Pre-Algebra
About this free Pre-Algebra course
Pre-Algebra is a free online pre-algebra course that builds the number sense and problem-solving skills students need before Algebra 1. Its nine modules start with a review of numbers and operations, including fractions and decimals. They then introduce integers and the coordinate plane, variables and expressions, geometry, ratios, and probability.
You'll plot coordinates and perform translations, reflections, and rotations. You'll also identify the parts of an expression, practice factoring and distributing, and calculate the area and perimeter of triangles, parallelograms, and trapezoids. The course finishes with an introduction to probability, including independent and dependent events and the multiplication principle. Each module explains concepts step by step and ends with practice problems and an answer key.
Who this course is for
The course is written for students in grades 6 through 8, as well as older students who want to strengthen their foundations before algebra. You only need to be comfortable with basic addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Course outline
- Numbers and operations review. Proper, improper, and mixed numbers, equivalent fractions, and adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions and decimals.
- Integers and the coordinate plane. Negative numbers, operations with integers, the four-quadrant plane, and translations, reflections, and rotations.
- Variables, expressions, and equations. Parts of an expression, distributing and factoring, FOIL, the principles of equality, and solving word problems.
- Areas and perimeters. Area formulas for triangles, parallelograms, and trapezoids.
- Angles. The four types of angles and how to measure and classify them.
- Ratios, rates, and proportions. Writing and simplifying ratios, unit rates, and solving proportion problems.
- Functions and representing data. An introduction to functions and ways to display and interpret data.
- Probability. Independent and dependent events, the multiplication principle, and complementary probability.
What you'll learn
- Compute confidently with fractions, decimals, and negative numbers
- Plot points and perform transformations on the coordinate plane
- Simplify expressions and solve one- and two-step equations
- Find the area of triangles, parallelograms, and trapezoids
- Solve ratio, rate, proportion, and basic probability problems
How long it takes
Plan on about 20 hours, or two to three hours per module including practice problems. Students can work through a module a week over a semester, or use individual modules to review specific topics.
Frequently asked questions about Pre-Algebra
Is Pre-Algebra really free?
Yes. Pre-Algebra is completely free, with no fees, subscriptions, or account required. STEM for Others is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and every course in our curriculum library is free for students, families, and teachers.
What's the difference between pre-algebra and algebra?
Pre-algebra builds the tools, such as integers, fractions, expressions, and simple equations, that algebra depends on. Algebra 1 then uses those tools to solve multi-step equations, graph lines, and work with functions. When you finish this course, continue with Intro to Algebra.
How do I start the course?
Click Begin Course at the top of this page to open the full slide deck in a new tab. You can also flip through the slides embedded above. Work through one unit at a time and try the practice questions before moving on.
Do I get a certificate?
The self-paced Pre-Algebra materials don't include an official certificate. If you're taking the course through a STEM for Others chapter program, ask your chapter leader about recognizing your completion.
Can teachers and clubs use this curriculum?
Yes. Teachers, homeschool families, libraries, and after-school clubs are welcome to use the Pre-Algebra materials with their students at no cost. STEM for Others volunteers also teach our curriculum in partner schools and libraries. You can find a chapter near you or start one at your school.
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