MATHEMATICS

Grade 6

The Pre-Algebra 6 course begins students’ preparation for algebra. The program is designed to develop a greater mastery of computation and estimation through applications in various problem-solving activities, particularly those connected to science and the sixth grade curricular theme of water. The course works to develop students’ thinking in the key mathematical processes of counting, visualizing, comparing, estimating, measuring, modeling, reasoning, connecting, representing, and using tools. Among the topics covered are integers, decimals, fractions, ratios and proportions, percents, measurement, data analysis, and introductory geometry. Several times during the year the Pre-Algebra 6 course is integrated through projects with the sixth grade Earth Science course.

Grade 7

This course continues students’ preparation for algebra and is designed to address four main topics: number theory, statistics, geometry, and basic algebra skills. In number theory, students explore the number system through use of patterns, fractions, decimals, and percents. The statistics unit examines probability, data collection, data presentation, and decision-making. The geometry unit investigates properties and patterns of geometric shapes and theories. Students are exposed to methods and skills of manipulating symbolic representations. This course utilizes activities, labs, games, and projects to help students comprehend and master the topics of the course.

Grade 8

This course includes the study of signed numbers, operations with literal expressions, factoring, fractions, linear equations and systems of linear equations, fractional equations, radicals, quadratic and exponential equations, and their applications to problems. Students are expected to become facile with the basic techniques of factoring and simplifying expressions. The ideas and rules of algebra learned in this course form the foundation for much of high school math and science.

All topics from Algebra I are studied in the honors section in addition to more difficult ideas and techniques. Students derive formulas, clearly explain the advantages of different problem-solving strategies, and study more topics than are covered in Algebra I.