8th Grade

• Talk to your friends and family about the subjects you like best in school and explore careers in that field.
• Study hard, especially for the classes that are most difficult for you.
• Keep reading as much as possible -fiction, non-fiction and even magazines!  Share ideas about what you're reading with your friends.
• Get involved with student leadership programs or other clubs and activities that help build on your natural abilities.
• Ask teachers, coaches or your principal if there are leadership activities that you can participate in as part of a class, team or elsewhere at school.
• Continue to read at least 30 minutes a day in addition to what you read as part of your homework.
• Develop a plan for classes you will need to take over the next four years.  Take the most challenging courses in English, math, science and social studies that you can handle.
• Take pre-algebra or algebra.
• Take classes in art, computers and a world language if you can.
• Focus on learning as much as you can, getting good grades and mastering key concepts.
• Ask questions and participate in class.
• Continue to improve your study habits
• Get involved in school and community activities.
• Take an interest inventory.
• Start thinking about goals for high school.
• If you are able to choose your high school, start visiting local schools to compare your options.
• Do you want a school that focuses on math and science, arts and humanities, or one that offers programs for advanced or gifted students?
• Explore jobs and careers.
• Keep talking to others about your dreams and plans.
• Go on college visits.
• Develop good social skills.
• Plan and prepare for your future.