Lincoln Middle School

Grade 8 Required Courses

ALGEBRA I: This high school credited course focuses on algebraic problem-solving. The course will address: (1) formulating, reasoning and solving linear, exponential and quadratic expressions and equations; (2) deriving and modeling with linear, exponential and quadratic functions; (3) formulating and analyzing statistical questions, including questions resulting in one and two-variable data. The grade in this class will automatically be included on the high school transcript.

MATH 8: This course teaches in-depth the 8th grade mathematical standards that are aligned with the Common Core Standards. Instructional time will be focused on three critical areas: (1) formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations, and solving linear equations and systems of linear equations; (2) grasping the concept of a function and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; (3) analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem.
This class focuses on a variety of reading, writing, language, and speaking and listening skills. Students will be building reading and writing stamina. In reading, students will be reading to identify narrative/elaboration/rhetorical strategies in writing and other passages (fiction and non- fiction). Reading comprehension includes inferring and analyzing text in short responses, including creating a claim, citing evidence, explaining evidence, and using transitions. Novel reading includes discussions in the form of Socratic Seminars and extended activities which aid in reviewing and mastering reading skills. In writing, students will be learning the writing process (brainstorming, narrowing a topic, organizing an essay, writing with elaboration/rhetorical strategies, writing effective introductions and conclusions).
In this semester-long course, students will explore American history, civics and government from the early colonial period through the Civil War and Reconstruction, examining key events, figures, and movements that shaped the nation.
Eighth-grade science is a year-long lab-based course, where students will explore three science topics: Physical Science, Life Science, and Space Science. In Physical Science, we will explore forces such as Contact Forces, Sound Waves, and Forces at a Distance. In Life Science, we will explore Genetics, Natural Selection, and Adaptations. In Space Science, we will explore how Earth fits in the Solar System, Seasons, and Moon Phases. These are all aligned with Next Generation Science Standards as adopted by Washington State.
The purpose of Fitness, Movement, Sport and Health at Lincoln Middle School is to create a safe environment for students to take positive risks, demonstrate their knowledge in a variety of activities that promote healthy and fit lifestyles, understand the benefit of purposeful movement, learn accurate health information that encourages positive life choices and influences, and demonstrate growth in their knowledge, understanding, and application of the Washington State Physical Education and Health Education Standards and important concepts.
This class satisfies a Pullman High School graduation requirement designed to introduce students to workplace technology. This course explores educational plan development, career exploration, and communication skills by using technology in a business setting. Using Microsoft Office 2019, students will learn introductory word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and graphic applications.

Students are also expected to master basic keyboarding skills. The class will also give students the opportunity to explore post-high school education and employment options by completing the Washington State required High School & Beyond Plan.

Grade 8 Elective Courses

Semester-Long Course

This class focuses on leadership attributes that can be identified, modeled, and taught. The class is primarily experiential-learning-based and emphasizes the importance of communication, character, personal growth, and building strong relationships and teams. Students will plan assemblies and other school activities based on their interests. Class participants must be able to work independently in a manner that appropriately represents Spartan student leaders.
Semester-Long Course

This class produces the Channel 3 News Program. Learned skills will include video editing, scriptwriting, anchoring, technical work, graphics, and videography. Students will gain valuable technical and leadership experience in broadcast journalism.
1st semester only

This course is designed for hands-on learners who like to explore and create. Students will continue to learn about the Art Elements and build their knowledge of the Principles of Design and Composition. Students will work with a variety of materials such as wood, fabric, recycled materials, collage, and more. Topics may include public art, music and visual art, environmental issues, social issues, and more. Students will develop works that help them explore their world and their creative expression.
2nd semester only

This course is designed for learners who like to explore and create while learning drawing and painting techniques. Students will continue to learn about the Art Elements and build their knowledge of the Principles of Design and Composition. Students will work with a variety of drawings, watercolors, and acrylic paints. Topics will include basic color theory, color mixing composition, and visual communication.
1st Semester Only

Students are challenged to creatively use sensors and actuators to develop systems that interact with their environment. Designing algorithms and using computational thinking practices, students will code and upload programs to microcontrollers that perform a variety of authentic tasks. This course will broaden students’ understanding of computer science concepts through meaningful applications. Students will work in teams and work through a simulation related problem involving wearable technology, interactive art, or a mechanical device.

*Pathway to HS courses in Digital Electronics and Computer Science
2nd Semester Only

Students will be provided opportunities to apply the design process to creatively solve problems. Students learn to use methods for communicating design ideas through sketches, solid models, and mathematical models. Students will understand how models can be simulated to represent an authentic situation and generate data for further analysis and observation. In a simulation, teams will design a toy or game for a child with cerebral palsy, fabricate and test the design, and make necessary modifications to optimize the design. Students will design bridges, and model using 3D software, and print designs using 3D printers.

*Pathway to Woodshop, Drafting, Metals
Semester-Long Course

This Course will integrate Art, Computer Science, and Technology Skills. Students will learn the 8 elements of design, 12 principles of design, basics of industrial and graphic design, and fashion art. Students will use software including Adobe Express, Pixlr, and Canva to create business logos, fashions design, and presentation boards.

*Pathway to Fashion and Digital design, Digital Media, Art.
Semester-Long Course

Students will develop skills within automation and robotics to improve daily life. Students investigate mechanical systems, motion, transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students will learn about gear ratios and block-based coding to create robotic machines. Using the VEX Robotics platform, students design, build, and program real-world devices, such as a food dispenser, a robot pet companion, and a transport system.

*Pathway to robotics club (SEL)
1st Semester Only

Students will play the role of real-life medical detectives as they collect and analyze medical data to diagnose disease. They solve medical mysteries through hands-on projects and labs, measure and interpret vital signs, dissect sheep brains, investigate disease outbreaks, and explore how a breakdown within the human body can lead to dysfunction. Students will also explore a unit on forensic science performing hands-on analysis, utilizing field-based tools to solve a simulated mystery case.

*Pathway to Biology, Veterinary Science, Health Sciences
Semester-Long Course

A limited number of aide positions are available with classroom or office staff. Teacher’s Aides or Office Aides are expected to assist staff in a responsible and independent manner. Specific duties vary depending on the staff assignment. Library Aides must be comfortable with alphabetizing and shelving books. Students must have excellent attendance in order to be considered for a TA position.
Year-Long Course

This is a class for high school credit. It is designed for students interested in learning to understand, speak, read, and write the Spanish language. Emphasis is on building vocabulary and introducing the basic language structure necessary to communicate in practical situations. *Students taking Zero Hour classes forego all before school activities, sports and clubs
Year-Long Course

This class is for high school credit. It is an introductory course for students interested in learning to understand, speak, read, and write the French language. Emphasis is on building vocabulary and introducing the basic language structures necessary to communicate in practical situations.

*Students taking Zero Hour classes forego all before school activities, sports and clubs
Year-Long Course

Concert choir offers students choral advancement in vocal production, rhythmic style, and ensemble performance skills. For skill advancement, first year Concert Choir students are assessed on concepts that extend from 6th grade choir; second year Concert Choir students are assessed on concepts that extend from their first year. Second year students leave well-prepared to move on to the high school level. A wide selection of choral music is used throughout the year, some of which involves student input. Performances include evening concerts, festivals, and school assemblies. **STUDENTS WHO OPT TO JOIN JAZZ CHOIR, WHICH MEETS BEFORE SCHOOL, ARE REQUIRED TO ENROLL IN THIS CLASS.
Year-Long Course

This class is for continuing string players, and performance is the primary emphasis of the course. Rhythm, music reading and coordination, ensemble, a range of new keys, and responsible group membership are emphasized. Performances include fall, winter, and spring concerts as well as in-school assemblies and music festivals/trips. Participation in the “Disney & Desserts” fundraiser in the fall is also encouraged.
Year-Long Course

This class continues the goals and objectives of the seventh-grade band. Students will learn advanced concepts regarding tone production, rhythm, intonation, musical styles, and technical aspects of the instruments. This class is for continuing band students (no beginners), and performance is the primary emphasis of the course. Performances include fall, winter, and spring concerts as well as in-school assemblies and music festivals/trips/parades.