Mathematics
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) standards for middle level learners recognizes the need for all students to have broad expertise in mathematics. The NCTM standards advocate improving a student's math performance by devoting more attention to conceptual development, by encouraging independent thinking and by demonstrating math's usefulness through the use of real-life problems and hands-on support materials. The Upper St. Clair Math Program places a vast majority of students on the same pathway with the possibility of taking calculus by their senior year in high school.
We have found that our curriculum meets the needs of most of our students. However, we know that students all learn at different rates. To accommodate these various learning rates, we have a program to help identify students who might need enrichment in math or who may need additional support. Pre-testing occurs at the beginning of each unit to determine enrichment needs. This enrichment may occur for an entire unit or it may occur for individual lessons within that unit. Teachers utilize Panther Time and Period 8 to provide remediation help for students who may need concepts retaught or who may need other second chance learning interventions. Teachers also employ MAP testing to determine the needs of each student and to plan instruction, interventions, and enrichment.
7th GRADE MATH
Students in 7th grade Pre-Algebra study the following three major topics: applied arithmetic, pre-algebra and pre-geometry. The transition to algebra is done by examining three uses of variables: pattern generalization, abbreviations in formulas, and unknowns in real-life contexts. Variables on the number line and coordinate plane are represented. Lessons in geometry focus on measurement, relationships involving lines, angles and polygons and the connection between arithmetic, algebra and measurement. Large and small numbers, addition, subtraction, multiplication, zero and negative numbers, powers, decimals, percents, scientific notation are 10revisited. Problem solving strategies, graphs, combining operations, the Distributive Property, and basic algebra skills complete the transition to Algebra.
An integrated approach lets students focus on one strand while reiterating and introducing others. The curriculum implements the NCTM standards by emphasizing applications, reading and writing, problem solving and technology throughout. Students learn how and when to use math skills, the properties and relationship of numbers, the use of mathematical ideas and how to physically picture mathematical concepts. Emphasis on the application of math skills to real life problems motivates students and provides a context for learning concepts and skills. Students learn to speak the language of math, and skill reinforcement is an integral part of problem-solving practice and review.
8th GRADE MATH
Algebra I is a first year course in algebra that employs geometry, statistics and probability to illustrate the algebra of linear equations and inequalities. Models for arithmetic operations are extended to equations involving variables. Students learn to solve linear sentences and define functions. Probability concepts are studied along with algebraic fractions while heavy manipulative techniques are postponed to later courses.
Contemporary applications in science and personal finance explore curvilinear functions depicting compound interest, parabolas, and quadratic equations. Graphing, the properties of lines and slopes are important to visualizing and organizing data. Reading and problem solving continue to be emphasized throughout the curriculum. Problem-solving strategies are embedded in application settings.
At both grade levels, students who do not demonstrate mastery will be designated to receive a second math lesson during the school day. Teachers will identify these students and will provide these interventions on a daily basis. Conversely, students excelling in math are provided enrichment activities per their pretest results and rate of acquisition. As an integral part of the program, USC incorporates technology including the use of the scientific calculator, computers, Chromebooks, and function graphers.
Beginning in the first chapter, scientific calculators are required of all students. Calculators allow students to study a variety of problems in greater depth. Students with computational deficiencies are able to further their mastery of math concepts while building their computational skills.
Accelerated and remedial courses are offered at both grade levels depending on student needs.