8TH GRADE CURRICULUM

Language Arts

Being a proficient and confident reader, thinker, and writer is the goal for the 8th grade student.  Using a variety of fiction and non-fiction books and selections, the student learns to analyze for purpose, point of view, literary elements, and persuasive and research techniques and formats.  The student analyzes and writes more complex, effective, and creative sentences.  This includes identifying and applying phrases and clauses.  He/she is encouraged to expand and explore the relationship of the ideas and information within his/her own expository and creative writing, as well as in oral presentations.  

Math

Religion

The New Testament unfolds God’s plan for salvation, emphasizes God’s unending faithfulness toward His people, and focuses on the power of the Holy Spirit working through God’s Word to strengthen His people for the challenges of living and sharing their faith in a challenging world.

 

Human biology and genetics are studied at this level. Students explore organ systems and their interconnected nature. Learning that each system is essential for life gives the student a greater appreciation for life and the components that sustain life systems and who they are. Sound, light and the characteristics of waves, along with magnetism, electricity, and motion are studied, as well as some universal laws that govern the behavior of these things. Earth and its neighbors are explored as we gain an understanding of what causes changes on earth and within our solar system. Weather, climate, and resources we use and how to conserve them are areas that are studied. (Topics rotate every other year. Same for 7th and 8th grades.)

 

Social Studies

Art

Students continue to study the great works of master artists and are taught that art is in everything we see. At this age, they are taught the process is just as important as the finished product. Students will be introduced to different careers in art, the role art plays in society and that God is the center of it all.

 

Technology

Computer class builds on what is learned in the previous years. Students will learn about the Google the platform through: Google Drive, Google Classroom, Google Sheets and Google Slides. Keyboarding skills will continue to be practiced through Typing Club. Students will learn about digital citizenship and how to stay safe on the internet. Lessons in program coding will be taught through Scratch.

The online Quaver music program introduces and expands musical concepts and provides opportunities for students to develop their own musical skills through cooperative learning, interactive videos and activities, songs, quizzes, and projects.

Physical Education

Attention is given to the readiness of 8th graders preparing to enter high school. Appreciation for maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle is reinforced. Anatomy related to strengthening and cardio- respiratory function is reviewed and applied. Fitness goals will challenge students to practice or train more independently. Group challenges for building teamwork and trust will be presented often. Stress- reducing, high-energy games make up a significant portion of 8th grade PE curriculum

Chess (elective Grades 5-8)

It’s not about Kings, Queens and Rooks, but rather quadrants and coordinates, thinking strategically, and foreseeing consequences.  It’s about lines and angles, weighing options and making decisions.  Chess is an ideal teaching and learning tool.  Research shows there is a strong correlation between learning to play chess and academic achievement.  Chess teaches higher level thinking skills such as visualization, analyzation and thinking critically.  Chess class will be a mix of fun, competition and learning.  Students develop confidence and focus and gain valuable academic skills while having fun.

 

Current Events at PWC (elective Grades 5-8)

Students in this elective are introduced to journalism.  They are the school’s news source when it comes to PWC sports, special events and K-8 classroom activities.  Newscasts are created through the work of a crew of anchors, reporters and camera operators and shown to the school each month.

 

Drama (elective Grades 5-8)

This elective offers basic introduction to drama terms and techniques.  Instructional periods include time to put into practice the skills addressed, including stage production and instruction in behind-the-scenes.  Several small productions occur throughout the year. Students also help put on a spring musical.

 

Peer Ministry (Grades 6-8)

This course takes place once a week and is led by the church youth pastor. Students gain a deeper understanding of Christ and His impact on our Christian worldview. A focus is on creating and establishing strong peer relationships that will last into high school. Students discover the benefits of being part of a Christian community.