Grade 8

This course is the first half of an Algebra I curriculum taught over two years. Students begin the Algebra I course in eighth grade and complete it in ninth grade with Algebra I, Part 2. During the eighth grade year the emphasis in the curriculum is on linear and exponential functions. Topics include properties of the real number system, linear equations and inequalities with one and two variables, ratios, rates, proportions, percentages, systems of linear equations and inequalities, and properties of exponents. Students graph linear and exponential equations both by paper and pencil and using the computer. They learn to model real-world situations using functions in order to solve problems arising from these situations.

This course is a comprehensive first-year algebra course that includes the study of linear, exponential and quadratic functions. Students learn to represent a family of functions in multiple ways: as verbal descriptions, equations, tables and graphs. They learn to model real-world situations using functions in order to solve problems arising from those situations. Topics include the properties of the real number system, linear equations and inequalities with one and two variables, systems of equations and inequalities, exponents, the fundamental operations with polynomial and rational expressions, factoring, radicals and quadratic equations. Students graph linear, exponential and quadratic functions by paper and pencil as well as the computer. Technology plays a significant role in the analysis and completion of problems as students utilize calculators and computers to aid in their problem solving.

This course is a comprehensive first-year algebra course that integrates geometry, probability and statistics together with algebra. Four dimensions of understanding are emphasized to maximize performance: skill in carrying out various algorithms; developing and using mathematics properties and relationships; applying mathematics in realistic situations; and representing or picturing mathematical concepts. Topics include the properties of the real number system, linear equations and inequalities with one and two variables, systems of equations and inequalities, exponents, the fundamental operations with polynomial expressions, factoring, radicals and quadratic equations. Graphing linear, exponential and quadratic functions is completed using paper and pencil as well as the computer. Technology plays a significant role in the process of problem solving as students use calculators and computers to analyze problems.

This course is a traditional Euclidean-based course. There is some work with formal proof as students learn to reason deductively. Topics include inductive and deductive reasoning, algebraic proof, geometric proof, parallel and perpendicular lines, triangle congruence and similarity, concurrence theorems, quadrilaterals, regular polygons, right triangles and trigonometry, area, solid geometry, circles and trans-formations. Visual and spatial thinking is developed as students draw constructions using a straightedge and compass as well as create nets for constructing solids. The Geometer’s Sketchpad software is used throughout the course as a tool to discover geometry concepts and theorems. Students propose conjectures based on their observations and test their ideas to further develop their understanding of geometric concepts.

The primary goal of the eighth grade Spanish program is to deepen students’ knowledge of the Spanish language and culture beyond the introductory level. Students will continue to develop skills in the four language modalities (speaking, listening, reading and writing). Emphasis is put on meaningful oral communication as well as accuracy of expression. With the continued emphasis on oral and written communication, eighth grade students acquire more regular and irregular verbs and use them to narrate in the present, preterite and imperfect tenses. Direct and indirect object pronouns are introduced in order to allow the student to acquire language that imitates normal usage by native speakers. More in-depth thematic vocabulary is introduced as it relates to travel, sports, clothing, personal hygiene, health, leisure activities and family. By the end of the year, the class is taught mostly in Spanish. Class activities include conversations of more cultural significance, as well as communicative activities to aid in the intensive grammar and verb-tense mastery required by this level. Interactive and group activities, audio and video, and material from the Internet are regularly used inside and outside the classroom.

This course is intended to expose students to a variety of complex and increasingly intricate grammatical and syntactical structures while examining the far reach of the Roman Empire. In the eighth grade, they will expand their knowledge of noun forms to include all five declensions, and of verbs, the present, imperfect, perfect and pluperfect tenses in the indicative mood. Readings become longer and more complex, including the introduction of all participle forms and more complex uses of relative and other subordinate clauses. Students will continue to work toward reading fluency through attention to details of form and through the acquisition of a strong working vocabulary. The readings will open conversations and opportunities for further study of Roman history and culture, and their relevance to an understanding of our world today.

Students in the eighth grade French program deepen their knowledge of the French language and culture beyond the introductory level. They continue to develop skills in the four language modalities (speaking, listening, reading and writing). Emphasis is put on meaningful oral communication as well as accuracy of expression. Students develop basic structured sentences and acquire daily life vocabulary to discuss fashion, food and traveling. In addition, students learn to speak and write in the past tense, as well as read short books. By the end of the year, the class is taught mostly in French. Interactive and group activities, audio and video, and material from the Internet are regularly used inside and outside the classroom. This second-year course also provides a general overview of the geography and cultures of France through readings, videos and projects.