ENGLISH – The eighth grade English curriculum centers around application and practice in critical thinking skills, creative writing, vocabulary, grammar, and study skills. This is done with the use of classic and contemporary classic literature, along with text work in Vocabulary Through Pleasurable Reading and Warriner’s English Grammar and Composition. Instruction includes creative activities and projects designed to enhance critical thinking skills, along with traditional course work assignments like research report writing, essays, quizzes, and exams.
PRE-ALGEGRA II – Pre-algebra II is a course designed to prepare students for an Algebra I course. It stresses problem solving, number theory, solving equations and inequalities, graphing, and geometry. An introduction to statistics and probability is also presented when time permits.
ALGEBRA I – Algebra I is a one year, high school level course in basic algebra. It stresses problem solving, working with fractions, real numbers, rational numbers, irrational numbers, graphing, and functions.
SCIENCE – Eighth grade science centers mainly on the study of earth sciences, which include geology, the changing earth, plate tectonics, and the environment. However, the study of botany and basic human anatomy is also included during the course of the eighth grade year. A five-day outdoor education trip to Hume Lake is part of the eighth grade science curriculum.
UNITED STATES HISTORY – Eighth grade history is designed for helping students to learn the significant facts of America ’s history; to gain insights into the relationships among people, ideas, and events; and to develop critical thinking skills. Seen from a Christian perspective, the formation of America is rich in Godly people with Godly ideals. An in-depth study of the U.S. Constitution and an optional trip to Washington D.C. are also a part of the eighth grade U.S. history curriculum.
BIBLE – The eighth grade Bible curriculum includes the study of the Matthew 18 principle of handling conflict as well as the Proverbs model for behavior. Using the NIV Bible students examine Biblical examples for Godly living such as Joseph, David, Ruth, and others; and then receive basic instruction in the idea of grace from the book of Romans. Students memorize the names of all of the books of the Bible and the theme of each book. They study one of Paul’s letters in-depth as well as the book of Revelation. Sex education from a Biblical perspective is part of the eighth grade Bible curriculum.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION – Students will be instructed in basic health and fitness information that will provide them with lifetime skills. There is an emphasis on finding a sport or fitness activity that the students enjoy that will provide them with adequate aerobic exercise throughout their life. Emphasis will also be on basic sports skills as well as how to work together under pressure, good sportsmanship, and how to apply Christian principles to daily life
ELECTIVE – Each year a wide variety of electives are offered. Every student may choose one elective to complete the seven period day that is offered at El Sobrante Christian Junior High School.