8th Grade Humanities 8.2

In Humanities we focus on both English and History.  This year, we will be studying four civilizations: the Byzantine Empire,  Iron Age Celts, Classical India, and the rise and spread of the Islamic world.  As we learn about these cultures, we'll also be learning how historians think, what questions they ask, and how they make connections between the past and the present. 

In Humanities we also build skills in reading, formal and creative writing, and critical thinking.  For this class we will read a novel during almost every unit, as well as several shorter readings.  Students will practice formal essay writing, creative writing, and note taking.  In the 8th grade it is particularly important that students get a solid grounding in grammar, mechanics, and other bedrock writing skills, and we will learn and practice these all year long.