essays for eighth grade

• Essay Topic Generator
• Summary Generator
• Thesis Maker Academic
• Sentence Rephraser
• Read My Paper
• Hypothesis Generator
• Cover Page Generator
• Text Compactor
• Essay Scrambler
• Essay Plagiarism Checker
• Hook Generator
• AI Writing Checker
• Notes Maker
• Overnight Essay Writing
• Topic Ideas
• Writing Tips
• Essay Writing (by Genre)
• Essay Writing (by Topic)

8th Grade Essay: Examples, Topics, & Writing Tips

If you find yourself on this page, you are probably going to another level of your education – the final year of Middle school!

Isn’t it exciting?

One of the most common assignments in the 8th grade is an essay. Indeed, it gains new features. An eighth-grade essay is not the same as the sixth or seventh-grade one. It has more requirements and needs a deeper level of analysis.

How to write an 8th-grade essay? How many paragraphs should it contain? What is a standard 8th-grade essay format? On this page, you’ll find the answers to these and other questions that might arise. We’ve prepared creative 8th-grade essay topics, examples, and tips to write an A+ informative, narrative, or persuasive essay.

• 🧩 8th Grade Essay 101
• 📑 8th-Grade Essay Types
• 💾 Topics for the 8 th -Graders

🍎 8th Grade Essay Examples

🧩 8th-grade essay format explained.

Once again: the 8th-grade essay format is a bit different from that of the previous years.

Below, we thoroughly explain how long an 8th-grade essay should be and how to write it. We guarantee you’ll have no questions about the format and assessment of this type of work.

What Is the 8 th Grade Essay Format?

In this section, you’ll know which parts comprise any 8th-grade essay.

The first thing to remember: you’ve got onto an entirely new level. So, your writing isn’t as simple and short as it used to be in the previous school years.

Let’s start with the structure. The fundamental parts are the same as in any type of essay:

8th Grade Essay: How to Write & Typical Mistakes

With the help of this section, you’ll get to know the most straightforward and helpful tips for 8th-grade essay writing.

These are the things that any 8th grader should know!

8 th Grade Essay Do’s

• Look for reliable sources to find arguments and evidence.
• Try to arouse eagerness for writing: it surely will ease the whole process for you.
• Choose the topic that is interesting for you if you have such an option.
• Use academic language, special terms, consistent phrases, and correct grammar.
• Use good quotations from reputable sources to solidify your ideas.

8 th Grade Essay Don’ts

• Don’t write dully: an essay is a story. It should be exciting and consistent.
• Don’t make all your examples too similar: diversity is of the essence.
• Don’t let your text look like an unreadable pile of words: use graphic tools to highlight the most critical points.
• Don’t use unreliable sources and websites for citation.
• Don’t be afraid of honest self-expression. Your identity and thoughts are what make your 8th-grade essay unique.
• Don’t forget to revise your text after you’ve finished writing it.

8th Grade Essay Rubric

Meet the assessment strategies for 8th-grade writing. Here you’ll also find some prompts that improve your essay and lead you to a higher score.

So, the assessment pattern of a written piece comprises several main points. These are the things that assessors pay attention to:

📑 Eighth Grade Essay Types

We suppose that you come across different types of assignments during middle school. Among them, there indeed were descriptive and narrative essays.

However, now you are to face other exciting formats of writing. In the section below, you’ll get to know a few new types.

8th Grade Argumentative Essay

An argumentative essay is a piece of writing where you make a claim and prove your point of view with solid arguments. Your aim at this point is to make readers nod in contempt while reading and share your opinion.

The structure may be pretty familiar to you:

In your argumentative essay, you should back up your opinion with some exact data: statistics, figures, research studies, and polls.

To solidify your claim, you can use three types of arguments:

• Aristotelian . The classical way – you make a statement and try to persuade the audience that it is the one that is fair and right.
• Rogerian . First, you display an issue, then present the opposing view. After that, reveal your own opinion and start convincing readers why they should take up your point.
• Toulmin . Present your thesis statement, then provide the audience with the grounds to support it. The final touch is to connect these parts.

PRO TIP: Explain why you disagree with the opposing point of view on your issue.

8th Grade Persuasive Essay

A persuasive essay is very similar to argumentative writing. There you have to pick up a mainly burning issue and establish a firm opinion towards it. The primary goal is the same as in the argumentative essay: to make your readers believe you.

Remember the three essentials of persuasive writing:

• Logos appeals to logic, which is apparent. Deliver your thoughts cohesively and reasonably.
• Ethos is about persuading the readers, appealing to their sense of ethics and morality.
• Pathos helps you convince through emotions.

8th Grade Essay – Informative

An expository essay brings concepts to complete understanding. In other words, you explain something to give a clue about the subject in question. Successful expository writing makes the audience get the whole picture, leaving no questions or misunderstandings.

To familiarize yourself with expository essay structure, check our recently updated guide on writing an expository essay .

And briefly look at six major types of expository essays:

💾 8th Grade Essay Topics

8th grade argumentative essay topics.

• What is the main challenge you’ve ever met?
• What was the happiest moment of your childhood?
• Tell about the accomplishment you’re most proud of.
• What are the personal qualities you like most?
• Write about an inspiring celebrity.
• What does emotional intelligence mean?
• Write about the largest challenge of getting older.
• How is adolescence different from childhood?

Read the list of topics we’ve prepared for an 8th-grade essay. Choose your favorite or use our Free Essay Topics Generator to find the best one.

Persuasive Essay Topics for 8th Grade

• Would limited screen time be beneficial for health?
• Will the global use of electric vehicles save us from the ecological crisis?
• The government should provide citizens with more qualified psychological help.
• What are the pros and cons of buying a pet for a child?
• Should people use paper and textile bags instead of plastic ones?
• Is it necessary to attend PE classes in school?
• Is it ethical to use smartphones during the lesson?
• Should parents forbid their children from watching TikTok?
• Pros and cons of cheating on exams: immoral or beneficial?
• Should there be only healthy snack vending machines at schools?
• Is it acceptable for a teacher to raise the voice at a student?
• Should modern rappers’ songs be put through censorship?
• Is it ethical for students to discuss their teachers?
• Should all cosmetic products become cruelty-free?
• Should we stop the overconsumption of sugar for the sake of our health?
• Should zoos and circuses be banned forever?

8th Grade Informative Essay Topics

• Compare and contrast the environmental policies of the USA and Europe.
• What are the harmful effects of CO 2 emissions on the environment?
• How is the concept of freedom reflected in 20th-century literature?
• Reveal the details of the famous friendship of Hemingway and Fitzgerald.
• Brush off or fight: how to act when you come across bullying at school?
• What are the most significant challenges school attendees usually face?
• How to overcome your fears without getting traumatized?
• How to prepare for the exam period and overcome anxiety?
• Freedom or despair: the history and concept of trailer parks in the USA.
• Explain the concept of sustainability and what benefits it has.
• Provide a classification of American lifestyles based on location.
• A reasonable person: describe the concept and the features.

Look at our 8th grade essay examples. These are mostly just excerpts, but we included the most significant parts. Approach us in case you need a similar paper or have any questions.

8th Grade Argumentative Essay Example (#1)

The most notorious substance in the ecological discourse: is CO 2 really that bad?

Did you know that it’s better for the earth if you work out or jog with your mouth tightly shut? It’s not common knowledge, but professionals know: we need a considerable amount of CO 2 in our blood. In some terms, it’s even more vital than oxygen. Undoubtedly, there has to be a proper balance, and here is the point: CO 2 can be beneficial.

Though what good does it make to nature and the environment?

It’s all the same as with our body: CO 2 is not evil on earth, but there must be a proper balance. Now, this balance is critical, and we must make serious efforts to change the situation.

• According to last year’s research, the USA is in the second place among countries producing the most significant part of CO 2 in the whole world. The website statista.com published striking figures. 4.57 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions were produced in 2020 by the energy consumption sphere in the United States.
• Besides, a recently published report from the IEA agency reveals another piece of statistics. Compared to the previous year, the amount of CO 2 emissions will rise to 5% in 2021. This year we’re facing 33 billion tons of this greenhouse gas.
• These figures mean nothing without context. Here you are: nature suffers greatly from CO 2 influence. Due to the greenhouse effect caused by an excess of CO 2 , the water temperature in oceans and seas is rising. This process is not positive at all because the natural habitat for sea creatures is altering. The changes are dramatic and lead to the extinction of many species.

In conclusion, we need to find an efficient way to improve the ecological situation regarding CO 2 emissions. The key is global social and individual awareness and consciousness. Each and every inhabitant of the Earth has to understand the meaning of CO 2 for global warming clearly. So, try to jog with your lips closed and choose a bike instead of a car.

Example #2: 8th Grade Persuasive Essay

Is it essential to stay away from social media for the sake of mental health?

Nielsen Company conducted research that says that the average US adult spends more than 10 hours interacting with social media each day. Indeed, social media plays a very considerable role in the life of a modern person. Most of us are more likely to spend time watching short videos than reading a good book. But is it harmful to our mental health to the extent that we have to quit using social media platforms?

To my mind, we are greatly dependent on our Instagram and TikTok accounts, and the content posted there. It certainly has a negative impact, too. However, the complete cancellation of social media is not a way out. The key to good mental condition is in the skill of managing your relations with them.

• One of the recent surveys by the Lancet reports that Facebook users who scroll the newsfeed before sleep tend to be more depressed. Apparently, the deprivation of sleep affects mental well-being to a great extent.
• FInancesOnline has recently posted the results of the research. According to this data, Facebook constitutes 72% of people’s FOMO and anxiety. Posts about traveling and active social life create most of these feelings.
• At the same time, healthy rivalry can motivate development and growth. There’s a reasonable quotation saying that one should compare themselves yesterday instead of comparing to others. The best thing one can do to take care of their mental health is to take a digital detox for a while.

Thus, it is vital to trace your obsessions with social media and negative feelings caused by comparison with others on the Internet. Try to get more aware of it, take your time to rest from social media, and plunge into real life.

5 Paragraph Essay Example for 8th Grade (#3)

The Financier and American Tragedy : compare and contrast two main characters of Dreiser’s novels.

Do you know that Theodore Dreiser is sometimes called an American Fyodor Dostoevsky? Both writers touched upon the most sensitive social and existential issues. However, the subject of this paper is not the comparison of the authors but two famous Dreiser characters: Clyde Griffiths and Frank Cowperwood.

Both of these young American men were striving to reach financial and social success in a world of brutal struggle and hardships.

• Clyde Griffiths represents the desperate strive for American Dream. Born in a poor and religious family, he grows greedy for money and status. In his blind obsession with gaining a high social position, he doesn’t notice his spiritual degradation. He is smart enough to struggle his way into high society but not so witty to solidify his standing with decent means. He cheats, lies, and finally commits a murder: Clyde seems to be already born guilty at times. On reading the story, there doesn’t appear any sympathy toward him. On the contrary, he provokes feelings of abomination and disgust.
• Frank Cowperwood also aims to become wealthy and socially firm. He wants to improve his family’s life quality. Still, his ways and means astonish. Frank is a natural-born predator and strategist. His sophistication and sharp wit show up in him since his very childhood. He isn’t a man of high moral standards: Frank doesn’t mind cheating on his wife and manipulating city treasure money. However, he’s a passionate man, honest and open in his heart urges and impulses. That is the reason why fortune favors him.

However, having similar goals but different personalities and mindsets, Griffiths and Cowperwood reach completely different destination points.

How to Write an Essay in 8th Grade?

– You should pick up a good topic and formulate your attitude to the problem. – Write an outline. – Make a clear and brief thesis statement. – Think of at least 3 firm arguments if the essay type demands it. – Impress your readers with a firm conclusion. Voila! Do not forget to proofread!

How Long Is an Essay in 8th Grade?

The length of the 8th-grade essay slightly depends on the format and the particular type of writing. However, it varies from approximately 500 to 800 words. Within this framework, you have to make yourself clear and deliver all necessary points.

How Many Sentences Are in a Paragraph for 8th Grade?

The size of a paragraph in the 8th-grade essay has to be not less than 8 sentences in each. Besides that, mind that the sentences are primarily compound or complex, error-free, and coherent. Also, remember to connect the sentences and paragraphs with particular language means.

How to Write an Argumentative Essay in 8th Grade?

Choose an exciting and acute topic. Make up a thesis statement out of the problem. Draft an outline or a brief plan. Explore some reliable sources for the evidence and arguments for your essay. Organize the facts and information into a cohesive structure.

I’m an 8th grade student at a private school, and my teacher assigns us up to 4-6 pages most to write. First of all we get other essays on top of this, and usually have nearly to a week to finish. Me and my classmates struggle with this. Do you guys think this is too much for an average 8th grade student?

i am writin apaper right now and it is averreding and its about the changes we woud make to our cafeteria it has to be 5 paragraphs long

Thanks for stopping by at our blog. We would be happy to help you with your paper. You can be interested in some other posts on this blog (https://overnightessay.com/blog/category/essay-tips/) or contact our friendly Support Team to get professional writign help from experienced writers. Good luck with your paper! Best regards,

• Online Calculus Tutors
• Online Geometry Tutors
• Online Algebra Tutors
• Online Trigonometry Tutors
• Online Statistics Tutors
• Online Chemistry Tutors
• Online Macroeconomics Tutors
• Online English Tutors
• Online Physics Tutors
• Online Computer Science Tutors
• Online Accounting Tutors
• Online Biology Tutors
• Online Business Studies Tutors
• Online Finance Tutors
• Online Programming Tutors
• Online Management Tutors
• Online Science Tutors
• Year 2 Maths
• Year 3 Maths
• Year 4 Maths
• Year 5 Maths
• Year 6 Maths
• Year 2 English
• Year 3 English
• Year 4 English
• Year 5 English
• Year 6 English
• Year 7 Maths
• Year 8 Maths
• Year 9 Maths
• Year 10 Maths
• Year 10 Advance Maths
• Year 7 English
• Year 8 English
• Year 9 English
• Year 10 English
• Year 11 General Maths
• Year 11 Chemistry SA,NT
• Year 11 General Mathematics VIC
• Year 11 Mathematical Methods
• Year 11 Mathematics Standard
• Year 11 Chemistry ACT
• Year 11 Mathematics Extension 1
• Year 11 Mathematical Methods SA, NT
• Year 11 Mathematical Methods VIC
• Year 11 Mathematical Applications
• Year 11 Chemistry QLD
• Year 11 Literature ATAR
• Year 11 English - QLD
• Year 11 English Advanced NSW
• Year 11 EALD Level 3
• Year 11 English Language
• Year 11 Essential English M
• Year 11 Essential Skills TAS
• Year 11 Essential English
• Year 11 Bridging EAL
• Year 11 EALD Level 1
• Year 11 Stage 1 Essential English
• Year 11 English General
• Year 11 Mathematics Advanced
• Year 11 EAL
• Year 11 English Standard
• Year 11 EALD ATAR
• Year 12 Mathematics Standard
• Year 12 Further Mathematics
• Year 12 Mathematics Applications
• Year 12 Mathematics Extension 1
• Year 12 Mathematics Methods
• Year 12 Mathematics Advanced
• Year 12 Mathematics Methods VIC
• Year 12 Mathematics Methods - TAS
• Year 12 General Mathematics TAS
• Year 11 English T
• Year 12 Mathematical Methods - QLD
• Year 12 General Mathematics SA, NT
• Year 11 Foundation English
• Year 11 English Studies
• Year 11 Literacy Short Course
• Year 11 English Preliminary
• Year 12 English ATAR
• Year 11 EAL/D
• Year 12 English Extension 2
• Year 12 EAL/D
• Year 12 EALD ATAR WA
• Year 12 English Foundation
• Year 12 English Extension 1
• Year 12 Literature
• Year 12 Stage 2 Essential English
• Year 12 English Literature ATAR
• Year 12 Stage 2 English
• Year 12 EALD Level 2 - TAS
• Year 12 English Advanced NSW
• Year 12 Chemistry VIC
• Year 12 English Language
• Year 12 English Literature T - ACT
• Year 12 English Foundation WA
• Year 12 English Standard NSW Learning Programs
• Year 11 Chemistry WA
• Year 11 Chemistry - VIC
• Year 12 Chemistry - QLD
• Year 12 Chemistry - TAS
• Year 12 Chemistry - WA
• Year 12 Chemistry - NSW
• Year 12 Chemistry - ACT
• Online Tutors in Sydney
• Online Tutors in Melbourne
• Online Tutors in Brisbane
• Online Tutors in Gold Coast
• Online Tutors in Perth
• Online Tutors in Canberra
• Online Tutors in Adelaide
• Online Tutors in Newcastle
• HSC Papers 2019
• HSC Papers 2018
• HSC Papers 2017

Book a Free Demo

Math Calculus Geometry Algebra Trigonometry Statistics Chemistry Economics Macroeconomics English Physics Computer Science Accounting Biology Business Studies Finance Programming Management Science Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Year 6 Year 7 Year 8 Year 9 Year 10 Year 11 Year 12 College

Search Here

Recent posts.

• General Achievement Test Australia
• ESL vs English Tutoring – What Makes Them Different?
• Know the Grading System in Australia
• GED vs HiSET: All You Need To Know
• HSPT vs PSAT: Which One Is Beneficial For You?
• WordPress.org
• Documentation
• Support Forums

65 Engaging 8th Grade Writing Prompts for Creative Essays

Creative writing is a discovery process, and 8th grade is a great time to encourage your students to find their voices. It’s the final grade before high school, and it’s a time when students are really discovering themselves and their place in the world as they leave middle school.

That’s why…

It’s so important to give your 8th-grade students writing prompts that will help them explore their thoughts and opinions. These 8th-grade writing prompts for creative essays are designed to do just that.

Journal Writing Prompts

Journaling is a great way to get your students’ creative juices flowing. It’s also a great way to get them thinking about their own thoughts and experiences. Here are some journal prompts to get your eighth graders started:

1. If you had the chance to travel anywhere in the world, where would you choose? What attracted you to that location?

2. Do people require a compelling reason to live? How would you characterize the purpose’s evolution over time?

3. Imagine you could go back in time and give someone advice. What would you say?

4. When it comes to writing, how do you feel? Consider something else in your life when comparing your feelings about writing to it.

5. Create a typical day in the life of an eighth-grader with a short story.

6. Write about your favorite movie or book. Why do you love it so much?

7. What do you like about your appearance?

8. Consider what you value in life and how it relates to where you want to be in five years. Make a personal vision statement for your life.

9. What are your thoughts on the notion of vulnerability? Have you ever been anxious when you’ve felt weak or exposed?

10. What are your biggest regrets so far in life? Why do you feel the way you do about it now?

11. Choose someone older, such as a grandparent. What is the most significant lesson you’ve learned from that individual?

Creative Writing Prompts

Creative writing is all about expressing yourself in your own unique way. That’s why it’s such a great activity for eighth-grade students. By allowing young writers to flex their creative muscles, they’ll be able to explore their thoughts in a way they might not have before.

Here are some creative writing prompts to get your 8th graders started:

12. If you had one opportunity to make a difference in the world, what would it be and why?

13. What would you change if you were in charge of your school and why?

14. If you had the power to transform your city’s appearance or structure, what would you do and why?

15. Who would you invite for dinner if you could choose any famous person?

16. Write a short story about what your life would be like if you lived in the cold deserts of Mongolia.

17. Your instructor has requested that you present a lesson with the fifth-graders. What will you speak about and why?

18. Name one thing you’d want to accomplish in the future. Describe why it is so essential for you and how you intend to achieve it.

19. “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” Have you ever heard that? What’s your take on it? To support your standpoint, utilize precise details and scenarios.

20. The town officials want you to create a community for the future. Share your vision using specific information and examples.

21. What would your brain be like if it were a physical location?

22. Write a scenario in which a usual family activity goes horribly wrong.

Expository Writing Prompts

Although similar to creative writing, expository writing is a different animal altogether. Here are some exciting prompts to get your middle-schoolers started:

23. What’s the most unusual location you’ve ever visited? Describe it in detail.

24. Tell us about your last birthday, from the moment you awoke until you went to bed that night.

25. Imagine your dream home. Make a list of each room and its features.

26. How do you get to your grandparents’ house or another family member home?

27. Write about your typical school lunch and your experience eating in the lunchroom.

28. Consider a career you’d like to have one day. Describe a typical working day in that position.

29. What unique characteristics do you possess as a member of this generation? How are people your parents’ or grandparents’ age different from yours?

30. What are three fun ways your family might spend a family vacation together?

31. Why do you think someone you know should be regarded as a leader?

32. Who’s your favorite teacher, and why?

33. If you had to be an animal, which one would you choose and why?

Precise Language Writing Prompts

When it comes to writing skills, precision is key. Your students need to communicate their thoughts and feelings clearly and concisely. That means they need to have a vast vocabulary and use it effectively. Here are writing prompts to help your students hone their skills:

34. Write a news article about a recent natural disaster.

35. Think about a time when you were extremely proud of yourself. Write a first-person account of your proudest moment.

36. What is your earliest memory of feeling fear? Write a brief story about that experience.

37. Are all teachers educators? Are all educators teachers? What is the difference between a teacher and an educator?

38. When should you say a specific number instead of “a lot” to avoid being mistaken?

39. What exactly makes something “made from natural components” distinct from anything grown in your backyard?

40. What is the difference between race and nationality?

41. What is the difference between music and sound?

42. What is the primary difference between being wise and being intelligent?

43. How can you tell the difference between an opinion and a fact?

44. Is it correct to refer to an 8th grader as a “young person”? Why or why not?

Counter-Argument Writing Prompts

To become better writers, students of this age group need to be able to anticipate and refute counter-arguments to their own claims. Here are some counter-argument writing prompts to get your reluctant writers thinking:

45. An old saying goes, “Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.” Explain why this might not be true.

46. Some individuals believe that crying is a sign of weakness. Disabuse them of this misconception.

47. Some schools enforce a dress code to discourage bullying and encourage learning. Explain why you disagree with forcing students to wear uniforms.

48. Paranormal investigators sometimes utilize photographs as “evidence” that ghosts exist. Explain why a photo of a ghost might not be considered evidence.

49. Cats are widely regarded as the greatest pets. Why might dogs be a better choice?

50. Some people think that nothing is more essential than fame or popularity. Why do you feel differently?

51. Some people believe that smartphones shouldn’t be allowed in school because they’re a distraction. In favor of allowing phone usage in class, create an argument.

52. Some people believe that there should be no restrictions placed on freedom of speech. Defend your position by explaining why freedom of speech should be limited on occasion.

53. People sometimes believe that important core principles, such as religion and politics, must be shared by good friends. Explain why this isn’t necessary.

54. Some people believe that honesty is more important than compassion. Explain why kindness is more essential at times in your essay.

55. Many individuals think it’s better to be single than in a relationship. Why might being in a relationship be preferable?

Informational Writing Prompts

Informational writing is a key skill for students to master. After all, in the real world, we need to communicate clearly, whether we’re writing an email to our boss or a letter to our elected officials. Here are informational writing prompts to keep your students busy:

56. Ask your teacher to share some insights about their life. Then, create a one-page biography based on what you learned.

57. What do you know how to do well? Write detailed instructions for someone else to perform this task.

58. Consider a destination that you’ve been to. Describe the site to someone who has never been there before.

59. There are several different family structures. What kind of family do you have?

60. Choose a subject you’re well-versed in, like a favorite sports team, movie star, musical genre, or anything that fascinates you. Explain the topic to someone else in three pages.

61. What impact has new technology had on your life?

62. Is there a familial custom that is unique to your family? Describe the custom and why your family participates in it.

63. Tell us about a typical day in one of your parents’ lives.

64. What would you do if you won the lottery?

65. How do people in your community show their support for local businesses?

Jump In : Writing essays encourage G8 students to get more creative in writing and critical in thinking. Provide them with more enthusiasm by giving them 11 Fun 8th Grade Reading Comprehension Activities & Games to stimulate their minds!

Fun Fact : There are aids available to assist your students to create correct sentences (free and paid). I researched a particular tool that I believe will improve your learners’ writing skills. Learn more about it here — Complex Sentence Generator: 7 Tools To Build Good Statements .

Get Your Middle School Students Hooked on Writing With These Engaging Prompts!

8th grade is an important time for students to focus on their writing skills. As they prepare to transition to high school and beyond, they must develop a strong foundation now.

By offering them a variety of engaging writing prompts, you can help your students build confidence and proficiency in their writing. So get those pencils and pens ready, and let’s get started!

Last Updated on July 25, 2022 by Emily

• Pinterest 67

Emily is an active mother of two and a dedicated elementary school teacher. She believes the latest technology has made a huge impact on the quality of early learning and has worked hard to upgrade her classroom and her own children’s learning experience through technology.

Follow her on Twitter , Pinterest , and Instagram for more teaching fun!

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How To Improve Writing In Eighth Grade

Written by Dan

Last updated January 31, 2024

Improving writing skills is crucial for students in eighth grade. This is when students are transitioning from middle school to high school, and they need to have a solid foundation in writing to succeed in high school.

Writing is a vital skill in almost every aspect of life, and students need to learn how to write well at an early age.

Related : For more, check out our article on  How To Make Writing Fun  here.

Understanding the basics of writing is the first step towards improving writing skills. Students need to learn the fundamentals of grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure.

They also need to understand the different types of writing, such as persuasive, narrative, and informative writing. By mastering the basics, students can develop a strong foundation to help them in future writing projects.

Improving research and fact-checking skills is also essential for students in eighth grade .

Writing often involves research, and students need to know how to find reliable sources and how to fact-check their information. Developing good research skills will help students write more accurate and informative pieces.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Understanding the basics of writing is crucial for improving writing skills.
• Developing good research and fact-checking skills is important for accurate and informative writing.
• Practicing writing projects and revising and editing techniques can help students improve their writing skills.

Related : For more, check out our article on How To Improve Writing In Sixth Grade  here.

Understanding the Basics of Writing

Writing is a fundamental skill that every student must learn to master. In eighth grade , students are expected to have a solid foundation in writing, which includes understanding the basics of writing.

This section will cover the essential elements of writing that students must be familiar with to improve their writing skills.

Grammar and Formal Language

Grammar and formal language are critical aspects of writing. Students must have a good grasp of grammar rules and the appropriate use of formal language.

This includes understanding sentence structure, punctuation, and capitalization. Students must also be aware of the different types of sentence structures, such as simple, compound, and complex sentences.

Word Choice and Figurative Language

Word choice and figurative language are essential in writing. Students must choose their words carefully to convey their message effectively.

They must also be familiar with the different types of figurative language, such as similes, metaphors, analogies, and allusions, and know how to use them appropriately.

Narrative and Theme Development

Narrative and theme development are crucial in writing . Students must clearly understand the elements of a narrative, such as setting, plot, characters, and dialogue.

They must also know how to develop a theme and how to convey it effectively throughout their writing.

In conclusion, understanding the basics of writing is essential for eighth-grade students to improve their writing skills. By mastering grammar and formal language, word choice and figurative language, and narrative and theme development, students can elevate their writing to the next level.

Related : For more, check out our article on How To Improve Writing In Fifth Grade  here.

Improving Research and Fact-Checking Skills

Eighth-grade students are often required to complete research projects that require them to gather information from multiple sources. To improve their writing skills, students need to learn how to identify credible sources, incorporate evidence and data, and cite sources correctly.

Identifying Credible Sources

The internet is an excellent resource for research, but it is crucial to be able to distinguish credible sources from unreliable ones.

Students should look for sources written by an author with expertise in the field, contain facts and details that can be verified, and are published by a reputable organization. It is also important to consider the source’s bias and whether it presents a balanced view of the topic.

Incorporating Evidence and Data

Students should incorporate evidence and data from credible sources to support their arguments. They should look for graphs, charts, and other visual aids that can help to convey information.

When using evidence, students should make sure that it is relevant to their topic and explain how it supports their argument.

Citing Sources Correctly

To avoid plagiarism, students must cite their sources correctly. They should use a bibliography to list all of the sources they used in their research and in-text citations to credit the source’s author.

Students should use a citation style that is appropriate for their subject, such as MLA or APA.

Eighth-grade students can become more confident and knowledgeable writers by improving their research and fact-checking skills.

They will be able to gather accurate information, incorporate evidence and data, and cite their sources correctly, which will help them to write more persuasive and effective research projects.

Related : For more, check out our article on  How To Teach Children To Add Suspense To Their Writing  here.

Developing Writing Projects

Eighth-grade students can develop their writing skills by working on various writing projects. These projects can help them improve their writing skills and explore different writing genres. Here are some types of writing projects that can be helpful:

Writing Prompts and Creative Writing

Writing prompts can be a great way to get students started on a writing project. These prompts can be used to spark creativity and help students develop their writing skills.

Creative writing projects can include short stories, poems, and scripts. Students can use their imagination and creativity to produce original pieces of writing.

Writing Essays and Biographies

Writing essays and biographies can help students develop their research and writing skills. Essays can be used to explore a particular topic or issue, while biographies can be used to explore a particular person’s life.

Students can learn how to research a topic, analyze information, and present their findings clearly and concisely.

Scientific and Literature Writing

Scientific and literature writing can help students develop their analytical and critical thinking skills . Scientific writing can include lab reports, research papers, and scientific articles.

Literature writing can include book reviews, character analyses, and critical essays. Students can learn how to analyze and interpret data, as well as develop their writing skills.

When developing writing projects, it is important to consider the project’s audience, purpose, and format. Students should also consider using graphics and multimedia to enhance their projects.

Formatting and transition words can also make the writing clearer and more concise.

Overall, eighth-grade students can improve their writing skills by working on various writing projects.

By following these tips and advice, students can produce high-quality writing projects and develop their writing skills. Google Docs and Slides can be used to produce and share these writing projects.

Revising and Editing Techniques

Self-Editing Strategies

One of the best ways to improve writing skills is by self-editing. Eighth graders can use various self-editing strategies to improve their writing. First, they should read their work aloud to identify areas that need revision.

This technique helps them identify incomplete sentences, awkward phrasing, and other mistakes. They should also check their work for the main idea and ensure that their writing is well-organized with clear connections between ideas.

Second, students should look for passive voice and replace it with active voice. This technique helps to make the writing more engaging and interesting.

They should also avoid using repetitive words and phrases. Instead, they should use synonyms or rephrase sentences to make their writing more interesting.

Peer Feedback and Review

Another technique for improving writing in eighth grade is by getting feedback from peers. Students can form small groups and review each other’s work.

This technique helps them to identify areas that need improvement and provides an opportunity to learn from their peers. They should also provide constructive feedback to their peers.

When providing feedback, students should focus on the content, organization, and clarity of the writing. They should also check for spelling and grammar mistakes. Peer feedback and review help students to become better writers and improve their writing skills.

Utilizing Technology for Revision

Eighth graders can also use technology to improve their writing skills. There are many interactive worksheets and printable worksheets available online that provide instant feedback.

These worksheets are designed to help students practice writing and improve their skills.

Another way to utilize technology is by using online tools that provide direct links to writing resources. For example, students can use online tools that provide access to music that can help them focus and stay motivated while writing. They can also use online tools that provide access to writing prompts and exercises.

Overall, revising and editing techniques are crucial for improving eighth-grade writing skills. Students should use self-editing strategies, peer feedback and review, and utilize technology to improve their writing skills.

By doing so, they can become better writers and achieve success in their academic and professional lives.

Application and Practice

Writing in Different Contexts

Eighth-grade students need to learn how to write in different contexts, such as persuasive essays, informative essays, and narratives. They should also be able to write in different styles, such as formal and informal.

Teachers can give students examples of different writing styles and formats to help them understand the differences. Students can also practice writing in different contexts by choosing a topic and writing a short piece in each style.

Oral Presentations and Discussions

Writing is not just about putting words on paper, but also about communicating ideas effectively. In eighth grade, students should practice presenting their ideas orally and engaging in discussions.

Teachers can assign oral presentations and discussions on different topics to help students develop their communication skills. Students can also practice their presentation skills by recording themselves and watching the playback to identify areas for improvement.

Making Inferences and Drawing Conclusions

Eighth-grade students should be able to make inferences and draw conclusions from texts they read. They should be able to identify the main idea, supporting details, and author’s point of view.

Teachers can provide students with texts and ask them to identify the main idea, supporting details, and author’s point of view. Students can also practice making inferences and drawing conclusions by analyzing quotes and themes from books they read.

Overall, practicing writing in different contexts, engaging in oral presentations and discussions, and making inferences and drawing conclusions are important skills for eighth-grade students to develop.

These skills align with the Common Core State Standards and will help students succeed in high school and beyond.

Related Posts

About The Author

I'm Dan Higgins, one of the faces behind The Teaching Couple. With 15 years in the education sector and a decade as a teacher, I've witnessed the highs and lows of school life. Over the years, my passion for supporting fellow teachers and making school more bearable has grown. The Teaching Couple is my platform to share strategies, tips, and insights from my journey. Together, we can shape a better school experience for all.

Join our email list to receive the latest updates.

Add your form here

Reading Worksheets, Spelling, Grammar, Comprehension, Lesson Plans

8th Grade Writing

For eighth graders, this Common Core area helps students gain mastery of writing skills by working collaboratively and producing written texts, understanding syntax and vocabulary, and organizing their ideas. Among the complete standards for this grade, eighth graders will be asked to: support the claims of their arguments with evidence, logical reasoning, and credible sources, use a formal style when writing, be able to develop the topic of a work with details, facts, definitions, and quotations, employ formatting, graphics, and multimedia to present information in the written medium, employ narrative techniques like pacing, description, reflection, and dialogue to develop events and characters within a text, go through the process of writing, editing and revision for their written work, use appropriate technology to publish writing and to collaborate on written projects, demonstrate keyboarding skill, go through the process of writing, editing and revision for their written work, conduct short research projects to answer a question, quote or paraphrase the data and conclusions of supporting texts while avoiding plagiarism and using proper citation, use evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Abraham Lincoln Bio Poem

Your students will write a bio poem about Abraham Lincoln.

Bio Poem: My Mother

A fun Mother’s Day bio poem activity for your students!

Bio Poem: Pilgrim

A biography poem, also called a bio poem, is a short poem which describes a person or thing. This printable Thanksgiving Activity guides students through creating a bio poem about Pilgrims.

Bio Poem: Someone You Know

Students will write a bio poem about someone they know using the format set in this worksheet.

Christmas Tree Bio Poem

A biography poem, also called a bio poem, is a short poem which describes a person or thing. Sometimes writing a bio pem can be tricky! This printable Christmas Activity guides students through creating a bio poem about a Christmas tree.

Correct the Transition Words Mistakes – Worksheet

Have your students revise sentences and correct transition word mistakes with this educational writing activity.

Edgar Allan Poe: Secrets in Poetry

Students read from Edgar Allan Poe’s “An Enigma” and decipher the name of the woman’s whose name is hidden within the text.

Father’s Day Bio Poem: My Father

Enhance your students’ writing skills with this fun Father’s Day Biography Poem activity.

Fourth of July Bio Poem: America

Encourage your students to learn about America with this Fourth of July Biography Poem activity.

George Washington Bio Poem

Your students will write a bio poem about George Washington.

George Washington’s List of Rules

When George Washington was a young boy, he made a list of rules for himself. Students choose one of the rules and write what it means.

Halloween Bio Poem Activity: Ghost

Create a bio poem about your own personal ghost with our fun Halloween printable activity!

Main Idea Organizer

Teach your students how to organize their writing with this helpful Main Idea Organizer. Students will be asked to complete the worksheet by writing their own main idea, three details, and a summary. This will help your students better understand how to organize their ideas for writing in the future, especially when writing an essay!

Write a Biography Poem

Bio poems are usually short poems following a specific format. In this worksheet students will write a bio poem about themself.

Bio Poem: A President

Bio poems are usually short poems following a specific format. Students will write about a President in this worksheet.

Bio Poem: An Ocean

Have your students get creative by writing a bio poem about an ocean.

Editing and Proofing a Paragraph

Your students will further their editing and proofing skills by correcting a paragraph in this printable classroom worksheet.

George Washington: Almost a King

What if George Washington had become king? Students ponder this question and then write about what it would be like.

How to Write a Thesis Statement

This activity helps students develop a strong thesis statement for their essays by providing practice writing sample statements.

How to Write an Introduction: Bridge Building Activity

This activity is designed to help students learn about writing introductions through a fun bridge building activity to join the lead noun card and thesis statement card.

• Book Lists by Age
• Book Lists by Category
• Reading Resources
• Language & Speech
• Raise a Reader Blog
• Back to School
• Success Guides by Grade
• Homework Help
• Social & Emotional Learning
• Activities for Kids

The Guide to 8th Grade: Reading and Writing

Review reading and writing curricula for 8th grade, including what to expect and resources to support learning..

In their last year of middle school, 8th graders immerse themselves in preparation for high school by practicing and strengthening skills they learned in earlier years of middle school while also learning new (and often more complex) skills.

In many ways, 8th grade is a year of transition, as students are expected to have mastered the ways of middle school and begin becoming “high-schoolers.” Specifically, 8th graders are expected to be independent thinkers and workers analyzing and explaining what they learn in both their writing and verbally. 

8th Grade Reading

In 8th grade, students continue to practice many of the skills they learned in earlier grades, specifically paying attention to details like text evidence, language, and cross-text comparisons in different genres of text. However, 8th graders push their analyses of texts further as they examine the details and writing structure and assess how those elements affect the text. 

In order to build reading skills, your 8th grader :

• Evaluates the evidence in texts to determine the strongest supports of an idea and analysis.
• Determines the main idea or theme of a text using evidence from the text to support it.
• Provides an objective summary of a text.
• Understands, summarizes, and tracks the progress of the main idea of a text, using evidence from the text.
• Analyzes how elements such as specific dialogue, events, or word usage impact the characters, the decisions they make, and other events and actions in the text.
• Understands the use of language in a text, including figurative language, analogies, and allusions to other texts.
• Compares and contrasts the different structures of texts including the structures of paragraphs and sentences.
• Analyzes the difference between characters’ points of view and how these differences affect the text.
• Analyzes the pros and cons of using different forms of text and media to present a topic or idea.
• Compares a text to a film or play version of a text, paying specific attention to the way in which the film or play veers from the text.
• Analyzes texts that include conflicting information on the same topic and decipher when those are due to conflicting facts or interpretations.

8th Grade Writing

In 8th grade, students continue to practice and refine many of the writing skills they learned in 7th grade while also learning some additional complex writing skills. Given that refining one’s writing can take time and practice, students are not expected to cover a great deal of new skills. However, they do learn some new techniques and skills that enhance their writing and enable them to become better writers.

In order to build writing skills, your 8th grader :

• Introductions
• Acknowledgements of opposing claims
• Logical and orderly presentation of reasons and evidence
• Graphics, special formatting, and multimedia, when appropriate
• Support of the claims through the use of evidence from credible sources
• A concluding sentence or paragraph that supports the argument made
• A formal tone and style
• Use supporting claims and evidence based on credible texts and resources
• Provide an introduction that includes an explanation of what follows
• Develop topics through the use of facts, details, quotations, examples, and subject-specific terms and definitions
• Include transitions that connect concepts, events, and paragraphs
• Include a conclusion that supports the presented idea(s)
• Maintain a formal “essay type” style
• Integrate other forms of media and formats such as graphs, charts, headings, audio, or video when appropriate
• A narrator, characters, and a point of view
• Descriptive detail and sensory language to describe characters, settings, and experiences
• Dialogue, pacing, reflection, and details and descriptions of characters, setting, and experiences
• Thought-out word choice
• A clear structure with a logical order and flow, as shown through the use of transition words and phrases and a logical sequence
• A conclusion that is connected to and builds on the narrative
• Plans, revises, and edits writing, specifically with guidance from teachers and peers, focusing specifically on trying new approaches and making sure the writing has a purpose and appeals to its audience.
• Uses technology and the Internet to produce and publish writing, work with others, and cite sources.
• Works on multiple short research projects that answer specific questions and cite multiple sources, while gathering additional questions for later research.
• Uses both print and digital resources to conduct research, focusing on using appropriate search terms and reliable sources.
• Uses quotes and a standard format for citation.
• Uses research to analyze and make inferences.

Shop the best resources for seventh grade below! You can find all books and activities at  The Scholastic Store . 

Explore other grade guides: 

• Kindergarten
• First Grade
• Second Grade
• Third Grade
• Fourth Grade  
• Fifth Grade
• Sixth Grade
• Seventh Grade

Your Eighth Grade Book Checklist

Sign up and get 10% off books.

Common Core State Standards Initiative

English Language Arts Standards » Writing » Grade 8

Standards in this strand:, text types and purposes:, production and distribution of writing:, research to build and present knowledge:, range of writing:.

• Key Design Consideration
• Students Who are College and Career Ready in Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening, & Language
• How to Read the Standards
• College and Career Readiness Anchor Standards for Reading
• College and Career Readiness Anchor Standards for Writing
• College and Career Readiness Anchor Standards for Speaking and Listening
• College and Career Readiness Anchor Standards for Language
• Introduction for K-5
• Kindergarten
• Introduction for 6-12
• Grade 11-12
• Introduction
• Language Progressive Skills
• Measuring Text Complexity: Three Factors
• Range of Text Types for K-5
• Texts Illustrating the Complexity, Quality, & Range of Student Reading K-5
• Staying on Topic Within a Grade & Across Grades
• Range of Text Types for 6-12
• Texts Illustrating the Complexity, Quality, & Range of Student Reading 6-12
• English Language Arts Appendix A
• English Language Arts Appendix B
• English Language Arts Appendix C

If you're seeing this message, it means we're having trouble loading external resources on our website.

If you're behind a web filter, please make sure that the domains *.kastatic.org and *.kasandbox.org are unblocked.

To log in and use all the features of Khan Academy, please enable JavaScript in your browser.

8th grade reading & vocabulary

Unit 1: funny business, unit 2: obscuring the truth, unit 3: crossing the line.

All Formats

Resource types, all resource types.

• Rating Count
• Price (Ascending)
• Price (Descending)
• Most Recent

Free 8th grade writing-essays outlines

Critical Thinking Text Puzzles Bundle | Sub Plans Middle School ELA | SEL

Printable Story BOOKLET | Daily 5 | Literacy Station | Independent Writing

Phonics Seek & Find Activity | NO PREP | Science of Reading | Phonemic Awareness

Reading Intervention Activities, Program & Assessment for RTI Science of Reading

Online MCAP Practice Tests + Worksheets, Grade 8 ELA - MCAP Test Prep

Praxis Middle School English Language Arts 5047 Study Guide 2023-2024

Coding Unplugged: SET 1│Offline Mini Puzzles for Middle School│The Original!

8th Grade MATH RTI Questions

FREE Five Paragraph Essay Outline

Persuasive Writing Graphic Organizer FREE

Venn Diagram Template with Lines

Digital Persuasive Essay Outline - Graphic Organizer for Google Docs OLC4O OSSLT

• Google Drive™ folder

Paragraph Writing Graphic Organizers (Color Coding Strategy for Essay Writing)

Opinion Writing Graphic Organizer

Essay Checklist Explanatory/Informative Essay

Argumentative Essay Graphic Organizer Rubrics FREE

Argument Essay Outline - Anchor Chart

• Word Document File

"How to Write a Paragraph" Cheat Sheet

Informational Pre-Writing Organizers

• Easel Activity

Response to Literature Essay Frame

Argumentative Essay Template with Sentence Starters (Middle School)

Persuasive Speech Planners [FREEBIE!]

R.A.C.E.S. Paragraph Writing Student Bookmarks FREE

Four Square Writing Graphic Organizer

Argumentative Essay Outline

Self & Peer Editing Checklist for Argumentative/Persuasive Writing

Essay Writing Organizer

Persuasive or Opinion Essay Graphic Organizer

The 5-Paragraph Persuasive Essay OUTLINE

Compare/Contrast Graphic Organizer for Books and Movies

Essay Planning Templates

Opinion Writing Graphic Organizer DBQ - FREEBIE

• We're hiring
• Help & FAQ
• Privacy policy
• Student privacy
• Terms of service
• Tell us what you think

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

Welcome to the Purdue Online Writing Lab

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

The Online Writing Lab at Purdue University houses writing resources and instructional material, and we provide these as a free service of the Writing Lab at Purdue. Students, members of the community, and users worldwide will find information to assist with many writing projects. Teachers and trainers may use this material for in-class and out-of-class instruction.

The Purdue On-Campus Writing Lab and Purdue Online Writing Lab assist clients in their development as writers—no matter what their skill level—with on-campus consultations, online participation, and community engagement. The Purdue Writing Lab serves the Purdue, West Lafayette, campus and coordinates with local literacy initiatives. The Purdue OWL offers global support through online reference materials and services.

A Message From the Assistant Director of Content Development 

The Purdue OWL® is committed to supporting  students, instructors, and writers by offering a wide range of resources that are developed and revised with them in mind. To do this, the OWL team is always exploring possibilties for a better design, allowing accessibility and user experience to guide our process. As the OWL undergoes some changes, we welcome your feedback and suggestions by email at any time.

Please don't hesitate to contact us via our contact page  if you have any questions or comments.

All the best,

Social Media

Facebook twitter.

Academic vocabulary words for 8th graders

by: Jessica Kelmon | Updated: February 2, 2024

Print article

These academic vocabulary words for eighth graders are broadly used in many subjects. It’s important for your child to know these words to better understand reading and classroom lessons. And knowing these vocabulary words well enough to use them in writing and presentations will add precision and eloquence to your child’s work. Print this list, courtesy of Hyde Park Central School District in New York , and post it somewhere your child will see it every day. Not only will these words help your child with reading and writing assignments now, they’re the types of words that will pop up on the SAT and ACT ( if your child chooses to take one of these tests ), too.

8th grade vocabulary words

abhor abrasive alternative ambiguous amiss anarchy anonymous anthology apathy apprehend assimilate assumption audacious authority avid ban belligerent bisect bizarre boycott capable cause characterize chronological

commence compels concise conclude confiscate conjecture conscientious consecutive consistent construct contrast corroborate depict derive despicable despondent elapse embark encompass endeavor evidence evoke feasible focus

formula generation gruesome imminent impel imperative inspire integrate interrogate merge modify mutiny narrate novice obsolete opposition perish perspective persuasive plagiarize precise prediction prevalent procedure

profound proprietor prudent pseudonym quote rebel rebuff rebuke recur resilient response reverberate significant similar simulate simultaneous source specific spontaneous surmise theory tirade universal validate variable

See the academic vocabulary lists for 6th grade , 7th grade , 9th grade , and 10th grade , too.

Learn more about how to help your 8th grader with reading skills:

• Read: 8th grade reading • Check out: 8th grade books so great, they made a movie • Watch: One key 8th grade writing skill • Do: Give intellectual graffiti a try

Homes Nearby

Homes for rent and sale near schools

5 ways to respond when your child says, "I hate reading!"

The nonfiction revolution

The hidden benefits of reading aloud — even for older kids

Yes! Sign me up for updates relevant to my child's grade.

Please enter a valid email address

Thank you for signing up!

Server Issue: Please try again later. Sorry for the inconvenience

Aurora Beacon-News | East Aurora eighth-grade teacher named Kane…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

• Aurora Beacon-News Sports
• Aurora Beacon-News Opinion
• All Suburbs

Aurora Beacon-News

Aurora beacon-news | east aurora eighth-grade teacher named kane county educator of the year.

Nearly 1,000 guests gathered for the 48th annual Educator of the Year Banquet at the Q Center in St. Charles to celebrate the contributions of educational professionals across Kane County, according to a press release from the Kane County Regional Office of Education.

Martinez, an eighth-grade history teacher at Fred Rodgers Magnet Academy in Aurora, was chosen as Educator of the Year from a record-setting pool of 57 nominees, officials said in the release.

In an interview on Thursday, Martinez said she sees herself in her students because she also grew up in Aurora and even went to high school in the same building that now holds Fred Rodgers Magnet Academy.

However, when Martinez was a student, she didn’t like history class, she said.

“Growing up as a first-generation Latina, I felt like that part of the history was missing. I didn’t really see myself in the history books,” Martinez said.

Even when Martinez didn’t like the material being taught in her classes, she was always interested in history, but it wasn’t until she started taking college-level classes that she started to see what history education could be, she said.

Now, in her own classroom, Martinez said she wants to give her students the history education she wishes she had as a kid. She makes an effort to teach history from all angles, including those left out of the history books, she said.

As an example, Martinez said she discusses the impact that Chinese and Irish immigrants had on the westward expansion of the United States, as those groups primarily built the railroad tracks. Also, she said she has been teaching her kids about Mexican cowboys, and how they were the blueprint for the cowboys of the American West.

In those lessons, she makes a point to connect the topics her students are learning about to current events or modern-day scenarios, she said.

Through these connections, Martinez said she shows her students that everyone can make a difference for the better.

“We can’t wait for a superhero. All of us can take a little role, whether it’s picking up trash in the community or whether it’s getting involved if we see something that we disagree with. Instead of being a naysayer and just complaining, we have to look for solutions within our community,” she said.

Martinez’s teaching style matches her message of self-empowerment. Students’ desks are arranged in groups facing each other, not Martinez, and she said that she encourages students to discuss and debate topics amongst themselves.

As they struggle to figure things out on their own, they also find their own potential, she said.

It helps that many of her lessons are hands-on, which lets students directly engage with the history or put themselves in the shoes of those they are studying.

As an example, she said that when the class was studying World War I, she flipped over the desks to make rows, then had her students make their own trenches. Then, she would introduce problems that soldiers in the war had to face, like disease, dwindling food supplies and more, she said.

After the interview, Martinez pointed out posters made by her students about the bombing of Pearl Harbor in World War II. She said that students studied primary sources from the event and were able to figure out the reasons the attack happened from those sources, not from a textbook.

Martinez is only able to teach using these methods because she has such a strong team of other eighth-grade teachers at Fred Rodgers Magnet Academy, she said.

“I feel like I have been very blessed that I’ve always had a team of teachers who are willing to do that kind of stuff,” she said.

It was also her school community’s support that led to her recent award. To be put in the running for the Kane County Educator of the Year award, teachers must be nominated by their school, then picked at the district level, Martinez said.

After they have been nominated by their district, they are reviewed by a group of student teachers, retired teachers, university representatives, business representatives and national board certified teachers, according to Justin Sampson, the director of communications and marketing at the Kane County Regional Office of Education.

Based on those reviews, Office of Education staff members then collectively make their pick for the Kane County Educator of the Year award, among other awards.

Martinez said she was completely shocked when her name was called at the May 3 banquet.

“I thought maybe I’d have a shot at the middle school level,” she said. “I didn’t think I was going to win the overall.”

The banquet was also a celebration of the contributions made by over 190 retiring educators from the nine school districts in Kane County, according to the county office’s news release.

Among those recognized were Annette McMahon, principal of Oak Park Elementary School in East Aurora School District 131, who was named Administrator of the Year; and outgoing Superintendent Jeff Craig of West Aurora School District 129, who won the Regional Superintendent Award.

Other award winners from the event and their categories included Educational Service Personnel, Jamie Snyder, Davis Primary School in St. Charles District 303; Student Support Personnel, Michelle Vargas-Herbst, Geneva High School, in Geneva School District 304; Early Career Educator, Taylor Cyr, St. Charles East High School in St. Charles School District 303 and Carson Porter, Central Middle School in Central District 301; Elementary/Early Childhood Teacher, Peggy Hernandez, U-46 Planetarium in Elgin District U-46; Middle School Teacher Bradley Staker, Kaneland Harter Middle School in Kaneland School District 302; and High School Teacher, Michael Jakubowski, Hampshire High School in School District 300.

“This was a showcase of the passion and accomplishments of our educators, and it was remarkable to see the crowd that gathered to commemorate these individuals,” Patricia Dal Santo, regional superintendent of education for Kane County, said in the release.

“We had the opportunity to acknowledge those who are just beginning their careers, those who are stepping away after decades of dedication, those who are no longer with us, and those who simply try to make each day special for students, families and colleagues,” she said.

[email protected]

More in Aurora Beacon-News

Aurora Beacon-News | Batavia event connects those looking to help with groups in need of volunteers

Aurora Beacon-News | Aurora City Council looks at contracts to put license plate readers at Chicago Premium Outlets mall

Aurora Beacon-News | Indian Prairie School District 204 to add AI to curriculum

Aurora Beacon-News | Aurora Farmers Market to open a little earlier this year

Trending nationally.

• NASA watchdog report: 100+ cracks on heat shield biggest threat to human moon mission
• Babies “R” Us is returning with 200 locations nationwide. Here are the details.
• Catholics last year reported a possible miracle to the Vatican. Why it’s in a ‘holding pattern.’
• Python hunters must humanely kill snakes: How Florida has cracked down in contests through the years
• New COVID ‘FLiRT’ variants are spreading nationwide. Chicago health experts urge up to date vaccination.

• SI SWIMSUIT
• SI SPORTSBOOK
• All Things Mizzou

Ennis Rakestraw Jr. Goes Viral for Fulfilling Promise to Fourth-Grade Teacher

Hunter de | may 7, 2024.

• Detroit Lions

Former Missouri Tigers cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. went viral for fulfilling a promise to his fourth-grade teacher, Mr. Gammon, stating that he'd talk about him when he made it to the NFL.

The Detroit Lions selected Rakestraw with the 61st overall pick in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft on April 26.

Rakestraw posted a couple of photos on X (formerly known as Twitter) that included him and Gammon reuniting while holding the "promise" letter that the future Lions cornerback wrote over a decade ago. Here's what was written in the letter from the pencil of the then-fourth grader (the typos are on purpose):

"Dear Mr. Gammon

You are the best teacher ever. You always had and have my back and you give me confidence. When my little brother had a sejere (seizure) you gave me food and snacks. I wish I didn’t want to leave you but I have to but I hope you come and see me at Daniel please. Come see me I hope to you miss me like I miss you and I hope your alive because if I make it to a proffosinal football player. I will talk about you Mr. gammon. Please give me your phone number before I go.

From: Ennis Rakestraw Jr.

ps Goodbye"

4th grade I made this commitment and if I make a promise. I’ll keep it no matter how difficult it is.🙏🏾🙏🏾 #Lions #chaseyourdreams pic.twitter.com/V6yJ9QNIKZ — Ennis Rakestraw Jr (@EnnisRakestraw) May 5, 2024

Rakestraw became the first Missouri cornerback to be selected in the second round since William Moore in 2009.

Rakestraw will likely play slot cornerback in the NFL. The main knock on Rakestraw as a draft prospect was his lack of size. There were doubts that his 5-foot-11, 183 lb. frame won’t be enough to cover NFL receivers.

But Rakestraw is used to being overlooked because of his size. He’s modified his playing style, becoming a physical defender that smothers receivers at the line of scrimmage. 

Rakestraw came to Missouri as the program was coming off of their third season under .500 in five years but left after the team’s best season since 2014 (11-2), which included a Cotton Bowl victory and the No. 8 spot in the final AP Poll.

More From Forbes

Wwe smackdown results, winners and grades on may 10, 2024.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

WWE SmackDown with AJ Styles vs. Randy Orton.

WWE SmackDown advertised more first-round action from the King and Queen of the Ring tournament including Nia Jax vs. Naomi, Angelo Dawkins vs. Tama Tonga, Bianca Belair vs. Candice LeRae and Baron Corbin vs. Carmelo Hayes.

SmackDown also advertised a blockbuster main event pitting Randy Orton against AJ Styles in the first round of the King of the Ring tournament. Last week’s broadcast of SmackDown garnered 2.148 million viewers.

WWE SmackDown Results | May 10, 2024

• Nia Jax def. Naomi | WWE Queen of the Ring, First Round
• Carmelo Hayes def. Baron Corbin | WWE King of the Ring, First Round
• Jade Cargill def. Piper Niven | WWE Queen of the Ring, First Round
• Bianca Belair def. Candice LeRae | WWE Queen of the Ring, First Round
• Tama Tonga def. Angelo Dawkins | WWE King of the Ring, First Round
• Randy Orton def. AJ Styles | WWE King of the Ring, First Round

WWE SmackDown Ratings

• May 3, 2024 | 2.148 million
• April 26, 2024 | 2.14 million
• April 19, 2024 | 2.3 million
• April 12, 2024 | 2.4 million
• April 5, 2024 | 2.6 million

WWE SmackDown Ticket Sales

• WWE SmackDown Venue: Mohegan Sun Arena (Wilkes-Barre, Pa.)
• WWE SmackDown Tickets Distributed: 7,836
• Available Tickets: 96

The 8 Best Trampolines With Insights From An Industry Expert

Samsung issues critical update for millions of galaxy users, drake kendrick lamar feud timeline another trespasser caught at drake s toronto home police say, wwe smackdown winners and grades, cody rhodes vs. logan paul announced.

Logan Paul was announced as Cody Rhodes’ next opponent at WWE King and Queen of the Ring in Saudi Arabia. As a natural heel, and an effective one, Paul is the perfect opponent for white-meat babyface Cody Rhodes.

Logan Paul, who announced the start of the “Logan Paul Levesque Era,” did a great job going off the cuff to talk down to the Wilkes-Barre crowd. After they heckled his Prime brand of drinks, Paul called them virgins before effortlessly getting back into his promo on Rhodes.

It was not made clear during this exchange, but it seems Paul vs. Cody Rhodes could be a Title vs. Title match. If so, there’s a chance WWE goes with a non-finish in Saudi Arabia, a crowd which would not revolt at such a result.

Cody Rhodes countered Paul’s strong heel promo by saying Paul is playing on a team in WWE, and Paul’s going to find out where he stands on that team.

Cody Rhodes and Logan Paul Segment Grade: B+

Nia jax def. naomi.

The highlight of this match was an incredible hurricanrana by Naomi on Nia Jax from the top rope, which really got the crowd into this battle after early apathy.

After Naomi continued to scratch and claw, she was caught by a power bomb followed by an Annihilator. The women’s Queen of the Ring also includes Bianca Belair, Tiffany Stratton and Jade Cargill. It’s anybody’s guess who could win this tournament.

Nia Jax vs. Naomi Grade: B

Carmelo hayes def. baron corbin.

Backstage, Carmelo Hayes roasted Baron Corbin for not getting drafted on TV. I almost forgot this factoid, but both Baron Corbin and Wade Barrett are former Kings of the Ring.

Baron Corbin is now a babyface on WWE SmackDown, which I think is a mistake.

This match was sponsored by Iron Claw, which is now streaming on Max.

Baron Corbin continues to be an underrated worker as he went back-and-forth with Carmelo Hayes. The match ended with a schoolboy rollup from Hayes.

Baron Corbin vs. Carmelo Hayes Grade: B

Jade cargill def. piper niven.

This was as hard-hitting of a women’s meat match as I’ve ever seen. At one point, Jade kicked Piper right in the face, and despite being a little stiff, it looked awesome.

This match seemed designed to get Jade Cargill to work on her selling, which she did for long stretches against the bigger Piper Niven.

Jade Cargill should send Piper Niven flowers after giving her the best match she’s had in WWE to date. The crowd was fiercely behind Jade, who won with a Jaded. Jade’s potential is unlimited.

Jade Cargill vs. Piper Niven Grade: B+

Bianca belair def. candice lerae.

There’s an outside chance that Jade Cargill and Bianca Belair could face off in the Queen of the Ring tournament, but there’s no way WWE gives this dream match away that early. Jade vs. Bianca is my early favorite to headline Night 1 of WrestleMania 41.

Bianca sold her knee for much of the match to create a sense of doubt of whether she can win this match. Quickly after, Belair hit the KOD for the win.

During a tense backstage confrontation between Paul Heyman and Solo Sikoa, fans could be heard chanting “we want Roman!”

Bianca Belair vs. Candice LeRae Grade: B-

Tama tonga def. angelo dawkins.

Angelo Dawkins replaced Tama Tonga in this match due to injury. In real life, it was something of a lucky break for Bobby, who likely would have suffered the same fate as Angelo.

Montez Ford ate a Samoan Spike from the Interim Tribal Chief Solo Sikoa on the outside. This led to the abrupt destruction of Angelo Dawkins as WWE continues to heat up The Bloodline. I don’t expect Tama Tonga to become King of the Ring, but it’ll be interesting to see how they bounce him out of this tournament if this is the case.

Tama Tonga vs. Angelo Dawkins Grade: B-

Randy orton def. aj styles.

Multiple WWE Superstars interacted with a fan in the front row dressed as Macho Man Randy Savage. This included Randy Orton, who said something that made the fan laugh.

Orton continued to have fun with the Randy Savage fan by selling on the barricade, right next to the fan, almost as if to seek encouragement. Orton has become very playful in his veteran years.

Fans really rallied behind Orton as the two pros took their time building heat for the match, with Styles on offense.

Randy Orton won a perfectly paced match with an RKO out of nowhere for a gigantic pop. A true clinic.

Randy Orton vs. AJ Styles Grade: B+

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

A newsletter briefing on the intersection of technology and politics.

A college professor wants to use Section 230 against Big Tech

Happy Wednesday! We can add Katy Perry’s mom and whoever runs Instagram’s Instagram account to the long list of folks who could use a primer on how to spot deepfakes . Send news tips to: [email protected]  

A college professor’s lawsuit turns Section 230 against Big Tech

Ethan Zuckerman , a longtime technologist and social media scholar, thought he fully understood Section 230, the 1996 statute that contains the famous “26 words that created the internet.” But three years ago, he was reading its full text aloud to his class at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst when suddenly, in his words, “a lightbulb went off in my head.”

It struck him that the law, widely understood to shield tech companies from being sued for their users’ posts, also protects users. In particular, it protects people who build tools to filter or moderate online content. People like Zuckerman’s friend Louis Barclay , a developer who in 2021 was permanently banned from Facebook and Instagram for developing a tool called “Unfollow Everything” that lets users, well, unfollow everything and restart their feeds fresh.

Three years later, that eureka moment has turned into a lawsuit — one that, if successful, could loosen Big Tech’s grip on how people use social media. 

The suit, filed by Columbia University’s Knight First Amendment Institute on Zuckerman’s behalf, asks a California court to declare that Meta can’t ban or sue him for building an unfollowing tool inspired by Barclay’s. (You can read it here .) If the suit succeeds, Zuckerman plans to release the tool, called “Unfollow Everything 2.0,” and hopes a wave of other tools to give users more control over their online lives will follow.

He has in mind tools like technologist Tracy Chou ’s Block Party, an app that helped Twitter users squelch spam and harassment — as well as third-party algorithms or content moderation systems that let people filter and order their social media feeds in different ways. Such tools are sometimes called “middleware” and have been touted by the Stanford political scientist Francis Fukuyama as a way to break Silicon Valley’s chokehold on online speech. 

Zuckerman’s tool, like Barclay’s before it, is meant to help Facebook users break their scrolling habits and reset the social network to one populated by people they’re actually close with. He also plans to offer users the chance to participate in a study to track how their Facebook use changes. He said he designed it to be “privacy-preserving,” anticipating Meta’s possible objection to the tool on data privacy grounds. 

“I think in many ways Section 230 has become shorthand for, ‘The internet giants have too much power,’” Zuckerman said. “The funny thing is, when you actually read 230, it has language in there that could give us a path to more control” for users.

Meta, which declined to comment, has a history of shutting down such projects. 

Protecting users’ privacy was the company’s justification in 2021, when it pulled the plug on New York University’s Ad Observatory, a tool to study the placement of political ads on the social network. Like Barclay, the New York University researchers behind the project found themselves banned from the site . Facebook said it made the move to comply with a Federal Trade Commission privacy agreement — an excuse the FTC rejected .

Chou, the founder and CEO of Block Party, said she welcomes Zuckerman’s suit. “It's no secret that people are widely dissatisfied with platforms, their algorithms and their dark patterns, and only more so because they have no choice about any of it,” she said. “Enabling more tools to live in this ecosystem could be as transformative as the app store for iOS, with applications that people could never have imagined in the beginning.”

The lawsuit’s chances of success are unclear.

An overly broad ruling that forces Meta to allow “any third party to come along and hoover up data in the name of middleware” could risk opening the door to a repeat of the Cambridge Analytica affair, as Daphne Keller of Stanford’s Cyber Policy Center pointed out in a post on X . But she suggested that a tool like Zuckerman’s could perhaps be immunized for collecting the data necessary to function while still being liable for any misuse of the data.

Jeff Kosseff , a professor of cyberscience at the Naval Academy and author of a book on Section 230 , said the case relies on a theory that has yet to be tested in court. He said the provision it draws on was meant at least in part to protect the use of parental control tools that filter out adult content. It has also been used by anti-malware companies to defend themselves against claims that they’re unfairly filtering other sites. But he’s not aware of anyone using it to seek a preemptive declaration that middleware is permitted.

“I think it’s a fascinating case that could have pretty significant implications for middleware,” Kosseff said. “I wouldn’t even hazard to predict how it’s going to come out, because these issues are so novel.”

Government scanner

Commerce Department revokes more export licenses to China’s Huawei (By Eva Dou and Ellen Nakashima)

In Tesla Autopilot probe, US prosecutors focus on securities, wire fraud (Reuters)

U.S., U.K. police identify and charge Russian leader of LockBit ransomware gang (TechCrunch)

Microsoft launches AI chatbot for spies (Ars Technica)

Hill happenings

TikTok files court challenge to U.S. law that could lead to ban (By Drew Harwell)

Inside the industry

OpenAI is readying a search product to rival Google, Perplexity (Bloomberg)

OpenAI says it can now detect images spawned by its software — most of the time (The Wall Street Journal)

Meta will let advertisers create campaigns using new generative AI tools (Bloomberg News)

Substack courts TikTokers with new ‘creators’ program (By Taylor Lorenz)

Privacy monitor

How to opt out of the privacy nightmare that comes with new Hondas (Sherwood)

The iPad lost. Smartphones won. (By Shira Ovide)

• The Senate Commerce Committee holds a hearing , “Strengthening Data Security to Protect Consumers,” today at 2:30 p.m.
• Justice Department antitrust chief Jonathan Kanter discusses competition enforcement and Big Tech at a Washington Post Live event on Thursday at 3 p.m.
• The House Energy and Commerce Committee holds a hearing , “Perspectives from the Fields: The State of Rural Broadband in America,” Friday at 10 a.m.

Before you log off

aubrey drake graham and kendrick lamar duckworth sound like two 19th century explorers who both died in a race to the south pole — kingseeker peter frampton (@revhowardarson) May 7, 2024

That ’ s all for today — thank you so much for joining us! Make sure to tell others to subscribe to  The Technology 202 here . Get in touch with Cristiano (via email or social media ) and Will (via email or social media ) for tips, feedback or greetings!