Eighth-grade advanced algebra focuses on five math themes: simplifying expressions, solving equations, graphing functions, applying concepts to real-world problems, and probability and statistics. It is a faster paced algebra class. New topics are introduced using a combination of modeling and problem-based learning. Students develop abstract reasoning skills and learn to communicate using precise mathematical language. This course is the foundation for future math and science courses in the upper school, college, and beyond. Successful completion of algebra in eighth grade counts towards the graduation requirement in the upper school.
Eighth-grade advanced algebra focuses on five math themes: simplifying expressions, solving equations, graphing functions, applying concepts to real-world problems, and probability and statistics. It is a faster paced algebra class. New topics are introduced using a combination of modeling and problem-based learning. Students develop abstract reasoning skills and learn to communicate using precise mathematical language. This course is the foundation for furture math and science courses in the upper school, college, and beyond. Successful completion of algebra in eighth grade counts towards the graduation requirement in the upper school.
Advanced Pre-Algebra develops students’ number sense and mathematical reasoning through problem-solving. A distinguishing feature is the enhanced pace at which the course moves. With an emphasis on group and partner work, the course introduces basic algebraic reasoning with integers, equations, inequalities, relations, functions, and graphing. Additionally, it covers proportions, geometry, probability, and statistics. The course is the precursor to entering either Algebra or Advanced Algebra in the eighth-grade year.
Eighth-grade algebra focuses on four math themes: simplifying expressions, solving equations, graphing functions, and applying concepts to real-world problems. New topics are introduced over several days using a combination of modeling and problem-based learning. Students develop abstract reasoning skills and learn to communicate using precise mathematical language. This course is the foundation for future math and science courses in the upper school, college, and beyond. Successful completion of algebra in eighth grade counts towards the graduation requirement in the upper school.
Successful completion of Geometry or Honors Geometry required
Application and departmental approval required
Honors Algebra 2 moves quickly through linear algebra and graphing to focus first semester on matrices, quadratic functions, and polynomial functions. Second semester topics include rational exponents, radical functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, rational functions, conic sections, counting methods and probability, data analysis and sequences and series. Students are expected to display their understanding of concepts using appropriate mathematical language both verbally and in writing. Along with their studies, students are taught to use the graphing calculator in conjunction with paper and pencil methods. This course is highly recommended for students who plan to take Honors Precalculus.
Students begin the course with the study of inductive reasoning and subsequently learn geometry by identifying patterns and relationships that can be generalized into the theorems of geometry. Often work is done in small groups during class time with the teacher acting as mentor rather than lecturer. The class as a whole discusses its findings, checks homework answers, and asks questions about the work. The content of the course includes line and angle properties; constructions; triangle and quadrilateral properties; characteristics of all polygons and circles; surface area and volume of solids; basic triangle trigonometry; and proofs using the geometric relationships which have been discovered. Throughout the year students gain experience in reading a math textbook, cooperative learning, writing about mathematics, and oral explanation of concepts.
Seventh-grade pre-algebra prepares students for success in algebra in the eighth grade. Pre-algebra develops rational number skills through real-life applications and problem-solving. The course introduces basic algebra skills, including integers, equations, inequalities, relations, functions, and writing and graphing linear equations. It also covers proportional reasoning, geometry, probability, and statistics.
This course is designed to develop skills students need to be successful in Algebra I following the Math Connects curriculum. Each unit focuses on further development of specific skills, while using algebraic thinking to solve multi-step problems. Students learn to communicate their problems and solutions in an organized written and/or verbal format. The structure of the class strives to strengthen the level of independence, initiative, responsibility, and organization of each student.
