O'Leary Junior High
Course Descriptions for 8th Grade


REQUIRED:

AMERICAN HISTORY/CIVICS

The first three quarters will be a study of American History from the discovery of the western hemisphere to the beginning of industrialization (1400-1900) – major units are explorers, colonial life, American’s fight for independence, westward expansion, Civil War, and reconstruction. The fourth quarter is Civics with emphasis on the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship.

LANGUAGE ARTS

Grammar, with emphasis on writing and speaking skills; and literature, with an introduction to American poetry, short stories, and classics will be the focus of this course. It also concentrates on increasing basic reading and comprehension competencies and further development of study skills, spelling, and library skills. Developing an appreciation for recreational reading is also emphasized.

 

MATHEMATICS

PRE-ALGEBRA

This course is designed to prepare students for first year algebra. Students are introduced to algebraic equations, manipulation of equations with variables and simplifying operations. Other areas covered are integers, ratios, measurement, square roots, proportions, percents, probability and statistics and problem solving. There will be investigation of area, perimeter, and volume of basic polygons, circles, and three dimensional figures.

ALGEBRA I

This course is demanding and rigorous. It will require responsibility and attentiveness for students to be successful. This is the first course in the sequence of higher level math. Fundamental algebraic expressions are introduced with emphasis on writing and solving complex equations.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH

The development of physical fitness skills in individual and team sports will be alternated with the study of mental, social, and physical health, including nutrition, drug abuse, and practical first aid.

PHYSICAL SCIENCE

This course covers the basic fundamentals of chemistry and physics—structure and properties of matter, force and motion, and forms of energy—in a variety of laboratory and classroom activities

 

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ELECTIVES: Year Long Courses

BAND

Intermediate band is offered to students who have completed 7th grade band, or who have had equivalent experience, and consists of continued development of instrumental skills, beginning ensemble playing, and opportunities to participate in public performances.

CHORUS (Tryouts)

Chorus is designed to continue choral techniques, vocal training, and vocal performance skills.

ORCHESTRA

This course is a continuation of 7th grade orchestra and includes additional training in instrumental skills and orchestral music.

STUDY SKILLS

This course focuses on individual learning, critical thinking, and increased organizational skills—as well as more time and teacher assistance with school work.

SPANISH INTRODUCTION

An introductory level course which emphasizes reading, writing, listening, and comprehension skills. All Spanish I students will focus on spelling, pronunciation, and communication through a written process.

FLEX: FRENCH, GERMAN, SPANISH

This course introduces students to three different cultures and languages (French, German, and Spanish).

PUBLICATIONS (Teacher Recommendation Required)

During the length of this course, students will research and write the school newspaper and manufacture the yearbook.

ELECTIVES: Semester Courses

ART

The basic elements of drawing, lettering, perspective, shading, color, and design will be emphasized in this course. Projects will be determined by the maturity of the students and may include ceramics, pottery, jewelry, and leather working skills.

AUDIO/VIDEO COMMUNICATIONS II (Teacher Recommendation Required)

In this course, students will develop audio and video communication projects using current audio/video technologies, including a bi-monthly cable television production. This course is designed for students who are interested in entering the fields of broadcasting, production, and communications.

DRAMA

This course is designed to increase an awareness and appreciation of the theater by utilizing expressive techniques through beginning dramatic performances.

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE (HOME EC)

Personal and social development is the focus of this course. It includes basic knowledge of nutrition and food preparation, and introductory skills in clothing construction, including selection and care of textiles used in clothing.

EXPLORING TECHNOLOGY

A course designed to introduce students to basic technological principles, processes and skills such as design and problem solving, team decision making, information gathering, and safety. Course work will include projects in the areas of communications, manufacturing, construction and power/energy and transportation. Students are exposed to sketching, technical drawing, screen printing, logo and poster development, building of model rockets and bridges and other projects. Students will be introduced to computer aided drafting and computer aided design. This course is designed to develop an appreciation of technical fields and occupations while learning about skills essential in today’s world of work.

COMPUTERS-KEYBOARDING

Students in this course will continue instruction on keyboarding skills and will incorporate these skills in a business setting. They will learn to keep a time card, write checks, and name a business in a mini business setting. A unit will be taught on purchasing and charting stocks. Internet training and e-mail etiquette will also be included.