Welcome to Pre-algebra
with The Art of Problem-Solving
Course Description
Using a top-tier curriculum designed for math champions, this course brings both gifted and math-averse students into a wonderful world of number relationships. What are the patterns that enable “mental math”? What amazing things happen when we use powers? How many ways can we split a polygon into triangles? This course challenges middle-school students to explore, experiment, and question as they master the concepts needed for success in Algebra I and beyond.
Class Format: Live classes will take place on Adobe Connect, a secure and feature-rich learning platform with audio/video, chat, whiteboards, and breakout functionality. Students will need working mics and a way to interact with the whiteboard via mouse or touchscreen. Practice questions are available on Alcumus on the AoPS website, and quizzes/tests will be hosted on the Moodle.
Class Times: M/T/Th, 2:35 to 3:25 PM ET
Class Dates: September 2 – May 22 (final exam due on May 22)
Text: Prealgebra, from The Art of Problem Solving. A complimentary ebook version of this text is provided by the instructor, along with access to the Art of Problem-Solving website. Students will also need to sign up on the interactive learning site Brilliant.org.
Syllabus (2025-2026)
| Week | Topic | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sept-2 | Properties of Arithmetic | |
| Sep-8 | Division by 0, Exponents | From Week 2 onward, students will complete weekly quizzes, exercises on Brilliant.org, or additional practice on Alcumus |
| Sep-15 | ||
| Sep-22 | Number Theory | |
| Sept-29 | ||
| Oct-6 | ||
| Oct-13 | Fractions | |
| Oct-20 | ||
| Oct-27 | Equations & Inequalities | |
| Nov-03 | Test 1 Due Nov. 7, 11:59pm | |
| Nov-09 | ||
| Nov-17 | Decimals | |
| Nov-24* | Thanksgiving Break | |
| Dec-01 | ||
| Dec-08 | Ratios, Conversions, & Rates | |
| Dec-08 | ||
| Dec-22 | Christmas Break | |
| Dec-29 | Christmas Break | |
| Jan-05 | Review | |
| Jan-12 | Percents | |
| Jan-19 | Test 2 Due Jan. 23, 11:59pm | |
| Jan-26 | ||
| Feb-02 | Square Roots | |
| Feb-09 | ||
| Feb-16 | Angles | |
| Feb-23 | ||
| Mar-02 | Spring Break | |
| Mar-09 | Perimeter & Area | |
| Mar-16 | ||
| Mar-23 | Trigonometry & Quadrilaterals | |
| Mar-30 | Test 3 Due Apr. 3, 11:59pm | |
| Apr-06 | Data & Statistics | |
| Apr-13 | ||
| Apr-20 | Counting & Probability | |
| Apr-27 | ||
| May-04 | Problem-Solving Strategies | |
| May-11 | Review Week | |
| May-18 | Review Week | Final due May 22, 11:59pm |