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Description:

Math Builders is a class that is meant to "fill in the gaps" and strengthen a student's middle school math know-how! Math Builders will help solidify key concepts and before a student embarks on pre-algebra, algebra, and beyond. This class will also emphasize real world applications of the mathematical concepts and word problems so students become comfortable switching between prose (written descriptions) and mathematical representation (numbers, symbols).

Exponents and orders of magnitude are used every day by scientists! How far away is the sun? How small is an atom? How many cells are in our bodies? The class will make sense of really small and really big numbers by working with exponents, powers of ten, scientific notation, and order of magnitude. Students will learn different ways of expressing large and miniscule numbers. Students will practice the computational operations of adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing with exponents.

Integers are used everyday by almost everyone! Answering the question, what's the balance in my checking account? Is it cold enough to snow? Or, how do I score a game of golf? This course will make the abstract concept of negatives numbers concrete through the use of number lines and other tools. Students in this class will learn algorithms and strategies for completing all four operations with integers. Being able to work with integers is essential throughout Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and beyond.

Prerequisites: This course is meant to reinforce and ensure a solid foundation in the core concepts needed for Pre-Algebra. For this course to have the most impact, a student should be solid through upper elementary math (approx. 6th grade) and should be working at a 7th grade math level. This course is meant to complement or supplement an at-home middle school math curriculum. If you are unsure if your child should take Middle School Math Builders or is ready for the full year Pre-Algebra course, the instructor can provide a placement test. If you are concerned about the scope and sequence of this class fitting with your selected math program, the Instructor can hold a curriculum coordination meeting (for an additional fee).

Workload: Students should expect to spend 2-3 hours per week outside of class on homework.

Assignments: Homework will be given each week to build fluency with basic skills.

Lab/Supply Fee: Each student enrolled in this class will need a subscription to IXL Math for practice problems. IXL is an online subscription-based learning platform which uses continuous diagnostics to develop a personalized practice plan. This is a 12-month discounted subscription through Compass. A class fee of $19.00 is due payable to Compass on the first day of class.

What to Bring: Paper or notebook, pen or pencil.