Eighth Grade Program
History
Eighth Grade history examines world history from 1870 to the present. Beginning with conceptual ideas like cultural identity, mental models, demographics, and systems, students explore foundational events to better grasp the roots of contemporary global issues. Within this framework students examine primary sources to develop research, writing, and critical thinking skills.
English
Connected to the concept of global citizenship, English 8 looks at the theme of individual choice and standing up for what is right. Beginning with Lord of the Flies, students examine the varied forces that influence characters' moral and immoral choices. Branching out from this, we read Fahrenheit 451 and The Book Thief as well as poetry, short stories, and creative work to broaden an understanding of why and how people make the decisions they do. Along the way, foundation skills are developed that encourage rich analytical and creative writing. These include grammar, vocabulary, paragraph development, and essays. The ultimate objective is for students to finish the year with a broad set of skills to prepare them for the academic challenges that lie ahead.
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)
Second Language 6-8
Students may choose to study French, Spanish, or Mandarin, studying one language for all three years. The goals for the students in all language programs are to understand simple and common oral and written language; to speak and write simple sentences and questions with good grammatical structure and pronunciation; to begin to understand some of the characteristics of the culture whose language is being studied; and to look at their own culture(s) in comparison. Students learn to use basic grammatical structures in the present, future, and past tenses.
The Middle School language sequences are designed to prepare students to enter the second year for language study in Upper School. The text and resources available are appropriate for Middle School learners and compatible with those used in the Upper School courses.
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.
