Math : A Tool for Today and Tomorrow

In the sixth grade, our main objective is to create discipline in thinking and analysis. The students are expected to keep math journals and/or math notebooks to which they can refer. This creates an independence and a skill level that will enable them to meet the criteria of the curriculum. This ability to acquire and use information creates confidence for higher level critical thinking skills and problem solving. The students are expected to have their homework completed and to participate during class.

Math is a tool which will be used in the present and in the future in all walks of life. Therefore, it should be taken seriously and not as an isolated set of skills. The emphasis in sixth grade is on problem solving using basic operational skills, place value decimals, fractions, geometry, measurement, ratio, percent, graphing, and integers. It includes word problems which are scattered throughout the series to utilize the above functions. Graphing gives the opportunity to use integers in a pre-algebra application. Skills with estimation are reinforced throughout and calculators and computers are used as appropriate. All student levels are accommodated and all skills are addressed. The students' effort is paramount. To state it as simply as possible, "You get out of it, what you put into it."

7th Grade Curriculum

Standard Math

Students work on improving all basic skills such as computation of whole numbers, fractions, and decimals. They also work on problem solving skills which incorporate these basic skills. Students are exposed to basic algebra concepts such as computations with positive and negative numbers, function charts, and solving one step equations. Students study both the customary system of measurement and the metric system. The course of study also includes a chapter dedicated to geometry where students learn about angle types, triangles, squares, and other polygons. Area, surface area, and volume are also taught. Probability, ratios, and proportions are topics which are worked on throughout the year.

Pre-Algebra

Advanced math students study pre-algebra concepts in preparation for algebra in grade eight. Topics range from computation with positive and negative numbers to graphing linear equations. Students learn to solve multi-step equations involving whole numbers, decimals, and fractions. A theme which is focused on throughout each unit is having students write and solve their own equations in order to solve problems. Students also apply these skills in solving inequalities.

In addition, students are exposed to geometry concepts and how they relate to algebra, particularly how equations are used in solving geometry problems. Students also study area, volume, and surface area. Graphs and other ways of displaying data are taught through an independent study project. Students complete a packet which involves reading graphs and tables, problem solving is also stressed. Along with this packet students will also hand in graphs which they have made as well as graphs they have found in newspapers and magazines. Students must write an explanation for each graph that they make and find. The completed project will contain approximately fifteen graphs, tables, and explanations. Students are encouraged to use the computer to enhance their projects.

8th Grade Curriculum

8th grade mathematics at FAMS is divided into three levels: Algebra, Advanced Math (Pre-Algebra), and Standard Math. At all three levels, students are exposed to a variety of mathematics topics as well as the practical applications of concepts. Student's problem solving skills are developed through a variety of techniques with the hope of providing the best preparation for the challenges that await the students next year in high school mathematics.