In the United States, the textbooks covered in 8th grade 2nd semester typically include subjects such as English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. These subjects are designed to build upon the foundational knowledge acquired in the first semester and to prepare students for high school. The specific textbooks used can vary widely depending on the school district, state standards, and the preferences of individual teachers. Commonly used textbooks in English Language Arts include "Holt McDougal Literature" and "Glencoe Literature," while Mathematics often involves "McGraw-Hill Glencoe Math" or "Pearson's Prentice Hall Mathematics." For Science, textbooks like "McGraw-Hill Glencoe Science" and "Pearson's Prentice Hall Science" are prevalent, and Social Studies may feature "Holt McDougal Social Studies" or "Pearson's Prentice Hall Social Studies." These textbooks are chosen to align with the Common Core State Standards or state-specific standards, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive education.

The selection of textbooks in 8th grade 2nd semester is influenced by several factors. Firstly, the textbooks must align with the state's educational standards, which are designed to ensure that all students receive a consistent and rigorous education. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), as of 2020, 49 states and the District of Columbia had adopted the Common Core State Standards, which have become a benchmark for textbook content. Secondly, districts often choose textbooks based on their reputation, the quality of the content, and the ease of use for both teachers and students. For instance, "Holt McDougal Literature" is known for its engaging texts and comprehensive resources, while "McGraw-Hill Glencoe Math" is praised for its clear explanations and practice problems. Lastly, the availability of digital resources and the ability of textbooks to integrate technology are increasingly important considerations, as schools seek to prepare students for a digital future.

The use of these textbooks is also supported by research indicating their effectiveness in teaching and learning. A study published in the "Journal of Educational Research" found that students who used textbooks aligned with the Common Core State Standards outperformed those who did not. Additionally, the "National Assessment of Educational Progress" (NAEP) scores have shown that students using high-quality textbooks tend to achieve higher scores in reading and mathematics. These findings underscore the importance of selecting textbooks that are not only aligned with standards but also well-designed and research-based.

In conclusion, the textbooks covered in 8th grade 2nd semester in the United States are diverse and designed to meet the educational needs of students. The selection process is guided by state standards, textbook quality, and the integration of technology. By using these textbooks, schools aim to provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for high school and beyond.