GRADE 6

Students study a broad range of mathematical concepts, including fractions, decimals, percents, statistics, probability, graphing on a coordinate plane, and basic geometry. Many of the concepts are familiar to students, but they become more complex and involve more steps in finding solutions. They will use everyday situation and problems to further their mathematical understanding, and develop the ability to explain and justify their answers.

GRADE 7

Mathematics, the study of the measurement, properties, and relationships of quantities and sets using numbers and symbols, is a core class in the Middle School program. In the 7th grade, students develop a strong understanding of important mathematical skills that have many real-life applications. These important skills will also be used and built upon in higher mathematical study. The 7th grade course is structured around the following areas of study: Number Patterns; Number Theory; Decimals; Fractions; Integers; Expressions and Equations; Ratio & Percentage; Geometry and Probability. Throughout all areas of study there is an emphasis on students learning a working mathematical vocabulary and a variety of approaches to problem solving.

GRADE 8 - INTRODUCTION TO ALGEBRA

Students take this course to provide a strong foundation in pre-algebra topics before proceeding on to Algebra I in the ninth grade. The concepts covered include basic linear relationships, number sense with large numbers, and a review of all material covered in 7th grades. There will also be a strong computational component, to strengthen students’ basic mathematical skills in preparation for Algebra in ninth grade.

GRADE 8 -   ALGEBRA I

The Algebra I course is designed to provide students with important mathematical skill that have many real-life applications and lay the foundation for study in higher mathematics. In particular the Algebra I course is structured around the following areas of study: Linear Equations, Polynomials, Factoring Polynomials, Fractions, Introduction to Functions, Systems of Equations and Radicals. Throughout all areas of study there will be an emphasis on students developing a working mathematical vocabulary and a variety of approaches to problem solving.
Students study a variety of topics in the course. The Distributive Property and linear equations in one variable will be a focus of the first trimester. Equation solving and Problem Solving will be primary goals using equations with positive and negative numbers, parentheses, proportions and variables on both sides of the equal sign. Polynomials will be studied with emphasis on factoring for the solutions of quadratic equations. The course will continue with the manipulation of simple fractions and rational expressions with ratios and proportions. The course will include a major unit on graphing linear functions and systems of linear equations including inequalities. Finally, students will work with the complexities of square roots and their manipulation followed by quadratic equations without rational roots. The Quadratic Formula will be introduced as well as completing the square.

Text and Materials:
Algebra Structure and Method Book 1 - McDougal Littell
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