Eighth Grade Curriculum

Bible
Students will become acquainted with the Bible as a whole to gain understanding of scripture, its primary themes, and the relation of the books to each other. In addition, students will learn where to locate key events and characters in the Bible. Basic biblical principles will be stressed to challenge their lives and grow in their commitment to Christ.

English
Two English courses are available to eighth-grade students, the grade level class or honors. Placement is determined based on multiple criteria: current English grades, standardized test scores, and teacher recommendation.

Literature
The study of literature allows us to view people, places and situations from a new perspective. Our understanding of the human condition deepens as we interpret the significance of universal themes common to us all. As students read a variety of genres, they learn to identify and employ major literary terms such as simile, metaphor, foreshadowing, characterization, theme, imagery, figurative language, and to comprehend the elements of plot, setting, character, style, theme, point of view, and conflict. Reading classic writings from a Christian point of view sharpens faith and challenges the intellect as we see the importance of maintaining values at both a personal and societal level. This knowledge enables us to become more effective for Christ in the world.

Language Arts
Strong communication skills are necessary to meet the demands of daily life. Proficient writers learn to meet the specific needs of audiences with distinctive interests and perspectives. In order to share significant ideas with others, students must present thoughts in a logical manner conforming to basic grammatical principles. Through class discussion and group work, students will develop effective writing techniques.

Mathematics
Two mathematics courses are available to eighth grade students. Placement is based on multiple criteria: current math grades, standardized test scores, and teacher recommendation.

Pre-Algebra
Students will study the following topics: Introduction to algebra, decimal system, positive/negative, rational numbers, geometry, ratio, proportion, and percents, equations and inequalities, coordinate plane, area and volume, square roots and right triangles.

Honors-Algebra I
Students will master the basic skills needed for more advanced mathematics courses and problem-solving. Emphasis will be placed on solving equations and inequalities, graphing linear equations, word problems, factoring polynomials, and rational expressions. This course will be included on the Upper School transcript.

Science
Two science courses are available to eighth grade students. Placement is based on multiple criteria: current science grades, standardized test scores, and teacher recommendation.

Physical Science
Students are led through the discovery of the laws of chemistry and physics from a Christian perspective. They will be actively involved in studying the periodic table, matter, chemical reactions, forces and motion, and sound and light waves through discussion, individual study, and labs.

Honors Physical Science
The same material as Physical Science, but requires strong math skills and will move at an accelerated pace and depth.

Social Studies
The eighth grade course offers a chronological history of the U.S. from the discovery of the Americas to today. Themes include planting colonies from a diverse population, creating and strengthening government based on Biblical principles, broadening and expanding our nation, and utilizing primary source information. Students will be engaged in creative and critical thinking activities, the highlight being a trip to Washington, D.C. to further understand and appreciate our Christian heritage.