CORE CLASSES:

PRE-ALGEBRA 8

This course follows Transitions Math7 and is a continuation of those skills. In addition, quadratic functions, algebraic systems and data analysis are introduced.

ALGEBRA

Algebra is traditionally a 9th grade level class. Students qualify for placement into Algebra by earning at least a “B+” average in Transitions Math7 and/or teacher recommendation. Topics to be covered are: solving simple to complex algebraic equations, graphing, exponential growth and decay, quadratic equations, systems, factoring and functions.

GEOMETRY

Geometry is traditionally a 10th grade level class. Students qualify for placement in Geometry by successfully completing Algebra and/or teacher recommendation. Topics include: proofs, symmetry, lines, reflections, logic, angles, circles, properties of area, perimeter and volume, and basic trigonometry.

LANGUAGE ARTS 8

Students will be required to read text, novels, newspapers and magazines for content and enjoyment, in addition to using prior knowledge, reading strategies and reinforcement activities. Students will practice public speaking and listening skills through class presentations, discussions and small group settings. Students will practice the writing process with pre-writing, rough draft, peer assessment and final copy.

SCIENCE 8

Instruction will focus on: Sound and light – characteristics of waves, with an emphasis on sound and light; Evolution – students learn about fossils, the geological eras (climate, geography, plant and animal life), mutations and adaptations, natural selection, scientific evidence of change over time, and human ancestors; Heredity – students learn about the history of genetics, probability, dominant and recessive genes, DNA and chromosomes, and applied genetics (genetic engineering, gene therapy, etc.); Forces and Motion – students will learn about motion, forces, simple machines and energy conversion; Chemistry – students learn about atoms and bonding, chemical reaction, families of compounds and applications of chemistry to the real world.

SOCIAL STUDIES 8

Students will acquire knowledge about the origins of our land and its people. These units will be studied chronologically: Independence, Building a New Nation, Westward Expansion and the Union in Crisis. The purpose is to increase the student’s knowledge of historical events and people, improve their skills in evaluating information, and deepen their understanding of our American heritage. Knowledge of our past will help the student understand our present and develop and feeling of empowerment to make changes for the better in the future. Students will develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of democratic values consistent with the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. In addition, opportunities may be provided for students to participate in community projects.

ENCORE CLASSES:

APPLIED TECHNOLOGY 8

Applied Technology evolved from the traditional “Shop” class in order to include a wider range of tools and technologies. The goal of Applied Tech is for students to become familiar with technology and provide an introduction to the design process. In addition to woodworking, students will learn about Robotics, Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD), and Mass Communications. 6th graders will use Lego Dacta kits to design and build robots and create wood bridges. 7th graders will build Penny Hockey Rinks. And 8th graders will build and race CO2 Dragsters. All Applied Tech classes spend time in the Design Lab, a special computer lab used for CADD applications and digital video.

ART 2-D

(only offered during selected quarters)

Students find inspiration within themselves to create images an artwork that represent them; portraits in charcoal, clay tiles, and acrylic pain.

ART 3-D

(only offered during selected quarters)

Students travel through the Ages to discover art forms from the past; Stone Age cave drawings in chalk pastels, Folk Art clay whistles and Modern Art wire mobiles.

BAND 8 (Year-long class)

This course will prepare students for the high school band by having advance concepts introduced such as: improvisation, world music, music technology, as well as build on the concepts of BAND 7. Students will also learn advanced theory, history and composition, and how to apply them in a band setting. Students will perform at four concerts, three festivals, one parade and one high school football game.

COMMUNICATIONS ART 8

The curriculum plan has been divided by grade level so that each student, by the end of their middle school years, will have a diverse and complete set of experiences that encompass Communication Arts. This curriculum provides each student with the opportunity to gain knowledge about themselves, develop imagination and intuition, be exposed to their own creative and artistic possibilities, and nurture skills and attitudes that are useful in every aspect of learning.

8th Grade: Focuses on combing both the sixth and seventh grade curriculum through dramatic/theater arts. This includes improvisation activities, script writing, monologues, examining theater elements, history of theater, and learning to analyze character, plot and setting. At the end of each quarter, it is our goal to visit a theater and experience a live performance.

COMPUTER LITERACY 8

Classes work on grade level appropriate projects that cover a wide range of topics. Skills relating to word processing, database, spreadsheets, internet research and power point are developed while working on such projects as business cards, travel brochures, art work and slide presentations. Each student also works on typing competency on a regular basis.

DRAFTING / INTERIOR DESIGN 8

(BY APPLICATION during selected quarters) (Lab fee required) Students will be introduced to the design elements of line, shape, texture, color and color schemes. The design principles of scale, proportion, balance and harmony will be emphasized. Students will be given instructions on how to draft a floor plan for a house that has at least 2000 square feet, including specifications for special needs. Students will also have the opportunity to go beyond the basic elements of design by exploring both residential and commercial design. Field trips to building and job sites will be planned. In addition, professionals will be asked to talk to the class about their training, responsibilities and salary ranges

FRENCH 8

(only offered during selected quarters)

Similar to the curriculum taught in World Language 6/7, this class aims to foster a global perspective of France and heighten students’ appreciation and respect for cultural diversity. In addition, students are offered a stronger development of language phrases, activities and assessment. Assessment of this class is done by performance of the spoken French language.

HEALTH ISSUES 8 (Required)

Adolescent health issues will be covered during this nine-week course. Topics to be discussed include: decision-making, harassment, drug addictions, death & dying, healthy vs. unhealthy relationships, careers, and food lab experiences. Speakers who are experts in these areas will visit the class to discuss key topics as they apply to the student, family and community.

JAZZ BAND 8

(only offered during selected quarters)

8TH grade Jazz Band is offered to any student who is capable of reading rhythms and can perform on traditional band instruments, as well as Piano, Guitar, Bass and Drum Set. The Jazz Band will study forms of Jazz, Blues and Pop Music, along with the form and theory of it. Students will experience forms of improvisation, composition and ensemble, playing in different settings. The Jazz Band will perform at various concerts, basketball games and other community functions. Acceptance to participate in this ensemble will be decided by Mr. Stimson, Band Director.

MEDIA PRODUCTION 8

(only offered during selected quarters)

This course will explore the art and technology of media production. Students will become proficient with video production by producing the school morning news program. Students will also explore other types of media production, such as multimedia and internet communication.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 8 (Required)

Physical Education 8 is a nine-week course that will teach to the cognitive, affective and psychomotor domains of learning. The students will be expected to know the five components of fitness: cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility and body composition. Students will all be required to complete the Presidential Fitness Test, as well as a final exam that will include all the team sports and personal social sills covered in the class. The team sports include: flag football, tennis/pickleball, basketball and floor hockey. Personal social skills include: following directions, cooperation, leadership and valuing physical activity. All students will work out of their own EPEC Personal Conditioning Portfolio, which will help them develop the basic understanding of physical fitness and assess the student’s ability to set goals and improve overall skill development as related to physical fitness.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION II – 8

(only offered during selected quarters)

This course will teach to the cognitive, affective and psychomotor domains of learning. The students will develop an understanding of the five components of physical fitness through the implementation of their own Individualized Exercise Program. The Individualized Exercise Program will be created by each student and is a requirement of this class. Advanced sport skills will be covered in this class.

SELECT WOMEN’S CHOIR 8 (Year-long class)

THIS CLASS IS OFFERED BY AUDITION ONLY. This exciting full year class is offered to individual 8th grade students who wish to participate in a fun, challenging, educational and team-building class. This class is for the young singer who wishes to study music seriously. Members will study the voice in great detail. Students will learn advanced music theory, note reading skills, performance skills, solo singing skills, compositional skills and basic piano skills. All students will study different genres of music and will study the history of music throughout the ages. Students will also be studying the history of African American Music, in addition to singing music in the jazz and gospel style. Students will be role models for many other young singers as they go on tour to other schools across the state of Michigan and participate in combined concerts with other schools. All students will perform in four concerts and participate in District Choral Festival. Many other opportunities to further the students will be available and strongly encouraged to participate in, such as Solo & Ensemble, State Honors Choir and voice lessons.

SPANISH 8

(only offered during selected years/quarters)

Similar to the curriculum taught in World Language 6/7, this class aims to foster a global perspective of Spain and heighten students’ appreciation and respect for cultural diversity. In addition, students are offered a stronger development of language phrases, activities and assessment Assessment of this class is done by performance of the spoken Spanish language.

TECHNICAL EDUCATION 8

The technology lab is a computer-centered, reading-based program that introduces the student to the five areas of technology: manufacturing, communications, construction, transportation, and bio-related fields, such as medicine, health and ecology. The students use a combination of computer instruction and hands-on projects in the exploration of these technology areas. Currently, some of the modules include Robotics, Digital Photography, Space Technology, Health Management, CNC Milling and Desktop Publishing.

VOCAL MUSIC 8 (Year-long class)

This exciting full year class is offered to individuals in 8th grade who wish to participate in a fun, challenging, educational and team building class. 8th grade choir members will learn more about the voice and the vocal mechanism. Students will learn basic music theory, note reading and performance skills, which will build upon the skills learned in previous participation in choir. All students will study different genres of music and the history of music throughout the ages. Students will also study the history of African American Music. Students in this class will be role models for many other young singers across the state of Michigan. All students will perform in four concerts and participate in District Choral Festival. Many other opportunities to further the student’s ability are available, such as: Solo & Ensemble, State Honors Choir and private voice lessons.