Literature
Reading selections become more challenging this year, from the lengthy Lord of the Rings to Dickens' Christmas Carol. If you choose to read them aloud, most can be enjoyed by family members of all ages.
Writing
Plan to complete the Writing with Skill: Level 2 book by the end of eighth grade. Most of the writing assignments should be done on the computer using a word processing program such as Microsoft Word, Mac Pages or Google Docs.
Math: Starting Algebra 1
If your child is using Art of Problem Solving and has completed the Prealgebra course, now is the time to start Algebra 1. Otherwise, you may delay Algebra 1 by a year or two as needed.
Our curriculum includes two options for introductory Algebra: Honors Algebra 1, which uses the Art of Problem Solving textbook, and Algebra 1, which uses the Jacobs textbook. The Art of Problem Solving textbook is a good fit for students who would like a greater challenge and are especially interested in math, while the Jacobs textbook is a better choice for students who simply wish to learn the material without making math a major focus of their studies.
Extracurriculars & Volunteering
By the end of middle school, your child will likely have picked up one or more extracurricular activities and hobbies. This is also a good time for your child to begin volunteering for a cause that speaks to him or her. Allow plenty of time for these activities as well as the scheduled project time.
Philosophy & Logic
The year ends with a mini-philosophy course in the form of a book that presents the history of Western thought in the format of a mystery novel, and an entertaining comic-based introduction to logical fallacies.