SSDS Boston 8th Grade Algebra Web Site

C Block Algebra

The calculator we will use in class is a TI-84+ (click here to go to the TI-84+ web site).

There is an on-line booklet called "Calculator Notes" that you can get at the Calculator Notes and Programs web site.   This 60-page booklet explains how to use the calculator to do many things we do in class.  The booklet was designed for use with the "Discovering Algebra" book use in one of our other classes, but you will still find it useful.

You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to read it.  You can get that for free (legally!) at the Adobe Acrobat web site.

Units of Study

Problem of the Week (POW)

Students solve a variety of puzzles and problems. Student must write about each problem: restate the problem, describe the solution to the problem and how they got it.  The main goal is for students to learn how to write about mathematical problems.  

Geometer's Sketchpad  (GSP)

Self-paced study using Geometer's Sketchpad Software. Students complete weekly assignments.  Assignments consist of guided investigations that require the use of GSP software on a home computer or computers in school.  There are four units:  Points Lines and Angles, Triangles, Quadrilaterals, and Symmetry.

Find solutions to open sentences using trial and error. Find unions and intersections. Evaluate numerical and algebraic expressions, square roots. Read and interpret set language and notation. Work with patterns: give instances and counter examples of a pattern, use variables to describe patterns. Evaluate formulas in real situations. Apply the Pythagorean Theorem to solve problems. Draw and interpret graphs (number lines) of solution sets and inequalities. Learn basic terminology relating to expressions, inequalities, equations and sentences. 

Unit 2: Multiplication and Algebra

Multiply and simplify numeric and algebraic expressions (including positive and negative numbers). Solve and check equations ax=b and ax<b. Evaluate expressions containing a factorial. Name and use properties of equality, operations and identities. Apply and use different models of multiplication: area, rate, and counting (permutations). 

Unit 3: Addition in Algebra

We begin by studying the properties of addition in algebra and review graphing in the coordinate plane.  We then connect addition and multiplication, learning how to solve two-step equations and inequalities, and applying the Distributive Property of multiplication over addition.  The unit ends with study of applications of linear sentences.

Unit 4: Subtraction in Algebra

The beginning of this unit is a parallel to Unit 3, but with subtraction.  We learn to solve two-step equations that involve subtraction.  We learn to apply addition and subtraction to geometric models and situations.  We graph linear patterns from tables and using linear equations.

Unit 5: Linear Sentences

In this unit we begin with graphical representations of linear situations, and later on we relate them to linear sentences we've already studied.  We make use of the TI-84+ graphing features, and we learn some advanced solving techniques for linear equations (such as multiplying through and chunking).

Unit 6: Division in Algebra

Students begin by relating division to multiplication.  We connect the concept of division to rate, ratio and proportion, and use division to solve percent and probability problems.  We also apply division to scale drawings, proportions and similar figures. 

Unit 7: Slopes and Lines

We begin by revisiting rates and connect them directly to the linear equations we've been learning about.  Students will connect rate to slope of the graph of a linear equation. We learn to write linear equations in different forms (slope-intercept, point slope), and apply that to problems of writing equations for information in data tables.

Unit 8: Exponents and Powers

This chapter is our first introduction to non-linear equations.  We use exponents in developing models of exponential growth and decay.  We end with a lesson on remembering the properties of exponents.

Unit 9: Quadratic Equations and Square Roots (if time permits)

Students begin by graphing parabolas by hand and using a calculator.  We learn how quadratic equations are connected to projectile motion, and do so using the quadratic formula.  We end the unit with a study of the connections between quadratic equations and absolute value.

Optional

This web site was developed by and is maintained by Mr. Srebnick for use in the 8th grade math program at the Solomon Schechter Day School of Greater Boston.