Integers!!!

The math classes has started the chapter on integers. Students are very sad to hear that they will not be allowed to use calculators during this chapter. I promised them that I would not make them multiply and divide large numbers.:) Students need to make sure to work neatly and not "lose" their negatives!!!!

Chocolate Chip Cookies are soooo good!!

Last week in Algebra we had our own little consumer study. Students sampled chocolate chip cookies to decide which they liked the best. They then had to compile their data and create graphs that would convince consumers that their cookie was the best. Students created graphs by hand and using a computer spreadsheet. Students found that computers can simplify working with data and creating graphs.

Magazine Drive

As you already know we kicked off the annual district magazine drive this week. We have set our school goal at 800 magazines. I am encourage each student in my homebase to bring in just one magazine subscription. If they ALL do so, I have promised them a special breakfast! YUMMY!!

How do I study for a math test?

This question has come up recently as students are thinking about their first math test. The absolute BEST way to study for a math test is to DO problems. Since students have to DO problems on the test, that is how they should prepare.

Where can they find practice problems?
1. Try the odds from sections they have had trouble with during the chapter. (The answers are in the back!)
2. Try the extra practice in the back of the book.
3. Go to www.classzone.com and try a practice quiz or test.
4. Go to www.classzone.com and play a game or use the animated math to reinforce what we are learning.

Students also need to make sure that they are getting feedback on the problems they do for practice. We don't want them to do all of their practice wrong. They need to do problems they can find the answers to easily.

And last but not least, remember I am available before school and during study hall for extra help with whatever is still not clear!

Anyone want to go to Chili's?

Today in Algebra we started our chapter on statistics and proportional reasoning. We started with an activity using percentages. Students had a menu for Chili's and had to simulate going to eat with friends and spliting the bill various ways. Even though it was only 8:00 am, all of the talk of bacon burgers made me hungry!

Update

This week in Algebra we worked started the chapter on equations. We will take a test on it next week. Students have been doing a great job with homework so far this chapter! Keep up the good work!

In math we are finishing up Chapter 1. We will have our first chapter test on Friday next week.

I am looking forward to meeting parents next week at Open House!

Week 2 is already over!!

I can't believe we have already finished two weeks of school. It is great to see all of the students getting back into the swing of things with school. I am having a great time getting to know all of my students and really think this will be a great year!

In Algebra we have finished our review of the first two chapters. We are moving very quickly through the beginning of the book to get to the fun stuff. (Hopefully I am not the only one who thinks it is fun!) We will be moving quickly for chapter 3 and 4 as well, and then we will definitely hit the brakes.

In Math we have been reviewing order of operations, exponents, graphing and variables and expressions. I am getting used to the new textbook and so far really like it. Many students have been taking advantage of the online version to do their homework. They have found that having the book online definitely lightens their backpacks!

We are all looking forward to Irons Oaks next Thursday!