Month: March 2024

6th Grade Math – Mrs. VonFeldt

In 6th grade, we are beginning Chapter 8: Algebraic Equations. In the last chapter, we learned how to write and evaluate algebraic expressions. In this chapter, we will compare expressions to each other with an equal sign, and create an equation. 3x + 1 is an expression; 3x + 1 = 7 is an equation. By making a comparison to 7, we can now solve and find the value of x. One of the skills we will work on this week is translating words in to mathematical phrases. The video below reviews some basic key words to look out for and how to write them as numbers and operations.

7th Grade Math – Mrs. VonFeldt & Mrs. Evans

We are finishing our study of geometry this week as we learn to find the volume of prisms. We have learned, in previous years, to find the volume of rectangular prisms but we will extend that understanding to include all types of prisms. We will have a test on our Geometry Unit at the end of the week. Below is a video to help you and your student find the volume of prisms (and other shapes as a bonus).

8th Grade Math – Mrs. Evans

This week in 8th grade math will finish our study of Chapter 7 in our book. We will practice connecting all the skills we have developed (regarding solving equations) and see how we can apply them in many situations. The post from last week has a great video for you and your students so if they need help, please visit that post. We will have a test on Chapter 7 at the end of this week.

Algebra – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week in Algebra we are learning to solve quadratic equations in factored form. The Zero Product Property tells us that if two factors multiplied by each other have a product of zero, then one of the factors MUST BE ZERO! Using this, we can now factor and solve quadratic equations. This opens up a whole new set of problems that we can explore.

Quadratic equations are everywhere in life: projectiles and falling objects, sports, architecture, business revenue, and even video games (Angry Birds anyone?)

6th Grade Math – Mrs. VonFeldt

In 6th grade, we are finishing up our chapter on algebraic expressions with a test on Friday. Students should be able to evaluate algebraic expressions using the correct order of operations, combine like terms, use the distributive property to simplify expressions, and identify equivalent expressions. These concepts are important in building a solid foundation as we move into solving algebraic equations next week.

7th Grade Math – Mrs. VonFeldt & Mrs. Evans

We are in the middle of our study of geometry in 7th grade math, as we move through Module 9 in our book. Last week we added circle circumference and area to our skills toolbox. We will use the area and circumference as we determine the areas of composite figures and the surface areas of prisms and cylinders. This year we will learn to use a formula to find the area of prisms and cylinders rather than using NETS like we did in 6th grade. Here are two examples to help students see how to use a net or a formula to find the surface area of prisms:

8th Grade Math – Mrs. Evans

This week in 8th grade math we will be solving systems of equations by substitution. This puts together all the skills we have in manipulating equations with a degree of great logic and results in our ability to solve some complex real world problems. Here is a video to help you and your students understand how to solve systems of equations:

Algebra – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week in Algebra we are beginning our study of quadratic equations. First, we learn to multiply polynomials using different methods: a table, distribute factors, multiply vertically, and FOIL. The most popular way is the FOIL method. Watch the quick video below as a refresher.

6th Grade Math – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week, the 6th graders will

Chapter 6 is all about algebraic expressions. This week we will learn how to evaluate exponents and how to correctly use order of operations. For these skills, it is important that the students use an organized, step by step process. If they can learn the process, they will be able to correctly evaluate almost any expression. The image below is a nice example of how to show your work step by step, following the Order of Operations process.

7th Grade Math – Mrs. VonFeldt & Mrs. Evans

This week, in 7th grade math, we will continue in Module 8, as we investigate triangles, cross-sections and angle relationships. We will use GEOGEBRA to investigate the triangles and cross-sections. Here is a link to two investigations that students will have the opportunity to work through:

Triangle Inequality Theorem – GeoGebra

Sections of Cones – GeoGebra

We will determine how angles formed when two lines intersect are related to each other. Here are some important angle relationships:

8th Grade Math – Mrs. Evans

This week in 8th grade math we will finish with our study of volume as we use volume calculations to make educated guesses about how many marbles fit in a jar. Then we will move back into algebraic studies with Chapter 8 in our books. This week we will polish our expression simplification skills. For those students who need additional practice on any of the algebraic skills we are working, IXL is a great spot for help! Here is a link to IXL:

IXL | Learn 8th grade math

Algebra – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week in Algebra are evaluating exponential expressions using all the properties of exponents. This skill is foundational to our upcoming lessons on exponential growth and decay, and our study of quadratic functions. The image below is a good summary.

6th Grade Math – Mrs. VonFeldt

In 6th grade, we have begun our unit on algebra. We will first look at algebraic expressions and how to represent different situations using variables. This week, we will practice evaluating expressions using the correct order of operations. Watch the video below for an overview of basic algebra:

7th Grade Math – Mrs. VonFeldt & Mrs. Evans

This week, in 7th grade math, we will continue to practice the lessons we have learned in Module 8. We will review and then have a test on Thursday. One of the interesting things we have learned in this module is applying what we understand about angle relationships to set up equations and solving for unknowns. Here is an example of how this is done with vertical angles:

8th Grade Math – Mrs. Evans

This week in 8th grade math we will begin to work in Chapter 7 which takes us back into our studies of algebra. We will be solving two step equations which require simplification and reorganization before we can solve them. Here is an example of how to solve these more complicated equations:

Algebra – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week in Algebra we will be looking at exponential growth and decay equations. Exponential equations are essential in the study of populations, disease progression, finances, projectile motion, and so much more. Here is an example of how to graph an exponential growth function: