Mathematics
	The mathematics curriculum provides an integrated treatment of mathematical content, including significant exposure to algebra, geometry and probability at all levels. Both skills and appropriate applications are emphasized in an effort to prepare students for future substantive coursework while helping them understand how mathematical ideas interconnect and build on one another. Thus, our goal is not only to ensure a basic working knowledge of mathematical procedures, but also to foster an interest in mathematics and a problem-solving attitude that will benefit and sustain students beyond the classroom. In addition, laptops are used within the classes on various projects throughout the year. Math 6 This is a traditional course based on the basic skills of arithmetic. Because the fundamentals are essential to building students' confidence in their math ability as well as in constructing a foundation for future challenges in math, the basic skills of arithmetic are reinforced and solidified during the year. The skills taught this year include: basic operations using whole numbers, fractions and decimals, basic concepts in geometry, ratio, proportions, percentages, order of operations, probability and elementary concepts in algebra, including working with variables and solving equations. All 6th graders take part in Math Olympics (a problem-solving competition) which takes place monthly. Appropriate study skills (test-taking skills, note-taking and organizational skills) are integrated into the curriculum. Math 6 Accelerated This course is designed for the students who have either developed the early skills or are mathematically advanced. Students may be placed in this accelerated math to broaden their math experience. The curriculum in Math 6A assumes mastery of all skills with fractions and decimals, competence in using processes for solving equations and proportions, maturity to work independently and the abstract ability to understand more complex geometric concepts. More algebraic skills are studied, such as operations with integers and rational numbers, solving and graphing equations and inequalities, in depth work with percentages, the Pythagorean Theorem and more complex word problems. All 6th graders take part in Math Olympics (a problem solving competition) which takes place monthly. Appropriate study skills (test taking skills, note taking and organizational skills) are integrated into the curriculum.

	Math 7 This course is a traditional 7th grade math course. The Math 7 curriculum will continue to build a stronger foundation of skills with fractions and decimals, equations, proportions, as well as basic geometry and statistics concepts. Students will be introduced to more algebraic concepts such as operations with integers and rational numbers, solving and graphing a variety of equations and inequalities, in depth work with percentages, right triangles (Pythagorean theorem), and basic word problems. Pre-Algebra This course is an in-depth and comprehensive exploration of the ideas, concepts and tools necessary for success in Algebra. Mastery of basic math skills, achieved through extensive practice, builds a strong foundation for more abstract concepts. Students are introduced to the foundational operations within the Real number system, which they must utilize across a broad spectrum of mathematical concepts. Percents, ratios, proportions, radicals and basic number theory also play an important role. As a primary focus of the class, students explore the general concepts of algebra: understanding variables, the evaluation of expressions, the solving of equations, the graphing, as well as the writing and analysis of linear functions. In addition, an introduction to quadratic equations, exponential expressions, polynomials, and even geometry are all undertaken. While the use of calculators is prohibited, students use their laptops for various, ongoing activities (fantasy football, a geometry project where they create their own abstract art, the mechanics and applications of spreadsheets, etc.) Algebra 1 This course is a standard first-year introductory algebra course. While most of the focus is on assuring proficiency in basic algebraic skills and processes, considerable time will be devoted to solving realistic and interesting applications. Topics include solving equations, inequalities and systems, factoring, polynomials, rational expressions, irrational numbers, radicals, and quadratic equations. Students will be introduced to the use of graphing calculators as well as some computer applications. It is in Algebra 1 that students acquire an application for the value and power of their new algebraic and graphing tools. Algebra 1 Accelerated This accelerated course explores similar content and themes as presented in Algebra 1, with additional rigor. As stated in the Algebra 1 description above, the course is a study of introductory algebra topics, but extensive word problems and graphing techniques will provide a broader understanding of algebraic topics. Supplementary topics may be introduced at the discretion of the instructor. Students will learn to use their graphing calculators as an integral tool to visualize situations and solve problems. Department permission is required for admission into this course. Algebra 2 Honors This course is a study of functions - linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, rational, and polynomial - and an introduction to matrices, sequences and series, and basic probability concepts, among others. These topics are studied algebraically, graphically, and numerically, and through this triplex approach, students will continue to acquire an understanding of algebraic structure and how algebra can be used to model various situations. The graphing calculator becomes an integral element used not only as a tool for numerical manipulation but also for visualization and verification. Department permission is required for admission to this course.