Courses by Grade Level

PSG - Grade 8 Courses

GRADE 8 
 
All courses run September to June. The Grade 8 core program consists of 6 core blocks, 3 elective blocks and advisory. 
 
Students in Grade 8 should explore new areas of interest, but they are cautioned not to give up study in curricular areas that require continuity (e.g. third languages, music) unless they are certain that they will not return to them.  For Applied Design Skills and Technology courses and Arts Education courses other than music, there are no prerequisites up to the Grade 10 level, so students can sample various programs over several years. 
 

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Grade 8 has enriched or accelerated language programs.  Honours French provides a broader curriculum for students than regular French.  Mandarin Chinese 8 Accelerated course provides a faster and differentiated path for students with exposure to the language outside of school, at home and/or in a Mandarin Chinese institution. These courses are suitable for capable students eager to learn in these subject areas. 
 
Grade 8 also has a foundations support course option in French for students who would otherwise have great difficulty with course content.  This course covers the same curriculum as the regular classes in the same timeframe but smaller class sizes allow for greater one-on-one attention and more review and repetition during instruction.
 
Elective course offerings will be based on sufficient enrollment. 
 
Students are required to enroll in one course from each of columns A and B. The third elective can be from any of the 3 columns. 

 

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  • Grade 8 Elective Categories

    Grade 8 Elective Categories
    A
    Arts Education
    B
    Applied Design Skills and Technology
    C
    Other Electives
    Choral Music 8
    Critical Thinking and Communication 8
    Guided Study Block
    Concert Band 8
    Digital Arts 8
    Mandarin Chinese 8
    Materials Design 8
    Mandarin 8 Honours
    Chamber Music (Strings)
    Programming & Robotics 8
    Spanish 8
    Visual Arts 8
    STEM 8
     
    Drama Performance and Stagecraft  8*
    Supervised Support Block
    * Single course satisfying both A and B requirements
      
GRADE 8 CORE PROGRAM

Students take English, Math, Science, Social Studies, French and Physical/Health Education. 

Download Course List
 

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  • English 8

    Students in English 8 will read a variety of literary genres and study the basic elements of setting, imagery, theme, symbol, and character development. While studying a selection of contemporary and classic texts from around the world, they will also read Shakespeare, focusing on either one of his plays or a selection of his sonnets.Literature and principles from First Nations will be interwoven with current units and included in the summer reading lists. Students will write in many forms using the writing process but teachers will particularly emphasize writing unified and coherent expository paragraphs using the Jane Schaffer formula. Students will learn to revise and edit their work, focusing on content and elements of style, independently and in collaboration with others. Additionally, they will be expected to proof-read and correct their final drafts, paying specific attention to grammar, vocabulary, punctuation, spelling, and conventions of style, as well as drawing on the best of such online resources. This course leads to English 9.

  • French 8

    Prerequisite: French 7

    Students use French to communicate about everyday topics. They are expected to develop and apply language-learning strategies, express ideas in simple, related sentences orally and in writing. Through various activities, students expand vocabulary and grammar, and explore Francophone cultures. Instruction is mostly in French. Placement into French 8 / Foundations / Honours  is by departmental approval. This course leads to French 9.

  • French 8 Honours

    Prerequisite: Extending in most French 7 skills + teacher approval

    Instruction is almost exclusively in French. Students communicate about everyday topics using expanded strategies and materials, aligned with  DELF A2 level. The Honours  curriculum supports students aiming for AP French in Grade 12. This course leads to French 9 Honours .

  • French 8 Foundations Support

    Designed for students new to WPGA or with limited/no prior French. Covers French 8 curriculum in smaller classes, with more review and personalized instruction. Focus is on communication and confidence. Placement is by departmental approval. Leads to French 9.

  • Mathematics 8

    Prerequisite: Mathematics 7

    This course explores several key mathematical concepts, including representing numbers using rates, ratios, and percentages, building computational fluency with fractions, comparing the surface area and volume of 3D objects, representing linear relationships with equations, and analyzing large data sets. Students will demonstrate their understanding through numerical, graphical, analytical, and verbal methods across all areas of the curriculum.

    Note: Students with an overall grade below Developing at the final reporting period will be required to complete a remedial summer program and additional study to successfully transition into Mathematics 9.

  • Mathematics 8/9 Honours

    Prerequisite: See admission criteria below

    This acceleration course is designed for students to complete two years of math in one. This course covers the curriculum material for Mathematics 8 & 9 and focuses on developing problem solving through math competitions and enrichment activities, both individually and in groups. It is a rigorous, fast-paced course where students extend their prior experiences in math and, thus, must have a very strong foundation in number operations. A final assessment will be given in June. Upon completion of this course, students will enrol in Foundations and Pre-Calculus 10 unless achievement is below Low Proficient in each learning standard, then students will be required to complete a summer Math 9 remedial program.

    Admission criteria for the Math 8/9 Honours course in 2026/2027 will be based on the following:
      1. Completion of the Intent Form (posted on Google Classroom)
      2. Accepted invitation to the Math 8/9 Honours Google Classroom
      3. Evaluation of an in-person critical thinking task
      4. Evaluation of an in-person written test
      5. Participation in the Gauss math competition in May
      6. Final recommendation determined collectively by evaluators and current Math 7 teacher
      7. Reference letters are required ONLY for candidates not attending WPGA in Grade 7.

  • Physical and Health Education 8

    Physical education focuses on the development of physical literacy, personal awareness and responsibility, and health literacy. Students can expect to participate in a variety of individual and team activities with a focus on both traditional and non-traditional games. Some of these activities may take place off campus. Students will receive health education classes that focus on the development of knowledge, skills, attitudes, and beliefs related to health literacy and encompasses a number of important health and safety topics, including nutrition, prevention of illness and injury, decision-making skills, healthy relationship skills, mental well-being, sexual health and substance use.

    Note: Students wishing to compete on the WPGA swim team in the fall term, will indicate this by choosing the “Swim Team” version of PHE 8.

  • Science 8

    This course has been designed with competency-based assessment to enhance students’ cognitive abilities and scientific skills based on Ministry of Education standards. These skills will be evaluated throughout a journey including introductions to cell biology, fundamental theories of matter (chemistry), the nature and behaviour of light (physics), and plate tectonics (Earth science). Assessment will be informed by evidence gathered from a variety of different learning tasks  including presentations, labs, and written assessments, in individual and group contexts. Formal reporting of summative assessments is communicated on the following three learning standards: designing and conducting research, analytical thinking, and communicating meaning..

  • Social Studies 8

    Social Studies 8 is a concept-based, competency-driven course that refers to the time period between 600 CE to 1750 CE. The course is based on the following “big ideas”:
    • Contacts and conflicts between peoples stimulated significant cultural, social, political change.

    • Human and environmental factors shape changes in population and living standards.

    • Exploration, expansion, and colonization had varying consequences for different groups.

    Changing ideas about the world created tension between people wanting to adopt new ideas and those wanting to preserve established traditions. Because Social Studies 8 is the first course to expose students in the Senior School to Global Studies, we also address global competencies. The course links historical events to modern issues to show connections between past and present. Core competencies of communication, thinking, and social development are built through research, debate, and current event discussions.
GRADE 8 ELECTIVE OPTIONS

Students must enroll in courses covering both A and B categories 
 

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  • Choral Music 8 (A)

    (Category A – Arts Education)

    Choral Music is offered to students who want to develop their vocal skills in a performance program. Emphasis is on the development of proper vocal techniques, rhythmic and melodic music reading skills, and ensemble singing. The choir performs in school assemblies, the Winter and Spring Concerts and in local music festivals. Attendance at performances and dress rehearsals is a requirement. Music performed covers a wide range of historical periods and musical styles. Please note that this course is scheduled during X-Block (off-timetable) and will include one fixed morning rehearsal (7:00 - 8:20) and one fixed afternoon rehearsal (3:45 - 5:15) every week. Extra rehearsals may be scheduled on a necessary basis. Students scheduled in X-Block must commit to regular attendance and plantheir schedules to manage any conflicts.

  • Concert Band 8 (A)

    (Category A – Arts Education)

    Prerequisite: Band 7 or instructor approval.

    The purpose of this course is to develop students’ musical skills and abilities in a performance concert band environment. Students are required to maintain regular practice and care of a band instrument and work toward a grade-specific standard of technical competency. Repertoire will be appropriate to the grade level. Topics in musicianship include all aspects of music notation, basic theory skills, composition, transposition, expressive musical elements, tuning, balance and the instrumentation structure of the concert band. Students develop teamwork and community skills through commitment to their role in the ensemble and performing in public. Opportunities for meaningful aesthetic experiences are provided through exposure to a variety of musical styles and textures. The course is comprehensive in nature such that elements of world music, music history and the music industry are incorporated into the daily class structure. This course leads to Concert Band 9. Please note – full participation in the band program requires commitment to rehearsals on a regular basis, normally twice weekly.

  • Chamber Music 8 (A)

    (Category A – Arts Education)

    Prerequisite: Grade 7 strings or an equivalent level. Students unsure of their eligibility should consult Ms. Goddard.

    Chamber music study involves the exploration, practice, and performance of classical music composed for small ensembles, typically featuring 2–8 students per group, with each musician playing an individual part. Often referred to as "the music of friends," chamber music originated in intimate settings such as private homes or small halls.

    Key Aspects of Chamber Music Study are:
    • Collaboration and Communication: Chamber music requires musicians to work closely together, developing effective communication skills and a shared interpretative vision.

    • Diverse Repertoire: Students will explore works from various periods and styles, including string duets, trios, quartets, and piano trios. Pre-formed groups are welcome.

    • Interpretative Freedom: Compared to orchestral music, chamber music offers performers greater interpretative freedom, fostering creativity in musical phrasing, dynamics, and expression.

    • Emphasis on Teamwork: The study of chamber music highlights listening, compromise, and teamwork, creating a unique blend of musical and social growth.

    Chamber music is an integral component of music education for aspiring professional musicians and is cherished by amateur musicians who enjoy its intimate, interactive nature.

    Performance Opportunities: Students will have opportunities to participate in master classes and perform at school events and at music festivals. For details regarding co-curricular ensembles, refer to Wolfgang Chamber Orchestra or WPGA Symphony Orchestra .

  • Critical Thinking & Communication 8 (B)

    (Category B – Applied Design Skills and Technology)

    This course focuses on the development of critical thinking skills, analytical writing and the fine art of persuasion in both the spoken and written word. By incorporating readings in political theory, philosophy and historical events, students will be able to construct logical and well-developed arguments. Students interested in debate and Model United Nations are encouraged to enroll in this course.

  • Digital Arts 8 (B)

    (Category B – Applied Design Skills and Technology)

    Digital Arts is an important and growing field in the 21st century. The course introduces students to the principles of computer science by addressing the design considerations related to the user experience, as well as media literacy. Students will explore the Adobe Creative Cloud suite of products, including Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere, etc. Consequently, a requirement for this course is a laptop computer capable of running a current Microsoft Windows or Apple macOS environment (a requirement for Adobe Creative Cloud installation).

  • Drama Performance and Stagecraft 8 (A,B)

    Where imagination meets innovation. This dynamic course blends the best of performance and technical theatre. Students build confidence through scene work, movement, and character creation while also learning the backstage magic of stagecraft—lights, sound, props, sets, and production fundamentals. Whether students love being in the spotlight or designing it, this course introduces them to the full theatre ecosystem and fosters creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. A perfect foundation for future pathways in performance, design, media arts, event production, and beyond.

  • Guided Study Block (C)

    (Category C – Other Electives)

    This block is a non-graded, supervised period intended for students to work independently on material from other enrolled courses. Students in this program must have a history of being able to work productively and independently.  Students are permitted only one Study Block each year in grades 8-10. 

  • Mandarin Chinese 8 (C)

    (Category C – Other Electives)

    Prerequisite: Mandarin 7 or instructor approval.

    The Mandarin Chinese 8 course will emphasize learning Hanyu Pinyin, the Mandarin phonetic system, and some simplified and traditional Chinese characters. Students will learn how to recognize and use the four different tones and to aurally distinguish between the different Mandarin consonants and vowels. In addition, students will learn simple greetings and conversations, vocabulary related to various themes and Chinese cultural aspects and traditions. A communicative-experiential approach will be used so that students can learn the language in a meaningful way and possibly use it in authentic environments. This course leads to Mandarin Chinese 9.

  • Mandarin Chinese 8 Honours (C)

    (Category C – Other Electives)

    Prerequisite: Mandarin 7 or instructor approval.

    The Mandarin Chinese 8 Honours  course is designed for students with a Mandarin background, speaking the language at home and/or in an institution. This course will reinforce all four communication skills, with a specific emphasis on reading and writing. Students will learn how to interact in familiar and unfamiliar situations, using various registers of the language. Students will also acquire vocabulary related to various themes and Chinese cultural aspects and traditions. As this is an honours  course, students will be exposed to a greater variety of materials and activities than the standard Mandarin 8 Course. A communicative-experiential approach will be used so that students can learn the language in a meaningful way and use it in authentic environments. This course leads to Mandarin Chinese 9  Honours .

  • Materials Design 8 (B)

    (Category B – Applied Design Skills and Technology)

    No Prerequisite.

    This hands-on course uses planning and the design process to introduce a variety of tool skills in the shop. Its main units include the design and creation of mousetrap-powered racers, hand-made jewellery, small woodworking projects and solid-fueled rockets, as well as turning items on the wood lathe. Tools and skills learned include woodworking tools (lathe, saws, drills, sanders, finishing tools), basic paint-finishing techniques, and introductory metalwork with hand tools. Students can also learn additional tools and skills while exploring independent projects. Students choosing this course must choose an alternate as enrollment is restricted due to workshop capacity limitations.

  • Programming and Robotics 8 (B)

    (Category B – Applied Design Skills and Technology)

    This course provides the background for students to learn computational skills and related technologies in order to succeed in today’s interconnected world.. Students will explore how computers may be used to solve problems and convey information in a highly technological society. This course introduces key programming concepts through an introduction to Python.  Students will also be introduced to robotics and Linux.  A requirement for this course is a laptop computer capable of running a current Microsoft Windows or Apple macOS environment.

  • Spanish 8 (C)

    (Category C – Other Electives)

    Students use Spanish as a tool for communicating about everyday topics, such as themselves, school, hobbies, vacations, and shopping. They apply a range of language-learning strategies to assist in comprehension and expression. They are expected to use simple, related sentences to express ideas orally and in written form. Through listening, speaking, interacting, reading and writing activities, students will expand their usage of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Students will be encouraged to present the language within the context of the contemporary Spanish-speaking world and its culture. All students will be actively involved by completing hands-on activities, participating in group work, assuming roles, utilizing technology and obtaining information from a variety of sources.

  • STEM 8 (B)

    (Category B – Applied Design Skills and Technology)

    STEM 8 (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is an innovative program focused on problem solving and creativity in relation to the design cycle. The importance of mathematics in science and engineering is highlighted throughout the course. Various tools and advanced technology are embedded into hands-on academic challenges including woodworking, drafting, laser cutting, leatherworking and learning design software. Design challenges in STEM 8 include model planes, designing bridges, 3D printing, wallet design, and Rocket cars. Design and research, communicating meaning and analytical thinking are emphasized and summatively assessed in this unique, experiential approach to learning. 

  • Supervised Support Block (C)

    These blocks are primarily for students who benefit from additional support with learning and executive functioning skills. Priority is given to students with Individual Education Plans or Student Support Plans developed in response to diagnosed learning differences​.

  • Visual Arts 8 (A)

    This program is designed to allow students to develop and enhance their inherent abilities. The course is divided into three main theme units: drawing, painting and 3-dimensional art. Drawing assignments will use various mediums such as graphite, pencil crayons, conté and oil pastels. Painting assignments will use watercolour paints, acrylic paints and ink. The 3-D assignment will use either clay or model making supplies. Art history, demonstrations on artistic techniques and group discussion will be used to introduce new projects to build the student’s vocabulary, understanding of past examples and overall skill level​.
Since 1996, West Point Grey Academy has gratefully resided on the Jericho Lands, the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam Indian Band), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nation and sə̓lílwətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nation. Honoured to learn and play on these beautiful lands, we endeavour to be a leader in Indigenous education. In creating shared understanding and opportunities, we hope to help foster a more equitable society for all.

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West Point Grey Academy

4125 West 8th Avenue
Vancouver, B.C., V6R 4P9
Tel: 604-222-8750