Eighth Grade curriculum focuses on preparedness for high school and its demand in both reading and writing skills.
Selections in literature revolve around classics in world literature, so that students are exposed to a variety of authors, styles, and genres. They experience works by writers such as Poe, DuMaupassant, Jacobs, Shakespeare (an introduction), and Bierce. Comparative literature is also a component of the program.
Writing skills incorporate focus, organization, upper level vocabulary, and grammatical accuracy. Literary devices such as paradox, pun, oxymoron, and hyperbole are identified, and basic literary devices reviewed.
Film is a vehicle to study foreshadowing, flashback, character traits, and moral/theme.
Students take part in class plays to improve reading skills and spur involvement. Students also engage in peer review and positive critical analysis of written work. Computer skills are integrated into the program.