Mathematics

The Middle School Math program continues to build upon their mathematics foundation established in the lower school and allows students to apply this knowledge to real-world math problems. They continue to use the Singapore Math Approach into middle school, emphasizing problem solving and empowering students to think mathematically. Thoughtful sequencing helps students build a complex understanding and apply math concepts to situations outside the classroom.

Course Descriptions

Mathematics 6th Grade

The 6th grade course emphasizes many critical areas of development. Students examine the various expressions of whole numbers and utilize the Order of Operations. Students will connect ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division as well as use concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems. Student will also complete their understanding of division of fractions and decimals while extending the notion of numbers to the system of rational numbers, which includes negative numbers. Students will write, interpret, and use expressions and equations. Students then analyze coordinate planes and graphs then proceed into volume and surface area. Students conclude the year by developing an understanding of statistical thinking through the process of displaying, analyzing, and comparing data.

Mathematics 7th Grade

Students in 7th grade begin with the factors and multiples, including prime factorization and the use of the greatest common factor and the least common multiple. They learn about the real number system and its properties. Students build on their knowledge of algebraic notations, expressions and formulas. They continue developing skills of algebraic manipulation and solve simple equations and inequalities with one variable. Students apply rates, ratios, proportions, and percent of increase and decrease to real world situations. A unit of geometric concepts angles, triangles and quadrilaterals, follows. Students analyze number patterns and sequences. Analytic Geometry is introduced with coordinates and linear graphs. Students will analyze and solve for the measurements of both plane figures (perimeter and area) and solids (surface area and volume). They conclude the year by developing an understanding of statistical thinking by handling and analyzing data and determining the probability of simple events.

Mathematics 8th Grade

The 8th grade math course is comprised of multiple units. This math course establishes a strong mathematical foundation for students before they move onto Upper school level courses. The first unit focuses on exponents and scientific notation. Students delve into understanding linear equations in two variables and learn multiple ways to solve simultaneous two variable linear equations. The next few units cover the expansion and factorization of algebraic expressions which is applied to simple algebraic fractions. Students are exposed to Transformational Geometry, where they will investigate concepts of transformations,congruence, and similarity. In the following unit students enter the realm of Measurement Geometry, analyzing angle relationships in various applications, the Pythagorean Theorem, coordinate geometry and measurements of various geometric shapes. Finally students explore statistics, data analysis and conclude the year by exploring quadratic functions and application.

Algebra 1 Honors (1 year/1.0 units of High School credit)

This is a one-year course with some discussion of theory and application beyond basic manipulative skills. Algebra 1 Honors involves an in-depth exploration of algebraic concepts, through additional word problems and mathematical labs. Concepts covered in this course include simplifying expressions, solving and graphing equations and inequalities, factoring polynomials, simplifying rational expressions, solving systems of equations, simplifying radicals and solving quadratic equations. The Honors course concludes with an introduction to Algebra II concepts.

Prerequisite: Above average grade (determined by the instructor) on the placement exam and recommendation from 7th grade math instructor along with a final grade of A, A-, or B+

Complete Middle School Course of Study

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