Welcome to our eighth-grade course, designed to blend core academic subjects with engaging technology skills. Aligned with Common Core standards, this program provides 16 weekly hours of live, online instruction covering Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies, along with an elective focus on computer literacy and Lua coding in Roblox Studio. Classes run Monday through Thursday from 1 PM to 5 PM EST, with built-in homeroom sessions, regular breaks, and an interactive approach that combines group projects, real-world applications, and personalized support.

The Curriculum~

English Language Arts:(ELA)
Aligned with common core standards as a foundation, then layer in personalized and unique lesson plans made specifically to pique our present students interests, aptitudes, and learning needs, both individually and as a group. 

	• (Psychological Thriller Literature, Essays, and Game-Based Grammar): In Language Arts, we’ll delve into psychological thriller novels, ideal for analyzing literary elements like character motivation, plot structure, and themes. Through team projects, students will dissect these components and present their findings interactively, fostering collaboration and critical thinking.

Students will have options for a major writing project, some of the examples they could possibly be choosing between:

	•	Informative Essays: Research and presentation on a relevant, chosen topic.
	•	Argumentative Essays: Developing and defending a perspective on a theme from our novel.
	•	Narrative Essays: Crafting an original thriller-inspired short story.

Grammar, mechanics, vocabulary, and sentence structure will be explored through weekly, game-show-style sessions and hands-on editing exercises. Interactive games will help reinforce concepts while keeping students actively engaged in their learning.

Mathematics (Common Core Aligned Eighth-Grade Curriculum):
Our math program covers all major eighth-grade concepts, including algebra, geometry, and data analysis, all aligned with Common Core standards. Concepts are taught through a blend of introducing new concepts and solving practice problems In a group setting while ensuring that every student be a part of the interactive problem-solving process, peer collaboration in breakout rooms, students become the teacher and help their peers understand newly learned concepts. Students will develop both procedural fluency and problem-solving skills through hands-on projects and team exercises, ensuring they can apply math in real-world contexts.
.Following 8th-grade Common Core standards, we will explore:

	•	Algebra: Linear equations, graphing, systems of equations, and inequalities.
	•	Functions: Understanding and applying functional relationships.
	•	Geometry: Congruence, similarity, and the Pythagorean Theorem.
	•	Real-Life Applications: Practical scenarios, word problems, and critical thinking.

Science with STEM Projects:
Our science course combines 8th-grade physical sciences with STEM applications and projects.

	•	Key Concepts: Force, motion, energy, and engineering principles.
	•	Labs & Projects: Interactive online labs, design challenges, and collaborative projects.
	•	Skills Development: Observation, hypothesis testing, data analysis, and presentation.

This science curriculum integrates interactive STEM components and project-based learning to explore key scientific topics like physical and life sciences, Earth systems, and basic physics concepts. Labs and hands-on projects make learning tangible, while engineering challenges encourage students to design solutions to real-world problems. Breakout rooms and group projects will help foster teamwork and allow students to explore scientific ideas collaboratively.

Social Studies:
This course covers U.S. history, civics, and government, all aligned with Common Core standards.

	•	U.S. History: From the Industrial Revolution through modern times.
	•	Government: Exploration of civics concepts using iCivics.
	•	Mock Trials: Students will role-play in a structured mock trial, learning public speaking, argumentation, and critical thinking.

Our social studies curriculum aligns with eighth-grade standards, exploring American history, civics, government, and geography. We’ll use mock trials, debates, and team projects to develop students’ understanding of historical events, civic responsibilities, and global awareness. Activities like group research projects and peer discussions encourage critical thinking and allow for diverse viewpoints.

Electives - Computer Literacy & Roblox Studio (Lua Coding):

	•	Computer Literacy: Students start by building core skills in PC/Mac navigation, software troubleshooting, and understanding system settings.
	•	Roblox Studio & Lua Coding: After developing foundational computer skills, we’ll dive into Roblox Studio. Students will learn Lua coding, creating multi-level games and working through design and coding principles in an easy-to-understand format.
The year begins with essential tech skills for both PCs and Macs, helping students learn to navigate, troubleshoot, and optimize their devices for academic success. Once students are confident with these tools, we’ll dive into Roblox Studio, where they’ll learn Lua coding to create multi-level games. Through project-based learning, students will work individually and in teams to design, build, and test games, combining creativity with coding skills. By the end of the year, students will have completed their own playable Roblox game.

The Class Structure/Schedule~

Each week will consist of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, with each school day lasting 4-hours. In total, making a 16 hour school week. This structure allows us to cover all subjects in depth, with a balanced focus on each core area and elective.

Daily Homeroom (1:00 - 1:15 PM):
Every day begins with a 15-minute homeroom to set expectations, review assignments due, and answer any questions. This time is also used to check homework completion and help students feel ready for the day ahead.

Weekly Schedule

	1.	Language Arts & Math (Monday and Wednesday, 1:15 - 3:45 PM): 1 hour 10 mins each for both ELA and math with a ten minute break in between classes. 

Submit schoolwork and homework review/Break (3:45 - 4:00PM): A brief, energizing break to help students reset before their elective time.

	2.	Science with STEM & Social Studies (Tuesday and Thursday, 1:15 - 3:45 PM): 1 hour 10 mins each for both science  and social studies with a ten minute break in between classes. 

Break (3:45 - 4:00 PM): A quick pause to refresh and transition into elective time.

	3.	Electives (Monday through Thursday, 4:00 - 5:00 PM)


Teaching Style:

My teaching style combines the creation of personalized, structured lessons with interactive activities that I create custom for the students in class, utilizing games, peer tutoring, student teaching, group projects, and discussions to reinforce concepts. I aim to create an inclusive and supportive environment where each learner can excel, feel valued, and build on their unique strengths. 

Interaction with Learners:

This course is highly interactive, encouraging participation, questions, and group collaboration. Learners will:

	•	Attend fun, engaging classes, participate in respectful class discussions, complete guided activities, and participate in unique and meaningful role-play or scenarios that allow the learner to apply learning strategies to real life situations.
	•	Work in breakout rooms for small group projects, or pairs.
	•	Lead and participate in peer tutoring sessions, fostering leadership and teamwork skills. 

Mathematics:

	•	Linear equations and inequalities
	•	Systems of equations
	•	Functions and their representations
	•	Geometric transformations and the Pythagorean Theorem
	•	Data analysis, probability, and statistics

English Language Arts (ELA):

	•	Literary analysis of novels, short stories, poetry, and drama
	•	Expository, narrative, persuasive, and research writing
	•	Advanced grammar and mechanics
	•	Vocabulary building and usage
	•	Reading comprehension strategies

Science:

	•	Earth’s structure, weather, and climate
	•	Basic biological concepts, cellular biology, and genetics
	•	Introduction to chemical reactions and the periodic table
	•	Fundamental principles of physics including forces, motion, and energy

Social Studies:

	•	Key events and figures in American history from all major wars in our American historical culture to modern times
	•	Geographic literacy and map skills
	•	Understanding of civic duties, government structures, and the Constitution (Yes, we will be having a mock trial)
	•	Basic economic principles and personal finance


Computer Class - Foundations and Fundamentals
Quarter 1
       	•      Introduction to Computer Navigation & Basics
	•	Understanding basic computer hardware and software components.
	•	Identifying and using file explorer (locating, moving, deleting, and organizing files).
	•	Introduction to typing practice and improving typing speed.
	•	Learning the basic functions of essential programs (e.g., web browsers, word processors).
	•	Understanding system preferences and settings (brightness, volume, display settings).
     •	Exploring shortcuts and efficiency tips for navigating programs.
	•	How to identify common computer problems (slow performance, freezing, etc.).
	•	Introduction to basic troubleshooting techniques (restart, close background programs, update software).
	•	How to manage and check storage, RAM usage, and CPU health.

	•	Understanding the importance of regular updates (OS and software).
	•	Running antivirus/anti-malware scans and understanding computer security.
	•	Learning to monitor computer health through system tools (Task Manager/Activity Monitor).
	•	How to clear cache, cookies, and temporary files.
	•	Backing up important files and data (cloud storage vs. external hard drives).
	•	Understanding the impact of overheating and how to prevent it.

	•	Final project: Create a step-by-step guide to maintaining computer health for peers.

Lua Coding in Roblox Studio - Creating a Multi-Level RPG Game

Quarter 2: Introduction to Roblox Studio & Lua Basics
	•	Overview of Roblox Studio interface and basic navigation.
	•	Understanding Lua syntax and basic programming structures (variables, loops, conditionals).
	•	Learning to manipulate 3D objects in Roblox Studio.
	•	Creating simple scripts for player movement and interactions.
	•	Developing the first level environment for the RPG game.
	•	Writing scripts to control game events (timers, checkpoints).
	•	Introducing game physics and object interaction.
	•	Learning about data structures (tables) and storing player information (inventory, stats).
	•	Creating non-player characters (NPCs) with basic AI behavior.
	•	Designing and scripting combat mechanics for the RPG game.
	•	Adding multiple levels and managing transitions between levels.

Quarter 3: Advanced Game Development & Level Design
	•	Implementing player progression systems (leveling up, skills).
	•	Scripting advanced AI for enemies (pathfinding, attacks).
	•	Understanding and applying modular scripting techniques for cleaner code.
	•	Developing interactive elements (doors, switches, puzzles).
	•	Creating detailed maps and environments for higher levels.
	•	Testing and debugging multiple levels of the game.

Quarter 4: Polishing, Optimization, and Publishing
	•	Optimizing game performance (reducing lag, efficient scripts).
	•	Learning to use Roblox Studio’s publishing tools.
	•	Adding sound effects, background music, and visual effects.
	•	Finalizing and polishing game mechanics, storylines, and player experience.
	•	Beta testing with peers and receiving feedback.
	•	Publishing the final multi-level RPG game on Roblox for public play.

These objectives will help students build both essential computer skills and experience in game development using Lua.

The curriculum is divided into four quarters, with the first quarter focusing on building up the learners computer skills and the last 3 quarters will be focused on learning Roblox Studio and coding.

What resources will be used to teach from?

Language Arts (Literary Analysis, Grammar, Writing, and Vocabulary)
1. **CommonLit** - Provides free, standards-aligned literature and non-fiction texts, with a focus on literary analysis and comprehension questions.
2. **NoRedInk** - Offers interactive grammar, writing, and vocabulary exercises that adapt to each student’s level.
3. **Project Gutenberg** - Access to free classic literature, including some psychological thrillers, for analyzing various literary components.
4. **Grammarly for Education** - Aids in editing and grammar instruction, with real-time feedback on punctuation and sentence structure.
5. **Vocabulary.com** - Builds vocabulary skills through quizzes and context-based exercises.

Math (Common Core-Aligned)
1. **Khan Academy** - Comprehensive and Common Core-aligned, with practice exercises and instructional videos.
2. **Desmos** - Offers a graphing calculator and interactive math activities.
3. **IXL Math** - Provides skill-building exercises aligned with Common Core standards across a wide range of math topics.
4. **Prodigy** - A math-based role-playing game that adapts to each student’s skill level while engaging them in Common Core math content.

 Science with STEM and Hands-On Projects
1. **Legends of Learning** - Offers interactive science games and simulations based on NGSS and STEM concepts.
2. **PhET Interactive Simulations** - Developed by the University of Colorado, these simulations cover a variety of STEM topics and allow students to explore concepts hands-on.
3. **Mystery Science** - Provides NGSS-aligned science lessons with videos, interactive activities, and hands-on project ideas.
4. **NASA for Educators** - Resources on space and earth sciences, including lesson plans and interactive tools.
5. **CK-12 Foundation** - Offers free online STEM courses with interactive simulations and hands-on project ideas.

Social Studies (Civics and U.S. History)
1. **iCivics** - Provides engaging civics lessons, interactive simulations, and games to support learning about government and history.
2. **The National Archives Education** - Offers primary source documents and educational materials for historical analysis.
3. **PBS LearningMedia** - Provides U.S. history and social studies resources, including videos and interactive content.
4. **Library of Congress for Teachers** - Provides access to historical documents, lesson plans, and resources on American history.
5. **Newsela Social Studies** - Features leveled texts on current and historical events to support critical thinking and comprehension.

Computer Literacy and Technology
1. **TechBoomers** - Offers tutorials on internet safety, operating systems, and computer basics.
2. **GCF Global** - Covers fundamentals of computer literacy, troubleshooting, and essential software skills.
3. **Code.org** - Introduces basic coding concepts with visual programming for beginners.
4. **Roblox Education** - Resources and tutorials for learning Roblox Studio and Lua programming for game development.

 Electives: Roblox Studio and Coding
1. **Roblox Studio** - Primary tool for learning Lua coding and game design; includes a creator’s hub with tutorials and project guides.
2. **Microsoft MakeCode** - A beginner-friendly coding platform for students to experiment with Lua and other coding languages.
3. **CodeHS** - Comprehensive curriculum in various programming languages, including Lua, for game development.
4. **GameMaker Studio Tutorials** - For students interested in game design principles alongside Lua coding in Roblox Studio.

General Educational Tools
1. **Nearpod** - An interactive tool for presentations, quizzes, and discussions that can support any subject area.
2. **Quizizz, Kahoot, and Gimkit** - Gamified quizzes and review tools to reinforce knowledge across all subjects.
3. **Flip (formerly Flipgrid)** - Allows students to create video responses for reflection, collaborative learning, and presentations.


What’s your teaching style?

Our teaching style is inclusive, adaptive, and supportive:

	•	Interactive: Students are encouraged to participate actively in discussions and activities.
	•	Adaptive: Lessons are tailored to meet the needs of all learners, including those with unique learning styles.
	•	Supportive: Continuous feedback and personalized support ensure each student’s success.

Join us for a year of discovery, creativity, and academic growth! Enroll today to secure your spot in this enriching educational journey.