IB Course Description
Course Name: Algebra I
Course #: MA27
Grade Level: 7th/8th
# of Credits: One (1)
I. Course Outline
MA27 Algebra I will be taught as outlined in the Mesa Public Schools Arizona Academic Content
Standards for mathematics.
Throughout this course, IB students will be asked to reflect on their progress along the Learner Profile
continuum, which includes becoming motivated and principled learners. Students will expand their global
outlook through research, problem-solving, and communication.
Key Concepts for this course will include form, logic and relationships. Related Concepts will include
change, representation, model, simplification, pattern, quantity, measurement, justification.
II. IB Aims and Objectives
The aims of MYP mathematics are to encourage and enable students to: • enjoy mathematics,
develop curiosity and begin to appreciate its elegance and power • develop an understanding of
the principles and nature of mathematics • communicate clearly and confidently in a variety of
contexts • develop logical, critical and creative thinking • develop confidence, perseverance, and
independence in mathematical thinking and problem-solving • develop powers of generalization
and abstraction • apply and transfer skills to a wide range of real-life situations, other areas of
knowledge and future developments • appreciate how developments in technology and
mathematics have influenced each other • appreciate the moral, social and ethical implications
arising from the work of mathematicians and the applications of mathematics • appreciate the
international dimension in mathematics through an awareness of the universality of
mathematics and its multicultural and historical perspectives • appreciate the contribution of
mathematics to other areas of knowledge • develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes
necessary to pursue further studies in mathematics • develop the ability to reflect critically upon
their own work and the work of others.
The objectives of MYP mathematics are:
Knowledge and understanding - This objective assesses the extent to which students can select
and apply mathematics to solve problems in both familiar and unfamiliar situations in a variety of
contexts.
Investigating patterns allows students to experience the excitement and satisfaction of
mathematical discovery. Working through investigations encourages students to become risk-
takers, inquirers and critical thinkers. The ability to inquire is invaluable in the MYP and
contributes to lifelong learning.
Mathematics provides a powerful and universal language. Students are expected to use
appropriate mathematical language and different forms of representation when communicating
mathematical ideas, reasoning and findings, both orally and in writing.
MYP mathematics encourages students to see mathematics as a tool for solving problems in an
authentic real-life context. Students are expected to transfer theoretical mathematical
knowledge into real-world situations and apply appropriate problem-solving strategies, draw
valid conclusions and reflect upon their results
Outside of these, ATL (Approaches to Learning) is always present and helps students “learn to learn” with
tools to enable them to become life-long, independent learners. ATL skills include thinking, social,
communication, and research skills.
III. Topics
Major topics for this course include:
Addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of algebraic terms
Factorization of algebraic expressions
Substitution
Rearranging algebraic expressions
Algebraic Fractions
Integer and fractional exponents (including negative number exponents)
Patterns and Sequences
Algorithms
Functions
Equations
Inequalities
Transformations of Functions
IV. Global Contexts
Global Contexts provide a framework on which to build each unit of study. The six Global Contexts will be
integrated within the various units of study to reinforce the connections between mathematics as it relates
both to content and universal concepts. The six Contexts are Identities and Relationships, Scientific and
Technical Innovation, Fairness and Development, Orientation in Space and Time, Globalization and
Sustainability, and Personal and Cultural Expression; however, of particular emphasis in this subject
content will be scientific and technical innovation.
V. Internationalism
Internationalism for this content will include discussion of math contributions from mathematicians from
various cultures and origins of specific geometry applications. These include geometry applications in art
and architecture.
VI. Teaching Methods
Teaching methods for this class incorporate study skills with lectures, inquiry-based investigations, handson cooperative learning experiences, group discussion and individual practice.
VII. Assessment
Students are given an opportunity to demonstrate mastery of knowledge and the Criterion A-B-C-D skills
using a variety of assessments such as tests, projects, investigations and performance-based
assessments. Performance-based assessments are, at times, evaluated first by the student using the
assessment criteria outlined in the rubric. This way, students are given an opportunity to self-reflect and
refine their product prior to teacher evaluation.
VIII. Texts and/or Resources
Big Ideas