Upper Elementary:
Forwards: Our forwards have moved from working with whole numbers to exploring fractional parts of numbers in decimal form. This past month we have explored place value to the thousandths place in a number of ways, including comparing and ordering decimal values. We then moved onto learning how to model, and use standard algorithms to add, subtract, multiply and divide decimals for use in real-world situations. For instance, I and four of my friends want to go to the movies. I have $5.50, and each of my friends has $8.00. If each movie ticket costs $7.50, is it possible for all of us to go if each of my friends lets me borrow an equal amount of money? How much will I need to borrow from each of my friends? Lastly, we have been studying both the customary and metric measurement systems. Within each system, we have been comparing units of measure and converting among the different units.
Midfielders and Backs: These students have been exploring integers and rational numbers. With integers, we have learned how to add, subtract, multiply and divide, as well as plot coordinates appropriately on a coordinate plane using real world contexts of above vs. below sea level, descending vs. ascending elevation, and deposits vs. withdrawals from a bank account. Additionally, we used our new found knowledge to solve one step equations containing integers. Our study of rational numbers has included solidifying our understanding of fractional parts, knowing that fractions and decimals are one in the same and being able to convert back and forth between the two. Lastly, we have been working in the domain of geometry and measurement. We have reviewed the customary and metric systems of measurement with appropriate conversions. Students have also worked to find the area and perimeter of parallelograms, the area of triangles and trapezoids, and the circumference of circles.
Middle School:
Our middle school students have moved on to the study of all rational numbers, and learning how to apply our previous knowledge of operations with integers. We have applied properties of operations in order to solve equations with ease. Using the distributive property of multiplication, we now know how to expand and factor simple expressions. Most recently, we closed out a unit which required a firm understanding off all the skills practiced so far this year. Students were challenged to write two step equations and inequalities given real world context, and then asked to find the solution. For example, Brianna's mom deposits $80 in her lunch money account. Lunch costs $2.50 per day. Write and solve an inequality to determine when there will be less than $20 in the account. Pretty cool that our students have the ability to apply their math skills outside the four walls of the classroom.
Forwards: Our forwards have moved from working with whole numbers to exploring fractional parts of numbers in decimal form. This past month we have explored place value to the thousandths place in a number of ways, including comparing and ordering decimal values. We then moved onto learning how to model, and use standard algorithms to add, subtract, multiply and divide decimals for use in real-world situations. For instance, I and four of my friends want to go to the movies. I have $5.50, and each of my friends has $8.00. If each movie ticket costs $7.50, is it possible for all of us to go if each of my friends lets me borrow an equal amount of money? How much will I need to borrow from each of my friends? Lastly, we have been studying both the customary and metric measurement systems. Within each system, we have been comparing units of measure and converting among the different units.
Midfielders and Backs: These students have been exploring integers and rational numbers. With integers, we have learned how to add, subtract, multiply and divide, as well as plot coordinates appropriately on a coordinate plane using real world contexts of above vs. below sea level, descending vs. ascending elevation, and deposits vs. withdrawals from a bank account. Additionally, we used our new found knowledge to solve one step equations containing integers. Our study of rational numbers has included solidifying our understanding of fractional parts, knowing that fractions and decimals are one in the same and being able to convert back and forth between the two. Lastly, we have been working in the domain of geometry and measurement. We have reviewed the customary and metric systems of measurement with appropriate conversions. Students have also worked to find the area and perimeter of parallelograms, the area of triangles and trapezoids, and the circumference of circles.
Middle School:
Our middle school students have moved on to the study of all rational numbers, and learning how to apply our previous knowledge of operations with integers. We have applied properties of operations in order to solve equations with ease. Using the distributive property of multiplication, we now know how to expand and factor simple expressions. Most recently, we closed out a unit which required a firm understanding off all the skills practiced so far this year. Students were challenged to write two step equations and inequalities given real world context, and then asked to find the solution. For example, Brianna's mom deposits $80 in her lunch money account. Lunch costs $2.50 per day. Write and solve an inequality to determine when there will be less than $20 in the account. Pretty cool that our students have the ability to apply their math skills outside the four walls of the classroom.