During the course of the year students will be introduced to different aspects of writing, grammar, and public speaking. We will review and study grammar usage and mechanics from seventh grade and learn the remaining aspects of grammar through sentence diagramming. We will use the application of grammar throughout the writing process with the completion of various pieces of creative writing. Effective listening and speaking skills will also be assessed through various forms of public speaking. A critical analysis and personal critique assignment will be done through the videotaping of select public speeches throughout the year. Aspects of vocabulary which consist of definitions, sentence completion, synonyms and antonyms, word selection, parts of speech, and vocabulary in context will also be studied. Students will explore these topics in-depth through classroom instruction, activities, homework, short essays, speeches, projects, and cooperative learning. Eighth grade students will work on and compose a Diocesan Narrative essay which will be done completely in class as well as several other creative essays and pieces that involve the research process.