In this 6 week class, learners will be exposed to the basics of pre-algebra and gain practice with the skills they will need prior to taking a Pre-Algebra course.  Please note: this course is not equivalent to a Pre-Algebra course and instead is a culmination of different standardized 3rd-6th grade skills needed to understand the work done in Pre-Algebra.  Students will participate in various guided practice exercises, have opportunities for independent work, and can gain additional practice on the following topics:

Week 1:
-Integers: what is an integer, how can we work with integers, identifying and mapping integers in relation to each other.  This topic includes introduction to negative numbers

Week 2:
-Evaluating Expressions: introduction to the use of variables, how to evaluate expressions

Week 3:
-One-Step Equations: A step-up from evaluating expressions, these problems will not have values provided for variables and students will discover how to identify the value of variables through solving problems

Week 4:
-Continuation of One-Step Equations: As this is a new and potentially confusing subject for students, 2 weeks have been allotted to practicing this concept 

Week 5: 
-Equations and Inequalities: Similar to one-step equations, these problems will have variables and learners will solve the problems by identifying the values of the variables.  The addition of inequalities indicates that a review will be done about what inequalities are and how to compare number values

Week 6:
- Review: This class will focus on reviewing all of the concepts covered over the last 5 weeks and include time for questions, varied levels of problem difficulty, and in-depth focus on any topics still deemed confusing by learners.

Math can be an intimidating and frustrating subject for many students, and I believe a safe, welcoming environment is crucial to supporting their education as well as social and emotional well-being.  I structure my classes so that asking questions is encouraged, independent problem-solving is prioritized, and students are exposed to problems that are challenging but possible to help build their confidence.  For this course, learners should have an understanding or knowledge of fractions, decimals, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.