Eighth Grade

Core Subjects

In the area of Literature, students in grade 8 learn Christian character traits such as compassion, courage,and sacrifice. Students will read excerpts from classics such as A Tale of Two Cities, The Jungle Book, Ben Hur, The Hiding Place, and The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. The ability to express one’s ideas creatively as well as correctly and the ability to comprehend and interpret the written word skillfully, are built upon the elements which are taught in grade 8. Students build upon the skills learned in earlier grammar studies providing foundational practice of proper grammar and developing the basic composition skills used in outlining, summarizing, describing, researching, and creative writing. Students will also be introduced to new grammar rules and new writing techniques that will allow them to expand their writing skills.

In grade 8, students are introduced to Pre-Algebra. The topics of geometry, algebra, probability, statistics, and radicals are expanded, and trigonometry and systems of equations are introduced.

Grade 8 presents American history from a conservative, biblical perspective. Students are taught how history traces God's working through people to accomplish His will. As part of grade 8 history, students will also study the geography of the Western Hemisphere and the functions of the federal, state, and local governments.

In the area of science, the text, Earth and Space lays a foundation for future study of the nonliving world. The text begins “from the ground up,” starting with soil science and geology. Students learn how geology and the fossil record support the biblical record of a worldwide Flood—not the hypotheses of evolution. The exploration of the seas includes studying currents, tides, and ocean floor. An investigation of the atmosphere and processes that cause weather includes overviews of several weather phenomena and of measuring and forecasting the weather. The solar system, stars, and galaxies are examined as the creation of God; evolutionary hypotheses of solar system formation are briefly discussed and shown to be scientifically unsound. Students learn about man’s study and use of astronomy, including an overview of manned and unmanned spaceflight. The text concludes with a study of environmental issues, thus teaching students to be good stewards of the natural resources God has provided. (Abeka, Scope and Sequence May,2022)

Key learning

Not only will students gain exposure to people of different ages, nationalities, races, cultures, and economic levels through a variety of literary selections, but they will also learn to enjoy reading wholesome literature.

Mastery

Students are prepared for high school by mastering grammar and writing.