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Timberstone Junior High
Home of the Wolves
8th Grade Program of Studies

Timberstone Junior High
Home of the Wolves

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Required and Elective Courses for 8th Grade Students
Timberstone offers a 7 period day, plus a 25 minute A+ class at the end of the day.  Listed below are the five required courses, as well as the full list of electives offered to 8th grade students. Students may select two electives from the options below. Please note that some students are recommended for certain electives based upon their individual needs. Per district policy, students can only take three honors courses in a given school year if recommended.	

Required 8th Grade Courses	Elective Options	
1.	English/Honors English
2.	Math I,  II/ Honors Math/Algebra I
3.	Science/ Honors Science
4.	Social Studies/Honors Social Studies
5.	8th Grade Rotation
1.	Integrated Health & PE (2 Quarters)
2.	Information Technology (1 Quarter)
3.	STEM Applications (1 Quarter)

 	•	HS Prep Reading (May be required)
•	Art
•	Band 
•	Choir 
•	Musical Theatre 
•	Orchestra
•	German I
•	French I
•	Spanish I

The Timberstone “I Will Pledge”
I will not tease, harm or threaten others
I will not start or spread rumors
I will treat others the way I want to be treated
I will look for the good in other people
I will not do what is popular, but what is right

	

Timberstone Junior High Course Descriptions	
ENGLISH  8
English is a comprehensive course of study. Students focus on and read grade and ability level texts-both contemporary and classic-in a range of genres.   Students follow the writing process steps to produce arguments, informational texts, and narratives. They work to ensure that development, organization and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience. Vocabulary, grammar, and research lessons are included in reading and writing instruction. Speaking and listening skills are also addressed to ensure that students are working towards college and career readiness. Students may use technology to publish their work.

HONORS ENGLISH 8
(Teacher recommendation required)
Honors English is a comprehensive course of study. This class offers depth, complexity, variety, and accelerated pacing appropriate to advanced learners. Students develop skills in analysis, interpretation, oral communication, vocabulary, and research.  In addition, students read classic and contemporary literature and challenging informational texts in a range of genres. Deeper analysis is required during the writing process as students produce arguments, informational texts, narratives with enhanced complexity--all while still ensuring task, purpose, and audience. Students use technology to publish their work.

MATH 8 I and II                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  The curriculum is organized around “big ideas” and the mathematical concepts are clustered into units, each focusing on a core set of mathematical ideas.  Students will grow in their ability to reason effectively with information represented in graphic, numeric, symbolic and verbal forms.  Instruction emphasizes inquiry and discovery of mathematical ideas through investigation of rich problem situations.  Connections between mathematical ideas and “real world” problems offer students opportunities to apply their skills and revisit prior concepts.  This year’s units develop understanding of: number systems, equations, Pythagorean Theorem, geometric transformations, surface area and volume, linear, inverse and exponential functions, statistics and systems of equations.  
HONORS MATH 8
(Teacher recommendation required)
The curriculum emphasizes significant connections among various mathematical topics.  Connections between mathematical ideas and “real world” problems offer students opportunities to apply their skills and revisit prior concepts.  Students grow in their abilities to engage in mathematical discourse and to reason effectively with classmates.  Students are expected to be able to develop strategies and have insightful conversations of inquiry to discover mathematical ideas through the investigation of rich problem situations.  Student materials are organized into units, each of which focuses on a core set of important, related mathematical ideas. This year’s units develop understanding of: number systems, equations, Pythagorean Theorem, geometric transformations, surface area and volume, linear, inverse and exponential functions, statistics and systems of equations.  
HONORS ALGEBRA (High School Credit Class) 
(Teacher recommendation required)                                                                                                                                                                                  Honors Algebra is a grade accelerated course that will enhance the students’ ability to reason through symbolic form. The students must have the ability to reason abstractly, a mastery of all basic math skills, and a successful completion of the 7th grade Honors Math course prior to enrollment in this class. The current 7th grade math teacher’s recommendation is required. Purchasing a graphing calculator will be required for this class. This course is the same course that is taught at both Sylvania high schools; therefore, students will earn Honors high school credit for the course. All grades earned for high school classes taken in eighth grade will be included on high school transcripts and factored into high school GPA calculations. High school ADD/DROP policy applies for this course.
SCIENCE 8
The eighth grade science course is aligned to Ohio's revised Academic Content Standards emphasizing the grade band theme, Order and Organization. The curriculum focuses on helping students use scientific inquiry to discover patterns, trends, and relationships that are related to the studies of earth, space, physical, and life sciences. Students will explore the topics of: the Physical Features of Earth; Forces and Motion; and Species and Reproduction. Emphasis on laboratory safety and scientific processes such as conducting scientific investigations, developing laboratory measurement skills, analyzing and interpreting data, and thinking logically and critically are woven throughout these areas of focus. 

HONORS SCIENCE 8
(Teacher recommendation required)
Honors Science 8 offers an 8th grade science curriculum with depth, complexity, variety, and accelerated pacing appropriate to advanced learners. The curriculum focuses on helping students use scientific inquiry to discover patterns, trends, and relationships that are related to the studies of earth, space, physical, and life sciences. Students will explore the topics of: the Physical Features of Earth; Forces and Motion; and Species and Reproduction. Emphasis on laboratory safety and scientific processes such as conducting scientific investigations, developing laboratory measurement skills, analyzing and interpreting data, and thinking logically and critically are woven throughout these areas of focus. 

SOCIAL STUDIES 8
Students explore the development of the United States from the Pre-Colonial Period to the Civil War and Reconstruction.  Students become acquainted with contributions made by people who came to this country and formed the “American” culture.  Units include the creation of the U.S., the growth of democracy, westward expansion, the preservation of the “Union,” and a knowledge and understanding of the Constitution

HONORS SOCIAL STUDIES 8
(Teacher recommendation required) 
Honors Social Studies 8 is designed for the advanced and/or gifted 8th grade student who has a strong interest in the field of American History and plans to pursue Honors and/or AP social studies courses in high school. Student collaboration utilizing developmentally appropriate inquiry-based learning, problem solving, project-based learning, lectures, discussions, and debates, Honors Social Studies 8 gives an in-depth treatment to the topics covered to make connections to 21st century events that continue to impact the world as we know it today. Honors Social Studies 8 utilizes a number of informational sources, both print and digital, to illustrate the aftermath of events ranging from the early explorers through Reconstruction. An in-depth study of primary sources will capture the political implications, the economic effects and the social implications of America’s history in order to prepare students for the rigor of Honors American History 10 and/or AP United States History 10. 

INTEGRATED HEALTH and PHYSICAL EDUCATION 8 (2 Quarters)
This class will result in a combined Health and PE grade. Students will experience an integrated course of PE and Health.  Living a drug free life, abstinence, puberty, and improving healthy behaviors will be explored.  A T-shirt, tennis shoes and socks are required.  Sweat suits may be worn on cooler days.  Emphasis is placed on fitness, skills and individual sports.  Areas covered include physical fitness, tennis, track and field events, golf, badminton, eclipse ball, and games.  Grading for PE is based on dress, participation, and effort.  Students physically unable to participate in physical education should have a letter from their doctor explaining their limitations.  

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 8 (1 Quarter)                                                                                                                                                                                     This is primarily a project based class where students will have the opportunity to incorporate many different skills that they have used over the past two years while learning new programs and techniques. Students are given a great deal of ownership over the following programs: Microsoft Powerpoint, Moviemaker, and Excel spreadsheet. In addition the class will do a unit on financial literacy, learning how we save, spend, and use our money. We discuss various careers and career paths that are open to all students. We will complete a full section involving the development and creating of computer coding along with an introduction to HTML.                                                                                                                                                                   
STEM APPLICATIONS 8 (1 Quarter)                                                                                                                                                                                          Students in pre-engineering programs acquire knowledge and skills in problem solving, teamwork, and innovation. Students explore STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) careers as they participate in a project-based learning process, designed to challenge and engage natural curiosity and imagination of junior high students. Teams design and test their ideas using modeling, automation, robotics, and mechanical and computer systems, while exploring energy and the environment. STEM 8 is a continuation of STEM 7, where students have an opportunity to explore more advanced topics in the area of STEM.
ELECTIVES:
HIGH SCHOOL PREP READING 8 (Full Year, May be Required) High School Prep Reading applies innovative reading strategies to content area materials, literature, and informational text. Students learn and practice reading skills to improve their overall fluency and comprehension. Test taking techniques help students to prepare for assessments.  This class best supports students who need additional reading assistance.

ART 8
This year long course is developed for highly motivated students with a great interest in art and the desire to delve further into art and to create. This course will study the elements and principles of art as students create through drawing, painting, printmaking, clay, paper mache, fiber arts, paper making, and digital photography. Self-expression, craftsmanship and the ability to work independently is stressed. Students are required to have a hardbound sketchbook (8"x 10"- 9"x12" ) Glue and spiral bound sketchbooks do not hold up to the wear and tear placed upon them. Grades are based on in class participation, daily work habits, projects and quizzes.

BAND 8
This ensemble meets daily, performs in a variety of settings throughout the year, and prepares students for the transition to high school. In band, students build upon previously learned skills, have the opportunity to perform in different events and honor groups, assist younger players, and represent the school throughout the area. Rehearsals will be used to build technique, learn to practice in small groups, and prepare for performances. Grades are given based on individual playing, participation, and practice. Attendance is required at all concerts. Prerequisite is enrollment in 7th grade band or approval of the director.
CHOIR (7th and 8th Grade)
The Timberstone Choir meets daily throughout the year. Students will spend rehearsals developing their singing voice, learning how to read choral music, and preparation for various performances. Students will sing music from a variety of cultures, languages, and time periods. Evaluation of progress is based upon participation, singing tests, and improvement of performance skills demonstrated by the student throughout the grading periods. Attendance at performances is required.

MUSICAL THEATRE
In the Musical Theatre class, students will explore what it takes to put on a theatre production.  Areas of focus include acting, singing, and dancing, as well as learning about the history of American Musical Theatre.  The class will put on at least one theatrical performance in the school year which is required as part of the student’s grade.                        
ORCHESTRA 8
Rehearsal fundamentals, scales, rhythms, positions, and vibrato are taught to prepare junior high students for the high school orchestras.  A variety of music is performed ranging from pops to the classics.  Concerts are performed throughout the year.  Attendance at performances are required.  Prerequisite is enrollment in 7th grade orchestra or approval of the director. 

FRENCH I (High School Credit Class) 
French 1 emphasizes communication and comprehension of the language through speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Topics covered in class are explored in connection with Francophone culture and use authentic materials. Activities during the year include games, skits, and various projects to reinforce material covered in class. Each month a student who demonstrates exemplary effort, improvement, and/or participation is awarded “Frenchie of the Month” and recognized for their in-class achievements. This is the same course that is taught at both Sylvania high schools; therefore, students will earn high school credit for the course. All grades earned for high school classes taken in eighth grade will be included on high school transcripts and factored into high school GPA calculations. The high school grading scale and Add/Drop Policy applies for this course.
GERMAN I (High School Credit Class)  Class will be taken at Southview High School
German I is designed around the Ohio World Language Standards and the World-Readiness Standards for Learning Languages by ACTFL. The course introduces the modes of communication in interpersonal conversations, presentational writing and speaking, and interpretive reading and listening skills. Units will utilize 21st century skills and authentic resources to engage learners in relevant and meaningful use of the new language and exploration of the culture through the study of topics such as school, family, and weekend activities. Students will learn how to pronounce German with a native accent. All students will learn about cultural aspects and traditions of German.  The targeted proficiency level for students at this level is Novice-Low according to the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines. This is the same course that is taught at both Sylvania high schools; therefore, students will earn high school credit for the course. All grades earned for high school classes taken in eighth grade will be included on high school transcripts and factored into high school GPA calculations. The high school grading scale and Add/Drop Policy applies for this course.

SPANISH I (High School Credit Class) 
Spanish I focuses on communication and culture at the Novice Level. This course is designed to engage learners in topics of interest such as birthdays, school, daily activities, family, and Hispanic celebrations. Some activities include reading magazines, watching movies or video clips, role-playing, reviewing with a variety of games and tools, and analyzing Hispanic cultures. Students are not learning ABOUT Spanish, but how to USE Spanish in the REAL WORLD! This is the same course that is taught at both Sylvania high schools; therefore, students will earn high school credit for the course.  All grades earned for high school classes taken in eighth grade will be included on high school transcripts and factored into high school GPA calculations. The high school grading scale and Add/Drop Policy applies for this course.	

	

Timberstone Junior High Schedule Change Policy	
Many factors are taken into consideration when planning class schedules to create a successful school experience for students. Students should be careful in their initial course selections and adhere to these choices. Changes in schedules can cause many difficulties for the individual student as well as for the master schedule. However, occasionally a change in an individual student’s schedule may become necessary. For a parent-approved schedule change to be considered, you should see your counselor prior to the closing of the current school year or set an appointment for the month of August. Space availability and appropriate balancing of classes may impact these requests. Requests for specific teachers will not be honored.