The correct way to write "8th grade" is eighth grade.
Understanding Grade Level Nomenclature
When referring to academic grade levels, clarity and consistency are key. While numerals might seem intuitive for all grades, standard writing conventions often differentiate between lower and higher grade levels. These guidelines help maintain a professional and readable text across various documents, from academic papers to general communication.
Specific Guidance for Grade 8
According to widely accepted editorial standards, when writing grade levels from 1 through 9 in their ordinal form, it is customary to spell out the number. This rule ensures uniformity and readability, aligning with general principles for writing numbers.
Therefore, for "8th grade," the number should be written out as "eighth," resulting in:
- eighth grade
This practice contrasts with how grades 10, 11, and 12 are typically written, where numerals are generally preferred (e.g., 10th grade, 11th grade, 12th grade).
Examples and Applications
Understanding these nuances helps in various writing contexts, from school reports to official documents.
Here are practical examples demonstrating how to properly write grade levels:
-
Correct Forms Based on Common Guidelines:
- My daughter is starting eighth grade this fall.
- The fifth-grade class presented a play.
- He is an excellent tenth-grade student.
- The 11th grade curriculum includes advanced topics.
-
Situational Exception (Sentence Start):
While numerals are standard for grades 10 and above, if such an ordinal number begins a sentence, it should be spelled out for formal writing.- Twelfth grade marks a significant milestone in a student's academic journey.
- Tenth grade is when many students begin to think about college applications.
Summary of Grade Level Writing Conventions
For quick reference, the table below illustrates the common guidelines for writing grade levels:
| Grade Level Range | Preferred Written Form | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Grades 1–9 | Spell out the number | She is in eighth grade. |
| Grades 10–12 | Use numerals with "th" or "st" | He attends the 10th grade at the local high school. |
| (Sentence Start for 10+) | Spell out the number | Twelfth grade is an important year for college preparation. |
Adhering to these guidelines ensures consistency and enhances the clarity of your writing. For more comprehensive information on number usage in writing, you can refer to reputable style guides such as the Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL).
