Eighth Grade (T8) | Threads Of Ames

Eighth Grade (T8) Overview

At Threads of Ames, our T8 program bridges the transition into upper level courses and leadership, rooted in faith and supported by a vibrant community of learners.

Sample Eighth Grade (T8) Schedule

Literature and Composition Year 2

8:30 AM – 10:00AM

In this class, students have two focuses. In the fall, students will read and analyze five novels while honing their persuasive writing skills. In the spring, students learn to practice their analytical skills through short stories with a culminating short story writing activity.

Current Events and Mock Trial

10:00AM – 11:00 AM

Fall: students will learn about public policy using current events as a lens. Each week, students will read or listen to and report on current events. Over the course of the semester, they will explore contemporary issues in political campaigns, domestic and international policy, economics, and social welfare.
Spring:students will take an in-depth look at the Bill of Rights for the first nine weeks. During the last six weeks, they will work collaboratively to prepare and present a mock trial, studying a case that involves one or more issues in the first eight amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

Science

Science Fair / Scientific Method: Students begin the year learning the scientific method, culminating in a Science Fair where they apply their skills in designing and presenting projects.
Astronomy: Students study the night sky, learning to identify stars, constellations, and planets. Using The Stargazer’s Guide to the Night Sky, students learn optimal observing times and techniques, explore star charts, and develop a lasting habit of observing God’s Creation.
Chemistry: The year concludes with an introduction to fundamental Chemistry concepts, including the structure of matter, chemical reactions, and principles of experimentation. These lessons build a foundation for future science study while encouraging curiosity and hands-on exploration.

-on laboratory experiments exploring the laws of physics and chemistry through group observation and faculty-led inquiry.

11:00 AM – 12:00PM

World Civilization II

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

This class takes a close look at relatively modern history, covering the Reformation, Age of Exploration, Scientific Revolution, Enlightenment, Industrial Revolution, Communism, and World Wars. the goals of the class include that students will have a deep understanding of history through discussion, debate, and hands-on interaction with the content.

Formal Logic

Introductory study using The Discovery of Deduction. Students learn argument structure, create logically sound arguments, and evaluate real-world claims.

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM