The school has adjusted eighth grade schedules to offer electives previously reserved for high school students, including introduction classes in journalism, robotics and agriculture.
The first-year journalism students have spent the first weeks of class learning how to write the different types of stories for future issues of the Cat’s Claw.
“My favorite stories have been news because they are simple and fun to write,” eighth grader Jayden Peters said. “I like that the class is with my friends.”
Eighth grader Kooper Keeter said she feels like gaining experience in journalism is improving her writing skills.
“Right now, I’m really focusing on what Ms. Cox is teaching us about editorial writing and trying to get better for UIL purposes,” Keeter said. “I’m looking forward to interviewing people and excited to be a part of the newspaper staff early.”
The robotics class is working through lessons available on Khan Academy that include videos covering robotics.
“My favorite part is getting on this website called VEXcode, where we can program a robot to do what we want,” eighth grader Brendan Cox said. “I want to continue taking robotics in high school.”
Robotics and computer science teacher Carl Andrews said the class includes multiple aspects of engineering to design, build and deploy robots.
“Grade levels mirror some of the distinct stages of cognitive development, including personal identity development and readiness for independence,” Andrews said. “These stages directly influence how any subject is taught.”
Eighth grader Sasha Speck said she has learned about Python coding and potential errors.
“I like learning about the parts and exploring them when we are in the lab,” Speck said. “I plan on continuing robotics in high school and doing something similar as a career option.”
The agriculture class is working to memorize the FFA Creed and learn about tool safety.
“I have enjoyed learning everything about livestock, welding and other things, and I want to take [agriculture] classes throughout high school,” eighth grader Maci Casillas said.
Andrews said the differences between teaching eighth grade and high school “extend beyond age and grade levels.”
“As teachers, we must meet students where they are developmentally,” Andrews said. “With each grade level, students learn more details. So there is something to learn in every grade that opens an entire world of career opportunities from medicine to agriculture.”