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8th Grade
The eighth grade curriculum is a challenging course of studies designed to prepare the student for college preparatory high school work. Those students with well-developed abilities in the areas of foreign language and mathematics are offered High School level courses in their eighth grade year. Long range assignments and special projects are important aspects of the program. Finally, students become increasingly responsible for their own academic performance.
Religion
One trimester is spent studying the Church and Sacraments. Students will examine the mystery, structure, mission, and history of the Church including ways they can better participate in the life of the Church. They will also explore the worship practices of the Church including the Mass and the Sacraments. Finally, the students prepare for their visit to the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington DC with a unit on Church design, Mary and various cultural practices in the Church.
The second trimester is devoted to the girls' continuing study and discussion of human relationships and human sexuality. The course emphasizes the personal realization of the total sexual identity, personal worth, human dignity and equality, chaste living, and the development of values and attitudes. This course provides a much-needed and valuable forum for students to explore their own development.
Social Justice is interwoven throughout the Religion trimesters with off campus projects that engage the students in a greater awareness of the needs of the community around them, and on campus demonstrations, reflections, and discussions about the principles of Catholic Social Teaching.
Peer Support
Eighth graders participate in the Peer Support Program throughout the year. They are divided into small groups which meet once each week. The groups provide an opportunity for eighth graders to discuss concerns of adolescence. Each group is lead by two or three senior or junior Peer Support leaders who have been trained in communication skills and can provide a safe, understanding place where students can share personal situations as well as gain awareness of resources that can provide assistance. Students find that meeting with facilitators in an atmosphere which allows the expression of candid opinions can help relieve some of the tensions associated with adolescence. Each group is monitored by an adult silent observer who provides on-going support and guidance to the student leaders.
English
Eighth Grade English Language Arts nurtures the development of a literary community engaged in the study of literature, writing, and language. Students read, annotate, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate assigned novels and plays which are presented in both historical and biographical context. They develop their comprehension of the author's purpose and meaning through their understanding of literary elements and devices. As members of the literary community, students are encouraged to read their own selections and to make reading recommendations to the class. Students use the writing process to "write in response to literature," answering the questions "how" and "why." Grammar and vocabulary are studied formally and are integral parts of the literature and writing programs. A research project is assigned designed to improve writing, refine information literacy skills, and develop a persuasive argument. Students are expected to demonstrate the ability to apply the concepts and skills taught and to take increasing responsibility for their academic performance.
American History
The emphasis in eighth grade American history will be from the Civil War to the end of the twentieth century. However, students will begin the year studying Colonial issues and the Constitution. They will learn the art of analyzing primary sources, writing to draw conclusions that are supported by evidence, and reading for facts to support main ideas. Projects include the memorization of important documents and an argument essay using primary sources.
Algebra
Algebra begins with an in-depth review of equations with an emphasis on theoretical properties. The course then proceeds to an extensive study of polynomial expressions and equations. Students learn to graph and solve equations and inequalities in two variables and are introduced to rational and radical expressions. The applications of algebraic methods to practical problems are addressed throughout the course. In this class, the TI-83/84 graphing calculator, laptop computers, and mathematical manipulatives are used to enhance learning. Performance in this course (as judged by a student's final average, final exam grade, Upper School placement test and standardized test scores) will determine placement in Grade 9 mathematics.
Science
8th grade students study of the basic concepts of the physical sciences including an introduction to physics and chemistry. The ability to process concepts, solve problems, and apply them to everyday living is developed. Lab classes using traditional science equipment as well as current technology such as computer probes, computer software, and research are components of this course.
French
This course is aimed at preparing students to be placed in French 2 in 9th grade. In order to reinforce the study of the language, students enter the National French Contest in March. Native speakers must obtain permission for this course.
Spanish
In the eighth grade, the students are encouraged to speak Spanish clearly and to think and to express themselves after developing a more complex background in grammar, reading, and vocabulary. By the time the students complete the second year, they will have acquired a command of the key vocabulary and grammatical structures necessary for personal communication as well as an appreciation of the dimension and variety of the Spanish-speaking world. The students who successfully complete this course are able to pursue Spanish II in High School. Native speakers must obtain permission for this course.
Computer
In this course, students will experience the four components of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Within each of the six unit projects of the year, students will have an opportunity to research and develop global, real-world solutions as they utilize essential, technical skills.
Art
The students will continue to demonstrate advanced knowledge of art history, multimedia, art techniques, and tools by challenging the imagination, fostering reflective thinking, and developing disciplined effort and problem solving skills. The students will be expected to use a variety of concepts directly related to the art elements and principles accurately.
Choir
In addition to the Christmas and Spring concerts, choir members play a vital role in music ministry by serving as cantors and prayer service leaders. Choir students also compose music using Sibelius software, create multi-media presentations based on original poetry and favorite songs, and research and record informative podcasts based on various music history topics.
Speech
Speech students focus on the development of skills needed for effective oral communication. Students analyze, prepare, present, and evaluate several types of speeches, including persuasive, introductory, informational, and extemporaneous. Additionally, speech students participate in interviewing, storytelling, oral interpretation, monologues, duet acting, leading group discussions, and debate. An emphasis is placed on determining the purpose of a speech and using well-planned strategies to achieve that goal. Each year the girls participate in a formal speech tournament. This class is for High School credit, but a "B"average must be maintained in order to receive High School credit.
8th Grade Physical Education and Health
In 8th grade, students have the option of trying out for an athletics team in lieu of PE class. The physical education program at 8th grade, will concentrate on giving students opportunity to engage in and develop lifelong fitness activities. Health topics include personal health and hygiene, nutrition, safety and substance abuse. All PE courses are Pass/Fail and not calculated into the student's GPA.
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