Last Updated:
June 20, 2008

The eighth grade Mathematics program, aligned with the state standards, is taught through the Connected Mathematics Project. The curriculum is devoted to inquiry-based learning. Observing patterns and relationships lie at the heart of acquiring deep understanding in mathematics. The curriculum develops a knowledge and understanding of mathematics that is rich in connections. Students solve problems, conjecture, test, discuss, verbalize, and generalize patterns and relationships. The instructional model used encourages higher-level thinking and problem solving. The students focus on linear, exponential, and quadratic relationships. The mathematical strands that are assessed are: Statistics; Geometry and Spatial Sense; Measurement; Number Sense; Patterns, Relations, and Functions; and Probability.

Language Arts in the eighth grade is divided into two major areas: English and Reading/Literature. The English domain emphasizes writing in several genres: personal narrative/story, poetry, informative report, exposition, communication, literary analysis, and summary. The skills of grammar, punctuation, spelling, and other language mechanics are taught in connection with the writing and in separate lessons as well. Reading and Literature emphasize the same areas as writing, but from the standpoints of comprehension and analysis. Both English and Literature use the higher level thinking and develop the understanding and use of figurative language and other literary and writing concepts. Books such as novels, biographies, and nonfiction are used in class and for independent projects.Two examples of novels used are George Orwell's Animal Farm and Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird. Vocabulary is taught in connection with both areas of Language Arts.

Students in their eighth grade year take Civics, the study of citizenship in the United States. Throughout the year students keep abreast of current event by reading the newspaper daily. They engage in thoughtful discussions about the local and global issues of importance. They learn how one becomes a citizen and the importance of good citizenship by volunteering in their communities. Students study the foundations of democracy in America and the idea of a free market economy. They do an in-depth study of the Constitution and the three branches of government, including participation in mock trials. Throughout the year, students prepare to be, and become, active and informed members of their communities.

In eighth grade, students learn science through inquiry, giving them the tools they need to discover and develop an understanding of the world around them. They ask questions, conduct investigations, gather analyze and interpret data, draw conclusions, and communicate their findings. In life science they study the structures and functions of our human organ systems. They become aware of the changes produced in the environment as a result of human activity; the first step in becoming responsible nd environmentally conscious citizens. In physical science they explore the chemical characteristics of elements and compounds and throughout the year investigate the similarities, differences, and relationships between science and technology. They actively engage in learning as they experience the wonder and awe of science.

Please click on: Madison Meadows Library Media Catalog at school or Madison Meadows Library Media Center Catalog from home to access materials and educational websites from the Meadows Library Media Center. Students and parents can read free e-books on either Page by Page Books or Read Print Books or Google Book Search, free books for students, teachers, and the classic enthusiast.You can search by title or by author and read these classic books. For assistance contact Ms. Sally Roof, Teacher-Librarian Information Specialist at sroof@msd38.org or 602 664-7640.

7th and 8th graders are invited to attend the annual trip to Washington DC.**
We will be visiting many of our country’s most famous monuments, museums and landmarks. Your student will be able to experience our government at work. We will be traveling with WorldStrides (www.worldstrides.com). For more information, contact Miss Giacobbe at bgiacobbe@msd38.org or 602.664.7636. Space is limited sign up today!

**THIS TRIP IS NOT SPONSORED/ENDORSED BY THE MADISON DISTRICT NOR MADISON MEADOWS

Welcome back to the 2008-2009 school year. Please read the following supply list and come prepared on August 11th with the following supplies:

8th Grade Supply List

We also ask that you do not send permanent markers or mechanical pencils with your students. In order to minimize the weight of backpacks, we have carefully selected the materials the students will need for each subject. Please do not send your students to school with a Trapper Keeper or other large multi-subject notebook. They will be asked to leave it at home.

WHAT NEEDS TO BE IN YOUR CHILD’S BACKPACK

8th GRADE:

4 composition books
2 literature books
binder or notebook(can contain math and science items)
Math book (AEP only)
folder
planner, pens, pencils, calculator, ruler

Meet the 8th Grade Teachers