[This middle school math text] will help you: learn all the [key] middle grades mathematics concepts and skills that prepare you for high school and beyond; develop the reasoning, problem solving, and communication skills that enable you to apply mathematics to real-life activities; [and] value mathematics and become confident in using it to make decisions in daily life ... You will be learning through thematic modules that connect mathematical concepts to real-world applications. The lessons in this course will get you actively involved in exploring, modeling, and communicating mathematics using a variety of tools, including technology when appropriate. The variety of types of practice and assessment will help reinforce and extend your understanding