Pre AP Algebra 1(Grade 7)

Course Description:

The Pre AP Algebra 1 course is designed to deepen students' understanding of three big ideas: how the structure of the real number system leads to the rules of algebraic manipulation, how to use functions as a tool for modeling the world, and what information the solution(s) to a mathematical model can and cannot tell you.The course provides opportunities for students to develop the knowledge and skills articulated in the course framework through student-centered exploration and argumentation. The course provides opportunities for students to engage in the three Pre-APAlgebra 1 areas of focus outside of the Pre-AP instructional materials.The areas of focus are:

-Mastery of Linear Equations and Linear Functions

 -Greater Authenticity of Applications and Modeling

 -Engagement in Mathematical Argumentation

The course provides opportunities for students to engage in the Pre-AP shared principles.

 Close Observation and Analysis

 Evidence-Based Writing

 Higher-Order Questioning

 Academic Conversation

 Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The use of technology, including calculators and computer software, is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills the Algebra I requirement and one of the mathematics credits required for high school graduation.

Course Goals:

1. To develop the Standards for Mathematical Practice. [CCSS]
2. To extend the properties of exponents to rational exponents and use properties of rational and irrational numbers. [CCSS: N.RN] 
3. To reason quantitatively and use units to solve problems. [CCSS: N.Q] 
4. To interpret the structure of expressions and write expressions in equivalent forms to solve problems. [CCSS: 8.EE*; A.SSE] 
5. To perform arithmetic operations on polynomials. [CCSS: A.APR] 
6. To create equations that describe numbers or relationships. [CCSS: A.CED] 
7. To understand solving equations as a process of reasoning and explain the reasoning; solve equations and inequalities in one variable; solve systems of equations; and represent and solve equations and inequalities graphically. [CCSS: 8.EE*; A.REI] 
8. To understand the concept of a function and use function notation; interpret functions that arise in applications in terms of the context; and analyze functions using different representations. [CCSS: 8.F*; F.IF] 
9. To build a function that models a relationship between two quantities; and build new functions from existing functions. [CCSS: 8.F*; F.BF] 
10. To construct and compare linear, quadratic, and exponential models and solve problems; and interpret expressions for functions in terms of the situation they model. [CCSS: F.LE] 
11. To summarize, represent, and interpret data on a single count or measurement variable; summarize, represent, and interpret data on two categorical and quantitative variables; and interpret linear models. [CCSS: S.ID] 
12. To investigate patterns of association in bivariate data. [CCSS: 8.SP*] 
13. To understand congruence and similarity using physical models, transparencies, or geometry software. [CCSS: 8.G*]