EIGHTH GRADE REQUIRED COURSES

 

CORE: Language & Literature 8

Individuals & Societies

Mathematics 8 or Algebra I (Note:  Students will be placed in math classes based on test scores, grades, teacher recommendation, and standardized assessments.)

Sciences & Design 8

Physical & Health Education 

Language Acquisition: Spanish or French (choose one)

 

LANGUAGE & LITERATURE 8

This course provides skill development in the communication skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The course includes the study of literature incorporated with developing all communication skills. This course focuses on opportunities to continue developing Language Arts skills.  Reading comprehension, literary response, and analysis are stressed according to the Common Core Standards.  Students read and respond to significant literature, including novels, short stories, non-fiction, poetry, and drama.  Independent reading of fiction and non-fiction is emphasized to foster reading development and enjoyment. Writing instruction focuses on strategies to develop clear, focused essays with an awareness of audience and purpose.  Narrative responses to literature and descriptive essays are based on the eighth-grade core literature, letters, journals, and logs.  A variety of practices in public speaking, such as short speeches, oral interpretation, class discussions, or drama, is offered. Reviewing parts of speech, grammatical rules, spelling, punctuation, and capitalization standards is related to the writing program.

INDIVIDUALS & SOCIETIES

This course begins with a review of the major ideas, issues, ideals, and events preceding the nation's foundation. Students study United States history in depth, from the framing of the Constitution through the Industrial Revolution. Based on Common Core Standards, students will study ideas, issues, political evolution, and events from the American Revolution and the framing of the Constitution until World War I.  They will understand and evaluate the critical turning points of the American people, the contributions of various cultures, and the development of the political, economic, and social structures that comprise our country today. Students will demonstrate knowledge of our Constitutional democracy, political parties, foreign policy, sectional divisions, and historical contributions of men and women of various ethnic backgrounds.  Geography skills and cultural diversity will be emphasized in all units.

 

INTERDISCIPLINARY LEARNING 8

This course emphasizes physical science with linkages to earth and life science.  

• Physical Science: Students will understand how and why objects move (and not move); they will also observe how energy plays a role and discover how these interactions are not limited to what we can see (ie, waves and electromagnetic radiation.)

• Earth Science: Students will learn about Earth's 4.6 billion-year-old history and systems in space, considering the scale of space phenomena and how processes like moon phases, eclipses, and seasons work.

• Life Science: Students will master genetics and its influence on the growth and development of organisms, including how DNA and genes allow for traits in organisms and how organisms are likely to use these traits to adapt to their environment, allowing for change in their species over vast periods.

 

MATHEMATICS 8

This course is aligned with the Common Core Standards for 8th-grade mathematics.  The emphasis is on transitioning from concrete, basic math skills to abstract algebraic, geometric, and statistical concepts.  Students collect, model, and analyze data and patterns in real-world and career-related situations.  They develop the ability to communicate, understand, and critique mathematical reasoning through reading, writing, and speaking.  Students focus on math-specific study skills, perseverance, and attention to precision, preparing for success in high school mathematics (Algebra I).   

 

ALGEBRA I

This course covers the full twenty-five Common Core Standards for Algebra I.  Emphasis is on writing, solving, and graphing linear and quadratic equations.  The ability to communicate mathematical reasoning and understanding will be incorporated into all the topics.  In addition, algebraic skills and concepts are developed and used in various problem-solving situations. This course is a College Prep course. To earn credit for the A-G requirement for UC/CSU Universities, students must earn at least a “C” or better in each of the four quarters.  

 

SPANISH  IB

Prerequisite: Spanish IA or its equivalent.

This is a performance-based course in which students use listening, speaking, reading,  and writing skills to develop fluency in Spanish. Students build confidence and a solid foundation for future language learning while using these skills in exploring various familiar themes or topics. Students will communicate within the context of learned vocabulary and structure. They begin to understand the nature of language and recognize similarities and differences between target culture(s) and American culture. In a supportive learning environment conducive to developing new perspectives, students may acquire intercultural awareness and experience personal and academic growth through positive personal interactions.

In the second year of Spanish, students will continue to enhance their knowledge in the four basic areas of communication: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will continue to have opportunities to learn about people's daily lives in various Spanish-speaking countries. Language skills will be reinforced through video segments, reading selections, in-person conversations, music, art, projects, and cultural crafts. Learning will revolve around the themes of family parties, the home, shopping, and modes of communication.

 

FRENCH IB

Prerequisite: French IA or its equivalent.

This is a performance-based course in which students use listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills to develop fluency in French. Students build confidence and a solid foundation for future language learning while using these skills in exploring various familiar themes or topics. Students will communicate within the context of learned vocabulary and structure. They begin to understand the nature of language and recognize similarities and differences between target culture(s) and American culture. In a supportive learning environment conducive to developing new perspectives, students may acquire intercultural awareness and experience personal and academic growth through positive personal interactions. 

 

SPANISH FOR SPANISH SPEAKERS II 

This is a language arts course in which students advance their language skills in listening and speaking and continue to develop their reading and writing proficiency. Students expand these skills while exploring literature-based themes and topics. They recognize similarities and differences between cultures and appreciate the cultural contributions of Spanish-speaking peoples. Completing this course (“C” or better/Teacher recommendation) allows students to enroll in any appropriate advanced-level Spanish course. 

 

ACCELERATED SPANISH 8

This course will provide Spanish language skill development in reading, writing, speaking, and listening in Spanish. Students will read Spanish-language poetry, dramas, interviews, novels, fiction, informational and persuasive articles, and expository texts in Spanish. Students will learn Spanish vocabulary words, reading comprehension strategies, and Spanish language grammar and spelling rules. Students will produce Spanish-language narratives, arguments, and information/ expository writings. Instruction will be delivered in Spanish, and student work will be completed in Spanish.

 

PHYSICAL & HEALTH  EDUCATION 8

This course allows students to learn through a developmentally appropriate, comprehensive, sequentially planned physical education program aligned with the Physical Education Model Content Standards for California Public Schools. In the eighth grade, the content standards emphasize working as a team to solve problems. The focus of this course is the application of movement skills and knowledge (including defensive and offensive strategies) to team physical activities, tumbling, and square dance; the assessment and physical fitness to improve health and performance; the requisite knowledge of physical fitness concepts, principles, and strategies to improve health and performance; and the application of psychological and sociological concepts, including self-responsibility, positive interaction, and group dynamics,  in the learning and performance of physical activity. 

Units of activity include physical fitness (activities, assessment, concepts, development, and maintenance); cooperative activities; movement skills and strategies applied in modified games of flag football; soccer; lacrosse; volleyball, basketball, or floor hockey; softball, team handball/ultimate frisbee; square dance; wrestling, rugby, track and field, and racket sports.  Students will explore various careers within the physical fitness industry. 

Purpose:

Develop interest and proficiency in movement skills that are essential to a lifelong participation in physical activity; develop and maintain the highest possible level of physical performance during work, play, and emergencies; understand the fundamentals of movement through sequential motor skills development; develop appropriate social behavior by working independently as well as with others during planned activities; develop a positive self-image and to strive toward self-realization through planned physical activities.

• Achieve the highest level of physical performance by setting realistic personal goals and applying all available knowledge, movement experiences, and personal resources.

• Activities/Units could include basketball, volleyball, football, soccer, softball, track and field, square dance, movement exploration, physical fitness, aerobic exercise to music, tumbling, golf, shuffleboard, tennis and paddle tennis, and wrestling.

• Students will participate in weekly cardiovascular tests and complete state-mandated physical fitness testing by the end of the second semester.  

 

SEVENTH & EIGHTH GRADE ELECTIVES 

VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS

 

Music Theory I

This course provides an understanding of the basic elements of music theory (written and aural skills) to continue studies at the advanced intermediate levels by learning to read and notate music.  Listening to, analyzing, evaluating, performing, creating, and responding to music are the fundamental music processes in which humans engage.  Students learn by singing, playing instruments, and creating music, enabling them to acquire musical skills and knowledge that can be developed throughout their foundational studies.

 

World Music

This course continues intermediate and advanced studies in ethnomusicology.  Materials will cover a wide range of music from countries around the world.  It promotes an understanding that to participate fully in a diverse, global society, students must understand their own historical and cultural heritage and those of others within their communities and beyond.  By applying listening and performing skills to evaluate musical expressions from different cultures, the goal is to promote the idea that artistic, musical expression is a balanced, comprehensive, and sequential process towards the evolution of the Humanities and preserves the longevity of sustaining a culture’s values, folklore and traditions. Prerequisite: Music Theory I or Vocal Music I

 

Vocal Music II

This course provides continued study at the intermediate and advanced choral/vocal music levels.  It is open to students who have completed General Music Theory I or Vocal Music I.  It is designed to increase each student's vocal skills and performance levels and further develop their appreciation of the aesthetic value of choral music from different cultures.  Studying involves more advanced rehearsal techniques and performance skill sets of appropriate Choral literature from an eclectic repertoire, including traditional and contemporary arrangements.  Demonstration from the Vocal Music I or General Music/Music Theory coursework will provide the fundamentals to continue in the developmental progression of studying.  The necessary musicianship skills, such as sight-singing exercises, developing healthy vocal technique, and acquiring basic knowledge, history, and appreciation of various genres of literature for choral/vocal music, allow the progression in ensemble work for developing young voices. Prerequisite: Music Theory I, Vocal Music I, or World Music

 

Mariachi

This course allows students to learn the musical and cultural aspects of the Mariachi ensemble.  It consists of teaching students instrumental and vocal techniques, improvisation, composition skills, and the historical components expressed in the music.  The curriculum strives to include students of all cultures to promote a better understanding of culture and diversity through performance.  Students will gain knowledge of regional and historical varieties of Mariachi music. Student ensembles from Arizona, California, Texas, and across Mexico reflect the continued importance of preserving the literature of traditional arrangements.  As a result of studies, the goal is that the student’s performance skills are developed; therefore, it improves their self-esteem, building individual character so that they perceive themselves as a valued asset to a musical ensemble.  Mariachi Music becomes a catalyst through which students learn individual and collaborative skills.  This promotes their ability to recognize themselves as members of a community and part of a global society. Prerequisites: Music Theory I, Vocal Music I, II or World Music

 

BAND/CONCERT

7th grade course (6th grade with teacher recommendation) The Concert Band is open to woodwind, brass, and percussion students with one to two years of playing experience.  The student will continue to build upon skills acquired in the Cadet Band and again be exposed to various musical styles in the Band repertoire.  Performances will be scheduled during the school year. 

 

BAND/SYMPHONIC BAND

8th-grade course (7th grade with teacher recommendation) The Symphonic Band course continues skill development and playing skills.  This band performs at a level suitable for most 7th and 8th-grade music students. The students will rehearse and perform standard band literature and contemporary music. Students will continue to develop and advance their instrumental skills, general music literacy, overall musicianship skills, and a sense of responsibility to a performing ensemble. Band instrument selections include Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Saxophone (alto, tenor, baritone), Trumpet, Trombone, French Horn, Baritone Horn, Bass Guitar, and Percussion. Students must know the B flat, E flat, G, and D major scales.  Students must participate in the following performances and understand this is a one-year commitment: Winter Concert, Spring Concert, and performances at scheduled festivals.

 

BAND/ORCHESTRA

is open to 7th- and 8th-grade violin, viola, cello, and string bass students with at least one year of experience on their respective instruments.  Students must participate in the following performances and understand this is a one-year commitment: Winter Concert, Spring Concert, and performances at scheduled festivals.

 

ART I

This course will examine Topics in Art and experiment with various art mediums, tools, and production techniques.  You will be challenged to think visually and problem-solve creatively using the Elements of Art, including Line, Shape, Value, Texture, Form, Space, and Color, in the production of 2D and 3D works of art.

ART II 

During this course, we will look at the Art of various artists and periods in Art History and create works of art in related styles. You will be challenged to think visually and problem-solve creatively using the Elements of Art learned in Art 1 and the Principles of Design, including Balance, Emphasis, Proportion, Movement, Rhythm/Repetition/Pattern, Variety, and Unity in the production of 2D and 3D works of art.

 

Digital Media Arts

Digital Media Arts is a three-part introductory course. One unit will cover discovering how to use the computer as a tool for students to create their original art projects. Students will learn the use of a Photoshop alternative and other technologies to create beginning-level graphics Another unit will allow students to learn how to create basic animations and gifs. The third unit is a beginner course in the study of basic photography. Students will learn the history and development of photography, study inspirational photographers and their work, learn compositional elements for better photographs, and discover how DSLR cameras work and how to manipulate settings to create the intended look. Digital Photography introduces students to using digital cameras to express feelings and ideas and carefully compose a picture to make it meaningful to any viewer. 

 

Drama

Students learn performance skills and techniques, including acting, improvisation, and movement for theater. Students also learn about technical/stage crew aspects and develop public speaking skills, creative problem-solving, tolerance, and acceptance. Students will build these skills through musical theater lessons, games, and rehearsals for two productions during the school year.