Grade 8

Next Stop, Career Exploration

Overview

Next Stop, Career Exploration is geared toward preparing students for high school and beyond and is a real-world application of these skills. To make informed decisions about high school paths, students must ask strong questions to make meaningful choices for their future. For this unit, research and inquiry skills take center stage, equipping students to formulate questions, gather credible sources, and synthesize information independently.

Students will investigate 2–3 potential career paths that align with their personal interests, learning styles, and skills. Through research and reflection, they’ll analyze job outlooks, required education, lifestyle considerations, and how these careers connect to their own values. The project culminates in a personalized student-created resume and cover letter showcasing their top choice and how they might realistically pursue it.

Goals

I can reflect on my strengths, interests, values, and learning styles to explore different career programs to find what fits my goals.
I can develop research and inquiry skills by formulating essential questions, analyzing credible sources, and synthesizing information.
I can explore career options and understand the steps required to pursue them.
I can strengthen communication skills through the creation of professional documents (resume and cover letter).

Marking Period 2/3 Micro-courses

Exposing students to a wide range of enrichment and exploratory opportunities. These experiences build toward a student-led, inquiry-based project in the final marking period, where students apply and showcase the skills and knowledge they’ve developed.

Sports Media

This Patriot Period is designed to capture the sports fan interested in going 'beyond fandom' into a professional capacity. With a basis in research, students will practice in both traditional and 'new' media formats, including, but not limited to: podcasting, digital social media-type posts, live broadcasts, interview skills, and reporting. Through hands-on activities, interactive assignments, and real-life scenarios, students will capture the essence of what it takes to be a professional in the field of 'sports'.

Debate Lab

In this lab, we will explore big science questions and practice thinking like real debaters. You’ll research important issues, build strong arguments, and share your ideas with your classmates. Together, we’ll learn how to listen carefully, speak clearly, and make decisions based on evidence.

FAMS Entrepreneurs

FAMS Entrepreneurs is a hands-on, project-based course that challenges students to think creatively, collaborate with peers, and bring their innovative ideas to life. Throughout the semester, students will explore the world of entrepreneurship by identifying real-world problems, designing original products or services, developing business plans, and pitching their ideas in a “Shark Tank”-style finale. Through this process, students will learn essential skills in problem-solving, budgeting, marketing, teamwork, and persuasive communication—preparing them to become the next generation of creative thinkers and leaders.

Historian's Toolkit

Students will use digital tools to learn, develop, and apply skills necessary for a deeper understanding of Social Studies, such as how to read and use different types of maps, the five themes of geography, timelines, primary vs. secondary sources, etc. By engaging in interactive lessons, activities and projects, students will develop critical thinking skills, global awareness, and a deeper appreciation for history, as well as develop skills that are applicable to their study of Social Studies this year and beyond.

Sports Psychology,

Motivation and Nutrition

This 8th-grade Patriot Period, will explore the relationship between mental processes and athletic performance. Students will explore the motivations that drive athletes and analyze the effects of nutrition and hydration on their performance. Topics will include visualization strategies, pre-game routines, the impact of music on concentration, goal-setting methods, and reward systems. Additionally, the course will compare team motivation versus individual motivation, discuss the link between hydration and reaction time, examine the timing of meals and its effect on performance, and highlight the importance of sleep and nutrition in enhancing athletic capabilities.

Current Events

This unit introduces middle school students to the world of current events while building essential skills in media literacy, critical thinking, and civic engagement. Students will explore local, national, and global news; learn how to identify credible sources and detect bias; and connect current issues to their own lives. Through research, discussion circles, and projects, students practice analyzing diverse perspectives and communicating informed opinions.

Forensic Science

An Introduction to Forensic Science class for middle school students gives them a look into the exciting world of crime scene investigation. Students will explore how science is used to solve mysteries by learning about fingerprints, critical thinking, handwriting, and DNA. They’ll practice making observations, studying evidence, and drawing conclusions just like real forensic scientists. This class combines problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking while sparking curiosity about how science is used in the real world.

Inquiry-Based Projects

An inquiry-based project is a student-driven learning experience where curiosity guides the process. Instead of being given all the answers, students identify a question or topic of interest, research it deeply, and design a final product that demonstrates their understanding. This process helps students strengthen essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, organization, time management, and effective communication. Along the way, they also practice independence and collaboration, learning how to take ownership of their work while seeking feedback and support. The goal is for students to connect their academic learning with authentic, real-world applications in ways that feel meaningful and personal.

Eighth graders will broaden their lens with projects on larger real-world issues or personal interests, drawing on their research and career exploration skills to prepare for high school and beyond.

*Testing Boot Camp incorporated throughout to prepare for NJSLA

Grading Expectations

Grading Criteria: Students will be evaluated based on class participation, assignment completion, and overall effort.

Genesis Grade:

NI-Needs Improvement

S-Satisfactory

O-Outstanding

Student Expectations for a Passing Grade: (Behaviors that support learning +,*,-)

Consistent attendance and participation
Effort and Growth Mindset
Timely Completion of Tasks
Respectful Behavior
Active Engagement in group work
Organization and Preparedness
Demonstrated Learning

Attendance Policy:

Regular attendance is essential for student success. To receive credit for the Patriot Period, students must be present in the classroom on time determined by the bell schedule. Missing a significant number of sessions may result in a failing grade for the course.

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