Grade 9 Mathematics Curriculum Summary (U.S.)

Domain	Topics Covered
Relationships Between Quantities & Reasoning with Equations	– Use variables and create algebraic expressions from real-world contexts

Evaluate and simplify expressions
Solve linear equations and inequalities, including those with variables on both sides |
| Linear & Exponential Relationships | – Understand and interpret linear functions (slope, y-intercept)
Compare linear vs exponential growth
Write and solve equations for growth and decay situations using exponents |
| Descriptive Statistics | – Summarize and interpret data with mean, median, standard deviation, and interquartile range
Analyze real-world data with dot plots, histograms, box plots, scatter plots |
| Expressions & Equations | – Manipulate algebraic expressions using properties of operations
Factor and expand expressions
Work with quadratic expressions and solve quadratic equations |
| Quadratic Functions & Modeling | – Recognize and interpret parabolas (vertex, axis of symmetry)
Solve quadratic equations by factoring, completing the square, and using the quadratic formula |
| Other Functions (depending on curriculum) | – Introduction to absolute value functions, piecewise functions, and simple systems of equations involving quadratics |

Publisher	Curriculum Name	Features
Illustrative Mathematics	Algebra I	Problem-based, emphasizes deep understanding of function behavior and real-world modeling
Eureka Math (Great Minds)	Algebra I Modules	Highly rigorous, conceptual progression from linear to quadratic relationships
Big Ideas Math – Algebra I	Visual and tech-integrated lessons	Rich student support, multiple representations of functions
Ready Math (Curriculum Associates)	Scaffolded support and fluency building	Strong review sections and frequent checks for understanding
Open Up Resources	Free, CCSS-aligned	Accessible explanations, especially helpful for students new to abstract algebra
CPM Algebra I	Collaborative approach with group discovery learning (used in CA and others)

Type	Description
Formative Assessments	Daily checks for understanding, problem-solving tasks, exit slips
Unit Tests	Core assessments on linear functions, quadratics, systems, exponential models
Benchmark Assessments	Mid-year and end-of-year diagnostics via NWEA MAP, i-Ready, or district-created tools
State Assessments	Algebra I is state-tested in most places, even used for graduation requirements

Some states require passing the Algebra I end-of-course (EOC) exam for high school diploma eligibility.

Tool	Purpose
Graphing Calculators (TI-84, Desmos)	Plot functions, solve equations, view transformations of graphs
Algebra Tiles	Visual representation of expressions and factoring
Online Graphing Tools	Desmos, GeoGebra for exploring relationships and transformations
Digital Platforms	Khan Academy, IXL, Zearn (HS), Freckle, Edulastic, Google Classroom, CK-12, DeltaMath
Function Machines / Input-Output Tables	Used to build understanding of domain/range and function relationships

State	Notes
California	Students typically take Algebra I in Grade 9 unless accelerated; SBAC used for end-of-year testing
Texas	Algebra I is an EOC subject; required to pass STAAR Algebra I for graduation
Florida	Students must pass FSA Algebra I to meet graduation requirement; B.E.S.T. standards in use
New York	Algebra I culminates in the Regents Exam; heavy emphasis on functions and word problem applications
Illinois	Algebra I is tested under IAR (or local assessment); CCSS closely followed

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