RJ Grey 8th Grade Math Levels FAQs
What is the difference between Math 8 and Algebra 1?
Math 8 is the continuation course of Math 7 and follows the Massachusetts Curriculum for 8th graders in math. Students will find the pacing and difficulty level of the course to be similar to the 7th grade. Students will explore engaging and challenging problems to develop a solid understanding of the math concepts. Algebra 1 is a significant jump in both pacing and difficulty level. We follow the same curriculum as the Honors Algebra class at ABRHS.
Will my student be “behind”if they take Math 8?
Not at all. Math 8 covers all of the concepts that Massachusetts requires for 8th-grade students. The Math 8 standards develop a strong foundation for upper-level math courses. Students will be well prepared for the high school courses from Math 8.
My child’s teacher did not recommend my child for Algebra 1. Should we have them try it anyway?
Our goal is for all students to have a deep understanding of junior high math concepts for success in higher-level high school classes. Our experience shows that students grow in their conceptual understanding with tasks and problems at the student’s challenge level/ We strongly urge you to speak to your child’s 7th-grade teacher to find out the reasons for their recommendation. Teachers evaluate several indicators of readiness for algebra including reasoning skills, fluency with rational numbers, the ability to pick up new concepts quickly, and the ability to make connections. Students who are pushed to take Algebra 1 before they are ready will miss the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of the pre algebra concepts.
What about my child’s ability to take the more challenging course in HS?
There are different paths through the courses in high school; the understanding developed in both 8th grade classes builds the foundation for these paths. Motivated students with an interest in math may discuss with their counselor the path to the courses that interest them including statistics or calculus. It may be required that a student double-up one year in math to meet prerequisites for some of the harder courses.
Are students who do not take outside math successful in Algebra 1?
Absolutely! We teach the Algebra course with the understanding that many of our students have never seen the material before. Algebra 1 students who have not taken any outside math are successful in our course. We find that the better indicators for success in Algebra 1 include reasoning ability, perseverance, deep understanding, ability to notice and use patterns, and an interest in the subject of mathematics.