What's Happening In 8th Grade?

8th grade is hard at work. Want to know what we're learning?

Science:
In science we are studying Physics. So far we have learned the difference between speed and velocity, the formula for calculating speed, and how to write lab reports. Want a refresher, visit this web site and work through the animations! Speed and Velocity Online Lab. This week we will be working with force and motion. In our lab notebooks we are learning to use the scientific process, record data accurately, and to reason quantitatively.


History:
What kind of leader would your student be if they ruled the world? That's just one of many questions posed to the 8th graders as we dove into the formation of the US government. Students can define 8 different government types and after research in the computer lab, can identify countries that use each type. We are moving forward with the ideas that the founding fathers used to create our government. In guided reading we are reading Thomas Paine's "Common Sense". Your student should be asking questions at the dinner table and participating in family discussions. This weekend's homework was to answer these two questions: 1. What are the natural rights of humans? 2. What beliefs and truths should laws be based on? Most students did a great job on number 1, but struggled with number 2. It is worth a further discussion tonight! To get the conversation on the right track, you might share a belief that you hold. For example, I believe that laws should be based on the belief that all humans are inherently good and will do what's right when given the opportunity to do so.

Writing:
Last week's essay was a narrative based on personal experience. That assignment was due today. Several students had theirs returned for failure to follow directions. Some writing assignments may be typed, but this was not one of them. If typing is an option, it will be explicitly stated. When in doubt, assume hand written. This week's essay will be a persuasive piece. Students should brainstorm with families to solidify ideas before starting their KWO tomorrow in class. The topic is: Which type of government is best for the people?