Middle School Mathematics

In sixth grade math, students build on their foundational knowledge with a focus on developing fluency in core mathematical concepts. The curriculum emphasizes rational numbers—deepening students’ understanding of fractions, decimals, and percents—and applies these skills to solve real-world problems. Students are also introduced to integers and ratios, and begin exploring algebraic thinking through variables, expressions, and one-variable equations and inequalities. Geometry is integrated through the study of polygon areas, while statistics introduces students to the process of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data using measures of center and variability. Throughout the year, students engage in projects that connect math to real-life contexts and incorporate the use of technology to enhance learning.

For students who are ready for a more rigorous challenge, sixth grade Honors Math offers an enriched experience with a faster pace and deeper exploration of key concepts. In addition to the core curriculum, honors students dive further into algebraic reasoning, advanced operations with rational numbers, and more complex problem-solving strategies. Special attention is given to mathematical communication, vocabulary development, and analytical thinking. This course emphasizes real-world applications through project-based learning. Honors students are expected to engage in independent work, collaborative tasks, and technology-based projects that extend their learning and promote a strong connection between mathematics and its applications.

Seventh grade Pre-Algebra serves as a critical bridge between foundational math and the more abstract thinking required in Algebra I. The course is designed to solidify students’ understanding of key mathematical concepts, while building the skills needed for future success in algebra.

In the core Pre-Algebra course, students develop fluency with rational numbers, including integers, fractions, decimals, ratios, and proportions. They explore expressions, equations, and inequalities, and begin to work with algebraic reasoning and problem-solving strategies. Geometry topics such as scale drawings, angle relationships, surface area, and volume are introduced, alongside foundational concepts in probability and data analysis. Students engage with real-world problems and use technology—such as spreadsheets and interactive tools—to visualize and apply mathematical concepts in meaningful ways.

For students who demonstrate advanced readiness, Honors Pre-Algebra offers an accelerated and enriched experience. While covering the same essential domains as the core course, honors students move at a faster pace and explore topics in greater depth and complexity. Additional focus is placed on algebraic structures, including multi-step equations, systems of equations, graphing linear relationships, exponents, square roots, and rational expressions.

Honors students are expected to apply critical thinking to more challenging problems and demonstrate strong mathematical communication. Financial literacy projects—such as budgeting simulations and investment explorations—help students make meaningful connections between math and everyday life.

In eighth grade, students continue along a progression of increasingly advanced mathematical thinking, with course options that reflect their readiness for abstract reasoning and problem-solving. These courses build directly on the foundational skills developed in sixth and seventh grade, particularly in pre-algebra, and prepare students for the demands of high school mathematics and beyond.

Students who are ready for a traditional algebra course enroll in Algebra I. This course provides a comprehensive study of the real number system, linear equations and inequalities, graphing, functions, systems of equations, polynomials, factoring, rational expressions, rational equations, and quadratic equations. Students are also introduced to irrational numbers, the Pythagorean Theorem, and the quadratic formula. Projects throughout the year provide opportunities for students to explore how math is used in everyday life and to apply their learning through technology-based tasks.

For students prepared for a more rigorous and in-depth experience, Algebra I Honors builds upon the same core topics as Algebra I but with greater complexity and higher expectations. In addition to mastering algebraic techniques, honors students are expected to engage deeply with mathematical theory, make meaningful connections between algebra and other disciplines such as geometry, statistics, and physical science, and apply concepts to real-world problems. The course emphasizes algebra’s relevance to current events, financial literacy, and decision-making. Students work with real-time data to make predictions, create models, and reason through complex scenarios. Technology is essential in this course, not only as a tool for calculation and graphing but also as a platform for research and communication.

Students who have successfully completed Algebra I prior to eighth grade may be eligible to take Geometry. This course blends a traditional geometry curriculum with transformational approaches to offer a broad and rich study of the subject. Topics include logic, definitions, postulates, theorems, and a deep dive into lines, planes, angles, triangle congruence and similarity, quadrilaterals, polygons, and circles. This course challenges students to think spatially and abstractly while strengthening their analytical and deductive reasoning skills.