The English language arts curriculum follows the New York State Learning Standards, which includes a rigorous framework for reading, writing, listening, speaking and language. Students read a variety of texts, and through the reading of these texts, learn how to identify and analyze thematic development. The students also conduct research as it relates to the texts they are reading, and continue to enhance their knowledge of how to determine work meanings.
In the eighth grade, students are placed in a grade-level or advanced math class. The grade-level course focuses on linear equations, functions, and geometry, while developing the students’ understanding of the Pythagorean theorem and volume. The advanced course follows Algebra 1 standards, which includes the quadratic/exponential functions, polynomial operations, and data analysis. Advanced students may sit for the New York State Regents exam.
Each course emphasizes conceptual understanding, modeling real-world applications, and alignment to the Next Generation Learning Standards.
The eighth grade curriculum focuses on Earth Science, including geology and meteorology. Students study Earth systems, weather patterns, climate, and our place in the universe, and consider how to minimize human impact through engineering. Students may be eligible to take the New York State Earth Science Regents exam.
The eighth grade social studies curriculum follows the New York State Social Studies framework, which focuses on inquiry-based learning, chronological reasoning, and thematic understanding to prepare students for citizenship. Eighth graders continue their study of American history, beginning with post-Civil War development through the era of industrialization. Key topics include reconstruction, industrialization, the Progressive Movement, World War I, the Great Depression, World War II, the Cold War, and the Civil Rights movement. Students explore the key themes of social change, the expansion of democracy, and global conflict.
Students continue advancing in the NETA curriculum, working toward high levels of fluency and comprehension. They engage with increasingly sophisticated texts and develop the ability to communicate and learn content in Hebrew across disciplines.
Lessons are centered on themes of interest to teenagers, ranging from technology and sports to friendship and freedom. Each theme is presented from three perspectives: Jewish tradition, modern Israeli culture, and general world knowledge (including art, science, mathematics, literature and philosophy). Each unit incorporates art, music, prose, poetry, news articles, and Jewish texts, in layers of language ranging from biblical Hebrew to current scientific Hebrew terminology and common colloquialisms.
Students revisit key Torah narratives with deeper analysis, exploring philosophical questions about identity, morality, and human experience.
In Navi, students continue studying Shmuel and Melachim. Jewish history focuses on the complete chronological history of Israel, from its earliest beginnings through the modern State of Israel, including its culture, economy, and government. Rabbinics emphasizes ethical dilemmas, Talmudic thinking, and writing a Dvar Torah, encouraging independent thought and expression.
The year concludes with the eighth grade Israel trip, an extraordinary two-week journey that brings years of learning to life. Traveling together as a class, students experience Israel firsthand: walking the land they have studied, visiting historic and contemporary sites, and engaging directly with Israeli society.
This is a defining experience for our students. It deepens students’ connection to Israel and creates lasting memories with classmates and teachers. As they reflect on their time at QHA and prepare for what comes next, the trip to Israel is a powerful and meaningful milestone in their growth.