Middle School Math Course Descriptions
Middle School Courses
Math 7
Concepts learned include developing understanding of and applying proportional relationships; extending previous understanding of operations with rational numbers (positive and negative numbers); solving problems using numerical and algebraic expressions and different types of equations; solving problems involving scale drawings and informal geometric constructions; working with 2- and 3-dimensional shapes to solve problems involving area, surface area, and volume; and statistics and probability (drawing inferences about populations based on samples). Students will be required to communicate their mathematical knowledge through problem solving, reasoning, writing and class discussions.
Math 7 Honors
Math 7 Honors is available for qualified seventh grade students based upon grades in core classes, the score on the state assessment, and a math placement exam. The course is fast-paced but digs deeper and teaches the 7th grade topics in the Math 7 as well as Math 8 concepts. Students taking this course need to be self-motivated and able to adjust to the fast pace of the course. Students will be required to communicate their mathematical knowledge through problem solving, reasoning, writing and class discussions. This course will prepare students to take Algebra in the 8th grade.
Math 8
Concepts learned in 8th grade include: formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations, including modeling with equations, and solving linear equations and systems of linear equations; identifying and approximating irrational numbers; working with exponents in equations; grasping the concept of a function and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; analyzing 2- and 3- dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity and congruence; and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem; and investigating patterns of association in bivariate data. Students will be required to communicate their mathematical knowledge through problem solving, reasoning, writing and class discussions.
Math 7 or Math 8 Support
These courses are designed to support students in learning the concepts and skills for Math 7 and Math 8 through additional time and teacher instruction. It is recommended for students to be enrolled in Math 7 and Math 8 who need extra support and who have previously struggled with math. Please contact your student’s counselor to find out more about support opportunities offered at your middle school.
Algebra in the Middle School
Algebra in the Middle School is available for students who have successfully qualified by completing the Math 7 Honors course, the Math 8 course or through placement testing.
Algebra is the foundation for high school mathematics courses. It is the bridge from the concrete to the abstract study of mathematics. This course focuses on generalizing the algorithms of arithmetic to learn how to develop equations and mathematical formulas to simulate real-life problems and solve them through mathematical manipulation. Topics include simplifying expressions, evaluating and solving equations and inequalities, and working extensively with linear, quadratic, exponential and other functions.
Algebra and Geometry are high school level courses and if requested, the grades and credits will be posted on a student’s high school transcript.
Geometry in the Middle School
Geometry in the Middle School is available for students who have successfully completed Algebra 1.
Geometry provides students with experiences that deepen the understanding of two and three-dimensional objects through logic and modeling; and includes work with probability. Deductive and inductive reasoning, as well as investigative strategies, are stressed to enhance the development of problem-solving skills.
Algebra and Geometry are high school level courses and if requested, the grades and credits will be posted on a student’s high school transcript.