8th Graders Plan for High School

The Next Stage for the 8th Graders

By Brandon Sung

The 8th graders of Woodmere Middle School finally received their recommendations for their schedules for high school. Up until this moment, teachers recommended students for different courses that they thought would be appropriate for the student. The students were given these recommendations in January. Then, students had the option to stick with the courses given to them or to modify their recommendations and choose a different course or elective. The 8th graders were given many options of courses and electives to choose from as Hewlett High School offers one of the largest offerings of classes on Long Island.

While there is much from which to choose, there are certain requirements for students' schedules. Students must continue their studies in ELA, Social Studies, Math, and Science. However, these subjects are split up into Honors and Regents classes. For instance, in 9th grade, students are placed in either: Algebra (R or lab), Geometry (R or lab), or Geometry (H) in math. This is the same for the other subjects.

Furthermore, there are requirements for electives as well. Students cannot graduate without at least one credit in Art, Music, or Theater. Other optional electives include:

• Intro to Science Research

• Intro to Theater

• Studio Media Arts

• Ceramics

• Design and Drawing for Production

• Photography

• Graphic Design

• Career and Financial Management

• Intro to Accounting

• Advertising

• Computer Programming

• Mixed Chorus

• Concert Band

• String Orchestra.

Of course, 8th graders had a lot of say about their electives and courses. Justin K, an 8th grader, explains, “ I chose Intro to Science Research and stayed with band. I stuck with band because I have been in it since 3rd grade and it’s fun. I chose science research because I thought it was interesting.” Another 8th grader, Lowen Z, claims, “I was recommended for Science Research and my teacher told me that it was a selective class and only 15 kids get it in the grade. Also, I’m taking band for the music credits.” Another 8th grader, Ari Z, replied, “I chose Career and Financial Management and Studio Media Arts because it was the easy art choice and CFM because it’s interesting to learn about the real world.” Shaan Patni says, “I decided to continue being a part of the orchestra as my elective because I still have a passion for classical music and the violin. I was also recommended for science research and decided to do that as an elective because I enjoy science and I find it challenging."

Meanwhile, other 8th graders wanted to be in class with friends. Noam S, said, “I chose Computer Programming and Ceramics. I had the choice to pick Advanced Art, but I want to be in a class with my friends. Computer Programming because I’d like to do college game design in high school.”

Choosing these courses was the first step for 8th graders as they plan their high school careers. Many 8th graders chose courses that interest them. Others chose classes that they thought were easy or fun. This is a huge time for the 8th graders as this is truly the first time they have such an array of options before them with a say in what they study throughout the school year.