Curriculum > Core Subjects > 8th grade Course of Study
Eighth Grade Course of Study
English 8 – All students in grade 8 continue to build their English/language arts skills in the areas of reading, writing, listening, speaking, viewing, and visually representing. These abilities are developed within the context of core literature units including novels, short stories, and poetry. In 8th grade, the core literature includes Adventures of Tom Sawyer, The Pearl, and House on Mango Street. Extended core or supplementary literature includes Stargirl and Bronx Masquerade. Students practice the conventions of language (grammar, spelling, punctuation, capitalization, etc.) in required writing assignments, teacher-developed writing lessons, and text lessons. Students practice speaking and listening skills through formal speech conversations, individual and group presentations, and small and large group discussion. Viewing and visually presenting are taught through the use of audio-visual and technological resources and various projects. Through portfolios of their work, students practice self-reflection and self-assessment.
History/Social Science 8 – Students connect their past learnings of Colonial and Revolutionary War America to studies of United States geography, the Constitution and the beginning of the new Republic, and the social, economic, and political growth of the new nation. Students will learn about the conflicting forces which led to events such as the War of 1812, the growth of political parties and sectionalism, the Westward Movement (“Manifest Destiny”), and the Civil War, Reconstruction, the Industrial Revolution, and the Progressive Era. They will learn about the diverse groups that immigrated to America, and how they influenced America’s development. By studying the ethical, social, political, and economic questions which Americans have dealt with historically, they will be more aware of, and sensitive to, the social issues facing Americans today.
Intro to Algebra/Algebra I – In grade 8 mathematics students continue their study of the strands recommended by the California Framework: Number and Number Sense, Algebra and Functions, Measurement and Geometry, Statistics, Data Analysis and Probability, and Mathematical Reasoning. Students continue to use and improve their skills in problem-solving, communicating mathematical ideas in oral and written form, analyzing complex situations, organizing information, using calculators, working independently and in groups. All students who are successful in their 8th grade math course are prepared to enter a high school class that is college preparatory.
Physical Education – Physical Education consists of a program of activities that are designed to develop good basic motor skills, nutrition, physical fitness and fundamental movement patterns. Emphasis is placed on the importance of positive sportsmanship and cooperation, including respect for one another. Students are provided an introductory exposure to a wide variety of activities, including team sports, individual and dual sports, rhythms and aquatics.
Science 8, General Science – This one-year course is designed to expose students to basic science concepts in three areas: physics (motion, forces, energy, flight, and simple machines), chemistry (properties of matter, atoms, periodic table, bonding, reactions, and organic chemistry), and astronomy (formation of the universe, galaxies, stars, solar system, moons/satellites, seasons, and tides). Through these units, students practice the scientific method, expository reading, expository writing, and writing with supportive details. Students construct knowledge through exploration and manipulation of materials, inquiry, direct instruction and discussion.
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Palo Alto Unified School District
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