Eighth Grade Math: Visualizing Cross-Curricular Data
In Algebra 1, we explore a wide range of functions—linear, quadratic, absolute value, rational, radical, and more. We make extensive use of digital tools, especially Desmos, to visualize and compare these functions. One of our recent highlights was a project centered around designing quadratic artifacts.
Each student developed a unique design and spent time perfecting their calculations during the first phase. With their plans in place, they brought their ideas to life—some built parabolic Rube Goldberg machines, others modeled the Golden Gate Bridge, explored parabolic string art, or experimented with light and quadratic motion. Math is art! At Live Oak, students see their learning come alive through hands-on, creative projects that give them both voice and choice.
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A central theme throughout the year is the investigation of change over time. As we prepare for our Civil Rights Tour to Alabama and Georgia, the eighth grade has been diving into a new unit inspired by the powerful data visualizations created by W.E.B. DuBois and his team at Atlanta University. These visual portraits highlight the excellence and resilience of African Americans. In class, we've been exploring the stories this data tells and how it connects to students’ ongoing Humanities studies on Civil Rights and Reconstruction. This cross-curricular connection has grown organically—students are now selecting meaningful data and creating their own visualizations, inspired by DuBois’s legacy of using data to tell powerful stories.
Live Oak School welcomes and admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin, citizenship status, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and faith to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities of Live Oak School. Live Oak School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, citizenship status, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and faith in administration of its educational policies and programs, admissions policies, Adjusted Tuition program, and athletic and other school-administered programs.