In addition, there is a class on textiles and clothing, with emphasis on textile selection and construction. In Grades 5 - 6, a transition is made from simple arithmetic to fractions and decimals, stressing number theory including prime factors, greatest common factors, least common multiples, and extension of map concepts and measurement, including graphing. In Grade 7, pre-algebra is designed to aid the students in making the transition from elementary mathematics to algebra. The course develops skills, concepts, and problem solving processes. Continuous practice is given in addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of whole numbers, decimal and common fractions, as well as integers.
Emphasis is given to ratio, proportion, percents, and their uses.
Basic number theory, equation solving, graphing on the number line and coordinate plane provide needed background. The course also includes an introduction to geometric concepts, as well as probability and statistics. The majority of eighth graders take introductory algebra, part of a two-year study of algebra, which is completed in Grade 9. Also, for eighth graders who are ready, we offer Algebra I, a one year course in algebra. This is a demanding course with calculus in the senior year as a possible outcome.