8th GRADE HAPPENINGS
High Schools:
On September 16th Holy names High School gave a presentation to the 6th, 7th and 8th grade girls. The director of admissions for Holy names as well as two students gave a video presentation, talked about the school and answered questions. On October 19th the 8th grade will be visiting St. Mary High School. On October 27th the class will be traveling to Salesian High School for a tour and presentation. These visits are a great chance for the students to learn about our local Catholic high schools. Parents are also invited to come and see the schools.
Curriculum:
Our study of the American colonies has ended and we are discovering the root causes of the American Revolution. How did 13 small, separate colonies defeat the most powerful nation on earth? What men and women led the way to our independence?
In literature we are reading John Steinbeck’s “The Pearl”. A simple but moving story, of a Native American, in Mexico, finding the pearl of his dreams. What happens when our greatest wish comes true? The students have completed their myth book, which will soon be on display in the hallway.
The class is beginning their study of prayer in religion class. Besides studying different types and styles of Christian prayer the students will be creating their own prayer books and designing and leading their own prayer services. Faith must be active and interactive.
In science the class under the guidance of Ms. Baines direction is beginning its study of matter and its many components. The hands on curriculum (Foss kits) provide a framework for understanding and exploring our universe made of matter.
The algebra class with Ms. Milani is pushing ahead to understand the concepts which form the basis for algebra. The pre-algebra class with Mr. Walton is working with factoring and sequencing. A combined math and technology project “creating a dinner party” will be introduced soon.
Ms. Curtis has taken over our Spanish Language program. She is focusing the 8th grade students to use proper pronunciation as they speak. An emphasis on conjugating verbs properly when they speak and write is another goal of this first grading period.
Ms. States has the students perfecting their grammar in English class. Both creative writing and expository writing are being emphasized.
Student Government:
Our 8th graders are leading the way as student government begins this year. There are many plans being discussed to make this year a great year for our student government. Our 8th grade commissioners are Jordan Phan –president, Mariah Ghee—vice-president, Sam Paljuleras—finance, Kailey Walker—spirit, Oshani Gunasekara—religious affairs.
Plans for the blessing of animal, on the feast of St. Francis, and our first school family day are under way.
