Math Foundations for Middle School: Expressions, Ratios & Geometry

🌟 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐝𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐚𝐭 𝐚 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞: 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐬 & 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞

Why do we use letters in math? How do we know which operation comes first? What’s really happening when we solve a word problem? In this concept-based math class, learners explore the why behind the math—and build the confidence to explain it, not just do it.

🌟 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝—𝐢𝐭’𝐬 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡.

Each week features a new topic pulled from core middle school math—like expressions, ratios, geometry, and data. With guided examples, real-life scenarios, and optional practice, learners get to slow down, focus, and truly understand.

Whether your learner is filling gaps, strengthening skills, or exploring new ideas, this class offers math that makes sense—and sticks.

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Learners can drop in any time without feeling lost, as each week features a brand-new topic that's engaging and easy to jump into—no matter how long the class has been running. Every day is a great day to start!
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Weekly Breakdown:

Week of September 7 – Understanding Ratios
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Explore what a ratio is and how it compares two quantities in real-life situations.

Week of September 14 – Equivalent Ratios
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Use ratio tables and visuals to find and explain equivalent ratios.

Week of September 21 – Unit Rates in the Real World
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Understand and calculate unit rates in contexts like speed, prices, and recipes.

Week of September 28 – Ratio Reasoning with Word Problems
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Apply ratio knowledge to solve multi-step word problems.

Week of October 5 – Percent as a Rate per 100
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Connect percents to ratios and explore them as rates per 100.

Week of October 12 – Converting Fractions, Decimals, and Percents
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Practice switching between fractions, decimals, and percents with confidence.

Week of October 19 – Finding the Percent of a Number
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Calculate the percent of a quantity and understand part-whole relationships.

Week of October 26 – Real-Life Percent Problems
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Solve problems involving discounts, tips, taxes, and sales.

Week of November 2 – Integers on the Number Line
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Understand positive and negative numbers and place them on a number line.

Week of November 9 – Comparing and Ordering Integers
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Compare integers in real-world contexts (temperature, elevation, etc.).

Week of November 16 – Absolute Value in Context
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Explore the meaning of absolute value and how it applies to real-life distances.

Week of November 23 – OFF (Late November Break)

Week of November 30 – Rational Numbers in the Real World
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Identify and apply rational numbers in everyday contexts like money, measurements, and data.

Week of December 7 – Plotting Rational Numbers on a Number Line
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Practice placing fractions and decimals accurately on number lines.

Week of December 14 – Comparing Rational Numbers
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Order and compare rational numbers across different forms.

Week of December 21 – Interpreting Rational Number Statements
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Interpret real-world statements involving rational numbers and inequalities.

Week of December 28 – OFF – Winter Break

Week of January 4 – OFF – Winter Break

Week of January 11 – Introduction to Expressions
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Recognize variables and write basic algebraic expressions from word phrases.

Week of January 18 – Evaluating Expressions
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Substitute values into expressions and solve using the correct order of operations.

Week of January 25 – Writing Expressions from Real-World Scenarios
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Translate verbal situations into algebraic expressions.

Week of February 1 – Understanding Equations and Equality
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Explore what makes an equation true and how to balance both sides.

Week of February 8 – Solving One-Step Equations
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Solve one-step equations involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.

Week of February 15 – Solving Real-Life Equations
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Apply one-step equation solving to everyday word problems.

Week of February 22 – Writing and Solving Inequalities
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Explore inequality symbols, graph solutions, and interpret them in context.

Week of March 1 – Area of Triangles and Parallelograms
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Use formulas to find the area of common 2D shapes.

Week of March 8 – Area of Composite Figures
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Break apart irregular shapes into familiar ones to find area.

Week of March 15 – Volume of Rectangular Prisms
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Calculate the volume of prisms using length × width × height.

Week of March 22 – Surface Area with Nets
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Use nets to visualize and calculate surface area of 3D figures.

Week of March 29 – Real-World Surface Area & Volume
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Solve practical problems involving surface area and volume.

Week of April 5 – OFF – Spring Break

Week of April 12 – Coordinate Plane Basics
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Identify points and quadrants in the coordinate plane.

Week of April 19 – Graphing Polygons in the Coordinate Plane
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Plot polygons and use coordinates to calculate distances.

Week of April 26 – Geometry Word Problems on the Plane
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Apply coordinate graphing to real-world geometric scenarios.

Week of May 3 – Introduction to Statistics
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Identify statistical questions and understand data variability.

Week of May 10 – Mean, Median, Mode
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Calculate and interpret measures of center in data sets.

Week of May 17 – Range and Spread of Data
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Explore range, outliers, and data distribution.

Week of May 24 – Dot Plots and Data Displays
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Read and create visual data representations.

Week of May 31 – Interpreting and Comparing Data Sets
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Make sense of data trends and compare distributions.

Week of June 7 – Introduction to Probability
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Understand probability as a number between 0 and 1 using everyday examples.

Week of June 14 – Simple Events and Predictions
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Predict outcomes using theoretical probability.

Week of June 21 – Real-World Probability Challenges
𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Use probability reasoning in practical scenarios (games, weather, etc.).

Week of June 28 – Probabilities with Tables and Models

𝐎𝐛𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞: Organize outcomes using tables and visual models to calculate probability.

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Our classrooms are rooted in the Socratic teaching approach, where curiosity and critical thinking come to life. Learners are guided through open dialogue and meaningful conversations, allowing them to explore topics more deeply and develop a thorough understanding.

To accommodate diverse learning styles, we thoughtfully combine traditional methods—like videos and carefully chosen presentations—with interactive discussions. This balanced approach ensures that every learner feels engaged and supported in their journey.

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Please note that we value mental health and are committed to preventing teacher burnout. 

To support our team’s well-being, we take company-wide breaks during which no classes will be held and emails will not be answered.

You may experience a delay in responses during the following dates:


2025

April 19 - April 20 (Easter Break)
August 25-31st (Summer Break)


Week of November 23, 2025 OFF (Late November Break)
Week of December 28, 2025 OFF - Winter Break

2026

Week of January 4, 2026 OFF - Winter Break
Week of March 29, 2026
Week of April 5, 2026 - OFF - Spring Break


In addition, teachers may need time off outside of these breaks as emergencies do happen. We always try our best to give ample notice when we can. You will never be charged for a day that we cancel classes.

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Policies and Guidelines 

🌟 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗼𝗽𝗵𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵
We believe in empowering educators to teach from the heart, embracing their unique styles and approaches. Each of our instructors brings their own passion and expertise to the classroom, which means not all classes will be taught in exactly the same way or use the same materials and assignments.

While the core topics and themes will always remain consistent, the teaching methods and resources may vary from class to class. This diversity enriches the learning experience and allows students to benefit from a range of perspectives and approaches.

We encourage our educators to stay true to their individual teaching styles while maintaining the high standards of engagement and quality that define our programs. This approach not only supports the creativity and authenticity of our teachers but also ensures that every class is an authentic and meaningful experience.

🌟 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆
We strictly adhere to Outschool's refund and rescheduling policy for all of our classes. Once a class has been paid for, there will be no deviation from Outschool's guidelines. We do not offer refunds or rescheduling outside of what Outschool allows.

We follow a structured classroom weekly breakdown schedule to maintain consistency. In cases where an instructor is unavailable, we will provide a substitute teacher whenever possible to ensure the course or club/enrichment classes remain on track. If no substitute is available for a scheduled class, refunds will be issued. Please note that no refunds will be given for choosing not to attend a substitute-led session.

🌟 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗮 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆
To ensure a safe and secure learning environment, students are required to keep their cameras on for an initial visual verification at the beginning of class. After verification, students are welcome to turn their cameras off if they prefer, unless they have been verified by Outschool and have the verification badge, which exempts them from this requirement.

We understand that every learner has different comfort levels, and we strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and supported. We meet students where they are, honoring their individuality and comfort while maintaining a safe, welcoming space for all.

🌟 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁
We believe that every learner deserves to feel valued and included. Our classrooms are welcoming and safe spaces for students of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an environment where everyone is treated with kindness, respect, and dignity.

🌟 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆
In compliance with Outschool's policies, we do not accept friend or contact requests from current or former families on any social networking site (e.g., Facebook, LinkedIn). Additionally, we do not provide or ask for any personal information, including email addresses or phone numbers.

🌟 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆
Our approach to homework prioritizes meaningful reinforcement rather than quantity. We assign one targeted activity each week that directly aligns with the material covered in class. These assignments are thoughtfully designed to help students apply what they’ve learned in a purposeful and effective way.

It is important to note that our organization does not offer classes that guarantee an hour of homework each week. Instead, we focus on comprehension and retention through thoughtful in-class discussions and purposeful assignments, avoiding excessive or repetitive work.

All homework assignments must be submitted during the week the lesson was taught in order to receive feedback. Writing assignments must be submitted in a typed format—either as a Google Doc, Word document, comment, or private email on the platform.
Photos of handwritten work will not be accepted since they are often too difficult to read and provide feedback on.

Learners who need assistance with typing are welcome to have someone type for them, as long as the work itself remains the student's own ideas and words.

All writing assignments will be assessed based on a rubric, and feedback will be given using that rubric to ensure clarity and consistency.

🌟 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗙𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
We believe that learning is a collaborative process that involves the whole family. We regularly provide feedback to families because we value open communication and want to make sure everyone feels informed, supported, and involved in the learning journey. Our goal is to ensure that both learners and families feel confident and happy with their progress and experience.

We truly value family input and encourage open communication. Whether it’s celebrating successes or discussing areas to improve, we’re here to make sure everyone feels included in the process.