Pre-algebra

2023-24: May be offered - email me if interested.

This class is for 7th - 9th grade students ready for structure and wanting a solid foundation to prepare for a rigorous high school Algebra course the following year. Very mature 6th grade students have successfully completed this course, but must be ready for the class environment and structure.

This class teaches what I wish all my Algebra I students and beyond had learned before beginning the high school course sequence. While AoPS is often thought of as a gifted student only resource, with adequate scaffolding, selective use of problems without having to do everything and mentoring in problem solving techniques, more typical students have had success using this over a traditional, repetitive and predictable skills-focused Prealgebra text.

Pre-requisite: Proficiency with basic arithmetic, fractions and decimals concepts, and a readiness for the class structure. A pre-test is here. Ask the instructor if in doubt. If a student is not ready, waiting a year is recommended.
The emphasis of this class will not only be on typical Pre-Algebra concepts, but on developing a problem-solving approach to math in general. Math history and recreational math (yes, there is such a thing) will be a regular feature of the class.
Four independent study day assignments will need to be completed weekly for students to be prepared for class activities. See Sample Weekly Schedule.

Minimum of 6 students, maximum 12

Fee: $400 per semester. $15 material fee. Discounts available to homeschool families paying personally - See payment and discount terms. Students are provided with a complete binder of consumables for the year.
Text: AoPS PreAlgebra text only. Instructor provides solutions as well as numerous supplemental resources / activities.

Please see Class Overview for more information on class structure, instructor, etc.

2022 - 23

Contact Julie Brennan for additional information.