8th Grade Registration for 2026-2027

This course focuses on increasing rigorous opportunities for 8th grade students as they prepare for high school. We will read a variety of texts including short stories, articles, informational texts, novels, and poetry! During reading units, students will use various literary terms to develop critical-thinking skills while analyzing texts. Writing skills will be developed and reinforced through developing a thesis, persuasive writing, poetry, personal reflection, and vocabulary development. Many activities and units follow a social justice theme to align with the power standards in English 8. The curriculum intentionally reflects multiple perspectives, making it possible for students to see themselves and feel affirmed. Each term, students are challenged to write in a way that effectively communicates and develops their unique voice. Students will be offered advanced options (AO) and embedded honors (EH) work to add depth and complexity. EH work combines literature and writing to help springboard students into the Accelerated English 9 class.

This course is an introduction to human geography, where students learn how people, places, and environments are connected. We use maps, data, and real examples to explore how humans shape the world and how the world shapes us.

Students study population patterns, global trade, cultural differences, economic systems, climate, and the effects of globalization. They use information from print and digital sources to understand major trends in the modern world.

Although designed for 8th graders, this class challenges students to think deeply and make meaningful connections. It also builds the skills needed for success in next year’s AP Human Geography course and other advanced classes.

Physical Science 8 is a combined course of study with physics and chemistry topics taught through a series of interconnected units.

Science is not a subject, but rather a method of studying the world. Science is defined as an organized way to gain knowledge about the natural world by observing and investigating. Therefore, science is both a collection of knowledge and the process of discovering it. Since science is a method, this course will focus on developing the eight science practices: 

1. Asking Questions and Defining Problems
2. Developing and Using Models
3. Planning and Carrying out Investigations
4. Analyzing and Interpreting Data
5. Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking
6. Constructing Explanations and Solutions
7. Engaging in Argument from Evidence
8. Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Evidence

The class will collaboratively learn these practices while working to explain phenomena we see on a near-daily basis.

Information for choosing 8th grade math courses: Families will choose between Algebra 8 or Intermediate Algebra 8 with teacher input. Geometry 8 will only be for students who have passed Intermediate Algebra 7 with a C- or better each trimester. 

8030 Algebra 8

Grade-level math course covering the Minnesota 8th grade math standards. Within this course, there is an emphasis on mastering concepts such as solving multi-step equations, exponential properties, and linear equation representations. 

8032 Intermediate Algebra 8

This is an intensely single-accelerated course at the 9th grade high school math course. This course introduces students to the building blocks for higher-level mathematics (algebraic properties, expressions, linear equations, quadratic equations, and systems of equations will be studied). Students will be expected to solve problems numerically, graphically, and analytically. Graphing calculators will be used when appropriate to visualize and solve problems. 

Students will receive two high school credits for completing Intermediate Algebra 8 with a C- or better. These credits will not count in their GPA. Students completing the course with a D+ or below will automatically be registered to retake the course.

8033 Geometry 8

This is an intensely double-accelerated course at the 10th grade high school math level. We live in a world made up of shapes. Students will study the properties of geometric figures. Triangles, circles, parallel lines, similarity, area, volume, planes, spheres, and pyramids are everyday figures that have properties that control their features. These properties will be studied to better understand the world in which we live. Emphasis is placed on learning geometric concepts and applying previously learned algebraic concepts to geometric problems. Students will be verifying conjectures, developing and evaluating mathematical arguments, and proofs.

Students will receive two high school credits for completing Geometry 8 with a C- or better. These credits will not count in their High School GPA. Students completing the course with a D+ or below will automatically be registered to retake the course.

8th grade health is a trimester class that follows the National Health Education Standards. These standards have been integrated into six thematic content areas designed to provide students with a wide variety of topics. Building off topics discussed in 7th grade, Health 8 provides students the opportunity to delve deeper into important topics including mental health, human sexuality (relationships, contraception, abstinence, LGBTQ+ vocabulary) and substance abuse. Students will also experience all new units including, but not limited to being a lifelong learner, safety/violence prevention, and nutrition.

The curriculum emphasizes an advancement of the skills introduced in 7th grade. The class promotes a healthy and physically fit body. Units offered include soccer, tennis, volleyball, basketball, badminton, fitness center (weight training, Xbox Kinect, elliptical, bikes), archery, softball, and flag football.

Are you ready to learn about getting your first part-time job? Are you becoming more independent? Are you ready to use your creativity by exploring interior design and creating more advanced sewing projects? FACS 8 is an every other day, year-long elective class where you can explore these topics throughout the year. You will learn to design your dream home, create advanced sewing projects, prepare for your first job, manage money, and explore parenting and family life.

This class is a more in-depth look at the technologies introduced in Design and Create 7. Students interested in combining the STEAM approach with problem solving and design will love this course. Curriculum provides first-hand experience using research and design (R&D) processes and techniques used in architecture, engineering, industry, and other fields. Students will strengthen individual skills and develop teamwork competence. Many of the activities will be design challenges that can be done individually or in a group setting. There may be a small course fee for material needed for projects that will become the property of the student.

Take your artistic skills to the next level. In this course, you decide the art styles and mediums you want to explore. With emphasis on choice and interest, you will study the work of local and culturally diverse artists and develop your own style. Students will be presented with a variety of media and techniques to explore and experiment with, such as drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture (3D work), and mixed media. You will also build an artist portfolio and showcase your art by the end of the year.

These classes are performance classes and will require attendance at 2-3 concerts during the year. Band 8 and Orchestra 8 are open to students that were a member of band and orchestra in 7th grade, or have director approval. Small group pull-out lessons are part of the curriculum for band and orchestra. Chorus students must enjoy singing and demonstrate the ability to match pitch. Students in choir continue work on reading music and sing three-part music. Students who are enrolled in one of these music classes may participate in extracurricular music groups such as Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Band, or Morning Choir.

Students will be in a physical education class every day when they register for personal exercise plan (PEP). Students will have the opportunity to work out in the fitness center (resistance training, active technology, ellipticals, and exercise bikes) on a more frequent basis as well as choose individual or team activities they would like to participate in for a daily workout. The objective of PEP is to increase strength and cardiovascular fitness through daily activity. Active and self-motivated students looking for additional physical education opportunities will be successful in PEP. Students wanting to register should have been successful participating in 7th grade PE.

Combine your interest of design and construction with your love of art. This class will be an in-depth exploration of different mediums and techniques in 2D and 3D art. This includes working on the potter’s wheel and using acrylic on canvas. Students will develop creative thinking and problem solving skills in this course.

You will have the ability to sign up for this class twice. If you take this class a second time, you will have options for more advanced mediums and techniques that may include weaving and jewelry.

This course will focus on preparing and cooking meals. As we learn to cook, we will focus on safety and sanitation, nutrition, and making healthy food choices. Students will learn basic cooking skills to help prepare nutritious meals at school and at home. Students will also learn how to read food labels, food advertising, and learn how to comparison shop. Technical reading, organization, measuring, and direction following are sets of skills reinforced in this course.

If you enjoy making and eating a variety of different foods then this is the class for you! This course focuses on selecting, preparing, and serving foods according to nutritional guidelines and will have recipes from all the major food groups. This course will allow you the opportunity to look at foods through a cultural lens through a mini cultural foods unit. The end unit of the course will have the students creating, preparing, marketing, and selling their own snack created through the snack shop unit.

This is a project-based class where students will learn through hands-on projects. Students will learn about proper tool usage and machine safety as well as advanced woodworking. Students will also learn how to read blueprints. There are various projects the students will be working on, including a sheet metal toolbox and a shaker-style clock. There will be a small course fee for materials needed for projects that will become the property of the student.

This course is for anyone who wants to learn how to make almost anything. Students will learn how to use several computer programs. These computer programs will be used to design projects. Areas of focus may include 3D printing, laser engraving/cutting, vinyl cutting, and dye sublimation. Collaboration, creativity and problem-solving skills will be gained through the projects in the class. There is a $5 lab fee for this class to cover the cost of projects that the students will be taking home.

This course focuses on learning various computer coding languages and computer science basics essential for creating software and using modern technology at an advanced level. This course gives a broader but more basic overview of four themes (programming, security, analytics, and system administration) and a lot of basic skills in each.

Introduction to Theater is a trimester elective class for anyone interested in learning more about what goes on in the theater world. Students who take this class will learn the basics of various aspects of theater. We will spend our time working on a variety of project-based learning experiences that will cover the basics of acting, script reading and analysis, script writing, set building, prop making, lighting, sound, dance, theater from other cultures, Shakespeare, etc. Join us for an exciting class in the RAMS theater as we explore the ins and outs of theater. The class will have a final presentation that combines all of the aspects so there is room for anyone, be it beginner or experienced theater participant.

Students will learn to speak, read, write, and understand French at an introductory level. The focus is on communicating in everyday situations about topics such as school, shopping, food, family, and hobbies. Students will also begin exploring the geography and cultures of the French-speaking world. Students will receive two high school credits for completing this course with a C- or better. These credits will not count in their GPA. Students completing the course with a D+ or below will have to retake the class to advance to the next level.

Students will learn to speak, read, write, and understand the Spanish language with an emphasis on everyday conversations about family, school, recreational activities, food, and more. We will study many different aspects of Latin American and Spanish culture, such as daily life, geography, cultural values, and celebrations. Students will receive two high school credits for completing this course with a C- or better. These credits will not count in their GPA. Students completing the course with a D+ or below will have to retake the class to advance to the next level.

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is an academic elective course that prepares students for college readiness and success, and it is scheduled during the regular school day as a year-long course.

The 8th grade AVID elective course is the year of preparation for high school. Students will regularly exhibit and utilize the skills and strategies learned in the 7th grade AVID course. They will refine previous goals, focusing on their transition to high school as part of a college-preparatory path. Their writing will focus on completing all steps of the writing process and varying style, word choice, vocabulary, structure, and voice. Major writing assignments include persuasive, expository, descriptive, and timed writing. Students will transition from active learners to leaders. Other areas of focus include increasing the use of technology and building upon test-preparation and test-taking knowledge. Students will broaden their experience with analyzing text and utilizing appropriate reading strategies in various settings. They will become more involved in presentations, leadership opportunities, and field trips, particularly as they relate to preparation and prior knowledge.

If students were in AVID 7 they will automatically continue to AVID 8 if they meet expectations of the elective. If you are a new or current student interested in being in the AVID 8 elective, please contact please contact Scott Lauinger, RAMS AVID coordinator, at scott.lauinger@isd623.org for an application or to ask questions.