Grade 8 mathematics course prepares students for more advanced study in algebra as students solve linear equations and systems of equations, work with radical and integer exponents, gain conceptual understanding of functions, and use functions to model quantitative relationships. To prepare students for more advanced study in geometry, the course emphasizes the Pythagorean theorem and a deepening exploration of similarity and congruence.

In the Summit Math 6 course, students deepen their understanding of multiplication and division of fractions to apply their knowledge to divide fractions by fractions, with an additional focus on increasing efficiency and fluency. Students gain a foundation in the concepts of ratio and rate as an extension of their work with whole number multiplication and division, and in preparation for work with proportional relationships in Grade 7. Students also make connections among area, volume, and surface area, and continue to lay the groundwork for deep algebraic understanding by interpreting and using expressions and equations.

Throughout this course, students engage in literary analysis and close reading of short stories, poetry, drama, novels, and informational texts. The course focuses on interpretation of literary works, analysis of informational texts, and the development of oral and written communication skills in standard (formal) English. Students read "between the lines" to interpret literature and go beyond the text to discover how the culture in which a work of literature was created contributes to the theme and ideas it conveys. Analysis of the structure and elements of informational texts and media helps students develop the skills needed for academic success and navigating the world. Students continue to acquire knowledge and skills in grammar, usage, mechanics, and vocabulary. Implementing reading strategies, self-monitoring progress and reflecting on successes and challenges help students become metacognitive learners. The course includes discussion activities that engage students in the curriculum while creating a sense of community.

This course equips students with the essential language arts skills needed throughout their academic careers. Students read and analyze a variety of informational and fictional texts. Instruction and reading strategies accompany reading selections to help engage students in the text and sharpen their comprehension. Students express their ideas and knowledge using standard (formal) English, developing communication skills necessary in today

This Earth Science course builds on the natural curiosity of students. By connecting them to the beauty of geological history, the amazing landforms around the globe, the nature of the sea and air, and the newest discoveries about our universe, it gives students an opportunity to relate to their everyday world.

This Life Science course invites students to investigate the world of living things by reading, observing, and experimenting with aspects of life on earth. Students explore an amazing variety of organisms, the complex workings of the cell, the relationship between living things and their environments, and discoveries in the world of modern genetics. Practical, hands-on lesson activities help students discover how scientists investigate the living world.

The Summit Physical Science program introduces students to many aspects of the physical world, focusing first on chemistry and then on physics. The course provides an overview of the physical world and gives students tools and concepts to think clearly about matter, atoms, molecules, chemical reactions, motion, force, momentum, work and machines, energy, waves, electricity, light, and other aspects of chemistry and physics. Among other subjects, students study the structure of atoms; the elements and the Periodic Table; chemical reactions; forces, including gravitational, motion, acceleration, and mass; and energy, including light, thermal, electricity, and magnetism.

Students are introduced to public speaking as an important component of their academic, work, and social lives. They study public speaking occasions and develop skills as fair and critical listeners, or consumers, of spoken information and persuasion. Students study types of speeches (informative, persuasive, dramatic, and special occasion), read and listen to models of speeches, and prepare and present their own speeches to diverse audiences.