Major mathematical topics and the underlying properties and structures of various mathematical systems are introduced in Grade 6 and revisited with extensions and connections in all of the magnet mathematics courses. The program aims to present mathematics as a unified whole rather than a field with isolated strands. This course provides a motivating and challenging experience for those who have completed all or a substantial part of the K-8 ISM curriculum. It is designed to provide a strong foundation for future magnet mathematics courses. The development of the language of mathematics, properties, and structures is stressed through the extension of familiar and new topics.
Emphasis is placed on analysis, application, communication, and problem solving.
The basic concepts of set theory are introduced using mathematical notation for representing sets of numbers and for describing operations such as intersection, union, complement, and difference. Venn diagrams are explored as a problem solving strategy. The set of rational numbers and its subsets are studied, including natural number subsets of primes, composites, factors, and multiples. Special types of numbers related to primes and composites, as well as theorems involving primes and composites, are included. Operations with rational numbers include basic operations, absolute value, and laws of exponents.