8th Grade Exploratory Course Descriptions
Art: Intro to Drawing - 8th (Trimester)
This trimester long class will focus on the development of basic techniques and skills in drawing
and painting. Drawing is a skill that can be developed with practice. Learn how to improve your
drawing skills through careful observation, use of perspective, positive/negative space, and value.
The class will begin with students drawing and shading and progress to color theory, painting, and
printmaking. Art history and appreciation will be a part of this course for discussion, reference, and
reflection. Students should be prepared to work outside of class on sketchbook assignments, but
all major projects will be completed in class.
Art Explorations- 8th (Trimester)
Learn about a variety of art techniques, artists, and materials while working in both 2D and
3D. This trimester long course will focus on form and space and the manipulation of different
materials while practicing the fundamentals of the Principles of Design (balance, unity, emphasis,
and rhythm). A variety of materials will be explored including but not limited to clay, wire, paper
Mache, wood, and found objects to create works that use both the additive and subtractive
methods of sculpture. Art from different historical periods, cultures, and artists introduce each
project to encourage art appreciation, discussion, and comprehension. Students should be
prepared to work outside of class on sketchbook assignments, while all major projects will be
completed in class.
Band 2: Woodwind, Brass, & Percussion - 8th Grade (Full Year)
In the continuation of this full year performance based course, students will continue to learn to
play their instrument to the best of their ability, increase their music literacy, develop a functional
music vocabulary, and continue to learn skills necessary to become proficient musicians.
Chorus – 8th Grade (Full Year)
In this full year performance based course, choir students will learn to use proper vocal articulation,
and breathing techniques. Students will build their music literacy, sight-singing, and performance
skills. Students will be responsible for attending after school performances as part of this class.
COMP Coding – 8th Grade (Trimester)
In this trimester long course, students will learn logical steps on how to program and write
computer code. Students learn fundamental programming concepts such as variables,
loops, conditional statements, and event handling. No previous programming skills are
required, but students should be comfortable using a computer and browser, and
managing files. Students are expected to be familiar with standard computer operations
(e.g., login, cut & paste, email attachments, etc.).
COMP Digital Production – 8th (Trimester)
In this trimester long course, students will learn how to make engaging and persuasive
projects in a variety of media including video, print, website, and slide presentations.
Students will create, manipulate, and use print media, audio recordings, video recordings,
and websites to communicate information and ideas effectively to multiple audiences.
Possible projects include: photo manipulation, digital animations, sound bites, movie
productions, and digital portfolios.
Geography Adventures – 8th (Trimester)
In this trimester long course, students will understand World Geography with an emphasis
on the United States. Students will also be learning about the impact of current U.S and
world events and how these events shape the rest of the world based on what transpires
within the United States of America.
Math For The Real World – 8th (Trimester)
In this trimester long course, students will explore real-world math applications including:
creating a budget; balancing a checkbook/bank account; buying and trading stocks;
researching investment options; exploring how a business incorporates, operates, and
makes business decisions; and tracking currency exchange rates.
Spanish 2 – 8th Grade (Full Year)
Students who have completed Spanish 1 in 7th grade are able to take Spanish 2 in 8th grade. You
must have taken Spanish 1 to take Spanish 2. If you successfully complete the 2-year course of
study in Spanish, you may be eligible to take Spanish 2 in high school as a freshman. 8th grade
Spanish II concentrates on preparing students for the high school World Language program.
Spanish Heritage Speakers - 8th Grade (Full Year)
This is a full year course for students who already speak fluent Spanish and who have already
taken Spanish Heritage Speakers 1 in 7th grade. Many students who speak Spanish as a first
language at home are able to understand and speak their first language; yet most, never develop
strong literacy skills in Spanish (the writing and reading of Spanish). A Heritage Speaker Spanish
class (Spanish Heritage Speakers) will continue to address the unique learning needs of these
students.
Introduction to Spanish – 8th Grade (Trimester)
This trimester long course will give students a basic introduction to the Spanish language and its
culture. Students will learn how effective communication requires knowing how, when, and why to
say something to someone in the Spanish language. An ability to communicate in another
language fosters an appreciation of cultural similarities and differences and an understanding of
someone’s place in the world. Learning other languages and exploring their cultures enables an
individual to interact within our global community and beyond the classroom. This course is a
good option for students looking for initial exposure to the Spanish language and culture.
STEM - 8th Grade (Trimester)
In this trimester long course, students will explore various activities and projects based on
STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math). STEM proficient students are able to
answer complex questions, investigate global issues, and develop solutions for challenges
and real-world problems while applying the rigor of science, technology, engineering, and
mathematics content.