Eighth Grade Program

Eighth Grade Program Overview

Eighth graders at West Craven Middle School continue their studies in Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Healthful Living. Core courses are year-long, with options for high school credit in Math 1.

Language Arts:
Students develop advanced reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. They read a variety of texts—including fiction, drama, and informational articles—and learn to analyze themes, perspectives, and evidence. Writing projects focus on arguments, explanations, narratives, and research.

English I (High School Credit):
This course covers composition, grammar, vocabulary, literature, and recreational reading, preparing students for high school English.

Mathematics:
Math 8 covers topics such as irrational numbers, linear equations, geometry, functions, and statistics.
Math I (High School Credit):
This compacted course deepens understanding of algebra, geometry, and data analysis and fulfills the state’s Math I graduation requirement.

Science:
Students study Earth science topics including the hydrosphere, Earth’s history, ecosystems, biotechnology, evolution, matter, and energy.
Earth/Environmental Science (High School Credit):
This course explores geology, oceanography, astronomy, and meteorology through lectures and labs.

Social Studies:
Eighth grade integrates U.S. and North Carolina history from the Revolutionary Era to today, focusing on key events, people, and ideas that shaped our state and nation.

Healthful Living:
Combining health education and physical activity, students learn about healthy living, stress management, nutrition, drug prevention, interpersonal skills, and fitness. CPR training is included, fulfilling a state graduation requirement. Parents may review the curriculum and request exemptions for sensitive topics.