Mathematics

Mathematics

We have created our curriculum with the view that growth in the understanding of fundamental mathematical ideas is a continuing and ordered process. We plan course offerings to give students recurring and varied contact with the essential principles, processes, language, and notation of mathematics. Discovery, logic, brainstorming, analogy, and other techniques introduce and reinforce concepts. Regular practice provides opportunities to master the manipulations and notions discussed in class. Computers and graphing calculators are used to facilitate computations after basic skills have been learned.

Math 5: Foundations in Mathematics 3.0 credits AY 5

In Math 5, students explore mathematical operations and apply concepts to real-world problems. Within the course, students will sharpen computational skills, expand facility with fraction and decimal operations, and explore the concepts of ratio, proportion, and percents. Through all of this learning, there is an emphasis on developing number fluency and number sense. By the end of this course, students are ready to begin algebraic investigations, which characterize the Middle School mathematics experience.

Math 6: Arithmetic to Algebra 3.0 credits AY 6

Math 6 serves as a bridge from arithmetic to algebra, reviewing foundational mathematics while offering exposure to algebraic concepts such as solving 1-step equations and translating between word and number sentences. While grappling with these topics, students develop learning strategies to support their investigation of mathematics. Upon completion of Math 6, students who demonstrate mastery of the curriculum enroll in Introduction to Algebra. Students who would benefit from additional opportunities to practice number fluency and explore foundational algebra concepts enroll in Math 7.

Math 7: Strengthening Algebraic Thought 3.0 credits AY 7

Math 7 prepares students for Introduction to Algebra. Much of the curriculum is dedicated to reinforcing foundational math skills such as operations with fractions and decimals, while also building student confidence. This course structures the development of more abstract algebraic thinking in preparation for Introduction to Algebra. This course challenges students to document their thinking and show evidence of math logic on the page.

Introduction to Algebra 3.0 credits AY 7-8

As the course name suggests, Introduction to Algebra introduces students to core concepts within algebra. Main topics within Introduction to Algebra include: working with positive and negative numbers, simplifying algebraic expressions, solving equations, graphing linear equations, and solving systems of equations. While exploring these ideas, students develop problem-solving skills, moving away from an algorithmic approach to mathematics. The focus is on conceptual understanding rather than memorizing “steps.”

Algebra 1 3.0 credits AY 7-8

Prerequisite: Introduction to Algebra

Algebra 1 course introduces foundational algebraic concepts including linear equations in one and two variables; systems of equations and inequalities; manipulation of monomials, binomials and polynomials; factoring; graphing lines and parabolas; direct and indirect variation; rules of exponents; and rational functions. While exploring these topics, students strengthen their ability to think logically and develop mathematical problem-solving strategies.

Geometry 3.0 credits AY 8

Prerequisite: Algebra 1

Geometry centers around Euclidean geometry on the coordinate plane and also considers geometry in three dimensions. Students will study angles, areas, volumes, circles, triangles, similarity, and trigonometry. Students will practice proving conjectures with logical arguments. This course integrates hands-on activities such as constructions using a compass and straightedge. Curriculum in this course intentionally interleaves core concepts from Algebra 1 such as systems of equations, challenging students to use algebraic skills to tackle geometric problems.