1900s
8th Grade
Rigorous Rigor

Eighth Grade Arithmetic (1900)

Advanced arithmetic with introduction to algebra. Strong emphasis on commercial applications and practical problem-solving for the industrial age.

5

Hours/Week

8

Skills Expected

Progressive Era

Era

Historical Context

The Progressive Era brought standardization to education. Commercial and industrial applications dominated, preparing students for the growing business economy.

Progressive Era (1900-1909)

Progressive education emerging. Emphasis on learning by doing alongside traditional methods.

Skills Expected
What students were expected to master by the end of 8th grade
  • All arithmetic operations with speed and accuracy
  • Algebraic expressions and simple equations
  • Square root extraction
  • Commercial arithmetic: banking, insurance, stocks
  • Metric system conversions
  • Geometric measurements and constructions
  • Ratio and proportion applications
  • Percentage problems of all types
Sample Topics & Assignments
Typical problems, readings, or assignments from this era

Typical Resources of the Era
Common textbooks and materials used in 1900s classrooms
  • Milne's Standard Arithmetic
  • Wentworth's Practical Arithmetic
  • White's Complete Arithmetic