United States · Common Core State Standards
8th Grade English Language Arts
This curriculum focuses on the power of narrative and the mechanics of persuasion. Students analyze complex texts to understand how authors craft meaning and how language shapes our perception of reality.
The Art of the Narrative
Students explore how authors build tension and develop characters through dialogue and plot structure. Focus is placed on identifying themes within classic and contemporary fiction.
Analyzing how internal and external conflicts drive character development and influence the trajectory of a story.
Examining how authors use pacing, foreshadowing, and flashbacks to manipulate the reader's emotional experience.
Distilling complex narratives into objective summaries and identifying universal themes supported by textual evidence.
The Power of Persuasion
An investigation into rhetorical devices and the structure of arguments in non-fiction texts and speeches.
Identifying ethos, pathos, and logos in famous speeches and modern advertisements to evaluate their effectiveness.
Breaking down complex informational texts to evaluate the relevance and sufficiency of the evidence provided.
Comparing how the same topic is presented across different formats like text, video, and interactive media.
Crafting the Argument
Students transition from analysis to production by writing their own evidence-based arguments on controversial topics.
Learning to draft precise claims and acknowledge opposing viewpoints to create a balanced argument.
Practicing the seamless integration of quotes and data into original writing to support claims.
Using rubrics and peer critique to refine the clarity and impact of written arguments.
Foundations of Inquiry
A research-based unit where students develop questions, conduct investigations, and synthesize information from multiple sources.
Developing focused, researchable questions that lead to deep exploration rather than simple fact-finding.
Learning to vet digital and print sources for authority, accuracy, and potential bias.
Combining information from diverse sources to create a cohesive presentation or report.
Language and Style
Focusing on the mechanics of English, including grammar, usage, and the nuance of vocabulary.
Mastering the use of active and passive voice and the proper application of punctuation like ellipses and dashes.
Using context clues and Greek or Latin roots to determine the meaning of unknown academic vocabulary.
Analyzing the use of irony, puns, and personification to enhance descriptive writing.
The Speaker's Platform
Developing oral communication skills through collaborative discussions and formal presentations.
Engaging in structured academic conversations where students build on others' ideas and express their own clearly.
Integrating digital media into presentations to clarify information and strengthen claims.
Analyzing the purpose and effectiveness of a speaker's delivery, including tone and body language.