Comparing Exponential Growth to Linear Growth

We talked about the checkerboard problem today, and looked at situations where it would be smarter to take the flat rate of pay. We also looked at when it would be best to take a small, but increasing amount of money.

Tonight's Homework: GGG Investigation 1.4 (A-D) and ACE (25-30, 35-38)http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=16711390#

Properties that Govern Multiplication of Exponents

Today we learned about the product of powers and power of powers properties. These properties are reviewed in the Home Book on pages 40 and 41, should you need a refresher.

Tonight's Homework: Complete problems 1-21 on page 42 of the Home Book, and problems 15-21 on page 9 of the GGG book.

Properties for Multiplying Exponents

Today, we talked a bit more about the properties that govern calculating with exponents. Specifically, we looked at the product of powers property, the power of powers property, and the zero power property. Explanations for each of thes properties can be found in your home book on pages 40 and 41.

Tonight's Homework: GGG page 12(15-21); Home book page 42(1-21)

More on Exponential Growth

Spring term has begun! Students were reminded that they need to pass all 16 concept tests in order to be eligible for high school credit. Don't put off getting these tests taken care of! (Just to be clear, most students have successfully passed all 11 of the concept tests we've taken this year, and did very well on the state test, as well.)

Tonight's Homework: GGG book, page 9 (A-G) and ACE problems beginning on page 11 (1-7 and 10-11)

Figuring Out Patterns--Simple and Not-So-Simple

Today, we spent the class period looking for patterns in a variety of situations. Some were numeric, while others were not. Many students were able to complete most of the problems on both sides of the "In and Out" worksheet.

We also looked at a puzzle requiring you to move objects from one end of a strip to another, using just slides and jumps. Students were challenged to determine the pattern for the minimum number of moves. I'll ask for the pattern on Tuesday, March 29th.

Tonight's Homework: Finish both of the green worksheets (Teddy Bear Slide and Jump and In and Out) for Tuesday, March 29th.

Have a safe and relaxing spring break!

State Testing Wraps Up Today

Students finished taking the state math test today, and scores were absolutely fantastic! Great job--I am so proud of you!

Tonight's Homework: None.

State Testing Continues

Students continued taking the state test today. A few finished, but most will finish tomorrow.

Tonight's Homework: None

Let the State Testing Begin

Students began taking the state math test today. Most were able to get through about 15 problems.

Tonight's Homework: None

Practicing for the State Test

Today, we took some time to look at examples of questions that might show up on the state math test, which will be given in class next week. Working in pairs, students visited the OAKS practice test site and completed up to 15 practice problems together. They were able to talk about strategies for how to solve the problem, experience a few of the new interactive questions, and review the major concepts that will be covered on next week's test.

Tonight's Homework: Do the following problems found in the Growing, Growing, Growing Book: Investigation 1.1 (A-D) and Investigation 1.2 (A-F).

In addition, be sure to get plenty of rest on Sunday and eat a good breakfast on Monday, so you'll be prepared for the state test on Monday.

More Review on Geometry, Probability and Proportions

We took one more glance at problems related to probability, proportions and geometry, as these areas are not ones we've focused much on this year, and they will be included on next week's state math test.

Tonight's Homework: Complete both sides of both green multiple choice worksheets. Show work!

What's a Proportion?

Today, we looked at how to use proportions to solve problems. This included using unit analysis, pictures, percents and equivalent fractions.

Tonight's Homework: Complete the Concept 19 review sheet and the "Nine Cents" worksheet for tomorrow.

Reviewing Probability and Statistics

Today's review topic is really two: probability and statistics. We reviewed some of the vocabulary associated with probability (odds, with replacement, without replacement, dependent, independent) before starting on the homework.

Tonight's Homework: Complete both sides of the green worksheet (concept 17 review). Also, all extra credit appreciation notes to classified staff are due on Wednesday.

Reviewing Geometry Topics

Because we will be taking the state math test next week, I thought it would be nice to do a quick review of topics that will be on the test but aren't typically covered in algebra. Today's topic is geometry, and we covered perimeter, area, circumference, surface area and volume.

Tonight's Homework: Complete both sides of the green geometry (concept 20) worksheet.

Test over Systems of Equations Completed in Class Today

Students took another concept test today. This test, over systems of equations, was #10, leaving us with just 5 more to take this year.

Tonight's Homework: Clean out your notebook of all papers related to linear equations and systems of equations. Notes, worksheets, and book assignments dated January through March should be removed. The only exception would be for people who are still working to pass concept tests 6, 7, 8 or 9--save the practice tests and/or blue sheeets so you can study from them.

Problem Solving Work Sample Completed

Students are required to complete at least one work sample in each of three areas this year. The three areas are algebraic concepts, geometry, and statistics/probability. Today, students were given an opportunity to complete an algebraic concepts work sample. This had to be completed in class.

Tonight's Homework: Study for tomorrow's concept test over systems of equations (Concept Test 10). The bright pink worksheets that you completed late last week contain good problems for you to review.

Graphing Systems of Inequalities

Students were given systems of equations to solve by using graphing. Each system needs to be graphed on a separate coordinate plane, and include each of the following: labeled axes, straight lines, shading in 2 or 3 colors, solid vs. dashed lines (with arrows), and a key.

Two extra credit opportunities were offered to students today: Those who turned in a RAFT last month can use systems of equations to show the solution for the system. Students wishing extra practice in solving systems of linear equations were offered a worksheet to complete 5 or more problems. Both of these options are due on Thursday.

Tonight's Homework: Finish the graphing of the linear inequalities, if you did not do so in class today.