The majority of 7th graders are enrolled in a course titled 7th Grade Math. Seventh Grade Math incorporates concepts and skills from the content and pacing of the past 7th grade accelerated course and will allow students to take part in a class that more closely aligns with identified curricular goals.

Seventh Grade Math concepts include:

• Integers

• Expressions

• Equations

• Multi-Step Equations

• Inequalities

• Rates & Proportions

• Percents

• Probability

• 2 Dimensional Geometry

• 3 Dimensional Geometry

• Data

Why is District 47 making this change?

In keeping with District 47’s mission of Empowering All Students: Learners Today - Leaders Tomorrow, one of the main objectives in combining the previous regular math course with the accelerated math course is to ensure all students have a solid foundation in mathematics so they can participate in higher level mathematics in the future. In addition, research shows that all students benefit from engaging in rigorous tasks related to critical thinking and learning in a collaborative, diverse environment.

Who was involved in making this decision?

During the 2020-2021 school year, a committee of middle school teachers and administrators met regularly to review and assess middle school math curriculum and to study current research on effective teaching practices. The committee met regularly during the 2021-2022 school year and made a determination to continue this dynamic model that began in 6th grade. The committee will continue to meet during the 2022-2023 school year to evaluate student progress and needs.

How will the district meet the needs of diverse learners in one math class?

Differentiated activities and instruction with flexible group strategies are incorporated in the classroom to support all learners. In addition, students are able to receive math intervention and enrichment during XLT as needed. After school clubs, such as 10th inning and homework club, also offer students an opportunity for academic support.

How will this decision impact 8th grade math courses?

The middle school math committee has identified that providing a pathway for more students to access algebra content is a priority. However, algebra content is a broad spectrum of learning outcomes and we intend to continue to review data and student needs to make determinations about specific course offerings in 8th grade prior to the 2023-2024 school year.

Will the district still offer an Extended Curriculum math class?

Yes. Students who are identified for 7th Grade Extended Curriculum math participate in an Algebra content course.

Seventh grade Extended Curriculum/Algebra math concepts for 2022-23 include:

• Expressions, Equations, and Functions
• Properties of Real Numbers
• Solving Linear Equations
• Graphing Linear Equations and Functions
• Writing Linear Equations
• Solving and Graphing Linear Inequalities
• Systems of Equations
• Exponents and Exponential Functions
• Polynomials and Factoring
• Quadratic Equations and Functions
• Radicals and Geometry Connections
• Rational Equations and Functions 

Questions about the District 47 math program can be directed to Dr. Carolyn Stadlman, Director of Math, Science and STEM, at ckstadlman@d47.org.