ACADEMIC OVERVIEW
EIGHTH GRADE
WELCOME TO EIGHTH GRADE!
Welcome to Eighth Grade at our Day School, a milestone year marking the final stretch of middle school and the threshold of high school. This transformative period nurtures a greater sense of responsibility, independence, and self-confidence in our students. Our Eighth Graders engage in intricate literary analysis and creative writing, further enhancing their critical thinking and communication skills. Mathematics covers advanced topics like Algebra II and introductory concepts of Calculus, encouraging analytical problem-solving. Students delve deeper into earth sciences, human biology, and U.S. history, expanding their perspective on the world around them. The integration of technology and digital literacy in our curriculum prepares them for a fast-paced, digital world. As they navigate this significant year, our Christian values offer a sure foundation, guiding their moral, ethical, and spiritual growth. With our dedicated teachers, Eighth Grade becomes a rewarding journey, readying students for the exciting challenges of high school.
Below, you can find an excerpt of the academics that your child will experience in their Eighth Grade year at TLS.
Mr. Wade Stockman
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Mr. Stockman grew up in Oregon and Minnesota. He received his undergraduate degree from Concordia University in St. Paul, MN, in 1985 with a degree in Secondary Education Math and a coaching license. He received his Masters degree in Educational Leadership from Concordia University in St. Paul, MN, in 2013. He has taught for 36 years in both Lutheran and public schools. He has been Principal at TLS since 2008.I also have my own photography business in Owatonna, called Steel the Moment Photography. My hobbies are gardening, camping, photography, reading a good book.
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But someone will say, “Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.”
James 2:18
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First and foremost reason I enjoy working at Trinity is that I have the opportunity to share my faith with students and families and have the opportunity to watch them grow academically, emotionally, physically and spiritually..
Supply List for 2026-2027 School Year
CONFIRMATION
Seventh and eighth-grade Confirmation Class is a two-year course in basic Bible teaching. The Bible and Luther's Small Catechism are used as textbooks. Pastors teach the classes using a combination of lecture, group discussion, faith formation essays, memorization, and provocative stories to prepare young adults for meaningful membership in the Lutheran Church and for Godly living in the real world.
ENGLISH
English instruction includes grammar, sentence structure, capitalization, punctuation rules, usage, mechanics, and the writing process. Types of writing may include research papers, short stories, and poetry.
LITERATURE
The sixth, seventh, and eighth grades use the Prentice Hall literature series. Students are introduced to several literary genres, including short stories, drama, non-fiction, poetry, oral tradition, and novels. They analyze story development such as character, setting, plot, and theme. Vocabulary acquisition, reading speed, and basic reading skills are improved using the Accelerated Reader program and other materials. Public speaking, presentation, and time management skills are developed through written and oral reports.
U.S. HISTORY & WORLD GEOGRAPHY
Seventh and eighth grades rotate between US History and World Geography. US History covers the period from the mid-1800s to the present, focusing on the thoughts, words, and actions of indigenous peoples and immigrants. The changes in politics, demographics, geography, and economics are explored. Geography focuses on global studies, studying different regions of the world and contemporary world history.
MATH
Students learn to read, write, compare, classify, and represent real numbers, solve problems involving linear and non-linear functions, generate equivalent numerical and algebraic expressions, apply algebraic concepts, practice geometry and measurement skills, and use data analysis and probability to solve real-world problems.
TECHNOLOGY
Students work on keyboarding skills, proper technique, accuracy, and speed. Chromebooks are provided for assignments, research, and projects. Google programs are used for presentations, spreadsheets, and advanced options. Databases and 3-D drawings are introduced.
SCIENCE
Students study basic Physical Science, including the structure of matter, chemical reactions, energy transformations, motion, forces of nature, and the understanding of all types of energy. Laboratory experiences are used to appreciate God's creation.
ART
Students have the opportunity to learn different art techniques in a variety of mediums, including watercolors, acrylics, colored pencils, chalks, and charcoal.
CHOIR/MUSIC
Junior High Choir provides musical enjoyment, vocal technique, and glory to God through singing. They perform at scheduled church services and the Christmas service.
BAND
Students in fifth through eighth grade can join the band. Band class and lessons are provided by our very own Band & Choir Director, Mrs. Hook. Students gain musical understanding through the study of theory and performance, focusing on tone quality, scale memorization, rhythm recognition, and musical interpretation. Two concerts are typically offered each year.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Physical education focuses on developing and refining locomotor skills, object control, strength, endurance, flexibility, and power. Social and personal skills are emphasized, including cooperation, leadership, integrity, respect, fair play, initiative, responsibility, effort, self-discipline, and decision-making. Students have the opportunity to qualify for the Presidential and National fitness awards, promoting lifelong fitness activities and fun.