In accordance with the Middle School philosophy, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) standards, our mathematics department has developed a challenging college-preparatory curriculum that meets the developmental needs of students while encouraging expansion of mathematical applications with a focus on algebraic concepts.
Seventh grade students study Pre-Algebra from the McDougall-Littell Larson series. This curriculum provides the foundation in algebra, geometry, and problem solving that is necessary for success in the college-preparatory mathematics track. Students develop long term skills and habits through study skills, notetaking strategies, and vocabulary lessons that bolster learning. The curriculum reinforces students' problem solving skills through clear presentation of key concepts. Content strands include variables, equations, inequalities, fractions, factors, exponents, ratios, proportions, probabilities, linear functions, geometry, and polynomials.
Eighth grade students study Algebra I from the McDougall-Littell Larson series. This curriculum builds a solid foundation in algebraic fundamentals as students' master concepts through active learning, problem-solving, vocabulary usage, and practice. Content strands include variables, equations, inequalities, linear equations, functions, exponents, quadratic equations, polynomials, factoring, and radicals. At the end of the eighth grade year, all students are evaluated through a five-part assessment to determine the appropriate high school curriculum.
