Embedded Files
8th Grade Landmark PDF 2024-25 1.pdf
8th Grade Links 2025-26
8th Grade Links 2025-26
School Readiness Checklist: Supplies, Books, Uniforms, etc.
Teacher Hours Schedule... Coming Soon.
Test and Major Assignment Calendar
Parent Ambassadors 2025-26
Parent Ambassadors 2025-26
Additional questions, reach out to your Parent Ambassadors (emails linked below), they are all happy to help!!!
The 8th Grade Team 2025-26
The 8th Grade Team 2025-26
H. White - Medieval History
Mr. Woodside - Medieval History
Fugazza - Algebra I
Mr. Lewis - Algebra I
Ms.Labadie - Literature & Composition
Ms. C. White - Literature & Composition
Ms. Meador - Earth Science
Mr. Liles - Music
Linde - Studio Art
Mercer - Latin III
Ms. Daun- Latin III
8th Grade Events 2025-26
8th Grade Events 2025-26
8/1 - New Student Orientation & Open House
8/5 - First Day of School
8/7 - Sports info meeting via Zoom
8/11 - Extended Day Begins
8/14 - Q1 House Sorting & Opening Ceremonies
8/15 - Half Day
8/18-22 - Benchmark Testing
8/21 - Fall Sport Kickoff Event
8/25 - Enrichment Courses Begin
8/27 - Fall Picture Day
8/28 - 8th-12th Curriculum Night
9/29 - Half Day
9/1 - No School Labor Day
9/12 - Homecoming Football Game
9/17 - Half Day - GH In-service
9/23 Landmark Series Opening Event; 8th Gr Breakfast
10/3 - Half Day
10/6-10 - No School Fall Break
10/13-15 - No School - Mandatory Student Parent Conference
10/21 8th Gr Day Trip: Slide Rock
10/27-31 - Benchmark Testing
10/31 - Literary Character Day
10/31 - Beowulf Night
11/6 - Picture Re-take Day
11/7 - Half Day
11/7 - Great Heart Gala
11/7 - House (Field) Day
11/11 - No School Verteran's Day
11/17 - Scripps Spelling Bee
11/25 - Half Day
11/26-28 - No School - Thanksgiving Break
12/10 - Fine Arts Night (R&R)
12/15-17 - Finals
12/18-31 - No School - Winter break
1/1-2 - No School - Winter Break
1/5 - Second Semester begins
1/12 - Enrichment Courses begin
1/16 - Half Day
TBD - Field Trip
1/19 - No School - MLK/ Civil Rights day
1/20-26 - Benchmark Testing
1/30 8th Gr House Game Day
2/2 -"Taste of Cicero" HS Info Night (for parents & students)
2/6 - Half Day - GH In-service
2/6 - House (Field) Day
2/13 - Half Day
2/16 - No School Presidents Day
2/25-26 8th Gr Architecture Project Exhibit
3/06 - Half Day
3/09-13 - No School - Spring Break
4/03 - 4/3 - Cicero Night Life (former Coffee House) - Rising 9th Grade Invited
4/03 - No School District Day
4/06 - No School District Day
4/24 - Half Day
TBD - 8th Grade Party
5/5 Field Trip - Castles and Coasters
5/8 - Half Day
5/13 - Fine Arts Night (R&R)
5/18 - End of the Year Awards
5/19-22 - Half-Days - Finals
5/22 - Last Day of School
5/22 8th Gr Promotion Ceremony (1pm)
5/23 - HS Graduation Ceremony
Course Descriptions 2025-26
Course Descriptions 2025-26
Literature/Composition:
The purpose of 8th Grade Literature and Composition is to increase your appreciation and understanding of literature and to develop a more in-depth mastery of English grammar and composition. This year, we will delve into great literature, forming solid arguments and exploring the ideas of heroism and virtue. You will build on the skills of careful reading and writing you practiced in 7th grade, while learning how to write effective paragraphs with the goal of composing solid multi-paragraph essays. By the end of this year, you will be prepared for the Humane Letters seminar during which you will continue to explore, discuss, and write about great literature.
Algebra:
Algebra is one of the chief branches of mathematics and forms the foundation for the math that your student will learn during their remaining years at Cicero Preparatory Academy. This year the goal is to master the algebraic skills students began developing in 7th grade. First semester will begin with a review of basic equation solving with the real number system, as well as an introduction to using algebraic and linear functions to solve equations with one and two variables. In addition, we will study polynomials and factoring. Second semester the course includes solving equations in two variables, factoring rational and irrational numbers, algebraic fractions, and the quadratic formula. Throughout the course, graphing will receive a significant emphasis. Lastly, the student’s goal will not be to simply memorize the “rules” of algebra, but to understand how and why the rules work.
Medieval History:
This course will cover the history of the Middle Ages in Europe from the Fall of Rome to the Age of Exploration. Throughout the year we will be reading many original sources, including philosophy, poetry, and accounts of battles. We will have discussions and lectures on many topics and will participate in various projects. We will strive to develop an understanding of the European peoples and their cultures as well as a sense of history in order to understand and analyze both the past and the present.
Music:
This course aims to further develop an understanding and appreciation for music through building music literacy, exposure to Western classical and folk music, and engagement in the music-making process. Like other arts courses, this includes the opportunity to be involved in the process of creating something truly meaningful and beautiful. This course is divided into three essential components: Music Theory, Music Appreciation, and Music Performance.
Earth Science:
Earth Science is a particular joy in the Great Hearts science curriculum. It covers one of the widest arrays of content, touching on chemistry, physics, geology, meteorology, hydrology, seismology, sprinkles of philosophy, and mathematics, all while pushing students in their reading, writing and even art skills.
They should walk away believing that the natural world is knowable, and yet deeply complex, and that the complexity is precisely what gives this field its enormous excitement. At its core, the Earth Science course is cumulative, teaching students to build upon previous observation and analysis to understand new phenomena. This training in logic and reasoning, as well as the articulation of it, will culminate in the final project, in which students develop fictional planets integrating all the interconnected systems they have studied into a coherent multi-variable model.
Latin III:
Latin III is meant to round out a student’s knowledge of basic and intermediate Latin grammar. Through reading novellas and short adapted stories, Latin III students learn grammar, syntax, and morphology as well as aspects of Roman culture, mythology, and history. At the end of Latin III students will have learned all indicative and subjunctive verb tenses, all common noun declensions, and elements of complex syntax in addition to a strong core vocabulary based on specific readings and subjects. Latin III is meant to prepare students for further language learning, whether in Latin or another foreign language.
Studio Art:
Within the three transcendentals, Truth, Goodness, and Beauty, the fine arts are situated primarily under Beauty. The fine arts are viewed as an essential human experience, as a key part of the liberal arts. They are to be taught in a way that is experiential and not professional: all are to participate in the fine arts, not just the professional.
At Great Hearts, we study fine arts to experience beauty; as a way to participate in beauty. We help students both create and encounter beauty by teaching the requisite skills of the discipline and pointing students to the aesthetic order around them and that which is depicted in the works of the masters.
In Grade 8 Studio Art, students explore the fundamentals of painting. Using watercolor paints, students begin learning the difference between dry and aqueous mediums. Starting with a review of observational drawing, as the techniques used when drawing continue to be a significant part of understanding painting, students will execute many small exercises to get acquainted with painting techniques. Focuses include making various washes, the use of brushes, and how to add details to complete work. Special attention will be given to color mixing through color theory, with students moving through the projects with an increasing number of paint colors to negotiate.
By the end of Grade 8, students will have completed three semesters of studio art and should demonstrate proficient skill in observational drawing and painting. Students will be able to look at three-dimensional objects, visually analyze them, and portray them with drawing materials on paper. They will understand the impact of light on a form and have a basic understanding of how to portray different lighting conditions using color. They will spend significant time working on still life, botanical subjects, landscapes, and portraits.
Throughout the Upper School Studio Art courses, students will be introduced to concepts and works of art that illustrate the principles behind composing beautiful pictures. Masterpieces are presented in class so the student may find awe and wonder in how drawing and paintings from the past connect to the tradition of picture-making. Great works of art from history serve as a starting place and are analyzed for how artists across centuries have employed techniques and principles. Inspired by this connection to the past, students will create their own studies, observational drawings, and paintings.
Curriculum Night: 8/28/25
Curriculum Night: 8/28/25
Event Overview:
5:50pm - Gym doors open to parents
6:00pm - Event begins in gym, followed by class demos in Prep building
7:50pm - Event ends
Class schedules will be emailed out by noon on the day of your grade's event (schedules are the same as your student's regular class schedule). Backup copies will be available at the event if needed.
From the Teachers: First Month of School
From the Teachers: First Month of School
Here is a sample of the topics 8th grade students learned during the first month of school. Having your student explain these topics to you is a great way to help them review and join in their learning process.
Music: In music we have hit the ground running with compound rhythm and minor tonal patterns, often performing in front of the class with very low stakes and lots of encouragement. Online homework will soon shift to more challenging (and rewarding) traditional notation.
Studio Art: 8th grade studio art students are starting the foundations of watercolor painting. They are being introduced to sets of complimentary colors to create sets of grays to bridge the gap between drawing and painting.
Earth Science: In science, we had a fun start to the year with a dice puzzle that taught us about how scientific discovery happens. We’ve since jumped into units and unit conversions, as well as Newton's Second Law. Students should make sure their 4 main conversion factors are memorized!
Latin: In Latin III we have recently learned comparative and superlative forms (how to say "more" and "most" for Latin adjectives and adverbs). We are also starting a second Aesop story, "The Goose with the Golden Egg." Ask your scholar how to say "stronger" and "strongest" in Latin or what the difference is between ovum and ovis. Scholars can schedule a time to retake retrievals as needed using the in-class sign-up sheet.
Medieval History: In medieval history, students are learning about Diocletian, Constantine, and the Western Roman Empire’s last days. We’re making our way to the Fall of Rome, and understanding how personal choices affect history.
Lit/Comp: We've had a good start to the school year with our first poetry recitation! We're now reading Beowulf. Ask your students to explain Old English to you.
7th hour: During 7th period, students are given time to work on homework. Remind your students to bring a homework folder to keep throughout the day and bring to 7th period. It will keep them organized and prepared to use their time wisely.
8th Grade Promotion: 5/23/25
8th Grade Promotion: 5/23/25
Students will be provided a pizza lunch during the rehearsal before the event.
Fine Arts Night: 5/14/25
Fine Arts Night: 5/14/25
All students attend: Studio Art students will have their art showcased in the art gallery, and Music/Poetry students will participate in the concert.
Music Uniform Expectations (6th-8th Grades)
8th Gr Castles N Coasters Trip: 5/5/25
8th Gr Castles N Coasters Trip: 5/5/25
General Schedule:
8:00am - Report to homerooms
8:15am - Board buses and depart Cicero Prep
9:00am - Arrive at Castles N Coasters
Lunchtime on site (bring sack lunch)
2:00pm - Depart for Cicero Prep
2:45pm - Arrive back at Cicero Prep
Dress Code: Athletic Field Day attire
What to bring:
What students should NOT bring:
Cell phones, ear buds/headsets, or other electronic devices
Any cell phones will be held by teacher chaperones and will be stored on the bus while on the trip.
School is not responsible for lost or damaged cell phones.
General Info:
This is a school event and all school policies and behavior guidelines apply.
HS Coffee House: 4/12/25
HS Coffee House: 4/12/25
2025-26 Student Leadership
2025-26 Student Leadership
Rising 9th-12th graders:
Join us for the next Student Leadership Interest Meeting!
Wednesday, 3/5
9:50-10:05 AM in the Faculty Lounge
If you are interested in making a difference in our school community, this is your chance to learn about the leadership programs and how you can have a positive impact on your school. Meet in the faculty lounge to hear what it means to be a proconsul, senator, or mentor on the leadership team for the 2025-26 school year.
8th Gr Architecture Exhibit: 2/27/25
8th Gr Architecture Exhibit: 2/27/25
Fine Arts Night: 12/11/24
Fine Arts Night: 12/11/24
Fine Arts Night
Wednesday, December 11th
5:00 - 8:00pm
All students attend: Studio Art students will have their art showcased in the art gallery, and Music/Poetry students will participate in the concert.
Music Uniform Expectations (6th-8th Grades)
Scripps National Spelling Bee: 11/18/24
Scripps National Spelling Bee: 11/18/24
Congratulations to the 8th Grade Winners! Andrew Thompson, Grace Combs, Jacob Ahouanvoheke, Elijah Parker-Koruh
These students competed at the Cicero Bee on 12/3 for the chance to move on to the Great Hearts Spelling Bee.
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This year, our school is taking part in the Scripps National Spelling Bee Program, the nation's largest and longest-running educational program! The first round took place in 7th hour classrooms on November 18. Winners of the Classroom Bees advanced to a Cicero Spelling Bee on December 3.
8th Grade Trip to Slide Rock: 10/22/24
8th Grade Trip to Slide Rock: 10/22/24
Register for the 8th Grade Trip Here!
General Schedule:
7:00 am - Arrive at Cicero, gather in quad
7:15 am - Depart Cicero
9:30 am - Arrive at Slide Rock
12:00 pm - Lunch
1:30 pm - Depart Slide Rock
4:00 pm - Return to Cicero
Faculty chaperones will be in regular communication with the front office throughout the day, sharing updated ETAs. If there is a significant change to the return time, the front office will send a notification to families.
What students should bring:
Small Bag/Backpack
1 liter or more of water
Snack for bus ride
Sack lunch (all disposable packaging)
Hand sanitizer
Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
Towel
Optional: Change of clothes for ride back to Cicero
What students should NOT bring:
Cell phones, ear buds/headsets, or other electronic devices
Any cell phones will be held by teacher chaperones and will be stored on the bus while on the hike.
School is not responsible for lost or damaged cell phones.
What to wear:
Shorts and tops that are comfortable, modest, and you don't mind getting wet
Students may wear a swimsuit under their shorts and shirt; it should be a full coverage one piece for girls, and board shorts for boys
Comfortable footwear for walking; sandals/water shoes optional for swimming area
General Info:
This is a state park. Please see their site for more information: https://azstateparks.com/slide-rock/
There are bathroom facilities on site.
This is a school event and all school policies and behavior guidelines apply.
Fall Conferences: 10/14/24 - 10/16/24
Fall Conferences: 10/14/24 - 10/16/24
We are excited to welcome you and your students to the Student/Parent/Teacher Conferences. Conferences will be held Oct. 14, 15, and 16th. There will be no regular classes these days. Throughout the conferences, there will be a reception in the Prep foyer, featuring Spirit Wear, Used Uniforms, PSO, and Treats sold by the Senior Class.
General Schedule (Updated):
Monday, October 14: 10th-12th Grades
Tuesday, October 15: 6th, 7th, 8th & 9th Grades
Wednesday, October 16: 6th, 7th, & 8th Grades
Participation in conferences is a key part of the parent and school partnership. We ask that every family attend.
The conference schedule fills quickly, so please sign up today (links below)!
Conference Sign-Ups:
Conferences are being organized around anchor teachers in each grade level. However, all teachers of that grade will be available for conferences. Please only use the link for your student's grade level and their anchor teacher.
8th Grade, Ms. White Lit/Comp (Tuesday 10/15 & Wednesday 10/16)
8th Grade, Mr. Kramer Lit/Comp (Tuesday 10/15 & Wednesday 10/16)
Conference Preparation:
In order to most effectively conference about student progress and goals, all students should complete their grade-level Conference Preparation Worksheet in advance of the conference, and bring it to discuss with parents and teachers:
Conference Goals:
Academic Progress: Share the road map of your scholar’s year and what to expect academically in terms of course work, growth, what their studies are aimed toward this year, and where your student is in terms of progress based on Quarter One.
Personal Progress: Conferences are a critical piece in personalizing learning and growth for your student. Conferences are most effective when parents, teachers, and scholars can communicate individual needs, aspirations, and collaborate to make the most of their learning experience.
8th Grade Highlights 2024-25
8th Grade Highlights 2024-25
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