HUMANITIES 8
Humanities 8 is a study of our role as global citizens and the challenges that we face as individuals, as a nation, and as members of a larger worldwide community. Students will explore Global Challenges and Opportunities, looking at immigration, multiculturalism and cultural sustainability. They will also study thematic units including: Peace and Conflict, World Health, Cultural Tribalism, Global Trade and Consumerism, and Global Problem-Solving Models. The emphasis in this course is to empower students to investigate information in order to educate themselves in an ever-changing world.

Language arts skills such as mechanics of writing, vocabulary, and grammar will be incorporated in the curriculum. Students will read several assigned novels, and they will also have the opportunity to choose their own reading material that is related to the units we study. Using these novels, students will refine their critical writing skills by revising and editing their work to develop strong arguments with substantial support. The skills of research, analysis, critical thinking, group facilitation, public speaking and presentation, and persuasion will be emphasized.

In addition to field trips, guest speakers and simulations, the students will present the results of an oral history project which will focus on interviewing and writing skills to gather the narratives of community members.

MATHEMATICS
Eighth Graders will take Algebra or Geometry.

Algebra lays the groundwork and introduces the language of elementary mathematics. It covers the topics of traditional algebra courses, such as linear sentences and related concepts, exponents and polynomials. Quadratic equations are introduced. Algebra also integrates geometry, statistics, and probability throughout the course. Reading the mathematics, using calculators, and problem solving are integral aspects of the course. This course is offered to OES Seventh and Eighth Graders. (Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra)

Geometry analyzes the mathematical concept of shape. The traditional Euclidean concepts are discussed and developed along with non-Euclidean concepts of transformational and coordinate geometry. Two-dimensional and three-dimensional examples and problems are used throughout. Geometry integrates algebra throughout the course and introduces special sections on symbolic logic and the theory of proof. Reading the mathematics is an integral part of the course and methods of problem solving and logical thinking are emphasized. (Prerequisite: Algebra)

SCIENCE
The Eighth Grade science curriculum is a combination of physical science and life science. The first semester emphasizes physical science couched within an astronomy course. The second semester emphasizes life science with a focus on the origins of life and Darwin ’ s theory of evolution.

RELIGION
The 8th grade religion course addresses existential, philosophical and theological questions: Does God exist? What is the nature of God? How does one reconcile the existence of God with human suffering? What is the relationship between science and religion? What is my purpose? Students explore answers to these age-old questions drawing from their individual conscience, inherited religious tradition and the wisdom of the world's religions. Students write a three-page faith paper exploring their answers to these questions.

CONTEMPORARY ISSUES
Contemporary Issues provides eighth graders with the opportunity to do thoughtful, well-researched, responsible, effective work regarding major global and local issues, by means of participation in the National Association of Independent Schools’ Challenge 20/20, with a partner school from India, the Model United Nations representing India at the 2007 State Conference, and at the Portland City Club.