8th Grade Elective Courses
Spanish 1 :
8th grade. This is a high school credit course. Successful completion of the course will result in ONE Foreign Language Credit at the High School Level.
Honors Algebra I:
This is a high school level course. Both credit and grade will be earned at the high school level. Students in this course will focus on five critical units that deepen and extend their understanding of linear and exponential relationships by contrasting them with each other and by applying linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend, and students engage in methods for analyzing, solving, and using quadratic functions. Mathematical habits of mind, which should be integrated into these content areas, include: making sense of problems and persevering in solving them, reasoning abstractly and quantitatively; constructing viable arguments and critiquing the reasoning of others; modeling with mathematics; using appropriate tools strategically; attending to precision, looking for and making use of structure; and looking for and expressing regularity in repeated reasoning. Students will continue developing mathematical proficiency in a developmentally-appropriate progression of standards. Due to the impact on high school GPA and long-term success in mathematics, very specific criteria will be needed to enroll in this course.Students not enrolled in Advanced Math 7 for the current school year will need to take a qualifying test to enter this course.
Band Performance Group 6th-8th Grade:
Emphasis is on the further development of ensemble performance skills, rehearsal, and performance of intermediate-level band music. This ensemble is the performance group that plays in concerts.
Chorus 6th-8th Grade:
Chorus students will learn to use their vocal instruments to create a correct and pleasing singing sound. In addition to learning proper vocal production and technique, students will also learn music reading, sight-singing, and performance skills. Chorus also offers opportunities for students to develop team-building and leadership skills. This is a performance-based class. Participation in concert performances outside of regular class hours is required.
Art Enrichment:
Art enrichment: Students will explore each aspect of art through an in-depth look into the following areas: drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and art criticism. In addition to exploring multiple areas of art, students will learn to develop an art portfolio and reflect on the creative process through class critiques. This class is for aspiring artists who wish to enhance their art skills and express creativity. Students wishing to take the class are required to submit a sample of 3 artworks to Mrs. Zeigler. The art must consist of one drawing piece (primarily pencil), one colored piece (colored pencil, paint..etc.), and one free choice piece ( any art medium of your choice). Any or all the work submitted can include art made previously in class with Mrs. Zeigler.
Bruin’s Cave:
Bruin’s Cave is an elective class for 8th-grade students. In this class, students will not only be expected to work in a simulated workplace (Bruin’s Cave Store), but they will also complete assignments that teach them the inner workings of running a business. Students are expected to create advertisements for products that we sell in Bruin’s Cave, work in the store on scheduled days, and use the Cricut machine to create personalized items for customers as well as to learn how to operate the cash register and count money. The Bruin’s Cave business class will be limited to 12 students. To be considered for one of the 12 positions in the Bruin’s Cave business class, students must submit an advertisement promoting the Bruin’s Cave store.