AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Students also learn and practice decision-making skills in postponing sexual involvement.