MMSD Mathematics Content Standards for Algebra Grades 6-8
Introduction | Grade 6 | Grade 7 | Grade 8
Wisconsin’s Model Academic Standards (WMAS) Standard F:
Algebraic Relationships, 1998 (p. 14)
Students in Wisconsin will discover, describe, and generalize simple and complex patterns and relationships. In the context of real-world problem situations, the student will use algebraic techniques to define and describe the problem to determine and justify appropriate solutions.
Algebra is the language of mathematics. Much of the observable world can be characterized as having patterned regularity where a change in one quantity results in changes in other quantities. Through algebra and the use of variables and functions, mathematical models can be built which are essential to personal, scientific, economic, social, medical, artistic, and civic fields of inquiry.
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM)
Principles and Standards for School Mathematics (PSSM)
Algebra, 2000 (pp. 222-231)
Instructional programs from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 should enable all students to:
Students in the middle grades should learn algebra both as a set of concepts and competencies tied to the representation of quantitative relationships and as a style of mathematical thinking for formalizing patterns, functions, and generalizations. In the middle grades, students should work more frequently with algebraic symbols than in lower grades. It is essential that they become comfortable in relating symbolic expressions containing variables to verbal, tabular, and graphical representations of numerical and quantitative relationships. Students should develop an initial understanding of several different meanings and uses of variables through representing quantities in a variety of problem situations. They should connect their experiences with linear functions to their developing understandings of proportionality, and they should learn to distinguish linear relationships from nonlinear ones. In the middle grades, students should also learn to recognize and generate equivalent expressions, solve linear equations, and use simple formulas. Whenever possible, the teaching and learning of algebra can and should be integrated with other topics in the curriculum.