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General Statement
The SF School math program is aimed at preparing students who are developmentally ready to master Algebra in 8th grade to pass into a High School level Geometry course. Furthermore, it aims to build a strong foundation for others to succeed in High School Algebra.The main math curriculum are materials known College Preparatory Mathematics (CPM), based on "Principles and Standards for School Mathematics" published by the NCTM (National Council of Teachers of Mathematics). This is an Algebra I program designed to prepare students to integrate basic skills and topics with conceptual understanding and problem solving strategies.
Content
- Solving problems with various strategies:
integers and rational numbers, geometric formulas
- Coordinate graphing
- Functions:
exponents
- Solving equations:
slope, Pythagorean theorem |
- Solving with proportions:
ratios, similar figures, direct variation and percent
- Systems of equations
- Linear relationships (y=mx+b)
- Inequalities
- Quadratics:
non linear functions
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Structure for Learning
Eighth grade students will have a total of 6 class periods of math per week (approximately 270 minutes per week). Two or three times a week (depending on the instructional group) the students will be in a "double period" math class. These are designed to facilitate more in-depth investigations as well as integrate the use of manipulative and real world applications.
The curriculum is built around core mathematical problems that allow students to work with the mathematics embedded in the situation. Throughout the problem-solving situations presented in the program and following their conclusion, the class is pulled together to share insights. They communicate these discoveries in a variety of ways including oral presentations, graphs, tables, formulas and written explanations.
Working together in small groups is an integral part of the learning structure. Most of the time students will be working through the problems with one or two other students. Students will be discovering ideas and sharing them in a collaborative environment. At other times, students may be involved in more independent and introspective work.
Assessments
Individual assessment of mathematical learning is crucial both for the teacher as well as the student. For the teacher, it allows customization of lessons to meet the needs of all learners. At the same time the student benefits from knowing their strengths and areas of need. There are many forms of assessment, some formal, such as unit tests or quizzes, other less formal, such as oral presentations, and others informal such as anecdotal observation of group work. Every effort will be made to schedule unit tests on Mondays, giving the students time to study over the weekend. Other smaller assessments may occur throughout the week.
Homework
Homework will take a variety of forms. Normally a set of problems related to the in-class investigation will be assigned. Additional worksheets may be assigned from other sources. Students should expect to spend up to 30 minutes on each homework assignment. Special review homework and challenge homework problems will also be available for those students who want or need them. Every two weeks all eighth graders will be assigned a Problem of the Week (POW). A POW is a nonstandard math problem which requires more sustained effort to resolve. Each student will receive clear instructions on how to approach this problem. Students should expect to have some form of math homework each school day and periodically during the weekends.
Finished homework assignments will be reviewed in class and checked by the teacher. POW's will be handed in on specified dates. Late homework will only be accepted by teacher discretion. Students with questions can send e-mails, ask for assistance in class or appear during tutorial time for more individualized help.
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