Grade 8 Math (CCSS-M) Exam Survival Guide

Must-do topics

• Number System: rational vs irrational numbers; square/cube roots; scientific notation.
• Expressions & Equations: solve linear equations with variables on both sides; systems of linear equations (graph & algebra).
• Functions: define, compare, and graph linear functions; slope-intercept form.
• Geometry: Pythagorean theorem; transformations (rotate, reflect, translate, dilate); volume of cylinders/cones/spheres.
• Statistics & Probability: scatter plots; trend lines; two-way tables.

Top traps

• Misclassifying repeating decimals as irrational.
• Mixing slope formula (rise/run order).
• Forgetting square roots of non-perfect squares are irrational.
• Pythagoras: putting hypotenuse on wrong side.
• Confusing correlation with causation.

Quick checks

• √64, √2 → classify rational/irrational.
• Solve: 2x + 3 = x – 5.
• Graph y = 2x + 1; find slope & intercept.
• Right triangle legs 6, 8 → hypotenuse?
• Interpret scatter plot: positive or negative trend?

You will make

• Rational vs Irrational Sort Cards.
• Slope Triangle Sketches.
• Transformation Flipbook.
• Scatter Plot & Line of Best Fit Sheet.