MS Math

The Math department believes that students should have an awareness of problem-solving at all levels and that math is a universal tool for exploring the 21st century and exploring the structure within it. Every child discovers connections between their lives and the math they learn at Barrie. The middle school math program focuses on number sense and moving from the concrete to the abstract. The integrated curriculum in the upper school highlights natural connections between different branches of math and other disciplines. These connections highlight the utility of mathematics and basic problem-solving and analytical skills.

MIDDLE SCHOOL MATHEMATICS CONTINUUM

Barrie's middle school math scope and sequence supports our thematic curriculum. Rather than offer traditional courses in Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II, we have fully integrated mathematics courses: Foundations of Algebra and Geometry, Intermediate Algebra and Geometry, and Advanced Algebra and Geometry. These courses deliver the same scope and sequence presented in the traditional model, but in a more natural and continuous progression. Concepts from geometry are integrated throughout the three courses, eliminating the typical 'gap year' in a student's study of algebra. Earlier exposure to geometry skills allows for meaningful applications and project opportunities as students move throughout the thematic math curriculum. Problem-solving skills, data analysis, probability, and statistics thread throughout the courses; focus is placed on both conceptual and procedural knowledge, including the use of various mathematics technologies and software.

COURSE SEQUENCE

Math 6

Math 6 continues to build on the problem-solving and arithmetic groundwork presented throughout the students' various Lower School experiences. The course introduces them to higher levels of abstraction and reasoning skills using algebraic and geometric properties, systems, and relationships. Through a combination of individual work and class discussions, students further develop their ability to read, write, and speak about mathematics. Group projects throughout the year related to the Grade 6 theme of Respect for the Environment help build connections and demonstrate applications, as well as foster leadership, teamwork, and presentation skills essential for productive collaboration. A strong emphasis is placed on the analysis and synthesis of various mathematical processes and procedures as well as the importance of digital and quantitative literacy. Core content includes, but is not limited to, number systems (integer, rational, and real), order of operations, proportional reasoning, simple probability, basic plane geometry, solving equations, linear functions and sequences, and basic data analysis. A graphing calculator (TI-83 or 84 preferred) is recommended for this course. Students use a variety of resources, prepared materials, and handouts in lieu of a textbook. Students who complete this course will matriculate to either Foundations of Algebra and Geometry or Pre-Algebra, based on their overall performance, assessments, teacher recommendations, and other indicators of success.

Pre-Algebra

Pre-Algebra is designed to support students who have demonstrated a need for further development of the arithmetic, algebraic, and/or geometric skills presented in Math 6. The Pre-Algebra curriculum reviews, extends, and applies the key concepts and skills covered in Math 6. In addition, Pre-Algebra introduces and develops specific algebraic and geometric concepts essential for a successful transition into the Foundations of Algebra and Geometry course in Grade 8. Topics such as systems of equations, elementary linear functions, and forms of geometric measurement provide rich backdrops for explorations of equations and graphs, and help highlight the fundamental relationships between algebra and geometry. Probability and data analysis are also discussed at length, and these new tools allow for in-depth learning and completion of integrated projects relating to nutrition and health, under the Grade 7 theme of Respect for Self. Collaboration and teamwork continue to be a focus and communication skills regarding the presentation of results in various forms and applications are emphasized. A graphing calculator (TI-83 or 84 preferred) is required for this course. Students use a variety of resources, prepared materials, and handouts in lieu of a textbook. Students who successfully complete this course will advance to Foundations of Algebra and Geometry.

Sample Book List:

Deadly by Julie Chibbaro

Foundations of Algebra and Geometry

Foundations of Algebra and Geometry is an integrated math course, encompassing skills and concepts traditionally presented in Algebra I and Geometry, as well as the related topics of statistics and probability. Units include Data Analysis, Linear Functions, Systems, Matrices, and Geometric Measurements. Students engage in various interdisciplinary projects exploring the themes of Respect for Self and Respect for Others. Applications of mathematics to health, nutrition, and disease management provide authentic opportunities to solve problems, communicate results, and develop presentation skills. Students are introduced to various mathematics technologies, software tools, and resources, allowing for exploration, visualization, and application of the skills presented throughout the course. A graphing calculator (TI-83 or 84 preferred) is required for this course. Students use a variety of resources, prepared materials, and handouts in lieu of a textbook. Students who successfully complete this course will advance to Intermediate Algebra and Geometry.

Intermediate Algebra and Geometry

In this integrated course, students continue the study of Algebra and Geometry started in Foundations of Algebra and Geometry. Problem-solving cuts across themes and connects them, and work in groups allows the students to discuss problems with their peers, present their ideas, and provide and evaluate evidence supporting mathematical statements. Recursion offers a different perspective on linearity as well as a natural way to introduce exponential sequences. The analysis of objects in free fall motivates a thorough study of quadratics and of the effect on the graph of the basic transformations of a rule, which, in turn, are applied in analytic geometry. Trigonometry is used to calculate areas and perimeters of regular polygons. The study of vectors in the plane prepares the students for future physics courses. Graphing software and applets are used extensively to enhance students’ understanding of the mathematics underlying the situations presented, and video recording and frame-by-frame processing facilitate the modeling of physical phenomena. A graphing calculator (TI-83 or 84) is required for this course. Students use a variety of resources, prepared materials, and handouts in lieu of a textbook. Students who successfully complete this course will advance to Advanced Algebra and Geometry.