GENIUS.NYC · Grades 6–8 Learning

Grade 8 Mathematics

Build confidence with linear equations, functions, exponents, and right-triangle geometry. Learn the reasoning, try worked examples, and check your understanding.

Grade 8 pathways

Four big ideas worth mastering

Each topic starts with a clear concept and a practical question. Choose one area, then try the related practice questions.

NY-8.EE

Linear equations

Find unknown values, connect slope with rate of change, and explain why two lines intersect.

  • Solve one-variable linear equations
  • Interpret y = mx + b
  • Compare equations, tables, and graphs
See a worked example ↗
NY-8.F

Functions

Recognize a rule that assigns one output to each input, and compare relationships.

  • Evaluate function rules
  • Read input-output tables
  • Compare rates of change
See a worked example ↗
NY-8.EE

Exponents

Use exponent rules and powers of ten to understand very large and very small values.

  • Multiply powers of the same base
  • Interpret negative exponents
  • Write scientific notation
See a worked example ↗
NY-8.G

Right-triangle geometry

Apply the Pythagorean theorem to calculate missing side lengths and distances.

  • Identify the hypotenuse
  • Use a² + b² = c²
  • Check a solution for reasonableness
See a worked example ↗

Learn the method

Four worked examples

Follow the steps, then try a related question in the interactive practice section.

Solve a linear equation

Find x: 3x + 5 = 20.

1. Subtract 5 from each side: 3x = 15.
2. Divide by 3: x = 5.
Check: 3(5) + 5 = 20.

Use a function rule

A pattern follows y = 2x + 1. Find the output when x = 4.

1. Replace x with 4: y = 2(4) + 1.
2. Simplify: y = 8 + 1 = 9.
Check: Each input has exactly one output under this rule.

Multiply powers

Simplify: 2³ × 2⁴.

1. Keep the same base, 2.
2. Add exponents: 2³⁺⁴ = 2⁷.
Result: 2⁷ = 128.

Find a missing side

A right triangle has legs of 6 and 8 units. Find its hypotenuse.

1. Use a² + b² = c².
2. 6² + 8² = 36 + 64 = 100.
Result: c = √100 = 10 units.

GENIUS interactive practice

Try it. Check it. Learn why.

Select one of four areas. Each includes three original questions with instant explanations and a score summary.

Question 1 of 3

Loading question…

Choose an answer to see why it works.

Help students explain their thinking.

Try: “How do you know that?” “What changes when x increases?” and “Can you check the answer using another method?”

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