Greenspun Junior High School

GRADE 8

We Accept & Value Everyone!

Click here to download Grade 8 Curriculum (pdf)

EIGHTH GRADE REQUIRED COURSES

All eighth grade students enrolled at Greenspun Junior High School for the
2007-2008 school year are required to enroll in the following courses:

• English
• Science
• Mathematics/Algebra 8
• Physical Education/Health
• Elective
• World Geography and Cultures

 Elective Choices

Elective choices for eighth grade students are listed below.  These courses are for one year and students choose one course for the year

Concert Band                          Jazz Band*                             Symphonic Band*      
Mixed Glee Choir                     Chamber Choir                        Select Womens’ Choir*
Advanced Orchestra*               Publications*                           Leadership*
Spanish I*                              Multimedia Technology             Broadcast Journalism/Cyber Tech*
German I*                              Student Aide                           Cafeteria Worker
Honors Art*                            Fitness

*Teacher recommendation or specific criteria may have to be met to enroll in some classes.
*The administration may add or delete choices because of staff changes or changes in curriculum requirements. 

Courses and programs requiring specific admission criteria such as Special Education or Adapted Physical Education will be addressed through Individual Education Plans developed and updated on an ongoing basis by parents and teachers of students who qualify for services.  English Language Learners program placement will be determined by testing and teacher/ parent recommendation. 

Students will be inputting their top two choices through InTouch Online on March 28 or 29, 2007.  Students are to carefully select their top class choices on their assigned day.  These choices will be taken into consideration in class assignments and MAY NOT BE CHANGED after May 1, 2007.  Parents will be able to review student choices during the latter part of April using the In Touch system. If you have any questions regarding specific courses or opportunities, please call your child’s grade level counselor, Mrs. Candy McCarty, at 799-0920, ext. 4301.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
REQUIRED YEAR COURSES

ENGLISH

Required Full Year Course

ENGLISH 8:
This one-year course will expand the students’ writing abilities and strengthen critical-thinking skills.  All lessons will relate to the process of writing.  Grammar and mechanics will be taught as essential elements of writing as a process.  Literature will be used to generate and model writing and critical-thinking skills.  

ENGLISH 8 READ-WRITE: 
This one-year course will expand the students' writing abilities and strengthen their reading skills through a multi-disciplinary approach to the written language. Grammar and mechanics will be taught as essential elements of writing as a process.  Critical thinking skills will be developed through the use of reading and writing. 
*Students with reading stanine scores of 1 - 2 - 3 will be reviewed for placement in this class. Students enrolled in this course will not be placed in an elective course.

ACCELERATED ENGLISH 8: 
This course extends student experiences in English. It is designed to expand skills in spelling, mechanics, usage, vocabulary, and thinking through the use of an established writing process.  It is also designed to enhance literary appreciation through a variety of materials.  Literary selections will be studied to generate original and analytical thinking and to develop writing skills.  Specific content of this course will be consistent with the curriculum designed for the eighth grade.
*Teacher recommendation is required for placement in this class.

HONORS CORE ENGLISH 8: 
This course will parallel the Accelerated English 8 course; the content of this course will be coordinated with the Honors Core Geography class where an interdisciplinary approach will be used.
*Students with stanines 7, 8, & 9 in reading/English will be considered for this course if they have no disciplinary infractions resulting in suspensions (in-house suspension included). Teacher recommendation is also required for placement in this class.
*A contract outlining program expectations, required field trips, and projects will require signatures by both the parents/guardians and students.
*Once contracts are signed and returned, a lottery system will be used to select 64 participants for the program.
*The content of this core class is coordinated with the Honors Core Geography class.

ENGLISH 8 RESOURCE: 
This one-year course will expand the students’ writing abilities and strengthen critical-thinking skills.  All lessons will relate to the process of writing.  Grammar and mechanics will be taught as essential elements of writing as a process.  Literature will be used to generate and model writing and critical-thinking skills.   Students who qualify for special education services will have individual goals and objectives stated in their IEP.

ENGLISH 8 ELL:  Students who qualify for English Language Learner services may qualify for placement in a second language acquisition class.

MATHEMATICS

Required Full Year Course

MATHEMATICS 8:
This one-year course is designed to develop each student’s mathematical competence in creative problem solving, logical reasoning, and effective communication necessary for responsible adulthood.  Instruction in all skill areas will be directed toward developing this mathematical competence.  
*Teacher recommendation is required for placement into this course.

PRE-ALGEBRA:
This one-year course is designed to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to successfully complete algebra and geometry. This course builds on the concepts of number operations with integers, decimals, and rational numbers, word problems and reasoning skills, data analysis, probability, geometry, measurement, spatial sense, patterns, and beginning algebra.  Problem solving using a graphing calculator as an instructional tool is an integral part of this course. 

 
ALGEBRA I: 
This high school credit course is designed to introduce eighth-grade students to a formal study of algebra.  Emphasis is on the study of patterns and structure within the real number system. Topics include working with exponents and radicals, solving equations, graphing, and problem-solving strategies.  The use of a graphing calculator as an instructional tool is an integral part of this course.
*Teacher recommendation is required for placement in this course.
*Stanines of 6 & 7 are required in mathematics. If taken in the eighth grade, students successfully completing the course will fulfill one of the three mathematics credits required for high school graduation.  The grade received will become a permanent record on the high school transcript. 

ALGEBRA IH:
This high school credit honors algebra course is designed for the highly qualified, motivated student who is committed to a challenging course of study during each year of school. The development of problem-solving skills, the use of algebraic procedures, and the study of the structures within the real number system form the basics of this course.  The use of technology is an integral part of the program.     
*Teacher recommendation is required for placement in this course.
*Stanines of 7, 8, & 9 are required in mathematics and language, If taken in the eighth grade, students successfully completing the course will fulfill one of the three mathematics credits required for high school graduation. The grade received will become a permanent record on the high school transcript. 

MATHEMATICS 8 RESOURCE: 
This one-year course is designed to develop each student’s mathematical competence in creative problem solving, logical reasoning, and effective communication necessary for responsible adulthood.  Instruction in all skill areas will be directed toward developing this mathematical competence.   Students who qualify for special education services will have individual goals and objectives stated in their IEP.

GEOGRAPHY

Required Full Year Course

WORLD GEOGRAPHY & CULTURES 8:
This course includes an in-depth study of physical and cultural characteristics as they relate to global geographic education.  Special emphasis is placed on the five basic geographic themes:  location, place, human and environmental relations, movement, and land regions.  Global studies are set in regional context and exemplify important geographical concepts, relations and problems.

WORLD GEOGRAPHY & CULTURES ACCELERATED 8:
This advanced course includes an in-depth study of physical and cultural characteristics as they relate to global geographic education.  Special emphasis is placed on the five basic geographic themes:  location, place, human and environmental relations, movement, and land regions.  Global studies are set in regional context and exemplify important geographical concepts, relations and problems. Additional emphasis is placed on critical thinking, problem solving, and enrichment activities as they relate to the curriculum.
*Teacher recommendations are required for placement in this class. 

HONORS CORE GEOGRAPHY 8:
This honors course includes an in-depth study of physical and cultural characteristics as they relate to global geographic education.  Special emphasis is placed on the five basic geographic themes: location, place, human and environmental relations, movement, and land regions.  Global studies are set in regional context and exemplify important geographical concepts, relations and problems. Additional emphasis is placed on critical thinking, problem solving, and enrichment activities as they relate to the curriculum. This course extends student experiences in World Geography with the specific content consistent with the curriculum designed for the eighth grade. 
*A contract outlining program expectations, required field trips, and projects will require signatures by both the parents/guardians and students.
*Once contracts are signed and returned, a lottery system will be used to select 64 participants for the program.
*The content of this core class is coordinated with the Honors Core English class.

SCIENCE

Required Full Year Course

SCIENCE 8: 
This course provides students with instruction in the process skills of science as related to the field of physical science.  Instruction in the metric system, energy, objects in motion, structures of matter, properties of matter, as well as energy (matter and the environment) are included.

SCIENCE ACCELERATED 8: 
This advanced course provides students with instruction in the process skills of science as related to the field of physical science.  Instruction in the metric system, energy, objects in motion, structures of matter, properties of matter, as well as energy (matter and the environment) are included.  Additional emphasis is placed on critical thinking, integrating math into the sciences, and enrichment activities as they relate to the curriculum.  Students enrolled in the Algebra I Honors course or above should be enrolled in this course.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION & HEALTH

Required Semester Courses

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 8: 
This course will focus on the physical, mental, social, and emotional development of the individual in cooperative settings.  The student is provided with experiences in psychomotor skills, movement, understanding, and lifetime health-related fitness knowledge, skills, and values. The goals of this course are accomplished through participation in movement principles found in team sports, individual/dual sports, fitness and wellness activities, dance/rhythms, and lifetime recreational activities.  Rules, strategies, and safety will be emphasized in relation to active participation and the overall development of knowledgeable spectators. 
*This is a one semester course that alternates with health.  Students are responsible for uniform fees.

HEALTH 8:  
This course is designed to introduce students to the mental, physical, social, emotional, and environmental problems which individuals face in today’s society.  The course will include concepts in achieving a healthy body and healthy mental attitudes.  Other topics considered are body systems, health hazards, diseases, safety and first aid.  Human sexuality and AIDS education, within established guidelines, will be an integral part of this course. 
*Health is taken in conjunction with P.E. for a total of one year.
*Cost of CPR certification may be charged.

MUSIC ELECTIVES

CONCERT BAND:This year-long course is designed for students who have achieved skills beyond beginning band.  Students enrolling in concert band should have had one year of band or private lessons.  This course will provide more individual instruction for students wanting to develop the skills necessary for symphonic band.  Students will advance as their individual progress indicates. The importance of sustained effort and methodical practice is stressed for development of technical proficiency. Students will be required to furnish their own instrument or rent an instrument from the school (if available).  Performance opportunities will be experienced in a variety of settings. There will be required performances outside of the school day. Uniform dress will be required for performances and a fee will be charged.
*Teacher recommendation required for enrollment.

SYMPHONIC BAND:   This course is designed for students who are performing at an advanced level.  Students will receive guidance and direction in solving problems related to band instruments, and the techniques for producing and evaluating pitch, tone, rhythmic patterns, and dynamic levels.  Emphasis will be placed on providing each student with a variety of performing experiences. 
*Teacher recommendation required for enrollment.

JAZZ BAND:  This is a select ensemble that will perform various styles of music including swing, Latin, and rock.  Students must be enrolled in Symphonic Band or Advanced Orchestra to participate in Jazz Band.  In addition, students must be enrolled in early bird P.E./Health.
*Teacher recommendation required for enrollment.

INTERMEDIATE ORCHESTRA:This year-long course is designed for students who have developed skills beyond those outlined in Beginning Orchestra.  It includes further development of those skills necessary to become independent as a musician.  Emphasis is placed on the further understanding of musical notation, musical form, listening and intonation skills, and developing musical awareness.  Students will be required to furnish their own instrument or rent an instrument from the school (if available). There will be required performances outside of the school day. Uniform dress will be required for performances and a fee will be charged. 
*Teacher recommendation required for enrollment.

ADVANCED ORCHESTRA:This year-long course is designed for students who have developed skills beyond those outlined in Beginning Orchestra.  It includes further development of those skills necessary to become independent as a musician.  The course concentrates on the development of style, articulation, dynamics, rhythmic patterns, and tone.  A progression of technical proficiency is expected.  Emphasis will be placed on experiencing a variety of performance opportunities.  Students will be required to furnish their own instrument or rent an instrument from the school (if available).  There will be required performances outside of the school day.  Uniform dress will be required for performances and a fee will be charged. 
*Teacher recommendation required for enrollment.

MIXED GLEE:Mixed Glee is open to any student who is interested in singing.  It is a large ensemble that will learn music fundamentals and vocal technique.  This group will perform at various functions.  Opportunities to sing for personal enjoyment and to perform various choral productions outside of the school day are required throughout the school year.  Uniform dress will be required for performances and a fee will be charged.

CONCERT CHOIR:Concert choir is a year-long course that will further develop the musical fundamentals necessary for successful choral performance.  This is a select mixed choir and is an audition-only group for advanced singers.  This group sings in a wide variety of performances, and this class stresses individual vocal performance as well. Opportunities to sing for personal enjoyment and to perform various choral productions outside of the school day are required throughout the school year.  Uniform dress will be required for performances and a fee will be charged. *Teacher recommendation is required for enrollment.

ADVANCED WOMEN”S CHOIR:This year-long course is an audition-only
group for advanced women's voices.  This group performs a wide variety of musical literature and is designed as a study in vocal production of music fundamentals with opportunities to sing for personal enjoyment and perform a variety of choral literature.  Emphasis will be placed on providing each student with a variety of performing experiences. There will be required performances outside of the school day.  Uniform dress may be required for performances and a fee will be charged.
*Teacher recommendation is required for enrollment.

TECHNOLOGY ELECTIVES

BROADCAST JOURNALISM/CYBER TECH:This one-year course is designed for the study and practice of the basic elements of broadcasting technology, with the major emphasis on script writing, video recording and editing, and publication of news and other information through television and radio.  This class will be performance-based, requiring the production of portions of a video yearbook, morning announcements, short films, and/or student/teacher created educational videos. 
*Students MUST apply for this class and have a “C “or higher in math or science, and English and a teacher recommendation must also be received. 

MULTIMEDIA:  This one-year course will explore the career and technical opportunities in the fields of Media Productions. This course will be set-up to act as a Media Production 'House' and expose students to a real world production and development environment. Aspects of career and educational responsibilities will be explored by each unit.  This class is open to seventh and eighth grade students and is contingent on staffing and enrollment.

STUDENT AIDE & CAFETERIA WORKER

STUDENT AIDE/OFFICE AIDE:  Under the direction of a supervisor, students will gain experience in clerical duties, laboratory assistance, working with faculty members, and following directions. Students will be given an opportunity to gain experiences in clerical skills and develop the personal qualities necessary for success in the business world. 

CAFETERIA WORKER:Under the direction of a supervisor, students will gain experience in food service and preparation, working with faculty members, and following directions.   
*Prerequisites:  Good attendance, good citizenship and a 2.0 grade point average. Students who fall below a 2.0 g.p.a. may be removed as an office aide and/or cafeteria worker. Students interested in working with others are encouraged to complete an application for enrollment through the counselor.
*Placement in this class will be based on an application process. 

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

SPANISH I:This one year class is designed to develop the basic skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing Spanish within a limited scope. It provides practice in correct use of basic language structures and also develops an appreciation of the customs and traditions of Spanish-speaking people.  
*Students successfully completing this course will satisfy one elective credit for high school graduation. The grade received will become a permanent record on the high school transcript.

GERMAN I:This one year class is designed to develop the basic skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing German within a limited scope. It provides practice in correct use of basic language structures and also develops an appreciation of the customs and traditions of German-speaking people.  
*Students successfully completing this course will satisfy one elective credit for high school graduation.  The grade received will become a permanent record on the high school transcript.

ART

HONORS  ART:    This one year course will explore art in various mediums:  drawing, painting, sculpture, and ceramics.  This class will be composed of 7th and 8th grade students who have previously taken at least one semester of art and who have shown a passion to excel in the artistic mediums to be covered.  Students who qualify for this course are required to purchase an art kit (issued in the class) and the permission of the instructor to take this course.
*A fee will be charged.

ADDITIONAL ELECTIVES

PUBLICATIONS:
This year-long course is designed as an introduction to journalism and layout design.  Concepts of journalism will be applied through the publication of the school newspaper and the school yearbook.  This course will be a combined 7th/8th grade class. 
*Application and teacher approval is required for enrollment in this class.

LEADERSHIP:
This early-bird course provides students with the opportunity to develop leadership skills.  Students will develop effective communication skills, learn parliamentary procedures, and contribute to supporting a positive school and community environment.  Time will be used in and out of class for students to implement projects associated with their responsibilities. 
*Requires Student Council Advisor’s Approval.
*Class officers will be expected to participate in this early bird class elective.

8th Grade Exploration / Fitness

This is a co-ed, semester long fitness class that is designed to introduce students to all aspects of fitness: physical, mental, emotional, and social fitness.  The main emphasis of this course is to give the students a greater understanding of the human muscular system and proper exercise techniques that correspond to each major muscle group.  Other topics to be covered throughout the semester include health and wellness issues, life-skills fitness options, and healthy lifestyle choices.  In addition, this class is designed as an activities class; one in which the students will physically participate in a variety of games/sports/athletic events through a series of guest speakers / demonstrators.  This course will alternate with another semester long exploration course that has yet to be determined.