Eighth grade students continue to develop an analytical approach to reading in increasingly difficult texts. New literary terms are introduced so students can continue their development as critical readers. Using a wide variety of texts, both informational and literary, students analyze how the author’s style, choice of words, and selected genre blend to create meaning. In writing, students are expected to use more complex sentence structures and grammatical constructions. Additionally, students learn to organize and develop ideas in a convincing and well-structured format for a variety of purposes and audiences. 

Fee: $27.00

Scholarship ELA 8 students continue to develop an analytical approach to reading in increasingly difficult texts. Students will continue to expand their use of literary terms as they develop and refine their abilities as critical readers. Using a wide variety of texts, both informational and literary, students analyze how the author’s style, choice of words, and selected genre blend to create meaning. In writing, students are expected to use more complex sentence structures and grammatical constructions. Additionally, students will be organizing their ideas in convincing and sophisticated ways for a variety of purposes and audiences. The Grade Protection Policy applies to this course. 

Fee: $20.50

In the honors course, students with advanced learning abilities are provided with an enriched academic environment using a variety of instructional methods and materials. Students will be presented with more difficult reading material and will be involved in greater depth of study at a faster pace. Students read widely in informational and literary texts, as well as develop and express ideas through sophisticated and well-constructed compositions and presentations. Evaluations stress higher level thinking skills, creativity, and excellence in performance and products. The Grade Protection Policy applies to this course. 

Fee: $24.50

In Math 8, studies include 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; and (3) analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem, with an emphasis on the Algebra Standards.

The Scholarship Math 8 curriculum will build upon skills developed within Scholarship Math 7. Instruction will 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; and (3) analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem, with an emphasis on the Algebra Standards. This course will prepare students for Scholarship Algebra I in 9th grade. The Grade Protection Policy applies to this course. 

Honors Algebra 1 is a rigorous, advanced, and accredited high school course which includes and extends traditional algebraic concepts with an emphasis on problem solving and theory. Topics covered include linear equations, systems of equations, quadratic equations, factoring, algebraic fractions, radicals, radical equations, exponential equations, analysis of graphs and functions. Emphasis is given to applying and solving word problems algebraically. Students should expect at least 30 minutes of homework each night. The semester and final exams are worth 20% of the overall grade.  Students will receive honors credit and the grade will be calculated into their high school grade point average. This is an accelerated mathematics course.  The Grade Protection Policy applies to this course. 

The course will consist of the study of elements of geometry, angles, perpendicular lines, parallel lines and planes, congruent triangles, similar polygons, right triangles, circles, areas, volumes, and coordinate geometry. The first semester will emphasize writing proofs while the second semester will emphasize computational processes. A scientific calculator is recommended for this course. Students should expect at least 30 minutes of homework each night. The semester and final exams are worth 20% of the overall grade.  Students will receive high school credit for successful completion of Geometry and the grade contributes to their high school grade point average. This is an accelerated mathematics course. The Grade Protection Policy applies to this course. 

Placement in Honors Geometry in 8th grade is limited to who have been through the formal acceleration process or have successfully completed Honors Algebra I while in seventh grade.  Students cannot be waived into this course. 

Students in the eighth grade acquire knowledge to explain how the motions of objects are described relative to reference points. They discover how the magnitude and direction of forces can affect the motion of an object.  Students explore magnetic, electric, and gravitational fields. They further their understanding of potential energy and how position and shape can determine an object’s potential energy. Students delve into Earth’s composition as they work to understand how plate movement creates landforms. They will draw conclusions from scientific evidence that support theories related to the change of the Earth’s surface. They will draw conclusions from scientific evidence that support theories related to the change of Earth’s surface, and provide evidence of the dynamic changes of Earth’s surface through time as is found in the geologic record. Students will be able to explain how the extinction of a species occurs when the environment changes and its adaptive characteristics are insufficient to allow survival. They will also learn that every organism alive today comes from a long line of ancestors who reproduced successfully every generation. Students will also explore how the characteristics of an organism are a result of inherited traits received from the biological parent(s). Students design a solution to a problem or design and build a product, given certain constraints. Technological influences on the quality of life are also explored in this grade level.

Fee: $11.00

The historical focus in the eighth grade is a year-long study of the early years of the United States, roughly 1492 - 1877. We begin with European colonization and then spend a considerable amount of time studying the American Revolution. We will also expose students to the processes of a constitutional government which includes a look at the early presidencies. The school year ends with another considerably in-depth unit as we explore the U.S. Civil War and Reconstruction. While students are studying a particular historic event in the United States, they will also consider: geographic settings, economic implications, developments in government, point of view in a historical context, and the role of citizens. During our course of study we strive to achieve the benchmarks set in the Ohio Academic Content Standards. Instruction will include class discussions, assigned readings, projects, and assessments. Lastly, we attempt to prepare our students for the rigors of high school social studies by giving them instruction in note-taking and studying for tests.

• The Age of Exploration

• English Colonization

• The American Revolution

• Constitutional Government

• The Early Presidencies

• The Age of Jackson

• Manifest Destiny

• Reformers

• The Civil War and Reconstruction

A study of current events is also a part of our course of study as we strive to achieve the benchmarks set in the Ohio Academic Content Standards. Instruction will include class discussion, assigned readings, projects and assessments. While students are studying a particular historic event in the United States, they will also consider:

• Geographic Settings Settings

• Economic Implications

• Developments in Government Government

• Point of View in a Historical Context

• The Role of Citizens

Fee: $1.99

8th Grade Band is typically for students entering their third year of playing. Students in this class will continue to develop performance-related skills by working on a varied repertoire of music representing diverse genres and cultures. Students will demonstrate expression and technical accuracy at a level that includes more advanced ranges and changes of tempo, key, and meter. This is a graded co-curricular course and attendance at performances (approx. 3 per year) is required.
Fee: $14.00 for SmartMusic (a digital practice and assessment tool)

This choir will be a continuation from the 7th grade Choir. Students will sing three part to four part music. The literature being sung in the class will range in difficulty from three part to four part OMEA rated Class B music. Students will be introduced to the identification of intervals, key signatures, correlation of pitches in a music staff to the piano, along with building upon previous concepts from 7th grade Choir such as: vocal technique, music literacy, ear training, piano functionality, and solfege. Attendance at performances outside the school day are required.

Have you ever wondered how mobile apps are created? Students learn and apply computational thinking and technical knowledge and skills to create mobile apps. Students also acquire and apply skills pertaining to the design process, problem solving, persistence, collaboration, and communication. Go beyond being an app consumer and become an app creator! This is a Project Lead The Way course offered in partnership with the Greene County Career Center.

Prerequisite: This course is open to seventh and eighth grade students. Eighth grade students will have priority scheduling.

This semester course is a unique, hands-on mix of 2D and 3D art projects which allows students to explore a variety of media. Students will creatively problem solve and develop critical thinking skills using the Elements and Principles of Art. Projects in this class may include: drawing, painting, collage, printmaking, and sculpture media. Students are allowed to take Art 7/8 both years as project selection is different from one year to the next. 

Fee: $15.00

Automation and Robotics Two (AR2) is a year-long elective course where students explore advanced, rigorous engineering and computer science principles. Throughout the course of the year, students will complete several long term projects that extend the curriculum covered in Automation and Robotics One (AR) along with the introduction of new engineering and computer science content. This will include advanced programming logics, advanced sensors and prototyping materials, computer aided design principles, and professional documentation of the design process. Students will also learn how to safely use and maintain design equipment including 3D printers, poster laminators, CNC routers, and laser engravers.

Each major project will be connected to the work of a local company. Students will be presented with a problem that aligns with the services provided by a business located in the Beavercreek area. Students will have the opportunity to take field trips to many of these businesses and may have the opportunity to present their designs to employees for professional feedback.

Students who take AR2 will be taught several employability skills including innovative collaboration, problem solving, communication, and leadership. Students will practice giving presentations to their peers along with creating and presenting proposals to adults. In addition, students will learn best practices in project and time management and document the progress of a particular project.

This course is for students who have successfully completed Automation and Robotics (“B” or better) while in seventh grade and demonstrated the ability to learn at an accelerated pace. To be considered, students must complete an application and interview process. Students who are invited to participate in AR2 must be willing to commit to some after school and weekend work. In light of the application process students cannot be waived into this course.

Have you ever wondered how code can be used in wearable tech, art exhibits, or mechanical devices?  Students learn about programming for the physical world by blending hardware design and software development. Using microcontrollers with inputs and outputs, they develop code that brings their physical designs to life. It’s time to become an innovator and maker using physical computing! This is a Project Lead The Way course offered in partnership with the Greene County Career Center.

Prerequisite: This course is open to seventh and eighth students. Eighth grade students will have priority scheduling.

In the engaging and dynamic course Design and Modeling (DM), students will learn about and implement the engineering design process with an emphasis on producing tangible goods. Students will be challenged to solve problems using appropriate measuring techniques, 2D sketching, and 3D computer modeling in this practical course. Practice 21st century skills, which are essential in today's workforce, with Design and Modeling. This course is ideal for those who prefer hands-on learning and projects, whether they are technical students with an attention to detail or creative learners who like to “make stuff.”

Fee: $15.00

Prerequisite: This course is open to seventh and eighth grade students.

A vacation on the moon? Students use tools such as the engineering design process, an engineering notebook, and computer simulations to explore, invent, and innovate. Learn how creative thinking and problem solving can change your world! The exciting world of aerospace comes alive through the Flight and Space (FS) unit. Students explore the science behind aeronautics and use their knowledge to design, prototype, and test model rocket fuel and a glider. Custom-built simulation software allows students to experience space travel. This is a Project Lead The Way course offered in partnership with the Greene County Career Center.

Prerequisite: This course is open to seventh and eighth grade students. Eighth grade students will have priority scheduling.

In Medical Detectives, students play the role of real-life medical detectives as they collect and analyze medical data to diagnose disease. Students investigate human body systems and dissect owl pellets, worms, and chicken wings. They solve medical mysteries through hands-on projects and labs, measure and interpret vital signs, diagnose patients, dissect a sheep brain, investigate disease outbreaks, and explore how a breakdown within the human body can lead to dysfunction. In these investigations students will be using various lab equipment to perform experiments including an experiment using bacteria and antibiotics and the use of medical equipment to take vital signs including blood pressure and blood oxygen levels.

Prerequisite: This course is open to seventh and eighth grade students. Eighth grade students will have priority scheduling.

Medical Career Lab is an engaging, hands-on course for students who have completed Medical Detectives and are eager to explore medical careers in greater depth. This semester-long class, open to 8th graders who have successfully completed Medical Detectives, offers the opportunity to investigate over 30 different medical professions. Students will select a career and research it thoroughly to learn job responsibilities, required education, and salary expectations. Then students will view videos featuring local professionals discussing their careers.

Additionally, students will participate in hands-on labs that provide practical experience related to each chosen profession. These labs are designed to simulate the tasks and skills involved in various medical careers. Medical Career Lab aims to inspire and educate the next generation of medical professionals by offering a comprehensive and interactive exploration of the medical field.

Some examples of what students will study:

Surgeon: Learn how to do stitches

Lab Technician: Make cool art with a micropipette

Allergist: Practice using an EpiPen

ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat Doctor): Use an otoscope

Occupational Therapist: Try and make adaptive tools

The study of Spanish I presents students with the opportunity to learn this modern language through a combination of reading, writing, listening and speaking.  Students learn and reinforce their language skills by actively participating in cultural and role-playing activities.  Students will use authentic materials and reenact typical situations in Spanish.  A variety of supplemental resources are used to create an enjoyable and effective learning environment.  There is a course fee for the online resources that students will use to support language learning during the year.

Year/1 HS credit                                        

Fee - $5     

Guidelines for Spanish I at the MS:

• Students who take Spanish I at the middle school will earn one high school credit provided they have successfully completed the year-long course and met all of the course requirements.

• This grade will be calculated into their high school grade point average and will permanently appear on their high school transcript.  

• Keep in mind that students can begin to study a world language course in high school if they have concerns about their readiness to take on this challenge during their eighth grade year.

• Students must have a “C” average with teacher recommendation to continue to Spanish II at the high school level.