Literature/Language Arts

Students read and analyze selections for elements of literature such as characterization, figurative language, conflict, and theme. They build their vocabulary by taking ownership of unfamiliar words in context. 

Students write for understanding and learn the challenging art of writing through writer’s workshop and the writing process. Teachers provide frequent and specific feedback to students about their writing. Students have multiple opportunities to revise their drafts.

The eighth grade students’ literary exploration includes reading novels, short stories, poetry, and nonfiction. Some selections are: Hound of the Baskervilles, A Monster Calls, and The Hobbit .The literature teacher adds to the list of possible selections as new appropriate middle school novels and nonfiction become available; all new selections are read and approved by the teacher.  

During the third and final trimester, students explore the world of William Shakespeare. They study his language, his life, and their own humanity revealed in his plays. Students immerse themselves in Much Ado About Nothing and segments from other plays like The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, The Tragedy of Julius Caesar, and others. This unit culminates in the performance of a chosen passage from a selection of Shakespeare’s plays.  

Science

The curriculum for eighth grade focuses on Earth Science. Topics include plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, and other forces that affect our earth. Additionally, students review rocks, minerals, and their formation. Astronomy and space exploration — both history and present work is also discussed. All classes are held in the laboratory with hand-on experience at least twice per week.

Specials

Students attend an art, music, gym, and computer class once per week. In art students experience an in-depth concentration and development on drawing and painting skills. They learn value shading and color blending techniques at a more sophisticated level as well as the manipulation of brushes and drawing tools. Lessons are related to past, renowned artists and their works along with styles in art history and cultural art practices. At this level, several art lessons are inter-related with the lessons of the social studies curriculum.

An art show is held annually during Catholic Schools Week
All students participate in the diocesan art contest
Other optional art contests are announced by the instructor

In music the curriculum for fifth through eighth grade covers music history of Antiquity, Middle Ages, Renaissance, Baroque Music, Classical and Romantic Periods, Music of the 20th Century including the composers and different styles, as well as American Music from the 1900’s to present.  The elements of music and definitions including melody, rhythm, genres, dynamics, tempos are learned.  Students review and continue to learn about note values and staff placement including treble and bass clefs.  As a culmination of their musical learning, eighth grade students create a song with lyrics, melody, rhythms, harmonies, and chord progressions.

Students are also offered an opportunity to join the middle school choir.  They sing at the school masses and at the spring concert.

In addition to choir, students may elect to participate in the instrumental music program complete with weekly lessons.  A concert is held annually for the school community to enjoy.

In PE, instruction emphasizes the importance of an active and healthy lifestyle through participation in team oriented games, activities, and sports with the continuing theme of fair play and sportsmanship.