Eighth Grade Mathematics Curriculum Objectives

2010 - 2011

Number Sense and Place Value (M8:2, M8:7) Student demonstrates understanding of the relative magnitude of numbers by ordering and comparing common irrational numbers. Student estimates and evaluates the reasonableness of solutions appropriate to grade level.

1. Student orders and compares common irrational numbers.
2. Student estimates and evaluates the reasonableness of solutions.
3. Student uses properties (commutative, associative, and distributive) to solve problems and to simplify computations.

Operations and Computation (M8:4) Student accurately solves problems involving squares, cubes, and square roots.

1. Student solves problems involving squares, cubes, and square roots.
2. Student applies the conventions of order of operations.
3. Student demonstrates mastery of the 24 basic skills.

Geometry and Measurement (M8:10, M8:13, M8:15) Student applies the Pythagorean Theorem in problem-solving situations. Student describes the impact on the volume and surface area of a three-dimensional figure when dimensions are multiplied by a constant scale factor. Student measures and uses units of measurement appropriately.

1. Student applies the Pythagorean theorem to find a missing side of a right triangle. .
2. Student measures and uses units of measures appropriately.

Functions and Algebra Concepts (M8:19, M8:20, M8:21, M8:22) Student generalizes linear and nonlinear relationships. Student demonstrates conceptual understanding of linear relationships as a constant rate of change. Student evaluates and simplifies algebraic expressions, and solves multi-step linear equations.

1. Student generalizes a linear relationship with an equation.
2. Student demonstrates conceptual understanding of slope as rate of change. .
3. Student distinguishes between linear and nonlinear relationships.
4. Student describes how change in the value of one variable relates to change in the value of a second variable.
5. Student evaluates algebraic expressions using substitution.
6. Student solves multi-step linear equations with integer coefficients.
7. Student uses rates of change to sketch graphs for and match graphs to given situations.
8. Student writes an equation for a line given two points.
9. Student determines the line or curve of best fit given a set of data.

Data, Statistics, and Probability Concepts (M8:23, M8:26) Student uses a variety of strategies to solve problems involving combinations. Given a data set student creates and interprets box and whisker plots.

1. Student solves permutation and combination problems using a variety of strategies. .
2. Student creates and interprets box and whisker plots given a set of data.
3. For a probability event, student determines the possible outcomes as a fraction, decimal, and percent.

Mathematical Problem Solving (M8:30) Student solves problems of increasing complexity. Student accurately uses mathematical language and presentations to communicate solutions and to foster understanding of mathematics.
“Problem solving is not a distinct topic, but a process that should permeate the entire [math] program.” NCTM

1. Student accurately solves grade appropriate problems.
2. Student effectively communicates problem solving steps, strategies, and solutions.