8th Grade

Mathematic 8 begins with congruence transformations of the coordinate plane, followed by an exploration of similarity transformations, which contribute to students’ conceptual understanding of slope. Students apply their previous understandings of ratio and proportional reasoning to the study of linear functions, equations, and systems, including a deep understanding of slope. They explore negative integer exponents and irrational numbers, and they deepen their understanding of geometric concepts by investigating and applying the Pythagorean theorem.

The Grade 8 course provides students the opportunity for a deep study of linear functions and their graphs, and problems involving linear functions and equations. Students also investigate bivariate categorical and numerical data. Working with numerical data builds on students’ learning from earlier units around linear functions and modeling. Students also investigate and interpret the representations of non-linear functions and compare them to linear functions. Finally, students extend their work in geometry to include angle relationships in parallel lines and triangles and the volume of cones, cylinders, and spheres.

There is a focus throughout the course on mathematical processes and practices. These practices should become the natural way in which students come to understand and do mathematics. While, depending on the content to be understood or on the problem to be solved, any practice might be brought to bear, some practices may prove more useful than others. In Grade 8, making use of structure in mathematics is particularly important, as are modeling, developing viable arguments, and precision of language.

- Agile Mind Curriculum