Grade 8 Language Arts

The language arts program consists of a strong, traditional approach to literature and grammar which encompasses the areas of reading, writing, spelling, grammar, and vocabulary. In literature, not only is a special emphasis placed on the quality of what is read, but comprehension skills and the ability to think critically are also developed. The stories, poems, dramas, and novels that are read encourage the students to make inferences, to draw conclusions, and to connect what has been read to their own lives.

The importance of words can never be underrated and in English grammar, students learn that there is an order and structure to both oral and written language which contributes to its clarity, accuracy, and effectiveness. Understanding words and how they are used provide the students with a strong foundation in the nature of language.

Writing is also an important part of the language arts curriculum. Through a variety of writing experiences, the students learn about organization, presentation, revision, and format. They discover the importance of detail and how it can enhance a piece of writing. Finally, the students become acquainted with the writing process and how it can help them to organize and to express their own ideas.

• Students explore a variety of stories, poems, dramas, and novels through thematic units.
• Students use critical thinking skills to analyze character, setting, plot, and theme.
• Students extend interpretation to their own lives through journal writing.
• Students create a writing portfolio consisting of creative and formal pieces, book evaluations, and original poetry.
• Students enhance their oral and written communication through the study of grammar, vocabulary, and spelling.

Spanish

Junior High students continue the formal study of Spanish they began in middle school. As they study about themselves and Spanish-speaking countries, they begin to gain the skills of speaking and writing. The curriculum is designed to give the students a solid base for language study in high school. Many Overbrook students regularly test out of Spanish I when they enter high school.