This brief provides an update on the 2005 "CenterView" featuring 8th grade Algebra I (ED485345). It finds that not much has changed in three years with California middle school students still struggling in Algebra I and 32% of middle school math teachers lacking a subject matter credential in math. Because Algebra I is so critically…

In this article, the author describes his experiences when he decided to teach university-level mathematics to Year 8. Handling a particularly able class who had investigated the isoperimetric problem, he was confident that the class was more than up to the challenge and adequately motivated. Using a Powerpoint, he delivered the lessons to the…

Offers reasons why algebra should not be taught in the eighth grade, suggesting that this subject be replaced by a challenging, engaging alternative. Also suggests enriching the mathematics program to bring more students into mathematics classes. (JN)

This paper highlights an attempt by two grade 8 teachers, Bulelwa and Kevin, to draw in the everyday in the teaching of mathematics. Though located in different South African contexts and settings, both teachers tend to enable their learners' access to mathematics by rendering the everyday inauthentic. I argue that inauthenticating the everyday is…

Much has been said on matter of aesthetics and mathematics--perhaps most commonly articulated in relation to properties such as "beauty" and "elegance," which are used to distinguish good from not-so-good mathematical products. Despite its importance in the work of mathematicians, it has been argued that aesthetics cannot be incorporated into…

When marking GCSE data handling coursework, the author was repeatedly reminded just how poor the level of statistical understanding is among students. In response to a feeling that the teaching of handling data topics was limited, the author and her colleague designed a project with Y8 students to try to teach statistics for a deeper…

Argues that first-year algebra should be taught in eighth grade. Outlines an algebra course that could provide average students with a working kowledge of algebra. Proposes that this would require students to have experiences with variables, equations, formulas, and graphs during previous years of study. (TW)

Describes a social studies assignment developed for Arizona eighth graders that focuses on Arizona history but also incorporates English, math, and computer programming skills to create a computer program about traveling through the state. Topics discussed include classroom management, computer requirements, community involvement, and interaction…