Practice is given in finding main ideas, locating supporting details, drawing inferences, distinguishing fact from opinion, and building vocabulary. The writing program utilizes computers to emphasize the importance of drafting, revising, and proofreading. This course emphasizes the development of writing and critical reading skills. Students use computers to draft and polish their papers for both creative and analytical assignments. Instruction includes lessons on spelling, punctuation, grammar, and vocabulary, as well as content revision.
Students read novels, short stories, poetry, and one play.
Grade 8 Students build on the reading and writing skills developed in seventh grade. They continue to draft their papers on the computer and learn how to edit and revise effectively. They become more proficient at writing analytical essays that trace character development or explore symbolism, and yet they have ample opportunity to write stories and poems. Students examine a variety of literary genres and study Shakespeare for the first time. Thematic units include triumph over adversity, mythology and the questing hero.