BELLE VERNON AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
GENERAL SYLLABUS OUTLINE
**This syllabus is subject to change**
Course Name: General Math 7
Grade: 7
1.) Course Description:
General Math incorporates a review of topics that were initially covered in 6th grade and an introduction
of concepts that will be further developed in higher-level mathematics classes (algebra, geometry, etc)
Its purpose is to allow students to improve in the basic concepts over an extended period of time.
2.) Learning Standards:
2.1 Numbers, Number Systems and Number Relationships
2.2 Computation and Estimation
2.3 Measurement and Estimation
2.4 Mathematical Reasoning and Connections
2.5 Mathematical Problem Solving and Communication
2.6 Statistics and Data Analysis
2.7 Probability and Predictions
2.8 Algebra and Functions
2.9 Geometry
2.10 Trigonometry
2.11 Concepts of Calculus
3.) Student Objectives:
2.1.8     Numbers, Number Systems and Number Relationships
v Represent and use numbers in equivalent forms (integers, fractions, decimals, percents,
exponents, scientific notation and square roots).
v Simplify numerical expressions involving exponents, scientific notation and using order of
operations.
v Distinguish between and order rational and irrational numbers.
v Apply ratio and proportion to mathematical situations involving distance, rate, time,
and similar triangles.
v Simplify and expand algebraic expressions using exponential forms.
v Use the number line model to demonstrate integers and their applications.
v Use the inverse relationships between addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and
exponentiation and root extraction to determine unknown quantities in equations.
2.2.8     Computation and Estimation
v Complete calculations by applying the order of operations.
v Add, subtract, multiply, and divide different kinds of forms of rational numbers including
integers, decimal fractions, percents, and proper and improper fractions.
v Solve word problems using ratio and proportion.
v Estimate the value of irrational numbers.
v Estimate amount of tips and discounts using ratios, proportions, and percents.
v Determine appropriateness of overestimating or underestimating in computation.
v Identify the difference between exact value and approximations and determine which is 
appropriate for a given situation.
v Check the reasonableness of an answer.
2.3.8     Measurement and Estimation
v Develop formulas and procedures for determining measurements (e.g. area, volume, 
distance, etc.)
v Solve rate problems (e.g. rate x time = distance, principal x interest rate = interest, etc.)
v Measure angles in degrees and determine relations of angles.
v Estimate, use, and describe measures of distance, rate, perimeter, area, volume, capacity,
weight, mass, and angles.
v Describe how a change in linear dimension of an object affects its perimeter, area, and
volume.
v Use scale measurements to interpret maps or drawings.
v Create and use scale models.
2.4.8     Mathematical Reasoning and Connections
v Make conjectures based on logical reasoning and test conjectures by using 
counter-examples.
v Combine numeric relationships to arrive at a conclusion.
v Use if…then statements to construct simple valid arguments.
v Construct, use, and explain algorithmic procedures for computing and estimating with
whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and integers.
v Distinguish between inductive and deductive reasoning.
v Use measurements and statistics in family and consumer science.
2.5.8     Mathematical Problem Solving Communication
v Invent, select, use, and justify the appropriate methods, materials, and strategies used
to solve problems.
v Verify and interpret results using precise mathematical language, notation, and 
representations, including numerical tables and equations, simple algebraic equations and 
formulas, charts, graphs, and diagrams.
v Justify strategies and defend approaches used and conclusion reached.
v Determine pertinent information in problem situations, and whether any further information is
needed for solution.
2.6.8     Statistics and Data Analysis
v Compare and contrast different plots of data using values of mean, median, mode,
quartiles and range.
v Explain effects on reliability of sampling procedures and of missing or incorrect information.
v Fit a line to the scatter plot of two quantities and describe any correlation of the variables.
v Design and carry out a random sampling procedure.
v Analyze the display data in stem-and leaf and box-and whisker plots.
v Use scientific and graphing calculators and computer spreadsheets to organize and 
analyze data.
v Determine the validity of the sampling method described in studies published in local or
national newspapers.
2.7.8     Probability and Predictions
v Determine the number of combinations and permutations of an event.
v Present the results of an experiment using visual representations (tables, charts, and
graphs).
v Analyze predictions such as election polls.
v Compare and contrast from observations and mathematical models.
v Make valid inferences, predictions and arguments based on probability.
2.8.8     Algebra and Functions
v Apply simple algebraic patterns to basic number theory and to spatial relations.
v Discover, describe, and generalize patterns, including linear, exponential and simple
quadratic relationships.
v Create and interpret expressions, equations, or inequalities that model problem situations.
v Use concrete objects to model algebraic concepts.
v Select and use a strategy to solve an equation or inequality, explain the solution and check
the solution for accuracy.
v Solve and graph equations and inequalities using scientific and graphing calculators and 
computer spreadsheets.
v Represent relationships with tables, graphs in the coordinate plane, and verbal or 
symbolic rules.
v Graph a linear function for a rule or table.
v Generate a table or graph from a function and using graphing calculators and computer
spreadsheets to graph and analyze functions.
v Show that an equality relationship between two quantities remains the same as long as 
the same change is made to both quantities; and explain how a change in one quantity
determines another quantity in a functional relationship.
2.9.8     Geometry
v Construct figures incorporating perpendicular and parallel lines, the perpendicular 
bisector of a line segment and an angle bisector using computer software.
v Draw, label, measure and list the properties of complementary, supplementary, and
vertical angles.
v Classify familiar polygons as regular or irregular up to a decagon.
v Identify, name, draw and list all properties of squares, cubes, pyramids, parallelograms,
quadrilaterals, trapezoids, polygons, rectangles, rhombi, circles, spheres, triangles, 
prisms, and cylinders.
v Construct parallel lines, draw a transversal, measure and compare angles formed such as
alternate interior and exterior angles.
v Distinguish between similar and congruent polygons.
v Approximate the value of π (pi) through experimentation.
v Use simple geometric figures such as triangles to create, through rotation, transformational
figures in three dimensions.
v Generate transformations using computer software.
v Analyze geometric patterns, such as tessellations and sequences of shapes, and develop
descriptions of the patterns.
v Analyze objects to determine if they illustrate tesselations, symmetry, congruence, 
similarity, and scale.
2.10.8     Trigonometry
v Compute measures of sides and angles using proportions, the Pythagorean Theorem, and
right triangle relationships.
v Solve problems requiring indirect measurement for lengths of sides of triangles.
2.11.8     Concepts of Calculus
v Analyze graphs of related quantities for minimum and maximum values and justify.
v Describe concept of unit rates, ratios, and slope in the context of rate of change.
v Continue a pattern of numbers or objects that could be extended infinitely.
4.) Course Text:
v  Passport to Mathematics--McDougal, Littel
5.) Major Units or Themes:  (Include the following)
v     Problem Solving
Diagrams
Experiments
Guess and Check
Write an Equation
Logical Reasoning
v     Number Relations and Fractions
Order of Operations
Powers and Exponents
Divisibility Rules
Prime Factorization
Greatest Common Factor
Least Common Multiple
v     Fraction Operations
Mixed Numbers and Improper Fractions
Add, Subtract, Multiply, and Divide Fractions
v     Algebra and Integers
Scatter Plots and the Coordinate Plane
Add, Subtract, Multiply, and Divide Integers
v     Data Analysis and Statistics
Measures of Central Tendency
Histograms
Box-and-Whisker Plots
Probability
v     Ratio and Proportions
Ratios
Rates
Proportions
Similar Polygons
Scale Drawings
v     Percents and Decimals
Finding Percents
The Percent Proportion
Large and Small Percents
Percent Increase and Decrease
v     Geometry in the Plane
Parallel Lines
Angle Relationships
Circumference and Area
6.) Teaching Methods:
v     Cooperative Learning
v     Demonstration
v     Guided Practice
v     Lecture/Discussion
7.) Assessment:
v     Tests/Quizzes
v     Homework
v     Take Home Graded Assignments