RELIGION

Catholic values are discussed and integrated not only in religion class, but in all learning. Students will learn about the Catholic faith through stories, activities, scripture, prayer, discussion and reflection.

Emphasis is on:

We Pray:

• Prayer in a variety of forms

• Participation in liturgical ministry

We Learn:

• God’s Revelation through the Gospels

• Principles of Catholic Social Teaching

We Serve:

• Active Service based on Social Teachings of the Catholic Church

MATHEMATICS

Algebra 1

Focus on 8th grade and Algebra 1 topics

• Review fractions, decimals, percent’s, proportions and equation solving

• Linear functions, writing equations, slope, intercepts and graphing

• Solving equations and inequalities

• Systems of linear functions- solving and graphing

• Exponential functions and graphs

• Quadratics functions, factoring, solving and graphing

• Geometric relationships; Area, Perimeter, Volume, and angles.

• Probability and Statistics.

• Polynomial functions and graphs

Algebra 2

Focus on Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 topics

• Review linear functions and inequalities

• Review quadratics, solving and graphing

• Graphs of polynomial functions; transformations, zeros, and end behavior

• Solve equations with rational, irrational and imaginary numbers

• Exponential and logarithmic functions

• Radical functions

• Rational functions

• Arithmetic and Geometric Sequences

• Probability and Statistics

• Review Geometric relationships, Area, Perimeter, Volume, angles, and triangles.

SCIENCE

The eighth grade science program consists of physics and chemistry as well as a unit on Adaptations Over Time.

• The Nature of Matter : Inside the Atom

• Chemical Bonds, Properties and Changes of Matter

• States of Matter, Chemical Reactions

• Substances, Mixtures, and Solubility

• The Periodic Table

• Motion, Forces, and Energy: Motion and Momentum

• Force and Newton's Law

SOCIAL STUDIES

Students continue their journey through American history in the 20th century. Throughout the year, 8th graders will evaluate America’s role in the world. The digital textbook series used is Social Studies Techbook from Discovery Education- Civil War to Present. Content units include:

• American Imperialism

• America’s Involvement in World War I

• 1920s America

• The Great Depression

• The New Deal

• America’s Involvement in World War II

• The Holocaust and Other Genocides in the 20th Century

• Civil Rights

• The Cold War

SPANISH

To prepare students to communicate effectively in an increasingly global community.

The Spanish classes focus on the three modes of communication:

Interpersonal-communicating effectively with native speakers in oral fashion.

Interpretive-reading and comprehending authentic texts made for native speakers.

Presentational-expressing yourself effectively and correctly in Spanish in written form.

¡Avancemos!1b-Unidad 5/Lección 1 Ecuador

• House/Apartment

• Furniture

• Ordinal Numbers

• Ser vs. Estar

¡Avancemos!1b-Unidad 5/Lección 2 Ecuador

• Planning a party

• Chores & Responsibilities

• Affirmative tú commands

• Irregular yo verbs

• Acabar de + infinitive

ART

The art class at Saint Mary is an interactive experience where students are encouraged to strive for a "growth mindset.” All forms of artistic mediums to do a variety of artistic projects.

Students are assessed using letter grades that align with Marzano’s assessment criteria for visual arts:

• A is given for students who do what was asked and more in the areas of creativity and craftsmanship

• B what was asked

• C more could be done

• D did not due what needed to be done

MUSIC

Students will have the opportunity to participate in music activities and to develop an appreciation for music.

Emphasis is on:

• Singing in groups and performance opportunities

• Involvement in choirs.

• Exploring a variety of musical styles

• Understanding tonality through singing and listening activities.

• Developing vocal skills, understanding how the voice works

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The goal of the P.E. and Health curriculum at Saint Mary School is for students to gain a greater awareness about what constitutes their physical, mental and social well-being. The program mission is to provide the knowledge and skills that will enable students to become literate. This will allow them to make responsible decisions and maintain a healthy lifestyle for the rest of their life, which benefits students of all ages and all aspects of their growth, development and learning. This will allow the students to become proficient movers, demonstrate strong character, collaborate effectively with their peers, think critically and become advocates for family and friends in promoting the value of exercise and making healthy lifestyle choices.