Looking at Equations of Lines

We looked at the equation of a line and identified key parts of the equation. One part of the equation, when written in slope-intercept form, identifies the slope. Another portion of the equation identifies the y-coordinate of the y-intercept of the line, if it exists. Note: the y-intercept is written as an ordered pair, not just a number.

Tonight's Homework--Home Book, page 177 ( 1 - 47, FCO)

Even More Equation Exploration

Students continued their investigation of linear equations today. Using the handheld computers, students were asked to graph five different equations of the form y = x + b, where b could be any integer. All lines were transferred onto a graph, complete with a key.

Tonight's Homework: Write a paragraph that analyzes similarities and differences between the five lines you graphed. In addition, write another paragraph that analyzes similarities and differences you noted about the 11 lines you graphed yesterday.

Graphing Lines on the Handheld Computer

Students learned how to use the PowerOne Graphing program on the handheld computers today. This program will assist students in graphing a variety of functions, allowing the focus to be on how an equation will change the resulting line. Today, students were asked to graph 11 lines, falling into these categories:
a) y = x
b) five lines with integer coefficients for x (+ or - whole numbers)
c) five lines with fractional coefficients for x (coefficients that fall into the range of -1 < | m | < 1 ) Tonight's Homework: Complete the three tables of values that were started in class.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Students took the test over word problems in class today (concept test 4). Those who finished early were encouraged to start on the extra credit assignment.

Tonight's Homework: None. Have a terrific Thanksgiving and relaxing long weekend. For all who are traveling, do so safely!

Geometry Work Sample Completed in Class

Students completed a single problem geometry-based work sample today in class.

Tonight's Homework: Be sure to study for tomorrow's test over solving word problems. Of particular importance is to be sure to set up problems algebraically, and after solving them, check your solution(s).

Preparing for This Week

After completing a review sheet over decimals and fractions, we reviewed for this week's concept test and work sample. Students will complete the work sample in class on Tuesday and will take the test over word problems on Wednesday.

Tonight's Homework: Finish the four problems we set up in class today, and bring a calculator to class on Tuesday. You might need it while working on the work sample problem tomorrow.

Winding Down From a Busy Week

Students worked in groups to ensure that they all understood how to set up each of the problems from last night's homework. Students looked for variables being defined, a variable equation, units attached to the final answer, and determined if the original question was fully answered. Once the students were convinced that everyone was up to speed, we reviewed specific problems that were problematic for groups of students.

We reviewed what would be happening next week. Students will be taking concept test 4 (over word problems) and completing a work sample. These are the last two major grades that will be entered into this term's gradebook.

Tonight's Homework: None.

Story Problem Extravaganza

As we prepare for next week's concept test, students were given a packet of 14 different types of story problems that review the major categories of problems we've studied (consecutive numbers, money and weight comparisons, growth, and two step problems). These problems represent ways that algebra can be used to solve everyday types of problems we come across.

Tonight's Homework: Complete each of the fourteen problems in your half sheet packet. Be sure to define variables, write an equation and label your answer clearly.

Solving Equations with Fractions

Today we discussed how to solve word problems that include fractions as part of the set up. It is important to get the fraction placed correctly. When solving the equation, be sure to think carefully about what you are doing in each step. If you choose to clear the fraction, be sure to distribute all the way through the equation.

We also talked about two-step problems, which require you to find one answer and then insert into a second equation to determine the final answer to the question. These problems aren't necessarily harder to do, but they do require a bit more perseverance in getting to the ultimate answer. Be sure to state the equation for each part accurately so you don't end up making the problem harder than it really is.

Tonight's Homework: Complete all problems on both sides of the green and yellow handouts (fractions and two-step problems). Be sure to include all of the steps we talked about in class today.

Test over the Coordinate Grid Completed

Students took Concept Test 5, over the coordinate grid and graphing, today in class. Most were able to complete this test with plenty of time to double check their work.

Tonight's Homework: Home Book, page 140 (1-9)

Reviewing Multi-Step Problem Set-Ups

Today, we reviewed how to set up a couple of the problems on the purple sheet from Thursday's homework. We then started looking at how to solve problems that involve more than one step (like finding area when all you know is information about the perimeter of a figure). The key to getting these problems solved is in setting things up in a logical and sequential manner.

Tonight's Homework: None, unless you need to redo some of the problems on the purple worksheet.

Translating Words into Mathematical Equations

We continued our work on translating word problems into symbols that will allow us to use algebra to solve the problems.

Tonight's Homework: Complete both sides of both green worksheets. Including check steps is extra credit.

Note: The test over coordinate graphing will take place on Tuesday, November 15th. Please plan accordingly.

Translating Words into Mathematical Symbols

We focussed on how to use variables to translate word problems into mathematical expressions, equations and inequalities. Using problems about numbers, money, and weight, we took time to identify variables (with meaningful names), set up expressions, translate words into equations and then solve the problems.

We also reviewed the importance of putting page numbers on homework assignments. Beginning today, students who do not include this information will be docked 1 point on their assignment (down to 80% maximum credit).

Tonight's Homework: Home Book, page 136 (1 - 9).

Note: The test over coordinate graphing will take place on Tuesday, November 15th. Please plan accordingly.

Problem Solving Guidelines

We reviewed the proper terminology to use when talking about terms on the Cartesian plane. Then we reviewed how to properly solve word problems. There are 5 components to solving a problem, and all are equally important to master. When solving a problem, you should:
•clearly state what the problem wants you to find,
•identify key information that you need to use when solving the problem,
•use an appropriate problem solving technique to solve the problem,
•check your answer for reasonableness by verification (this usually means doing the problem a different way), and
•coming up with a solution that is clearly identified as your answer to the problem.

Tonight's Homework: Complete the problem about the figure on the Cartesian plane that you were given in class today. Remember to verify!

Plotting Patterns on the Cartesian Plane

Today's class was shortened because of the whole-school trip to the Hult Center. We continued our study of the coordinate plane.

Tonight's Homework: Finish the "Plot and Swat" worksheet. Do CME 204( 17 - 21 ).

Looking at Patterns Found on Coordinate Grids

Students received feedback from yesterday's concept test event. Student performance was overall quite good, with 52 of 60 students passing the test on the first attempt. Good job, students! Your dedication to learning new material and showing me quality work is very impressive. Nicely done.

Students used the coordinate grid and the 4 quadrants as the background for determining patterns that exist. Most found the vocabulary to be review (quadrant, axis, intercept). We will continue with our investigation tomorrow.

Tonight's Homework: Read pages 188 and 189 in your CME book. Then do CME pgs. 190 - 193 (1 - 11 ).

Concept Test 2 Given in Class Today

The test over inequalities, absolute value and proportions was given in class today.

Tonight's Homework: Complete the "Only in October" graphing activity you received on Monday. Coloring the resulting picture is extra credit.