Mathematics
The goal of the Middle School curriculum is to provide students with the foundation of knowledge and understanding of mathematics necessary to function in a world very dependent upon the application of mathematics.
Expanding the students’ multiplication and division skills forms the core of initial semester of Grade 4, as they begin to work with three-digit numbers. They also learn how to perform multi-step equations, and work with quotients.
Mixed number and improper fractions are ordered and compared, added and subtracted. Decimals are likewise manipulated in a more complex way.
In geometry, more in-depth work is done on polygons. Perimeter, area and volume are calculated of solid and plane figures.
The students continue their work on measuring length, mass and capacity, using both customary and metric systems. They read and interpret line graphs, and represent data using tables, bar graphs, and pictographs.
Grade 5 is a year of exciting progress of math skill development. Major topics that are deeply investigated include but are not limited to:
- mastery in the four basic math operations
- proficiency with algebraic operations
- applying geometry concepts to problem solving
- development of complex graphing skills
- use of functions and probability to make predictions
In Grade 6 students complete a rich year of development and skill building in mathematics that will prepare them for the Integrated Algebra curriculum which is introduced in Grade 7. By the end of the school year, sixth graders will be able to:
- have a solid understanding of algebraic principles
- graph and solve linear equations
- understand and apply basic concepts of geometry
- apply math to everyday activities
In Grade 7, students will begin studying a course called Integrated Algebra. Within the New York State public school system, the Integrated Algebra curriculum is the first mathematics course taught in high school.
Over the next two semesters of a four-semester-long course, seventh graders will develop the skills that will prepare them for success in college, in careers, and in daily life. The following are key concepts that are introduced:
- write, solve, and graph equations and inequalities
- solve systems of equations and quadratics
- explore exponents and exponential functions
- investigate situations involving polynomials, radicals and rational expressions
- determine probability of various types of events
- study data analysis that include measures of central tendencies and visual representations of data
In Grade 8 students will continue to deepen their understanding of the concepts that are encompassed within the Integrated Algebra curriculum. This year is designed to address the same topics in seventh grade, but with each lesson and assignment, students will investigate different ways of approaching each situation.
At the end of the course, in June, all eighth grade students will sit for the New York State Integrated Regents Examination.
The following is a list of the topics that will be revisited in great detail:
- write, solve, and graph equations and inequalities
- solve systems of equations and quadratics
- explore exponents and exponential functions
- investigate situations involving polynomials, radicals and rational expressions
- determine probability of various types of events
- study data analysis that include measures of central tendencies and visual representations of data