English 8: Classic Literature   

• Objective: Students taking this course read a variety of literature that will expose them to the different styles and ideas that are found in writing. Topics will include classical literature and mythology, Shakespeare, and contemporary classics. In addition, students will also focus on critical writing, building vocabulary and refining grammar skills. Students will increase their critical writing skills through personal essays and creative writing.
• Relationship to other courses: English 8 is considered the capstone of Middle School study. It is the bridge between Middle School studies and the more intensive literature courses of Upper School.
• Required reading: Literature includes: by Harper Lee, by John Steinbeck, by Ursula K. Le Guin, and by William Shakespeare, by Jerome Lawrence, by Edmond Rostand, selected short stories, poetry and Greek Mythology.

History 8: U.S. History   

• Objective: This class discusses historic events from the Age of Exploration to the 20th century. However, much of the class will focus on the events from (1492 - 1887), Discovery of the New World to Reconstruction and the Western movement. Students are required to complete reading and written assignments, term papers and projects that will enhance their skills for historical comprehension and analysis, and build research techniques.
• Relationship to other courses: This course serves as a foundation for more advanced courses in History and the AP U.S. History offered in upper school.
• Required text and reading: by Daniel J. Boorstin, is the text. Students will also have supplemental reading of original texts and historical records.

Math: Algebra , Algebra 1, Geometry   

• Algebra: This course begins with a basic review of math skills and leads students through the early stages of fractions and equations. Students also learn ratios, percentages and probability and some basic geometry. Students use by Saxon for their text. This course is taught between Math 7/6 and Algebra 1.
• Algebra 1: In this course, students progress through quadratic equations, linear functions, radical algebraic expressions, inequalities and end with beginning trigonometric functions. by Paul A Foerster is the textbook. This class is taught prior to geometry.
• Geometry: This course is designed to teach deductive reasoning to students. The application of this skill will be used in recognizing valid and invalid deductions. Once this concept is mastered, deductive reasoning is used to write geometric proofs. The course covers the use of definitions, postulates, and theorems to study properties of equality and inequality in angles, triangles, polygons and other geometric figures. Students in this course will use by Harold R. Jacobs as their textbook. Geometry is recommended after the completion of Algebra 1 and before beginning Algebra 2.

Science 8: Biology   

• Objective: This is an introductory biology class that will cover a range of material. The units of study will include: biochemistry, cells, metabolism, genetics, kingdom study, animal survey, plant study, and ecology. It is designed to give a foundation in the biological sciences. Course instruction includes lectures, experiments, hands-on learning, term projects, and written assignments.
• Relationship to other courses: This class is preparatory to the Human Biology & Anatomy class taught the following year. Biology is a diverse course covering all aspects of plant and animal life. Students study the more general ideas in this class to prepare them for the more specific ideas in Human Biology & Anatomy.
• Required text: While we are selecting a new textbook for the coming school year, students will have many resources available to them in the classroom.

Foreign Language: German or French   
Meridian School believes that learning a foreign language is essential in providing a complete education for students. Students advance in foreign language based upon their aptitude for the language. The study of a foreign language in middle school also helps the student develop the discipline and responsibility needed as they progress toward upper school. Students are required to complete two years of language in middle school and complete three years of study in upper school.

• Languages: French & German are offered to middle school students. Spanish will be offered to students in upper school.
• Objectives: There are two objectives to learning a foreign language. The first objective is to provide the student with an appreciation and ability to speak another language and learn about a different culture. The second objective is to enhance the students understanding of their native language by studying the differences and similarities in grammar, structure and vocabulary in other languages.
• Required text and reading: The level of language studied will determine the textbook. Students in an advanced level may be required to read essays and novels written in their language of study.

Physical Education & Fine Arts   
Utah curriculum guidelines require all middle school students to have physical education. Students will also have the opportunity to take elective courses in choir, fine art, drama, and orchestra. Depending upon availability and interest, other classes including pottery, chess leatherworks, and creative writing may be offered.