7th-Grade Accelerated Mathematics
What is it?
7th-grade Accelerated Mathematics covers all of 7th and 8th grade math. Because this course covers two years of material in one year, it goes very quickly. Students need to be able to master new concepts rapidly, and seek help when needed.
How do I know I'm Ready?
While the test to get in does an adequate job of placing students, it isn't perfect. To following will help you decide if this course is the correct placement for you:
- Conceptual Knowledge
- You have a firm grasp of the concepts taught in 6th grade (here)
- You can fluently divide, add, subtract, and multiply multi-digit whole numbers. This includes long division.
- You can fluently add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions. This includes mixed numbers and improper fractions.
- You can simplify fractions.
- You can add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals.
- You can solve two-step equations.
- You can find the area and perimeter of compound shapes.
- You can use the order of operations to simplify expressions.
- You understand what integers are and can place them on a numberline
- Study Habits & Attendance
- You attend school most days . If you are frequently absent, this may not be the correct placement as it moves quickly.
- When absent, you make up missing work quickly and seek help if needed.
- You learn new concepts quickly.
- You do your homework regularly.
- You complete classwork daily.
- You take time to study concepts you struggle with after school and seek help when needed.
- You work well in a group.
- You are a self-starter and don't need reminders to be on task.
- You are usually present. If you miss class frequently, it can be very difficult to catch up.
- You like to be challenged. I occasionally get students who "like" math because it comes so easily. This class goes FAST. It won't all be easy. If you are not up for a challenge, DO NOT take this course.
- Extra Practice/ Review
- Are you unsure if you have mastered the 6th grade standards or want some extra practice on 6th or 7th-grade standards? Click the link below to see MANY 6th & 7th-grade videos and practice.
- 6th Grade Videos & Practice (Should all be review)
- 7th Grade Foundations Videos & Practice (Practice Prerequisite skills)
- 7th-Grade Videos & Practice (get a jump start on this year's material)
Is it hard?
I get this question a lot. The answer varies for every student. Is it more work? No, not really. There is often less homework than in a regular math class. If you don't finish classwork, you may have to finish it at home. It depends how well you used the class time. That being said, it is easy to fall behind. If you don't understand a concept taught that day, you need to get help. We don't have time for days of practice or review.
I often have students who have the required prior knowledge, but simply don't learn new material quickly (or don't get help when they don't understand something). This class does move FAST! We often do 2-4 regular lessons in 1 day. If you don't have the time to get help when you need it, this class may not be for you. You may need to make time to meet with classmates, me, or go to Math Lab.
I often have students who have the required prior knowledge, but simply don't learn new material quickly (or don't get help when they don't understand something). This class does move FAST! We often do 2-4 regular lessons in 1 day. If you don't have the time to get help when you need it, this class may not be for you. You may need to make time to meet with classmates, me, or go to Math Lab.
Grading Expectations
You can find the contract here.
Students are expected to maintain at least an 80% (B-) during all grading periods (progress reports, quarters, semesters). Students who receive a C during any grading period will have until the following grading period (about 5 weeks) to raise it to at least an 80%. Students who receive a D or F during any grading period will be removed from the course.
My advice: The 1st semester covers material that is predominately 7th grade, while the 2nd semester covers material that is predominately 8th grade. Students who are struggling early in the year, should seriously consider moving to Math 7. Students who are struggling in September or October usually are still struggling in January. Instead of waiting until January to move down, move down sooner, preferably by October. This ensures students have time to develop a deeper understanding of the foundational math, before it is applied to more challenging concepts.
Students are expected to maintain at least an 80% (B-) during all grading periods (progress reports, quarters, semesters). Students who receive a C during any grading period will have until the following grading period (about 5 weeks) to raise it to at least an 80%. Students who receive a D or F during any grading period will be removed from the course.
My advice: The 1st semester covers material that is predominately 7th grade, while the 2nd semester covers material that is predominately 8th grade. Students who are struggling early in the year, should seriously consider moving to Math 7. Students who are struggling in September or October usually are still struggling in January. Instead of waiting until January to move down, move down sooner, preferably by October. This ensures students have time to develop a deeper understanding of the foundational math, before it is applied to more challenging concepts.