Social Studies: Mr. Jason Everhart
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Over the next several weeks, eighth grade social studies shifts its focus from world history to an investigation of American civics. We begin our journey with a brief study of Enlightenment Era philosophies that led to the initial structure of American government and citizen rights. We further explore American government through an examination of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the relationship between government and citizens in a just society. The discussion will also take us through topics of race and power in the desegregation of Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1957. Class content will certainly connect to modern American issues of race and government, so be sure to ask your child how the past influences the present!
Science: Mr. Dave Suchy
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8th grade science students will be finishing their study of evolution and genetics this month. They will be starting a final project this week. The focus of the project is Biomimicry. Students have learned that evolution through natural selection has given living things traits that allow them to successfully live and reproduce in their environments. It has taken billions of years of trial and error to get the best traits so why not mimic these traits in our daily lives? During our Biomimicry project students will create a product to help the world that is inspired by the natural world. Students will research, create and present their product to the class in a “Shark Tank” style presentation. To learn more about Biomimicry you can watch the following video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vq8ci4RTUs
Math (On-Grade Level): Mr. Jose Oliveira
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As we jump back into our learning, students will begin to learn about geometric transformations (translations, dilations, reflections, and rotations). Students will use coordinate grids to help them determine the original location of a shape/point and to also determine where a shape/point will end up after a transformation is applied. We will also work on a small unit on angles prior to taking our math MCAS in May. Be sure to ask your student what a transformation is.
Math (Accelerated Math): Mr. Jose Oliveira
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Students will dive right into working with quadratics. They will compare graphs of various quadratic forms (standard form, factored form, vertex form). During this unit students will review their graphing skills to create their own graphs. Before completing the unit, students will be able to use the quadratic formula to help with solving quadratics. Ask your student what a parabola is, and where they can be found in everyday life.
English Language Arts: Mr. Saveriano
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8th grade writers are embarking on their journey through the world of persuasive writing by composing editorials. All 8th graders have selected an issue that they are passionate about and have taken a position based on their selected issue. RAUC writers have also created an outline for their editorial. Currently, as writers, we are starting to put our discovered persuasive techniques to use as we craft our editorials. Ask your child about some of the persuasive techniques they have decided to use in order to either convince their audience of their position or raise awareness. In addition, ask your child to read aloud their draft of their editorial. In my opinion, that is one of the most effective ways a writer can reveal and correct simple errors.