Algebra 1 math goals typically include mastering foundational algebraic concepts to prepare for higher-level math. In our opinion, it is the most important high school math class because it is the culmination of everything that was learned from K-8 and the foundation for future high school math classes.
For many students in the area, Algebra 1 is taught in 7th and 8th grade. Therefore, it is very important that middle school or junior high students still learn Algebra 1 as if they are high school student.
Here are some key learning objectives:
1. Expressions, Equations, and Inequalities
- Understand and apply the order of operations (PEMDAS).
- Simplify algebraic expressions using properties of operations.
- Solve one-step, two-step, and multi-step equations and inequalities.
- Solve and graph inequalities on a number line.
- Work with absolute value equations and inequalities.
2. Functions and Graphing
- Understand the concept of a function and identify function notation.
- Compare linear and nonlinear functions.
- Graph linear equations using slope-intercept, point-slope, and standard forms.
- Determine the slope of a line from a graph, equation, or two points.
- Interpret and analyze graphs in real-world contexts.
3. Systems of Equations and Inequalities
- Solve systems of equations by graphing, substitution, and elimination.
- Solve systems of inequalities and graph the solutions.
- Apply systems of equations to real-world problems.
- Introduce solving a system of equations using matrix operations.
4. Polynomials and Factoring
- Add, subtract, multiply, and divide polynomials.
- Factor polynomials using GCF, grouping, and special product formulas (difference of squares, trinomials, etc.).
- Solve quadratic equations by factoring.
5. Quadratic Functions and Equations
- Graph quadratic functions and understand key features (vertex, axis of symmetry, etc.).
- Solve quadratic equations using factoring, the quadratic formula, and completing the square.
- Apply quadratic equations to real-world problems (e.g., projectile motion).
6. Exponents and Radicals
- Apply exponent rules (product, quotient, power, negative exponents).
- Convert between exponential and radical form.
- Simplify square roots and other radicals.
7. Data Analysis and Probability
- Interpret and analyze data using mean, median, mode, and range.
- Understand basic probability concepts.
- Work with scatter plots, correlation, and lines of best fit.