Author: kevans

Worth posting again….. 🙂

6th Grade Math – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week we will look at relationships between variables. We will begin by discussing independent and dependent variables. A dependent variable is the value that DEPENDS on the other quantity. For example, the amount earned (dependent) DEPENDS on the number of hours worked (independent). We use our relationships to create input/output tables, and write equations to represent situations. By the end of the week, students should be able to graph ordered pairs from their tables on coordinate planes.

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

This week we will continue studying statistics as we learn to compare two data sets by comparing their dot and box plots. The objective is to use the data gathered in a study to make good decisions. We will do a project to finish up this unit. Our project will involve designing a product, determining it’s manufacturing costs and assessing sampling data to determine what price we should place on our product in order to make adequate profit.

8th Grade Math – Mrs. Evans

This week in 8th grade math we will add to our understanding of linear functions by studying the point slope form of lines. Here is a video about linear functions that can help students and families build understanding:

Algebra – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week in Algebra we are exploring parabolas, the graphs of quadratic functions. Each team has created a quadratic poster and has come up with things they notice and things they wonder about parabolas. We will discuss how to quickly find the vertex, x and y-intercepts, and line of symmetry of a quadratic function. Once we have these key pieces, graphing becomes quick and easy!

Spring is full of nature’s fractals – see if you can find some! Fractals are math!

6th Grade Math – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week we will finish our study of equations and inequalities. The Chapter 8 test will be on Friday. We have learned how to solve equations by using inverse operations. We have also learned to compare quantities using inequalities. We can write inequalities from verbal statements and can also graph them on a number line. The Math Antics video below is a great summary of basic inequalities:

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

This week we will finish up our studies in Module 10. We have learned that we can take a random sample of a population of things or people that we are interested in understanding better, poll them with non-biased questions and gather data that we can use to make inferences. We can find the mean, median, mode and range, create frequency tables, dot plots and box plots. We can use proportional thinking to infer things about our population. This week we will learn more about how to take random samples, with and without technology and then we will have a heavy quiz on the module at the end of the week.

8th Grade Math – Mrs. Evans

This week in 8th grade math we will continue to learn about linear equations as we learn about the standard and slope-intercept forms of lines. We will learn to write equations for lines that are graphed, 2 points, and when we are given a slope and y-intercept. Here is a summary of the 3 ways we might see linear equations represented:

Algebra – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week in Algebra we are finishing up Chapter 8 on factoring. The test will be on Friday. Quadratic functions are extremely useful in real life. We will review some of those situations this week and use factoring to solve for unknown values. In the next chapter, we will learn more strategies for solving quadratics.

6th Grade Math – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week we continue to solve one-step algebraic equations using inverse operations. We will learn to undo multiplication and division. The process is just as important as the solution as we are setting ourselves up to solve multiple-step equations in the future. The Math Antics video below is a good demonstration on how to set up and solve one-step equations.

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

Before spring break, we finished our study of geometry and now we begin to investigate statistics.

Statistics is the study of data regarding things we want to understand better. Here is an example of a statistical study: suppose we are interested in better understanding a large group of students for whom we are planning an ice cream social. There are too many students to gather data from ALL students, so we gather data from a carefully selected portion of the students (a random sample) by asking good (non-biased) questions. We analyze the data we collect, by finding the mean, median, mode, range or maybe plotting it. Then we can use the information to make good conclusions (inferences). This can help us choose the right kind of ice cream to buy and to know whether we should have sundaes or shakes! We will begin with a quick review of how we find the mean, median, mode and range of small data sets. We learned this in 6th grade and will be using it a lot this year. Here is a summary to help students and their families who have forgotten how to find these standard values of data sets:

Also see www. mathantics.com for a great video on these topics

We will then learn how to find a sample of a population. It is important that a sample be random and of adequate size in order for our sample to represent the population well. We will investigate how to tell if sampling is random or not and how to create survey questions that are not biased. If we ask biased questions of our sample, we will not be able to rely on the data we gather to represent our population. We need to remember, however, that a population which we are studying is not necessarily people. It might be objects or times or ideas.

8th Grade Math – Mrs. Evans

This week in 8th grade math we will return to our study of functions, extending our understanding to linear equations. Linear equations are those which, when graphed, form a line. We tell a great deal about the equation by learning about it’s graph. This week, as we move into chapter 8 in our textbook, we will learn about slope. Slope is the steepness of the line and can be positive or negative. Here is a picture the general differences between slopes.

We find the slope of lines by comparing different points on the lines. The slope can be described as the rise of the line (distance it goes in the x direction) over the run of the line (distance it goes in the x direction). Here is a video to help students understand the slope of a line:

Algebra – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week in Algebra we are solving quadratic equations by factoring. We have learned to factor quadratics where the leading coefficient is NOT = 1 (ax² + bx + c). The Khan Academy video below instructs on how to use grouping to factor these type of polynomials. At the end of the week, we will focus on the importance of quadratics by solving real-world problems.

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:

So true!

We are getting back in the flow of learning as we move into the second semester! We will have winter ride on Tuesday. Be sure to do your homework and have it ready for class on Wednesday.

6th Grade Math – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week, the 6th graders will finish up Chapter 5 on percentage with a test on Thursday. Students have done a great job learning how to find the percent of a number, find the whole value when given a percent and a part, or find the percent from a part and a whole. We are using the percentage formula you see below as one strategy for solving word problems. If your student needs more review, IXL is a great learning tool.

In Chapter 6, we will learn about units of measurement and convert between different units.

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

This week, in 7th grade math, we will be applying the lessons that we learned with equations to writing and solving 2-step inequalities (Module 7). One of the most important differences between equations and inequalities is the number of possible solutions. The equations we have been solving have only one solution, while inequalities can have an infinite number of solutions. We can solve inequalities similarly to how we solved equations. We must isolate the variable by using the inverse operation, applying that operation to both sides of the inequality. We can add or subtract any positive or negative number to both sides of the inequality without invalidating its truth. We can also multiply or divide by any positive number without invalidating the truth of the inequality. However, if we multiply or divide by a NEGATIVE number, we must flip the sign of the inequality in order for it to remain true.

Here is an example of how to solve inequalities:

8th Grade Math – Mrs. Evans

This week in 8th grade math we will be using a formula to find the volume of prisms and cylinders. Learning to use formulae effectively and well is a very important skill because we use formulas to do many things in life, such as changing between Celsius and Fahrenheit when measuring temperature. Here is a video to help students understand how to find the volume of prisms and cylinders.

Algebra – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week in Algebra we are continuing to solve systems of linear equations. So far, students can use three strategies: Graphing, Substitution, and Elimination to solve systems of two equations. This week we will learn that you can solve any system by multiplying to get equivalent equations before using one of the methods above. We will end the week looking at systems of inequalities and discuss how they are similar and different from systems of equalities.

Friday, January 26th is the end of our first semester. Please make sure that students turn in all the permitted assignments.

6th Grade Math – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week, the 6th graders will be applying their study of percentage to find the percent of a number. We have learned how to convert percent to a decimal or fraction. Now, to find the percent of a number, you just multiply the percent (in fraction or decimal form) by the number. We encounter percent everywhere in our daily lives: taxes, tips, nutrition information, sports statistics, and so much more. Watch the following video for a review of the process:

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

This week, in 7th grade math, we will apply what we learned solving one-step equations to two-step equations. This will finish Module 6, so we will then review and have a test on Friday.

Solving two-step equations uses the same process as one-step equations. We UNDO what has been done to the variable, step by step, by using the inverse operation. For those wanting a little extra help, here is a video that explains it well:

Other skills that students will need to have fluency on for the test are: simplifying expressions with the distribution property, factoring and combining like terms. Please see previous posts to access help on these topics.

8th Grade Math – Mrs. Evans

This week in 8th grade math we will extend our understanding of angle relationship to triangles, first on their interior angles and then on their exterior angles. We will then review and have a test on Friday that covers all the angle relationships that we have covered: intersecting lines, parallel lines with transversals and triangles. Students should study the relationships carefully so that they can easily recognize how various angles are related to each other. A great place to practice and become more fluent with these relationships is in IXL.COM, where particularly helpful sections have been starred in your student’s account. It should look like this in sections P and Q:

Algebra – Mrs. VonFeldt

This week in Algebra we will finish our chapter on inequalities with a test on Friday. We have learned to solve and graph inequalities in one variable (graphed on a number line), and two variables (graphed on a coordinate plane). Inequalities are solved just as equations, with one exception: when you multiply or divide by a negative number, you must reverse the inequality. The following video is a good summary of graphing inequalities on the coordinate plane:

Happy New Year!

6th Grade Math – Mrs. VonVeldt

This post for 6th grade math will be updated later in the week.

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

This week, in 7th grade math, we are beginning to solve equations using an organized process in which we UNDO whatever has been done to the variable to get it all by itself. We will begin with one step equations and then move to two step equations. The way we UNDO something that has been done to a variable is to do the inverse operation to the one in the equation. If we do the same thing to both sides of the equation, the equation is still a true statement. This means that we MUST always do the same thing to both sides of the equation when we are solving for the variable. Here are simple examples of how to solve basic one-step equations:

8th Grade Math – Mrs. Evans

This week in 8th grade math we are learning about angle relationships. We will extend on our lessons from 7th grade to consider transversals as well as intersecting lines. Here are the basic relationships between angles that we learned in 7th grade that we will need to build on this year:

Algebra – Mrs. VonFeldt

This post for Algebra will be updated later in the week.