Middle School Math
The middle school math program at NVCS consists of very small groups, usually 1-4 students, working on skills suited to their needs. Lessons are developed with the learning styles of the individual student in mind. For example, some students work with pencil and paper, others use the white board. Some prefer manipulatives, others find them distracting. Typically multiple groups meet at one time providing opportunities for larger group activities and for peer-to-peer learning. Having several groups together offers a review for the more advanced students and a preview for those at lower levels. Problem solving and communication skills are encouraged through special topics math lessons which often take place in a larger group and frequently are designed to connect math to the Social Studies or Science programs.
The goal is for all students who are able to complete Algebra I by the end of 8th grade. The foundations of Algebra, using variables, solving simple equations, and finding patterns, pervade the middle school math curriculum.
Sixth grade students are usually taught from packets rather than text books. Sixth graders arrive with extremely varied skills and needs. Individualized packets allow more flexibility in targeting problem areas. The curriculum content is based on the PA standards and is in line with typical middle school text books. The primary emphasis of 6th grade math is solidifying basic computation skills. By the end of 6th grade, students should be proficient in computation with rational numbers in decimal or fraction form. Measurement is another focus of 6th grade. Students learn to estimate, measure, and compare length, capacity, mass, and temperature in both customary and metric systems. In Statistics, 6th grade is the transition from presenting data to analyzing data. Students learn to interpret a variety of graphs and to calculate measures of center and spread. In Geometry, 6th grade is a time of definitions. Students learn to classify angles, triangles, quadrilaterals, and other polygons.
The computational focus of 7th grade is proportional reasoning in all its forms - scale drawings, discounts, interest, indirect measurement, probability, trigonometry, etc. Measurement in 7th grade is more computational than hands-on. The students learn to convert among units within and between measurement systems. They estimate and calculate perimeter, area, surface area, and volume of various figures. In Statistics, students are taught to present data in a variety of forms and understand the benefits and limitations of each display. They use graphical representations to compare and contrast multiple data sets. They learn to critically evaluate data representations for misleading information. 7th graders learn the basics of simple probability: counting outcomes, calculating ratios. Much of 7th grade Geometry also involves computation: similar and congruent figures, line and angle relationships.
Eighth graders who have accomplished the goals of 6th and 7th grade are placed in Algebra I, where they learn about polynomial, rational, and exponential functions. Measurement, Geometry, Statistics, and Probability are not directly taught in Algebra I, but are reviewed indirectly as applications of Algebra. For students who are not academically ready for Algebra I, 8th grade content is individualized to address deficiencies in the 6th and 7th grade goals. When the goals are met, the student prepares for entry into Algebra in 9th grade by learning to solve equations and inequalities and to represent relations on a coordinate graph.
Often there are middle school students who do not fit into this target curriculum. NVCS offers middle school math education for any level, from life skills through advanced Calculus.