8th Grade Course Offerings

This course continues to build on the French language skills that students developed during the introductory course. The focus will be on developing French speaking/pronunciation and strengthening listening skills. Students will be challenged to speak French during class and focus on sharpening their grammar skills. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Intro French and signature from French teacher.

This course continues to build on the Spanish language skills that students developed during the introductory course. The focus will be developing Spanish speaking/pronunciation and strengthening listening skills. Students will be challenged to speak Spanish during class and focus on sharpening their grammar skills. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Intro Spanish and signature from Spanish teacher.

This course will introduce students to animation creation using the Stop Motion Studio Pro app. Students will deepen their understanding of animation by creating flipbook, stop motion, claymation, and pixilation animation projects. Students will practice their communication and presentation skills by sharing these animation projects in a student showcase.

HMS Art is a combination of graphic and visual art techniques. Students will experience hands-on projects and (visual) art-making through illustration and animation (graphic). This course is designed to help improve students’ basic art skills, such as drawing, painting, sculpting, designing artwork using various media and techniques, developing students’ creativity and self-expression, and recognizing and using art elements and design principles.

This STEM design course is a fundamental middle school course that trains students to define problems and methodically answer the question, “What is the solution?” Upon completion of this course, proficient students understand that engineering design is a process of developing solutions to problems and challenges in order to meet society's needs. For context, students will work with drones to gain valuable experience in piloting small aerial vehicles so that we can challenge them to think about how their UAV can be used to solve real-world problems.

In this course, students will read and analyze non-fiction texts in relation to the entire food process including agriculture, processing, nutrition, and preparation. Students will research and explore the science surrounding food and the impacts of food culture locally and globally. Assignments will include reading, writing, discussion, and potential hands-on culinary activities that focus on practical skills, including kitchen tools, food preparation, and safety. This coursework encourages students to become knowledgeable, responsible citizens and leaders among their peers and community in both future work and school settings.

HMS Leads Course will provide opportunities for willing student leaders to strengthen and expand their leadership skills to positively impact their own lives, school, house, and community. HMS Leads Course will empower students to become public speakers, lead school and community events, serve others, and encourage the development of a positive and effective school climate/culture.

This course is designed to provide a grade-level-appropriate introduction to Spanish language and culture. Students will learn the basics of communicating in Spanish and actively listen and practice language skills by participating in mini-conversations, question-and-answer sessions, role-playing, and other real-life language activities. In addition to learning the language, students will also discover Spanish culture and other Spanish-speaking countries worldwide.

This course is designed as an introduction to the French language and culture. Students will learn the basics of communicating through reading, writing, listening, and speaking in the target language. Students will actively listen and practice language skills in a class by participating in conversations, question-answer, role-play, and other real-life language activities. While learning to use the language, students will also be learning about French culture and other French-speaking countries around the world.

The focus of the 8th-grade Jazz Improv class is to expand on the concepts that were experienced in the 7th-grade band or orchestra. Additionally, students enrolled in this course will explore additional music concepts and learn to cultivate the techniques of playing an instrument. Students in this course will learn jazz melodies, basic improvisation skills, basic transcription/ear training skills, and perform solos both in class and at select small performances throughout the semester. Students enrolled in the Jazz Improv must also be enrolled in either 8th Grade Band or 8th Grade Strings. Prerequisite: 7th Grade Band/Orchestra or teacher permission.

8th Grade Mixed Choir is open to all students who love to sing, no audition required! This group will explore a variety of musical styles while developing vocal skills, harmony, and stage presence. Students will perform at a concert and school events, making this class a great way to stay involved in choir without the year-long commitment. Come sing with us and be part of something special!

Students will be exposed to lifelong fitness activities that will benefit their health and well-being. During this semester course, students will have the opportunity to participate in team sports, recreational activities, cardiovascular endurance training, strength development, and flexibility exercises.

Performance Studio offers 8th-grade band, choir, and orchestra students the opportunity to engage in audition preparations within a supportive and enriching environment. Through large group rehearsals, individual coaching sessions, and inclass performances, students will refine their skills and develop a deeper appreciation for the art of music performance. Join us on this musical journey and let's create beautiful music together! Students will need a signature from their current choir, band, or orchestra teacher to participate.

History and Impact of Sports in America: is a study of the history and impact of sports on American society from the pre-colonial era thru present day. Students will explore how simple games and athletic activities were transformed into spectator sports at the collegiate and professional level resulting in today's modern sports era. Students will also study the ways in which sports reflected and informed issues of race, class, gender, ethnicity and international politics. The course will consist of brief films, readings, lectures and discussions.

Known as Mustang TV: Students will learn how to write and record their music, use video equipment, and produce a TV broadcast. Students will receive instruction in several areas of technical A/V production and be able to choose an area that fits their skills and interests on which to focus. This course will be primarily project-based, with some projects including recording a podcast, writing a commercial jingle, and filming a live video broadcast. Students will get to work in the new HMS TV Studio.

This course will build on social studies standards learned throughout middle school. While studying humans around the world, students compare development, standards of living, systems of government, and economic factors across the globe. In addition, students will evaluate how culture is always evolving and will be able to connect what they already know about the ancient world to the modern wonders of cuisine, travel, arts, and entertainment around the world.

This course is designed to introduce students to the scientific study of animals. Zoology is a branch of biology that explores the diversity of animals along with their Classification, structure, behaviors, and interaction with the environment. Students will Investigate a variety of animals, including deep sea life forms, microscopic creatures, creepy insects, charismatic land animals, and even Tennessee wildlife seen in our own backyard. At the end of this course, students will have a greater appreciation and understanding of local and exotic wildlife. Furthermore, students will have a foundational understanding of key biological concepts such as natural selection, ecology, and animal behavior. Hands-on dissections and a course-related field trip are planned each semester for this class.

The advanced art year-long course is offered to 8th graders interested in applying creative ideas with technical skills in visual and graphic arts. The creative process is encouraged through the students' own ideas and choices at the forefront of the curriculum. In this course, students will get the opportunity to work with more art mediums than in the standard art course. Advanced art will set up students for success in art competitions and the application process for art at the high school level. Students interested in this course must get approval from their current art teacher.

The main focus of the 8th-grade band is to expand on the concepts that were experienced in the 7th-grade band. Additionally, students enrolled in this course will explore additional music concepts and learn to cultivate the techniques of playing an instrument. Students in this course will perform in four concerts a year, Solo & Ensemble, All-West auditions, and Concert Festival. The 8th-grade band is the premier performing ensemble for the Houston Middle Band, and students in this ensemble are invited to our Spring Trip. This course requires a full-year commitment. Prerequisite: 7th Grade Band or current band teacher permission.

Welcome to 8th Grade Advanced Choir—our top ensemble for experienced singers! This auditioned choir builds on advanced vocal techniques, sight-reading, and music theory while preparing for high-level performances and competitions. Students will participate in concerts, festivals, and community events, as well as audition for the All-West Honor Choir. Plus, this group is eligible for the Spring Choir Trip! If you're passionate about singing and ready for a challenge, join us for an unforgettable year of music! Prerequisites: 6th or 7th Grade Choir or permission of instructor. Sign up now and let your talent shine!

Students can choose to play the violin, viola, cello, or double bass. Students will play in an ensemble to create performances within the school and outside venues. Students will have opportunities to compete for spots in regional orchestras. In addition to playing their instruments, students will explore music theory to enable them to read, interpret, and write music. Students will also learn to critique performances and recordings and develop a knowledge of music history that connects them to the rest of the world. This course also teaches skills such as punctuality, responsibility, teamwork, and leadership that extend into the professional world. Prerequisites: Students must have previously taken one year of orchestra class or have permission from the instructor.

Students will be exposed to lifelong fitness activities that will benefit their health and well-being. During this year-long course, students will have the opportunity to participate in team sports, recreational activities, cardiovascular endurance training, strength development, and flexibility exercises.

Students will learn basic skills to create our printed yearbook. This includes the basics of photography, camera usage, and compositional skills. We will also focus on layout and page design. A special emphasis will be staying organized, teamwork, critiquing, editing, and meeting authentic deadlines.