The Mathematics Course Sequence The University Liggett School mathematics program follows the course sequence below, pursuant to the best-fit mathematics placement policy (see chart below).
Mathematics
Math 6 Full Year (Three Trimesters) Prerequisites: None
Math 8 Full Year (Three Trimesters) Prerequisites: Math 7 or equivalent OR best-fit mathematics placement This course is designed to introduce algebraic concepts in a manner that gives students the opportunity to mature mathematically without the pressures of an accelerated course. Major emphasis is given to understanding the language of algebra, exponents, solving equations and inequalities, graphing, and factoring. Students will participate in cooperative learning groups to apply problem-solving skills to understand the relationship between algebra and real world challenges. Students will utilize various computer programs to illustrate concepts and enhance understanding.
Middle School mathematics classes introduce concepts and topics through a problem solving approach. Students are asked to explain and justify their reasoning in written form and through oral explanation - either individually or in a collaborative effort. The goal is to have students connect the skills and topics to real world challenges while building their problem solving stamina. The mathematical practice standards (make sense of problems and persevere in solving them, reason abstractly and quantitatively, construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others, model with mathematics, use appropriate tools strategically, attend to precision, look for and make use of structure, and look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning) provide a framework for how Middle School teachers develop activities and incorporate technology into lessons.
This course places an emphasis on strengthening computational skills with integers, fractions, decimals, and percentages. Geometric terminology and concepts such as angle measure, perimeter, and area will be introduced and explored for two-dimensional figures. Students will also be introduced to ratios, proportions, statistics and data analysis. Over the course of the year, students will develop familiarity with equations, inequalities, and graphing with one and two variables. Math 7 Full Year (Three Trimesters) Prerequisites: Math 6 or equivalent OR best-fit mathematics placement While this course ultimately follows a pre-algebra sequence, basic skills are reviewed for mastery. Emphasis is placed on using variables, equations, functions, and graphs in the process of solving problems. Students will explore mathematics through the use of technology, hands-on activities and cooperative learning groups. Problems involving real world applications will help students develop critical thinking skills and connect the learning of mathematical concepts to the challenges of daily life. This course will provide students the opportunity to reinforce the fundamental skills needed for higher level math courses.
Best-Fit Mathematics Placement We employ a multi-layered process to ensure that each student receives the best-fit mathematical placement each academic year. The Mathematics Department will review the NWEA MAP Growth aggregate data and contact families of students who are eligible to pursue an alternate pathway, including Honors courses in Upper School or bypassing the next course in the sequence. Criteria for exploring an advanced pathway (which means bypassing one or more courses in the math sequence) include an 80th percentile or above achievement score on the latest NWEA MAP Growth assessment, teacher recommendation, student interest, supplemental assessment data, and family preference. Students meeting the above criteria for bypassing a course in the math sequence will take the final exam
for the course in which they would like to bypass. Additional criteria for enrollment in Honors Integrated Math 1 include earning an A in the first and second trimesters of Math 8. Best fit placement criteria and procedures are reviewed annually and are subject to revision.
2026-2027 ULS Curriculum Guide
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