8^th Grade Courses

Introductory Logic and World Views

Eighth grade Bible consists of two semester long courses: Introductory Logic and Worldviews. In Logic, students will learn to use God-given reasoning abilities to draw proper conclusions. Learning how to think logically allows students to reason properly about God and His truths. Students will be trained in the skills of basic logic usage. Students will use this knowledge to engage with Biblical texts. In worldviews, students will study the history and theological assumptions of 7 different worldviews. They will also be able to define and apply a Christian worldview within the context of their own lives and studies. Students will learn through Bible and texbook reading assignments, journal writing, projects/papers, and worksheet activities.

English 8

Eighth Grade English studies literature from a Christian worldview and includes American fantasy/science fiction, World War II in Europe, Elizabethan England, and 19th-20th century English mystery settings. Integrated within each literary piece studied, students will expand their vocabulary and grammar skills, which will be applied as they develop and refine their writing skills through journaling, short stories, persuasive essays, autobiographies, and research papers. Each quarter, an analysis of one book from a designated outside reading list is required.

Earth Science

An overview of geology, physics, chemistry, and biology as they impact our universe; the earth's internal processes; the makeup of the natural world. Included are a study of the earth's air, water and physical processes as they shape the physical world. A highlight is emphasis on practical evaluation of the world's energy and environmental problems.

Pre-Algebra

This course takes foundational skills learned in Math 7 to a deeper level of complexity and enables students to fine-tune their understanding of setting up and solving equations. Proficiency in adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing equations, working with integers, as well as rational and real numbers is developed. Students learn how to apply their knowledge of ration, proportion and percentages as well as formulas for finding area, volume, and analyzing other geometric figures with varying degrees of complexity.

Algebra I

The Algebra I class combines existing math skills with abstract thinking to solve various problems. The class is designed to broaden the student's general math skills and prepare them for higher mathematics in high school. Students will study mathematical principles regarding exponents, polynomials, systems of equations, graphing linear equations and inequalities, rational numbers, radicals, functions, and quadratic equations. (1 High School Credit)

Spanish 1b

This class is the second half of Spanish I, where the students take the whole year to finish the first-level of Spanish. It is designed to give students a slower, more comfortable pace at which to learn, as well as, provide an opportunity for more hands-on projects. Students will develop grammar, listening, and speaking skills in the Spanish language. Students will study the text through videos, projects, and games, as well as verbal and written assignments. Frequent vocabulary quizzes will expand the student's language proficiency and help acquire basic conversation skills. In addition, several countries will be explored in order to expand cultural horizons and cultivate an appreciation for the Spanish language. At the end of this class, students will be able to go on to Spanish II in 9th Grade. (½ High School Credit)

American History 8

The American History course is designed to provide students with factual knowledge of the development of pre-Colonial America through 21st Century America. Students in the class should expect to read and analyze sources, and write essays from a historical perspective and a Christian worldview.