Middle School
Math Course Descriptions
Middle School Mathematics 7
In middle school mathematics 7, students examine algebra-and-geometry preparatory concepts and skills and strategies for collecting and organizing data. Problem solving, communication, and making connections among mathematical ideas are emphasized in a hands-on learning environment. The use of calculators and computers is integrated with instruction.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of the Elementary Mathematics Program of Studies
Middle School Mathematics 7 (Honors)
Middle School Mathematics 7 (Honors) is a rigorous nontraditional problem-based approach to advanced mathematical thinking. This section of middle school mathematics 7 is designed to provide learning experiences that explore and extend all benchmarks and indicators of the middle School mathematics program as well as the Virginia Standards of Learning for Mathematics Grade 7 and 8. Concepts and skills that students explore beyond the regular mathematics 7 program include such topics as: non-linear equations, solving systems of linear equations, sequences and series, number bases other than base ten, set theory and operations with sets, radical expressions, properties of groups, transformations with matrices, Heron's Formula, trigonometric ratios, congruence and similarity theorems, and standard deviation and normal distributions.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of the Elementary Mathematics Program of Studies and qualifying scores on the county administered Middle School Mathematics Assessment Test and/or Algebra Aptitude Test.
Mathematics 8
In middle school Mathematics 8, students examine algebra-and-geometry preparatory concepts and skills and strategies for collecting and analyzing data. Problem solving, communication, and making connections among mathematical ideas are emphasized in a hands-on learning environment. The use of calculators and computers is integrated with instruction.
(This course has an end of course Standards of Learning test.)
Algebra I (Integrated I)
Algebra topics include expressions, linear equations, inequalities, systems of equations, and quadratic equations and graphs. Geometry topics include coordinate geometry, transformations, similarity, area, solid geometry, and trigonometric ratios. Students use inductive reasoning to investigate patterns and create mathematical models for real world situations. Students are also introduced to experimental, theoretical, and geometric probability as well as statistical measures. Emphasis is placed on making connections in algebra to arithmetic, geometry, trigonometry, probability, and statistics. Graphing utilities, especially graphing calculators, are integral to the course.
(This course has an end of course Standards of Learning test.)
Prerequisite: Middle School Mathematics
Geometry (Integrated II)
This course has a strong geometry/logical reasoning strand that includes such topics as inductive and deductive reasoning, coordinate geometry in two and three dimensions, non-Euclidean surfaces, implications, and arguments. Algebra topics include indirect variation, complex numbers, the binomial theorem, and rational and cubic equations. Matrices are used to represent transformations add systems of equations. Special right triangles, counting techniques, probability, Pascal's triangle, and binomial experiments are also studied. Graphing utilities, especially graphing calculator, are integral to the course.(This course has an end of course Standards of Learning test.)
Prerequisite: Algebra I