8th Grade Math Objectives

Algebraic expressions and equations take center stage in 8th Grade Math Objectives. Students build upon their knowledge from previous grades, mastering the manipulation of algebraic expressions and solving equations. They work with linear and nonlinear functions, exploring patterns, graphing equations, and analyzing their properties. These topics strengthen their algebraic reasoning and lay a solid foundation for their entry into Algebra.

Functions form a significant component of 8th grade math. Students investigate and analyze different types of functions, including linear and exponential, as well as an in-depth look into proportional relationships. They explore how functions model real-world situations and make predictions based on data. This topic fosters a deeper understanding of mathematical modeling which becomes more important in high school.

Geometry remains a crucial focus as students explore concepts such as congruence, similarity, and transformations. They analyze the properties of two-dimensional and three-dimensional figures, calculating area volume, perimeter, and surface area. They also apply geometric principles in solving problems. By exploring geometric relationships and reasoning spatially, students develop their critical thinking and visualization skills.

Statistics and probability round out the 8th grade math curriculum. Students learn to summarize and interpret data, creating and analyzing various types of graphs and charts. They develop an understanding of measures of central tendency and variability, applying statistical concepts to draw conclusions. Additionally, students explore probability, calculating and interpreting the likelihood of events.

The Number System

• Know that there are numbers that are not rational, and approximate them by rational numbers. Students explore the concept of irrational numbers and learn to approximate them using rational numbers.
• Use rational approximations of irrational numbers to compare the size of irrational numbers. They develop an understanding of the magnitude of irrational numbers by approximating them with rational numbers and comparing their values.

Expressions and Equations

• Work with radicals and integer exponents. Students learn to simplify and perform operations with radicals, as well as apply the properties of integer exponents to simplify expressions.
• Understand the connections between proportional relationships, lines, and linear equations. This involves exploring proportional relationships between quantities, graphing linear equations, and understanding the relationship between slopes and rates of change.

Functions

• Define, evaluate, and compare functions. Students learn to define functions and evaluate them for different inputs. They also compare functions based on their rates of change and understand the concept of a linear function.
• Use functions to model relationships between quantities. This includes using functions to represent and analyze real-world situations, as well as solving problems involving functional relationships.

Geometry

• Understand congruence and similarity using physical models, transparencies, or geometry software. Students explore the properties of congruent and similar figures, including transformations, and use these properties to solve problems.
• Understand and apply the Pythagorean Theorem. They develop an understanding of the Pythagorean Theorem and its applications, including finding distances between points on a coordinate plane and determining whether triangles are right triangles.

Statistics and Probability

• Investigate patterns of association in bivariate data. Students learn to analyze bivariate data, including scatter plots and lines of best fit, to identify patterns and make predictions.
• Understand and apply the concepts of conditional probability and independence. This involves understanding conditional probability, including events that are independent or dependent, and using these concepts to solve problems.