In Grade 8, students refine and master previously learned knowledge and skills in increasingly complex presentations, reading selections, and writing. Eighth grade students continue to read widely in classic and contemporary selections and informational texts. Students are able to identify characteristics of various literary forms. Eighth grade students are able to select and use different forms of writing for specific purposes such as to inform, persuade, or entertain. Students produce multi-paragraph compositions with varied sentence structure. Eighth grade students edit their writing based on their knowledge of grammar and usage, spelling, punctuation, and other conventions of written language. Students produce final, error-free pieces of written composition on a regular basis. Students use citations competently and write by following accepted formats for research reports. Eighth grade students present oral and written reports, including presentations strengthened by visuals and media.