The Middle School mathematics curriculum emphasizes basic computational skills. The arithmetic of common factions, decimal fractions and percents are studied in each Middle School group. These arithmetic skills are presented in such a way as to develop fundamental algebraic concepts. They are applied to elementary problems in algebra and geometry. The dual purpose of the Middle School math program is to complete the development of arithmetic and to provide the computational and conceptual foundation for success in the rigorous Upper School program in mathematics. Most Group VIII students complete the first-year algebra course, for which they receive credit towards their graduation requirements.

Mathematics V:
Group V mathematics provides an in-depth introduction to the computational skills with fractions, decimals and percents which form the core of the Middle School mathematics curriculum. Approximately half of the course is devoted to the survey of the elementary operations with common fractions.

Mathematics VI:
Group VI mathematics continues the study of common and decimal fractions. At this level the student is expected to master the elementary concepts and basic skills involving both forms of rational numbers. Emphasis is placed on computational skills through the use of exponential numbers, averaging, the distributive property and factoring. Geometric concepts, including measurement in the metric system, are introduced in the course. An in-depth study of percents, including applications in story problems, highlights the course.

Mathematics VII:
This course reviews basic computation skills and continues to build a strong foundation for algebra and geometry courses. In the study of rational numbers, students are required to demonstrate a high degree of computational skill with common fractions, mixed numbers and percents. The study of signed numbers and the distributive property in linear equations provide a strong background for elementary algebra. The continued study of metric geometry and introduction of such non-metric concepts as parallelism and congruence develop an understanding of spatial relationships and provide a firm background for work in geometry. Individualization is important in the program and is aided by sectioning.

Group VIII:
Two courses in mathematics are offered in Group VIII. Placement is recommended individually according to past achievement, aptitude and maturity in abstract thinking.

Algebra I:
This course in introductory algebra is offered for students who have mastered the computational skills. It consists of a study of the four elementary operations on algebraic expressions: linear equations in one and two unknowns, rational equations, and quadratic equations. Factoring, fractions, graphing and irrational numbers are studied within the context of simplifying expressions and solving equations. The context of this course forms the basis for computational work required by the Geometry course which follows in Group IX. Successful completion of this course satisfies one of the Upper School requirements for graduation.

Mathematics: (Pre- Algebra)
This course is designed to solidify the student’s facility with the computational skills and to prepare the student for the Algebra I course which follows in Group IX. It provides the student with the basic definitions, operations, and procedures used in elementary algebra. It includes a study of the role of variables as names for algebraic numbers and operations applied to them. It is our hope that as a result of this course the student will come to a better understanding of mathematical logic and be prepared to undertake the study of abstract formal mathematics.

Group VI/VII/VIII Math Teams:
This is a vertically integrated math course open to students in Groups VI, VII, VIII by invitation. Regular work on short answer problems is enhanced by the in-depth study of topics not usually introduced in the school curriculum. While this course makes incidental use of appropriate skills learned in regular math classes, it is not a skill-building course. The emphasis in this class is on understanding concepts and discovering how mathematics is created. This course is not intended to accelerate the student’s progress through the usual curriculum. Regular tests are included to measure the student’s progress.