8th Grade

*Students in the 8th grade get 2.5 credits of electives that they may fill with a combination of full year and semester electives.

Required Courses

English (choose one of the following)

Covers the different aspects of the language arts – specifically reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing  and how we can incorporate them into our lives. Some aspects include writing workshops, research methods, persuasive writing, literature analysis, discussion, peer evaluation, grammar and vocabulary.

The objective of this course is to teach students disciplined and effective reading and writing skills necessary for success in future accelerated courses. Students will be instructed in critical reading, prewriting, writing, revising, and editing, as well as grammar and vocabulary. Success in this course requires seriously committed students who are willing to work above the expectations required in a regular 8th grade English class. Each student in this class is expected to adhere to high standards of attendance, preparedness, participation, and responsibility.  There will be regular homework assigned as well as reading/writing assignments during school breaks

Math 

  • Math 8 (yearlong, 1.0 credit course)

Instructional time should focus on three critical areas: (1) formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations, including modeling an association in bivariate data with a linear equation, and solving linear equations and systems of linear equations; (2) grasping the concept of a function and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; (3) analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem.

  • Secondary Math 1 Honors (yearlong, 1.0 credit course; successful completion of Math 7/8 accelerated required)

The fundamental purpose of Secondary Mathematics I is to formalize and extend the mathematics that students learned in the middle grades. The critical areas, organized into units, deepen and extend understanding of linear relationships, in part by contrasting them with exponential phenomena, and in part by applying linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend. Secondary Mathematics I uses properties and theorems involving congruent figures to deepen and extend understanding of geometric knowledge from prior grades. The final unit in the course ties together the algebraic and geometric ideas studied. This will be covered at a rapid pace and Matrices and Vector operations will be added.

Healthy Lifestyles

Students will continue to develop sports skills learned in 7th grade.  While the emphasis is on getting activity, strategies and teamwork will be a key component.

Science

During this class we will be focusing on how energy and matter experience change. The areas of science to be studied are physics, biology, chemistry and geology. In each areas of science, about 1 term will be spent investigating specific aspects of these sciences according to the Utah State Core Curriculum.

Social Studies

This course is designed to emphasize historic events from the age of exploration to Reconstruction and the western movement. Topics covered will include, but are not limited to, the age of exploration, colonization, Revolutionary War, national period, constitutional issues, Civil War, Reconstruction and the western movement.

Dual Immersion students only

  • Spanish DLI 4 (yearlong, 1.0 credit course)

This course is designed for students who have participated in the Dual Immersion program in grades 1-7. Students will continue to develop their Spanish language art skills as we explore the history, culture and current events that pertain to the Spanish- speaking world. This course is designed to prepare the students to take AP Spanish DLI 5 next year and will require regular reading and writing assignments to do well.

ELECTIVE SELECTIONS

FULL YEAR ELECTIVE OPTIONS
1.0 credit, fills 2 elective request boxes,  cannot be dropped at the end of the semester

  • Spanish 1

Beginning Spanish will focus on developing the five language skills of listening, speaking, reading, writing, and culture. You will begin building vocabulary, working through grammar and simple sentence structures, as well as conducting simple conversations in Spanish. You will be introduced to Hispanic culture and geography.

  • Mixed Chorus

All students are encouraged to join, even if they have no prior music experience. Class time focuses on singing a variety of styles, building musical skills and making the most of your voice.

  • Intermediate Choir (teacher approval required) 

Builds on previous music experience to learn to read, write and sing music. We sing music of many styles and cultures. We will perform in concerts at least once a term at RJH as well as at festivals and performances within the district.

  • A Cappella Choir (audition required)

This choir is open to singers who have choir experience, music literacy, and the foundations of good vocal technique. Students will enjoy challenging music of many different styles and build their reading, listening and vocal skills in the process.

  • Beginning Band 

Open to any student wishing to learn one of the following instruments:  flute, oboe, clarinet, French horn, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, or percussion (piano skills are recommended for students interested in percussion). No prior music skills are required since this is a beginning level class. Basic playing techniques will be stressed with emphasis on tone production and rhythm. It is recommended that students provide their own instruments. Limited school owned instruments are available to use for $50 per school year.

  • Cadet Band (intermediate)

Open to students who have successfully completed Beginning Band, or 2 years of private instruction/elementary band. It is a continuation of skills obtained in the first-year band class. It is recommended that students provide their own instruments. Limited school owned instruments are available to use for $50 per school year.

  • Symphonic Band (2+ years, teacher approval required)

This is the advanced level band for woodwind, brass and percussion students who have demonstrated exceptional ability in musical performance for 2 or more years on their instrument. It is a continuation of skills obtained in the first and second year band classes. It is recommended that students provide their own instruments. Limited school owned instruments are available to use for $50 per school year.

  • Beginning Orchestra

Open to any student wishing to learn a string instrument: violin, viola, cello, or string bass. No prior music skills are required since this is a beginning level class. Basic playing techniques will be stressed with emphasis on tone production and rhythm. It is recommended that students provide their own instruments. Limited school owned
instruments are available to use for $50 per school year.

  • Concert Orchestra (intermediate)

Open to students who have successfully completed Beginning Orchestra, or 2 years of private instruction/elementary orchestra. It is a continuation of skills obtained in the first-year orchestra class. It is recommended that students provide their own instruments. Limited school instruments are available to use for $50 per school year.

  • Chamber Orchestra (2+ years, teacher approval required)

This is the advanced level orchestra for violin, viola, cello and bass students who have demonstrated exceptional ability in musical performance for 2 or more years on their instrument. It is a continuation of skills obtained in the first and second year orchestra classes. It is recommended that students provide their own instruments. Limited school instruments are available to use for $50 per school year.

SEMESTER (1/2 year) ELECTIVE OPTIONS
0.5 credit, fills 1 elective request box, can only be chosen once, cannot be taken twice for a full year

  • Participation Skills 8/9 (PE)

Students will continue to develop sports skills learned in 7th grade.  While the emphasis is on getting activity, strategies and teamwork will be a key component.

  • Sources of Strength/Peer Leadership Team (interview may be required)

Designed to develop leadership skills by exploring personal, social, and community responsibilities. Students will work on fun group activities and team projects that will boost their teamwork skills and help them to understand their role in the community. They will also stay connected to the world around them by participating in current event papers and journals. In addition, our Sources of Strength program is integrated into our PLT class. Sources of Strength helps students build resilience by focusing on their areas of strength, such as support from family, friends, and mental health. It encourages students to lead and create a positive, supportive school community of peers and trusted adults. Students will participate in a Sources of Strength training. To learn more, please visit https://sourcesofstrength.org/

  • Creative Writing

Students will explore and expand their writing skills by creating independent works in a variety of genres and formats including multimedia, short stories, world building, screenplays, and personal narratives.

  • FACS/Foods

This course provides students with the opportunity to explore and cultivate skills in food and nutrition sciences, childcare, interior design, clothing and fashion design, consumerism, entrepreneurship, family relationships, personal responsibility, and career and job-related tasks.

  • Creative Coding

Be introduced to the world of coding with Skill Struck and the python language. This course is a beginning to different coding languages and will mainly use python, but also dip into HTML and some java script.  We will use spheros, as well as Minecraft to reinforce learning in class.  Join us for an introduction to programming!

  • Art 1

A general introduction and overview of art styles, materials, and tools, based around the seven elements of art. With an emphasis on studio production, this course is designed to provide a foundation in art techniques, as well as art history in order for students to proceed to Art 2.

  • Art 2 (successful completion of Art 1 required)

With an emphasis on studio production this course is designed to provide further study of art techniques, artists, and history all based around the principles of design. Art 2 builds on the foundation set in Art 1.

  • Theatre 1

Beginning class for students who are new to Theatre or are interested in exploring both performance and technical elements of theater including creating pantomimes, performing monologues, designing costumes/posters/lights, reading a play, and improvisation.

  • Theatre 2 (successful completion of Theatre 1 required)

Intermediate class for students wanting to extend their abilities as an actor by working on various performance styles including audition prep, comedy, melodrama, Shakespeare, stage combat, and musical theater. The class culminates in a showcase for friends and family to watch students demonstrate their performance skills.

  • Theatre 3 (successful completion of Theatre 1 and 2 required plus audition) 

Advanced, auditioned class for students wanting hands-on experience performing in a play. This class produces the school fall play each year.  Students must be self-motivated and trustworthy. Some after school hours are required.

  • Beginning Stage Crew (successful completion of Theater 1 recommended)

Hands-on backstage experience. Students will read and analyze scripts, build props, design costumes, and practice effective backstage jobs (ushers, stage crew, light/sound operation). Some after school hours are required.

  • Construction Technology

This is an introductory Construction class.  Students will learn all the safety and tools in the shop.  They will make multiple projects that will introduce them to the various tools and machines.  This is a prerequisite for the next two choices and can be taken in 8th or 9th grade.

  • Manufacturing Technology (successful completion of Construction Technology required)

This is for any 8th or 9th grader who has taken Construction Technology.  This class will focus on mass production and many more manufacturing principles.  Students will work together to make projects in an assembly line fashion.  Everyone will get their own project to take home of each project we build.  We will work with wood, metals, plastics and other materials to produce products.

  • Woods 1 (successful completion of Construction Technology required)

This is a woodworking only class.  Any 8th or 9th grader can take this class if they have already completed Construction Technology.  Every student will work on their own project from start to finish.  Each student will build a skateboard or longboard and at least one other major project that the class decides upon.

  • Student Aide Positions
    • Teacher
      Aides assist the teacher with any assigned tasks.
    • Library
      Aides will learn the Destiny library management system, the Dewey Decimal system, and become familiar with library genres (adventure, biographies, classics, horror, humor, graphic novels, fantasy, historical fiction, manga, mystery, nonfiction, realistic fiction, romance, science fiction, sports, etc.). This knowledge will enable them to become proficient users and helpers of the library.  Aides will also learn communication and service skills as they cater to patrons in the library.  This experience will aid students academically and socially, and if they choose, allow them to further their library interest at their high school, college, and/or public library. Responsibilities: Checking books in and out, renewing books, placing holds, and locating books. Shelving books in their proper order. Maintaining individual shelf section (organizing, marketing, cleaning, etc.) Helping with displays, cleaning, and errands. Quietly working on homework or reading a book when finished with library duties.
    • Peer Tutor
      This is a class available to 8 th  and 9 th  grade students. Students who take this course
      work with students with moderate to severe cognitive disabilities. They assist in taking
      them to different classes, working with them in the special education class on subjects
      such as reading, basic math and functional skills.
    • Office
      Aides answer phone calls, deliver slips, help students who come to the office and do
      other needed tasks.
    • Counseling Center
      Aides are expected to take student request slips to students in class, get ice/bandages
      for students, welcome people into the counseling center and find out what the person
      needs, complete other assigned tasks.

SUPPORT CLASSES

  • Applied Skills (IEP required)

Open for students with IEP’s to receive additional support for their general education classes.  This class is designed to provide students with learning and study strategies, social skills, added time to provide accommodations, and to work on IEP goals through specialized instruction.

  • English as a Second Language (ESL)

This class supports English listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Covers academic language skills for other content areas. Cultural and social skills supporting integration into the community. WIDA score determines placement.

  • School Success (teacher/principal approval required)

This course is designed to provide support and structure for students who are struggling to be successful in their school career.  The students may be challenged by failing grades, behavior issues, attendance problems, homework and/or test difficulties, lack of school organizational skills, social or emotional concerns, or an overall apathy toward school. The class will strive to teach the students study skills, organizational skills, time management, behavior management and modification, self-advocacy, and better decision-making skills.  The goal of School Success is to empower your student with the tools necessary to help him/her become a successful student this year and in the future.

  • Math Lab (teacher/principal approval required)

Remediation and tutoring of current and previous math concepts to help a student find success in their current math class.