Math

St. Michael’s utilizes an accelerated math program for students in grades 5-8, which culminates with our 8th graders taking Algebra 1 and Geometry. In 5th grade, students more deeply explore fractions, decimals, and percents, examining how the three are related. They also begin to work through algebraic concepts, utilizing variables. 6th grade students work through a variety of concepts such as simplifying algebraic expressions, performing integer operations, exploring the Pythagorean Theorem, and solving equations and inequalities. 

In 7th grade, some concepts that students work through are integer and rational number operations, properties of exponents, applications of percents, and beginning to find the slope of a line. Our 8th graders fully explore Algebra I with topics such as using slope to identify parallel lines, solve and graph compound inequalities, learn and use properties of exponents, and begin to study Geometry. 

One example of a hands-on project Middle School math students may complete is Planning a Holiday Meal.
Using their math skills, students are asked to plan and organize a holiday meal for a family of eight with a budget of $100. Utilizing grocery store flyers or online ads, students plan a menu, figure out how much they need for eight people (what size turkey, how many lbs of potatoes, etc.) and then determine the cost for the meal.