Eighth Grade

Eighth-grade history is more than just names and dates—it's a journey through the defining moments, people, and ideas that have shaped the United States from the First Peoples to World War II. Through deep inquiry and thematic exploration, students will uncover the layers of history that continue to shape our country today.

Using "windows and mirrors," students will gain insight into diverse American experiences—seeing history through the eyes of others while reflecting on their connections to the past. Along the way, they'll grapple with big questions about democracy, identity, and citizenship, exploring what it has meant to be American across generations.

This integrated curriculum brings history to life through art, music, creative writing, and even cooking, making connections across disciplines to deepen understanding. Students will:

• Analyze primary sources to understand history from firsthand perspectives.
• Examine constitutional issues and their lasting impact on American society.
• Engage in creative and analytical writing, crafting historical narratives and arguments.
• Explore history through art and music, connecting culture to key historical events.
• Experience history through food, learning how meals tell the story of different eras and cultures.

By learning to think like historians, students will develop essential skills in research, critical thinking, problem-solving, and both verbal and written communication—skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

History isn't just about studying the past—it's about understanding our present and shaping the future.

Math isn’t just about solving equations—it’s about recognizing patterns, making connections, and applying logic to the world around us. Integrated Math 1 is the first step in a three-year journey (Math 1, 2, & 3) designed to build a strong foundation in college-preparatory mathematics.

Rather than treating algebra, geometry, statistics, and probability as separate subjects, Integrated Math weaves them together, showing how mathematical ideas are interconnected. Each concept is introduced through real-world applications, sparking curiosity and encouraging students to think critically rather than simply memorize formulas.

Throughout the year, students will:

• Master linear equations, inequalities, and systems, solving problems with confidence.
• Explore linear and exponential functions—graphing, analyzing, and understanding their real-life impact.
• Solve simple exponential equations and discover how sequences relate to algebraic functions.
• Use regression techniques to analyze data and determine the best mathematical models.
• Apply geometry and probability to solve practical, thought-provoking challenges.

The goal is to develop fluency, flexibility, and deeper understanding by making math engaging, dynamic, and applicable to everyday life. This class is not just about getting the right answer—it’s about learning to think mathematically. 

Let’s dive in!

In Math 8, students are challenged to think like true mathematicians—investigating, experimenting, and discovering multiple strategies to solve problems. This class focuses on building a deep understanding of math through concrete models and real-world applications, setting the stage for success in Integrated Math 1.

Throughout the year, students will:

• Explore linear functions and systems of equations, discovering how math models relationships in the world around us.
• Investigate transformations and the Pythagorean theorem, uncovering the hidden geometry behind shapes and spaces.
• Dive into statistical analysis, understanding data, and making informed decisions.
• Work with volume, scientific notation, and more, connecting abstract concepts to everyday life.

This course emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving as outlined in the Common Core Mathematical Practice Standards. Students will:

• Make sense of problems and persist in finding solutions.
• Reason abstractly and quantitatively, thinking deeply about numbers and relationships.
• Construct viable arguments and model with math to explain and justify solutions.

Through individual and collaborative work, students will develop a strong conceptual understanding and learn to communicate their ideas and recognize the connections between different mathematical concepts. Technology will be used to deepen understanding once students have a solid grasp of the material.

Human Biology and Health takes students on an in-depth journey through the structure and function of life—beginning at the cellular level and expanding through genetics, evolution, and the body’s major organ systems. Grounded in scientific inquiry, this course is designed to resonate with the questions and physical changes relevant to adolescents, making science both personal and meaningful.

Through hands-on lab experiences—including examining microscopic tissue samples, exploring genetic probability, tracing evolutionary development, and dissecting organ systems—students strengthen their scientific methodology and critical thinking skills. Over the course of the year, they also produce two major research papers: “The History, Development, and Practice of Science” and “Evolution: The Central Theory of Biology.”

Health education is woven throughout the curriculum, covering vital topics such as First Aid, CPR, addiction and the brain, natural disaster preparedness, and intruder safety. As students study each body system, they also explore related health practices—like the effects of smoking on the lungs—bringing real-world relevance to scientific learning.

In English 8, students embark on an exciting journey to enhance their fluency, comprehension, grammar, and writing skills. This class is all about discovering the depth and beauty of language—learning to read between the lines, write with purpose, and express ideas with clarity and creativity.

Throughout the year, students will:

• Analyze texts to uncover thematic elements and explore how authors use craft techniques to tell powerful stories.
• Expand their vocabulary, diving into prefixes, roots, and suffixes to unlock the meaning of new words.
• Write memoirs, poetry, and literary essays, finding their own voice and developing their writing style.
• Read widely across genres—novels, short stories, and non-fiction—exposing themselves to diverse perspectives and ideas.

This course challenges students to read and write critically and to speak confidently in discussions and presentations. Whether exploring complex texts or creating their work, students will engage deeply with the material and each other, building skills beyond the classroom.

Let’s dive into English 8!

Eighth grade is a time of rapid change—physically, emotionally, and socially—and our Life Skills program is designed to meet students right where they are. With honesty, empathy, and humor, students dive into the development of skills for navigating complex social and emotional landscapes. They examine real-world issues like peer pressure, substance use, and the challenges of rumors and gossip, learning how to confront these with integrity and maturity. Through open conversations about digital identity, mental health, neurodiversity, and healthy relationships, students gain insight into themselves and others. Communication skills take center stage as they learn how to speak up, resolve conflict, and engage in courageous conversations. This transformative year helps students understand their power and responsibility as individuals within a community, equipping them to move forward with more self-awareness, resilience, and compassion.

In Spanish 8, students take their language skills to the next level—moving beyond the present tense and stepping into the past! Through a communicative, project-based approach, they’ll speak, write, and create in Spanish, making the language come alive in exciting and meaningful ways.

Throughout the year, students will:

• Produce short films and cooking shows, using Spanish to entertain and inform.
• Write and illustrate children’s books, bringing storytelling to life in a new language.
• Create digital stories, blending language, creativity, and technology.
• Explore Spanish-speaking cultures, diving into local cuisine, celebrations, and history to better understand the Spanish-speaking world.

Grammar and vocabulary will expand as students master key verb tenses, including:

• Present (what’s happening now)
• Preterite & Imperfect (telling stories from the past)
• Present Progressive (describing ongoing actions)

By immersing themselves in interactive projects, collaborative activities, and cultural explorations, students will build confidence in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, setting the foundation for lifelong language learning.

¿Listos para la aventura? Let’s dive into Spanish 8 and bring the language to life!