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

The picture introduces to the requirements of an 8th grade essay.

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:

The picture contains information about the language style required for an 8th grade 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:

The picture contains an exemplary outline for an 8th grade argumentative essay.

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.

The picture contains an exemplary outline for an 8th grade persuasive essay.

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:

The picture contains brief descriptions of exposutory essay types.

💾 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,

Free Printable Essay Writing Worksheets for 8th Grade

Essay Writing made accessible! Discover a vast collection of free printable Reading & Writing worksheets tailored for Grade 8 students. Enhance your teaching experience and help students excel with Quizizz.

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Explore printable Essay Writing worksheets for 8th Grade

Essay Writing worksheets for Grade 8 are an essential tool for teachers looking to develop and enhance their students' reading and writing skills. These worksheets focus on various aspects of writing, including nonfiction writing, which is a crucial component of the curriculum for this grade level. By incorporating these worksheets into their lesson plans, teachers can provide a structured and engaging approach to teaching writing, while also ensuring that their students are exposed to a wide range of topics and writing styles. Additionally, these worksheets can help students practice their writing skills, improve their vocabulary, and develop a better understanding of grammar and sentence structure. Overall, Essay Writing worksheets for Grade 8 are an invaluable resource for teachers who want to help their students excel in reading and writing.

Quizizz is an excellent platform that offers a variety of educational resources, including Essay Writing worksheets for Grade 8, to help teachers create engaging and interactive lessons for their students. In addition to worksheets, Quizizz also provides teachers with access to a vast library of quizzes, games, and other learning materials that can be easily integrated into their lesson plans. This platform is particularly useful for teachers who are looking to incorporate technology into their classrooms, as it allows them to create customized learning experiences that cater to the unique needs and abilities of their students. Furthermore, Quizizz offers real-time feedback and analytics, enabling teachers to monitor their students' progress and adjust their teaching strategies accordingly. By utilizing Quizizz and its wide range of offerings, teachers can ensure that their Grade 8 students receive a comprehensive and well-rounded education in reading, writing, and nonfiction writing.

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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

students writing class using pencil

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 with colored pencils and notebook

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

8th grader writing outdoor

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

middle schoolers walking on school campus

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

students in school corridor discussion

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

sample 8th grade essay questions

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

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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!

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FREE Common Core: 8th Grade English Language Arts Practice Tests

All common core: 8th grade english language arts resources, free common core: 8th grade english language arts diagnostic tests, common core: 8th grade english language arts diagnostic test 1, free common core: 8th grade english language arts practice tests, practice tests by concept, language practice test, capitalization, punctuation, and spelling: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.2, use correct spelling: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.2.c, use elipses: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.2.b, use punctuation to indicate pauses: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.2.a, english grammar and usage in writing and speaking: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.1, explain the function of verbals: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.1.a, identify and correct incorrect shifts in verb voice and mood: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.1.d, use active and passive voice: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.1.b, use indicative, imperative, interrogative, conditional, and subjunctive verbs: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.1.c, meanings of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.4, consult print and digital reference materials to define and pronounce words: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.4.c, use context clues to determine word meanings: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.4.a, understand nuanced word meanings and relationships: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.5, distinguish connotations among words with similar denotations: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.5.c, interpret figures of speech in context: ccss.ela-literacy.l.8.5.a, reading practice test, craft and structure practice test, reading to determine author's point of view practice test, reading to understand structure practice test, reading to understand vocabulary in context practice test, integration of knowledge and ideas practice test, reading to compare and contrast texts practice test, reading to evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text practice test, key ideas and details practice test, reading to analyze elements of a text practice test, reading to cite textual evidence practice test, reading to determine main idea or theme practice test, practice quizzes, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 26, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 25, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 24, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 23, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 22, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 21, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 20, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 19, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 18, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 17, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 16, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 15, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 14, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 13, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 12, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 11, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 10, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 9, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 8, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 7, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 6, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 5, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 4, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 3, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 2, common core: 8th grade english language arts problem set 1.

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Take Free State Assessment Practice Tests and Sample Questions for Grade 3 to 8 - Math & ELA

sample 8th grade essay questions

Sample Test Questions

Sbac sample questions: grade 8 ela.

The Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) is a standardized test that includes a variety of new technology-enhanced questions.

Some of them are Multiple choice-single correct responses, Multiple choice-multiple correct responses, Matching Tables, Drag and Drop, Hot text, Table Fill in, Graphing, Equation/numeric, Extended constructed response, Short answer, and many more.

This page contains several sample questions along with practice test links for Grade 8 ELA that gives you an idea of questions that your students are likely to see on the test. After each sample question, an answer explanation follows. The explanation includes essential aspects of the task that you may need to consider for the skills, processes, and information your students need to know.

Domain: Grade 8 >> Reading Standards for Literature

Sample Question: Which of the following group of signal words would you most likely find in a paper contrasting two things?

  • in addition, finally, above all
  • meanwhile, coupled with, for instance
  • likewise, as well, the same as
  • although, however, contrary to

Answer Explanation: Answer choice D is correct. A paper or article that is contrasting two things will likely use signal words such as although, however, contrary to, unlike, and unless. These are not the only signal words, but they are quite common. Answer choices A, B, and C are incorrect.

Standards: RL.8.5

Click here to practice: Reading Standards for Literature Questions on 8th Grade

Domain: Grade 8 >> Reading Standards for Informational Text

Sample Question: A zookeeper is a person who manages zoo animals that are kept in captivity for conservation or to be displayed to the public. They work very closely with all the animals in the zoos and have many responsibilities to maintain the health and wellness of each animal. They must have good record keeping skills since there is a lot of data that must be collected for each animal. Each species is different from each other and requires special attention and care that a zookeeper must give. Zookeepers also have a very interesting history that starts in B.C. and continues to the present day. Which of the following means the opposite of the word “captivity” as it appears in the passage above?

  • confinement

Answer Explanation: Answer choice A is correct. As used in the text, captivity means confinement. The question asks for the opposite of captivity which is freedom. Answer choices B, C, and D are not opposite meanings of the word.

Standards: RI 8.4

Click here to practice: Grade 8 Reading Standards for Informational Text Questions

Domain: Grade 8 >> Writing Standards

Sample Question: Which of the following do NOT have to be cited?

  • Articles and books that you refer to directly.
  • Historical, scientific or statistical facts.
  • Paraphrased information.
  • Universal proverb.

Answer Explanation: Answer choice D is correct. Universal proverbs do not have to be cited, but the rest of the answer choices do need to be cited.

Standards: W.8.8

Click here to practice: 8th Grade Writing Standards Questions

Domain: Grade 8 >> Language Standards

Sample Question: Which of the following is written in a passive voice?

A) She decorated the locker for Sally’s birthday.

B) Sally’s locker was decorated for her birthday.

C) The bell rang to signify the end of the day.

D) The kids ran out of the school building.

Answer Explanation: Answer choice B is correct. Sentence B is the only one that is written in the passive voice. The subject is not doing the action.

Standards: L.8.3

Click here to practice: Language Standards Questions for 8th Grade

Looking for online practice tests? Here is the link to practice more of SBAC Grade 8 English Language Arts questions.

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IMAGES

  1. 8th Grade Descriptive Essay Examples

    sample 8th grade essay questions

  2. 002 8th Grade Essay Topics Template Entrancing Persuasive Middle School

    sample 8th grade essay questions

  3. Eighth Grade Persuasive Writing Prompts SAMPLE 1

    sample 8th grade essay questions

  4. 002 8th Grade Essay Topics Template Entrancing Persuasive Middle School

    sample 8th grade essay questions

  5. Grade 8 Essay Examples

    sample 8th grade essay questions

  6. 8th Grade Essay Samples

    sample 8th grade essay questions

COMMENTS

  1. 8th Grade Essay: Examples, Topics, & Writing Tips

    ⚪: Introduction : An intro should contain something intriguing to catch your audience's attention. It's usually a hook: a starting point that makes your readers keep reading your essay. The next significant part of your introduction is the thesis statement. It's the leading thought of your paper that reveals to the reader the essay's subject matter.

  2. PDF GRADE 8 2022 B.E.S.T. Writing

    This sampler can be used as a resource for Florida educators, schools, and districts regarding the scoring of student responses on the B.E.S.T. Writing assessments. Each spring, students in grades 4-10 are administered a set of source texts and a writing prompt based on those sources.

  3. PDF Grade 8 B.E.S.T. Writing Sample Test Materials

    The purpose of these sample test materials is to orient teachers and students to the appearance of passages and prompts on paper-based accommodated. B.E.S.T. Writing tests. Each spring, students in grades 4-10 are administered one text-based writing prompt for the B.E.S.T. Writing test. Students will respond to either an expository prompt or ...

  4. 30 Excellent 8th Grade Writing Prompts » JournalBuddies.com

    As students use these 8th Grade Writing Prompts and write about topics like what it means to be a part of a community and the hardest parts of getting older, they'll become more confident in who they are and where they're heading next—and they'll be ready to tackle whatever new hurdles come their way. Use these excellent 8th-grade ...

  5. 8th Grade Writing Prompts

    Encouraging Self-Reflection. Many sol writing prompts for 8th grade encourage students to reflect on their own experiences, beliefs, and emotions. This introspection promotes self-awareness, empathy, and personal growth as students explore their own thoughts and feelings on various topics.

  6. PDF English Language Arts Grade 8

    reading the passage(s), answering the questions, and planning and writing your essay. If you inish before the allotted time ends, review your work. Then, close your test booklet and wait for further instructions from your teacher. There is a sample passage with sample questions on the next page. Wait for your teacher to instruct you to continue. 2

  7. Free Printable Essay Writing Worksheets for 8th Grade

    Essay Writing worksheets for Grade 8 are an essential tool for teachers looking to develop and enhance their students' reading and writing skills. These worksheets focus on various aspects of writing, including nonfiction writing, which is a crucial component of the curriculum for this grade level. By incorporating these worksheets into their ...

  8. PDF 8th Grade Writing Samples

    The following student sample papers are literary analysis papers focused on characterization. These papers were focused on a character, Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones, in Langston Hughes' short story entitled "Thank You, Ma'm." Paper #1 "Thank You, Ma'm" Langston Hughes, the author of this inspirational short story "Thank You Ma'm,"

  9. 65 Engaging 8th Grade Writing Prompts for Creative Essays

    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.

  10. PDF 2019 Grade 8 English Language Arts Released Questions

    This year, SED is again releasing large portions of the 2019 NYS Grades 3-8 English Language Arts and Mathematics test materials for review, discussion, and use. For 2019, included in these released materials are at least 75 percent of the test questions that appeared on the 2019 tests (including all constructed-response questions) that ...

  11. 25 Best English Essay Topics for Grade 8 Students

    August 31, 2022. homeworkhelp. Students. A grade 8 school student have to write many essays on different topics. Thankfully we have put together a list of 25 great essay topics to ease your task.

  12. PDF FSA ELA Writing Practice Test

    Grade 8 FSA ELA Writing Practice Test The purpose of these practice test materials is to orient teachers and ... claims that he still does not have an answer to that question, perhaps book sales speak for themselves. Thinner, a book released under Richard Bachman's name, sold about 28,000 copies. When it was later 10 11 12 13.

  13. 100 Interesting 8th Grade Writing Prompts

    These fun and interesting 8th-grade writing prompts will inspire older students to write longer and more in-depth work.

  14. Common Core: 8th Grade English Language Arts Practice Tests

    Our completely free Common Core: 8th Grade English Language Arts practice tests are the perfect way to brush up your skills. Take one of our many Common Core: 8th Grade English Language Arts practice tests for a run-through of commonly asked questions. You will receive incredibly detailed scoring results at the end of your Common Core: 8th ...

  15. Grade 8 Level 4 Writing Sample

    Grade 8 Level 4 Writing Sample. Global warming has become a serious threat to our planet. Explain what we can do as citizens to reduce the effects of global warming. You may want to consider factors, such as: recycling. the impact of fossil fuels (oil, gas and coal) the impact of consumerism (buying things). View full size.

  16. 2021 MCAS Sample Student Work and Scoring Guides: Grade 8 English

    Grade 8 English Language Arts. Question 12: Language and Writing. Notes: The sample responses provided here are selections of actual student work from the MCAS tests administered in 2021. In order to protect the privacy of individual students, all names and references of a personal nature have been altered or removed. Aside from these changes ...

  17. PDF PSSA Grade 8 English Language Arts Item Sampler

    English Language Arts Grade 8. This English Language Arts Sampler is composed of 2 passages, 5 passage-based MC questions, 2 EBSR questions, 1 TDA prompt, and 4 Conventions of Standard English MC questions. There are three passages in this booklet. The first passage is followed by a set of passage-based MC questions and 2 EBSR questions.

  18. 2021 MCAS Sample Student Work and Scoring Guides

    Below you will find scoring guides and samples of student work for released items from the spring 2021 MCAS tests. Scoring guides and student work samples are provided for the following item types: constructed-response items and essay questions. In addition, annotations are included at all score points with the student work samples for ELA ...

  19. PDF Grade 8 FSA ELA Reading Practice Test Questions

    The purpose of these practice test materials is to orient teachers and students to the types of questions on paper-based FSA ELA Reading tests. By using these materials, students will become familiar with the types of items and response formats they may see on a paper-based test. The practice questions and answers are not intended to ...

  20. SBAC SAMPLE QUESTIONS: GRADE 8 ELA

    Domain: Grade 8 >> Language Standards. Sample Question: Which of the following is written in a passive voice? A) She decorated the locker for Sally's birthday. B) Sally's locker was decorated for her birthday. C) The bell rang to signify the end of the day. D) The kids ran out of the school building.

  21. Reading Language Arts STAAR Sample Items

    Multiple-choice revising and editing items will be included as field test items on grades 3-8 STAAR reading tests in Spring 2020 and 2021. These items will be embedded in the assessments and will have no accountability measure. The new writing items will not become operational until the 2022-2023 school year. Please note that the grades 4 ...

  22. STAAR Released Test Questions

    TEA releases two types of test questions for STAAR—test forms and sample questions. A test form is a set of released test questions previously administered together to Texas students and reflects the STAAR test blueprints. Sample test questions are small subsets of test questions released from the STAAR test banks. These test questions may have been previously administered.

  23. Past Grades 3-8 Tests

    Past Grades 3-8 Tests. Grades 3-8 English Language Arts Released Test Questions. Grades 3-8 Mathematics Released Test Questions. Grades 3-8 Mathematics Released Test Questions (Translations) Grades 3-8 ELA and Mathematics Released Test Questions (2015-2017) Grade 8 Science. Archive. Grade 4 Science.