Eighth Grade

Religion

The eighth-grade program of the “Christ Our Life” series is devoted to the study of God’s faithful love as it is revealed in the Church founded by Jesus Christ. It is designed to help young teens grow in their knowledge and love of the Church.

The second semester is devoted to the preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation. Students will report on the saint they choose, create a poster of their saint, attend a one day retreat, record 25 hours of Christian service, and a variety of other sacramental activities.

· Students attend Mass twice a week and participate in preparing and evangelizing the Liturgy throughout the year.

 · The eighth graders are introduced at a special Mass called ‘FOCUSED’ as the leaders and role models of the school. FOCUSED on Friendships, Opportunity, Christian faith, Unity, Self-respect, Empathy and Discipline.

 · Students visit the Blessed Sacrament during the year and participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation at least twice a year

 · Students participate in the Healthy Lifestyles program hosted by St. Francis Borgia Regional High School

 · Eighth graders carry on the Church Partner tradition they started as a seventh grader. They continue to sit with their Church Partners from the previous year to help keep them focused during Mass.

 · The eighth-graders are instrumental in the celebration of the Crowning of Mary in May. Two students are randomly chosen to Crown Mary.

Science

Science focuses on Physical Science. During the year we will discuss matter, sounds waves, electromagnetism, and the periodic table.

English/Literature

In middle school English, we work on grammar and writing skills. I prepare the middle school students by giving them the tools they will need in the future. I strive to do 3 days of writing and 2 days of grammar each week. They are both very important and work together. I believe this is the best way to achieve all English goals.

For writing, I use many different types of writing assignments. Some of these include personal narratives, creative writing, and research papers. I also include some fun activities such as mock interviews and how-to presentations. I encourage the students to read all their work aloud to help with their public speaking skills.

For grammar, we learn about the parts of speech among other things. I have them work on proofreading sheets to improve their editing skills. They will put their skills to the test when they peer review each other's writings.