Take Math, Take Charge:
Why is Algebra I in Grade Eight Important?

The more math a student takes, the more options there will be for that student’s career choices and the more likely the student is to graduate on time from college.  Algebra I is a gateway course; students who are successful in learning concepts of Algebra are more likely to take and be successful in additional math courses in highschool. Students who take mathematics every year during high school are less likely to need remedial math in any post-secondary option. But WHAT mathematics is essential for a high quality education?
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NCTM RELEASES PK-8 FOCAL POINTS FOR MATHEMATICS

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), in order to give guidance in focusing the curriculum at specific grade levels, similar to what is done in the top achieving countries in the world, has selected a few key ideas that should be well developed at each of the grade levels from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8.  This is a companion to Principles and Standards for School Mathematics, which details standards and benchmarks for students by grade bands (PK-2, 3-5, 6-8, and high school).  To find out the specific focus at a particular grade see NCTM's Curriculum Focal Points document.

Good teaching requires well-prepared teachers. With the nation poised to reinvigorate US achievement in mathematics and science, findings released by Horizon Research, Inc. of Chapel Hill, NC demonstrate that what makes a difference in mathematics and science teaching is ongoing, content-focused professional development.  To learn more