Eighth Grade
The Eighth Grade Journey of Becoming
Eighth grade at Santa Barbara Middle School is more than just another school year—it's a time of transformation, leadership, and deeper connections. For the first time, students step into the role of mentors, guiding younger classmates, upholding school traditions, and carrying forward the values that define SBMS. As role models, they learn to lead authentically, support one another, and foster a community built on mutual respect.
A highlight of the year is the 8th Grade Retreat, a powerful experience where students come together to recognize each other's strengths, reflect on their journey, and strengthen the bonds that will carry them forward.
In the classroom, eighth graders take their academic pursuits to the next level, preparing for high school with immersive, hands-on learning. With the guidance of dedicated teachers, they dive into meaningful projects that challenge their creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration skills, such as:
- Designing a virtual trip to a Spanish-speaking country, exploring its geography, history, and culture.
- Writing personal memoirs that capture their identities and life experiences.
- Reenacting history with Hamilton-inspired Duel Letters and crafting Personal Declarations of Independence during a study of the American Revolution.
- Partnering with local biologists to collect real-world ecological data and analyze the local ecosystem.
- Tackling complex mathematical challenges, sharing strategies, and pushing problem-solving skills to new heights.
These projects aren't just about learning—they're about discovering passions, making lasting memories, and leaving a legacy at SBMS. As eighth graders prepare for the next chapter, they do so with confidence, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for their journey.
This is a year to lead, to grow, and to make an impact.
Eighth-Grade Curriculum
- History 8 - U.S. History
- Integrated Math 1/Honors
- Math 8
- Science 8 - Human Biology and Health
- English 8 - Introduction to Literature
- Life Skills 8
- Spanish 8
History 8 - U.S. History
Integrated Math 1/Honors
Math 8
Science 8 - Human Biology and Health
English 8 - Introduction to Literature
Life Skills 8
Spanish 8
8th Grade Highlights
- Project based academic rigor
- Science fair projects
- Perform in poetry slam
- Create an American History art gallery
- Write a children's book in Spanish
- Create videos and art using lessons learned in math
- Interactive learning environment
- Leadership opportunities: Bike Mechanics, Community Action, Teen Press, leading around fire
- 8th Grade Retreat
- Community building activities
- Group art project
- Ceremony of the candles celebrating seeing one another's best qualities
- Morning solo experience in nature
- Choice in Mid-Year Expedition:
- Mountaineering
- Catalina Backpacking
- Canoeing
- Surf and Cycle
- Upper School End of the Year Trip- “Rite of the Wheel”