23 eighth graders study American environmentalism
The 8th grade social studies curriculum revolves around the emergence of America as a world power with a 20th Century U.S. History focus; however, it is not a course that only covers the world wars and politics. A chapter in our first book (Joy Hakim's A History of US: An Age of Extremes) focuses on the important role played by John Muir. Future chapters discuss his relationship with Theodore Roosevelt, the creation of national parks, and even the role of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted in American history. Linked below, please find an 8th grade assignment that addresses the creation of Yosemite National Park. There are also sample readings that help supplement the eighth grader's history education with environmental topics.
Regular current events assignments also engage the kids in the "politics" and real world debates about environmental issues: fracking, regulation of companies that pollute, etc. Our students visit the C & O Canal to better connect with their "neighborhood" and to better understand the history behind this part of the world. They have also visited the Markoff's Calleva Farm to see how they work and to see their biodiesel operation.
Regular current events assignments also engage the kids in the "politics" and real world debates about environmental issues: fracking, regulation of companies that pollute, etc. Our students visit the C & O Canal to better connect with their "neighborhood" and to better understand the history behind this part of the world. They have also visited the Markoff's Calleva Farm to see how they work and to see their biodiesel operation.
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23 eighth graders learn about photography
[For Art class,] the eighth graders went on a photo taking field trip. Each student picked one theme to take pictures of, and created a collage later on in the year for the Blackrock Center for the Performing Arts Exhibit (written by 8th grader T.J. K.).
Here are some examples of photographs taken on the nature themes field trip. Photography by 8th grader, T.J. K., Fall 2014
23 eighth graders study poetry
In eighth grade Reading / Language Arts, students were asked to take a minimum of 5 photos of trees or leaves outdoors. After selecting their favorite picture, students wrote a poem about the Earth and our relationship with it, using the photo as their inspiration.