Seventh & Eighth Grades
RELIGION at Butler Catholic School is composed of a triad of independent study, community service / liturgy, and technology. Faith related issues are incorporated in independent study as are the teaching of the Catholic Church in doctrine and morals. The upper level "My Faith Journey" catechetical program uses the Bible and the students create their own text throughout the year in portfolio style, as well. Students attend weekly Mass as a class and participate in many service projects throughout the year. Students are required to perform 40 hours of community service per year.
LITERATURE / ENGLISH
in 7th and 8th grade is a literature based program of novels. Within the Literature class, students are also introduced to
other literary genres such as poetry, mythology and short
story. Within both the Literature and English classes, students
work from a standardized independent study vocabulary program.
Fiction writing, critical writing, research, critical analysis,
debate, public speaking, and dramatics are all part of the
Literature class, whereas, grammar, punctuation and mechanics
are stressed in the English class. Participation in the Diocesan
English Festival presents additional challenging novels for
discussion.
SOCIAL STUDIES
in 7th grade focuses on American History from the early
Americans through the Civil War, as well as Geography and
Civics. In 8th grade, students study the period of
Reconstruction to the present day. Both grade levels are
introduced to and work with the following methods: Lecture /
note taking, outlining, role play, presentation, political
cartoons and group activities. Skits, songs, artwork, videos,
games and computer driven activities round out the Social
Studies Program.
MATH and PRE-ALGEBRA
includes advanced placement in algebra and sixty minute
daily math instruction time. First in Math and Jumping Levels
are math programs which emphasize a variety of Math concepts
through an internet game and an individualized math program.
Students use the chalk board and white erase boards in class to
explain their work and enable the teacher to see their work.
Challenging math problems / situations, graphing techniques and
linear systems help students to create a Math picture for
enrichment.
SCIENCE in the 7th grade is Life
Sciences. Students study living organisms with
microscopes and through lab experiments. They dissect preserved
animals, both vertebrates and invertebrates. Basic lab
techniques are introduced. The students examine the Linneaus
method of classification of organisms and those currently used.
In 8th grade, the focus is Physical Science. Examination of
Newton's Laws of Motion as applied to daily experiences,
building compound machines, hands on examination of light and
its properties, studies of the atom and the basic structure of
organic molecules are all investigated, researched and studied.
Problem solving skills are developed within the course of study.
In the upper levels, the students have many activities to
capture their attention. They can join the Liturgical Choir, be
a part of the School Musical, or work on the Yearbook Committee.
Competition opportunities appear through the Stock Market Game,
the PA Junior Academy of Science (PJAS), First in Math,
Challenge 24, and Forensics.
The eighth grade is a very special year and celebrates with many exciting events. These student leaders travel to the Fatima Shrine in New York for a religious celebration and then visit Niagara Falls. They participate in the Physics Day at Kennywood Park and create the Eighth Grade Legacy Mural. The Eighth Grade Graduate Studies (E.G.G.S.) program is a career shadowing and visual presentation experience. An awards Ceremony is a culminating activity as well as the annual graduation Mass and celebration.
