This is part one of a two-part SMSG text for grade eight students whose mathematical talents are underdeveloped. The reading level of this text has been adjusted downward, chapters shortened, and additional concrete examples included. Nevertheless, the authors warn that the text may not be appropriate for the very slow non-college-bound student. Chapter topics include: linear measurement, area and volume, angles and parallels, polygons and prisms, circles, and statistics and graphs. (MN)