Grade 8 Electives

Art 2D with Ms. Hanks

This course is designed to focus on two-dimensional artwork. Studio production will explore a variety of two dimensional mediums and techniques - ebony pencil portraits, mixed-media artist trading cards, watercolor landscapes, and oil pastel still lifes. Students will explore art history, critical thinking, color theory, cultural connections, elements/principles of design, and identity. Students will utilize the design cycle to complete projects, and develop problem solving skills.

Art 3D with Ms. Hanks

This course is designed to focus on three-dimensional artwork. Studio production will explore a variety of three dimensional mediums and techniques - duct tape monsters, paper sculptures, and plaster letters. Students will explore art history, critical thinking, color theory, cultural connections, elements/principles of design, and identity. Students will utilize the design cycle to complete projects, and develop problem solving skills.

Band 3
with Mrs. Van Wert

(Must have taken in 7th grade. This is a Year Long Class and takes up two elective spots.)

Grade 8 band is designed to foster a higher level of musicianship. Students should have previous experience in band. Students will be working on more challenging music, developing ear training, learning new rhythms, and rehearsing a wide variety of repertoire as an ensemble and individuals. Students are required to participate in all school rehearsals and evening concerts. Parents/guardians are to provide the band method book Sound Innovation for Immediate Concert Band for their instrument and all necessary accessories. Instruments are available for rental from local music stores and Bill Reed.

Choir with Ms. Huster

Grade 8 choir is open to any student. No experience required. We will sing a wide variety of musical styles of choral music as well as work on listening skills and performance. We will include sight singing, music theory/composition, and proper vocal production as a part of our curriculum. Students will work on more advanced repertoire individually and as an ensemble in order to continue their growth as musicians and perform in concerts. Students are required to participate in all school rehearsals and concerts.

Drama with Mrs. Quinones

In this class students will work on larger theatrical productions through a variety of ways such as puppetry, devised theatre, scene work, improvisational games, and prepare for auditions. Students will develop original characters and stories, work on memorization and public speaking, and explore behind the scenes aspects through technical theatre.

Drama: Theatre Tech
with Mrs. Quinones

This class focuses heavily on exploring the behind the scenes elements of technical theatre.

Family and Consumer Science
with Ms. Burdick

Creative talents will be developed in Grade 8 Family and Consumer Science (FACS) through integration of a variety of curricular areas such as math, science, language arts, and art, through the use of the design cycle, labs, and technology. Grade 8 FACS incorporates food preparation, meal planning, and nutrition to further develop student's culinary skills; and as part of the sewing unit, intermediate sewing projects are explored to further develop students' sewing skills. Knowledge of interior design and floor planning, budgeting and finance, childcare, and personal development will also be expanded.

Orchestra 3
with Ms. Huster

(Must have taken in 7th grade. This is a Year Long Class and takes up two elective spots.)

Grade 8 orchestra is for students interested in continuing instruction on the violin, viola, cello, or double bass! Students will have several performances throughout the school year, as well as field trips to professional orchestra rehearsals and orchestra competitions. Students are expected to supply their own instruments. Cellos and Double Basses are available for use at the school for a nominal rental fee, but it is also recommended that parents rent a separate instrument for home practice. Parents must provide the orchestra method book, Essential Technique for Strings Book 3. Two hours of home practice per week is expected for this class. Prior orchestra experience is required, unless approved by teacher.

Physical Education and Health
with Mrs. Custer and Mr. Rogich

This class is required for everyone and will already be included in the student's schedule.

Physical Education courses typically involve the acquisition of knowledge and skills that provide the foundation for sport, a physically active lifestyle, and social development through physical activity. Activities typically include those that increase strength, endurance, and flexibility; reinforce safe technique; teach the rules and conventions of games and sports; and explore the relationship between physical activity and health. Health topics (such as the effects of drugs and alcohol, sexual education, and healthy lifestyles) may also be included.