Middle School Mathematics Courses
The mathematics program at Saint Thomas Academy is designed to challenge students with an enriched curriculum and to make appropriate courses available to all students.
It is our objective that the students:
· Become proficient at basic arithmetic and algebra skills.
· Develop the ability to solve both routine and non-routine problems using a variety of strategies.
· Become familiar with the use of mathematical tools, such as compasses, protractors, and calculators.
Grade level refers to the year(s) students typically take the course. Students with varying math backgrounds may take a course during different years.
Transitional Math
Transitional Math covers a wide range of topics including operations with whole numbers; fractions and decimals; percents; elementary number theory; ratios and proportions; introduction to geometric concepts; measurement; probability and data analysis; solving equations; and an introduction to integers.
Grade Level: 7
Pre-Algebra I
Pre-algebra covers the following topics: operations involving integers and rational numbers; variables; exponents; solving and graphing first degree equations; inequalities; square roots and radical expressions; problem solving; and geometric figures and formulas.
Prerequisite: Entrance exam score, instructor's approval
Grade Level: 7, 8
Algebra I
Algebra I deals with the structure of the real number system, the use of algebraic symbols, a study of first and second degree equations and graphs, systems of first degree equations, as well as factoring, square roots, and the quadratic formula. Some uses of a graphing calculator are explored.
Prerequisite: Entrance exam score, instructor's approval
Grade Levels: 7, 8
Geometry
This course first establishes the tools of geometry: methods of reasoning, construction, the coordinate plane, and types of measurement. Subsequently, it focuses on properties and applications of lines, triangles, quadrilaterals, similarity, right triangle trigonometry, circles, and transformations.
Prerequisite: Algebra I and instructor's approval
Grade Level: 8
