Mathematics

Middle School mathematics classes equip students with the mathematical skills of a competent citizen in today's world. These skills include the ability to model situations mathematically, to estimate and compare magnitudes, to interpret graphs and statistics, to calculate probabilities, to evaluate numerical and spatial conclusions, to solve problems mentally as well as with paper, calculator, and computer, and to communicate effectively in these areas. Finally, while much of the above is exercised in the context of individual work, we have the further goal of fostering the skills and value of doing mathematics cooperatively with others.

We define mathematics very broadly as a systematic approach to studying and representing quantities, forms, patterns, and logic. Thus the content of our courses encompasses the wide range of arithmetic, number theory, measurement, geometry, probability, statistics, graphing, pattern recognition, logic, and problem solving strategy.

Grade 6 Mathematics:
The goal is to focus and strengthen arithmetic skills concentrating on whole numbers, decimals, fractions, and percent.  This course will provide a solid foundation in geometry and introduce pre-algebra concepts such as integers, simple equation solving, formulas, algebraic expressions, and linear graphics.

Pre-Algebra and Pre-Algebra Honors:
These courses are preparation for Algebra I or Algebra I Honors. Key strands include algebra, data analysis/statistics, geometry, ratio and proportion, percent, measurement, patterns and functions, simplifying and evaluating formulas and expressions, equation/inequality solutions, graphing, and linear functions. The honors level places emphasis on theory and application beyond mechanical processes.

Algebra I and Algebra I Honors:
A rigorous high school-level first-year algebra course with emphasis on theory and application beyond mechanical processes. Problem solving is integral to both regular and honors level courses.

Geometry Honors:
A high school course offered on the middle school campus for students who have completed Algebra I or Algebra I Honors.  The study of geometry provides students with the opportunity to develop mathematic reasoning.  Reasoning mathematically means developing and testing conjectures through deduction.  Teaching students to make conjectures requires a spirit of experimentation and exploration in the classroom.  Students will learn how to follow a proof and to determine whether a proof is valid or invalid.  Initially, students will learn to write simple proofs and then advance to writing more difficult proofs.  Algebra skills will also be integrated throughout each chapter and reinforced within the geometry exercises.