What our students should know by the end of 8th grade in: Algebra I

California Content Standards

Use such operations as taking the opposite , finding the reciprocal, taking a root and using rules of exponents.
2.0

Simplify expressions before solving linear equations and inequalities with one variable.
4.0

Solve multi-step problems involving linear equations and inequalities in one variable.
5.0

Graph a linear equation and compute the x and yintercepts.

6.0

Verify that a point lies on a line, given an equation of the line and use point-slope formula.
7.0

Algebraically solve a system of two linear equations in two variables.

9.0

Add, subtract, multiply and divide monomials and polynomials.

10.0

Simplify fractions with polynomials.

12.0a

Apply basic factoring techniques to second-and third degree polynomials.

12.0b

Simplify fractions with polynomials.

12.0c

Solve a quadratic equation.

14.0

Apply algebraic techniques to solve a rate problem.

15.0

Know the quadratic formula and be familiar with its proof.

19.0

Use quadratic formulas to solve quadratic equations.

20.0

Graph quadratic functions.

21.0

Apply quadratic equations to physical problems.

23.0

How you can help your 8th grader at home with math.
A parent or caregivers involvement in a childs education is the single most important factor in that childs academic success. Times have changed since you were in school. That is a good and a bad thing. In the 8th grade math classroom today, algebra is the goal. It may have been many years since you took algebra (if you ever did). Stay aware of course requirements. Pathways to higher education depend on them. Many parents had an unfortunate time in their own math training. Dont communicate these bad experiences to your adolescent. It doesnt matter if you got As or Ds, what matters is what they earn. Let them know, at every turn, that you care and it matters. You need to expect the best from your child. Set your expectations high, keep them realistic. Let them know that academic success is important and support them in this goal. Provide them with a private and quiet place to do homework. Be sure they have the mathematical tools they need: pencils, a calculator, ruler, protractor, compass, graph paper, colored pencils, and an eraser. If you are a mother or female caregiver, it is especially important you do math with your daughter, dont leave it all to Dad. She needs to see that you value math, think it is important, and put it to good use. It may not be algebra homework, it may be the family budget, but include her and enjoy her participation. If you havent yet opened a savings account, this is the time to do it. Encourage them to earn and save. Watch their account grow as they make deposits and earn interest. This is also a good time to include your child in helping plan the family vacation. Get out those maps and have them tell you how much gas (and money) you'll need to get from here to there and back again. Finally, send your child to school well rested, having had a healthy breakfast, knowing that you support their learning and expect them to take it seriously.

Revised July2011