Religion

Students explore ethics and learn decision-making skills using realistic tools that students can utilize on a daily basis.   In addition, the guiding principles of Catholic Social Teaching are taught and put into practice through community service each trimester.  During the final month, family life topics are learned as we come full circle and the initial ethical decision-making skills are reinforced.

Literacy

8th grade language arts and literature focus on reading, writing and communicating proficiently and maturely in a variety of forms.  There is a strong emphasis on the research process and writing a major research paper.  Students review grammar, vocabulary, and spelling on a regular basis as well.  Students begin the year by reading The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens, which is a great manual for teens to improve their success.  Throughout the year, students read novels that complement the social studies curriculum, and they also study short stories and poetry.

Math

Assumption-St. Bridget School ’s 8th grade math curriculum is aligned with the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) and Washington State Math Outcomes (April 2008).

Our 8th grade math course is based on the following core concepts: linear functions and equations; properties of geometric figures; summary and analysis of data sets; identifying rational and irrational numbers, applying order of operations and working with exponents; and applying problem solving strategies throughout all units.

Students that have demonstrated readiness for the abstract thinking of algebra, along with the extra demands of the class, complete a course aligned with the state and national standards for algebra 1.  These core concepts include: numbers, expressions, and operations; characteristics and behaviors of functions; linear functions, equations, and inequalities; quadratic functions and equations and applying problem solving strategies throughout all units.

Science

This class is a hands-on, inquiry-based introduction to physical science concepts.  Topics include metric system, properties of matter, and two FOSS Kits – Chemical Interactions and Force and Motion.  Students develop critical thinking skills, proper use of lab equipment, consideration of variables and their impacts, and practice careful attention to details.  By the end of 8th grade, students will be capable of applying knowledge of the scientific method to perform and analyze labs.

Social Studies

The social studies curriculum in 8th grade follows U.S. history from colonial times through the Civil War.  This also includes focuses on American government, current events, and the economy.  8th graders will also study the history of Washington State this year.  Students who successfully complete this course meet our state’s high school graduation requirements for Washington State history.

Spanish

Students further explore the Spanish language through conversation, literature, skits, art, music and games. We build from our 7th grade vocabulary knowledge by including more present tense grammar and in depth reading and writing assignments. There is a strong focus on comprehension, pronunciation, and building confidence in speaking Spanish.

Art

Middle-school students have one trimester of art as part of the fine arts curriculum. In their Thursday art classes, students develop their creative skills and their techniques in a positive atmosphere.  Drawing is the foundation of the program.  Students use basic and advanced art materials, develop their skills and techniques for creating quality work, learn central principals and elements of art, and develop their own aesthetic awareness and appreciation.

Drama

Eighth grade students focus on understanding the theatrical process of taking an idea, character and/or story, and bringing it to life on stage using a variety of techniques and methods. We continually build on our performance skills working on various activities and projects throughout the trimester.  8th grade students focus on bringing a story to life on stage. This process includes choosing a scene from a modern play; develop creative ideas of bringing the scene to life, rehearsing the scene incorporating their ideas and performing the scenes for their fellow students.  Students also learn about the technical elements of theatre including designing costumes, sets, props and lights.

Music

Looking at the history of the two most authentic forms of American music is the focus in eighth grade music.  One trimester is spent discovering jazz and one trimester is focused on the roots of rock music in the fifties and sixties.  The emphasis is on understanding and appreciating the musical, cultural, and historical importance of these forms of American music.  Connections are made to the evolution of the civil rights movement as well as connections to the elements of music within each genre.  People who made significant contributions to jazz and rock music are an integral part of these “survey” classes.

Physical Education

The goal of the eighth grade physical education program is to introduce students to concepts and skills they can carry through life.  We will accomplish this by exposing students to many individual, dual, and team experiences throughout the year. These experiences will be creative non-threatening small group drills, modified games and all active delivery systems.