Middle School Mathematics
The Philosophy
The Middle School Mathematics program is designed to help students grow to be skilled, confident and curious problem solvers. We incorporate a balance of skill building and creative exploration while ultimately focusing on the learning process. In addition to focused individual study, students will take part in cooperative learning tasks, problem-solving activities, and design-thinking projects.
The Goal
The department will provide opportunities for students to:
- Understand mathematics as a logical system
- Have a knowledge of, and be competent with, basic mathematical processes and concepts
- Develop efficiency and accuracy in computation
- Acquire the ability to solve problems
- Use logical thinking to discover both generalizations and applications
- Develop the skills and vocabulary essential to future mathematical study
- Develop creativity and curiosity
- Understand and appreciate the role of mathematics in society
Mathematics 6
Open to: Grade 6
The sixth-grade math curriculum develops students’ number sense and problem-solving skills while introducing foundational algebra concepts in an accessible way. Students will explore 2D and 3D geometry, practice modeling real-world scenarios with equations and graphs, and strengthen their fluency with fractions, decimals, ratios, proportions, and integers. Additionally, extension problems offer students a low-risk opportunity to engage with honors-level material, encouraging deeper thinking and resilience in tackling challenges. This comprehensive approach builds a strong foundation for future mathematical success.
Mathematics 7
Open to: Grade 7
The seventh grade curriculum develops and extends the study of algebra and geometry and introduces topics in statistics and probability. Students apply proportional reasoning to a variety of topics including probability, percent, scale, and linear functions. Fluency with integers, exponents, decimals and fractions is expected as students simplify and solve multi-step algebraic equations, write and graph equations and inequalities for linear models, and gain information and draw inferences from statistical data. Interwoven throughout all topics is an examination of patterns and the challenge of problem-solving.
Algebra I (Year-Long)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Prealgebra or equivalent 6th and 7th-grade mathematics at Derryfield.
Algebra I provides students with a strong foundation for continued study in the mathematics curriculum. The course begins with a brief review of essential pre-algebra skills, including solving one and two step equations, properties of equality, and graphing linear equations. From there, students develop a deeper understanding of algebraic structures and reasoning.
Emphasis is placed on building fluency with algebraic techniques while also developing conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills. Students learn to represent relationships algebraically, graphically, and numerically, preparing them for success in future mathematics courses.
Topics of study include:
- Inequalities in one and two variables
- Linear functions
- Systems of linear functions
- Quadratic functions
- Operations with polynomials
- Factoring techniques
- Exponential Reasoning
- Laws of exponents, including negative exponents
- Coordinate Geometry
- Similarity
Math Extensions
Open to: Grades 6-8
Throughout the year, students in each class will have the opportunity, within the course, to explore advanced material that will push their understanding beyond the standard curriculum. They may go deeper into course concepts or study extensions in number theory; complex numbers; exponents and other topics.
