Math I  - Chapter by Chapter - Summaries

Chapter 1

Students review and build upon their 5th grade math skills, while learning to display and organize data in tables and graphs. Data analysis is explored early so that tables and graphs can be applied throughout the year. Students use whole number operations to find means, medians, modes, and ranges.

Chapter 2

Students look for patterns and develop number sense and algebraic reasoning while continuing to analyze data. They learn basic concepts such as the order of operations, and are introduced to variables so that they can write and model expressions and equations in their work throughout the year. They solve simple equations using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Chapter 3

Chapter Three introduces students to decimals through the use of models. Students learn to read, write, compare, and order whole numbers and decimals. Whole number and decimals are based on powers of ten, so decimals are explored before fractions.

Chapter 4

In Chapter Four, students build upon their work in Chapter Three and learn to multiply and divide decimals. They then solve simple one-step equations using decimals.

Chapter 5

As students continue to use models, they learn about equivalent fractions, mixed numbers, and improper fractions. Students then use least common multiples to compare and order fractions. Students also learn about the relationship between fractions and decimals.

Chapter 6

Building on the lessons in Chapter Five, Chapter Six begins with estimating sums and differences of fractions then students use fraction models to add and subtract fractions with like and unlike denominators. They solve equations using fractions and mixed numbers.

Chapter 7

Students first apply proportional reasoning to explore the meaning of ratio and write equal ratios. Using their skills and solving equations, they solve proportions and geometry related problems with scale drawings. Students explore the relationships among percents, fractions, and decimals. They learn to estimate percents and to find percents of a number using percent models and technology.

Chapter 8

Chapter Eight introduces students to the basics of geometry. Students learn to measure and estimate angles and to classify polygons. They use their estimations and measurement skills to explore congruent and similar figures. Then students learn about transformations of geometric figures in a hands-on manner.

Chapter 9

Students build on their measurement and geometry skills to explore perimeter and areas of two-dimensional figures. They use technology to explore pi. Students find circumferences and areas of circles. Students also identify three-dimensional figures and use algebra skills to find surface area and volume.

Chapter 10

Students use a number line to build on their understanding of integers. They model integers with algebra tiles and use these models to add and subtract integers. Using geometry skills, students graph on the coordinate plane. Using data analysis, students graph functions and apply what they know about integers to graphs.

Chapter 11

Since students now have the pre-requisite skills, they can successfully explore probability with hands on activities. Students decide the fairness of a game and perform simulations of a problem. They explore theoretical probability, tree diagrams, and independent events. Using data analysis students make predictions.