Mr. Giomini's Mathematics' Blog

Class Topics: 02.15.12

2012-02-15T08:00:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students translated word phrases into algebraic expressions. Students discussed key words that help when attempting to identify a specific operation within a word phrase. The Power Point for today's lesson: 1.2: Writing Algebraic Expressions, can be accessed by clicking on the lesson title.
In class, students...

examined the table pictured below to help with key words.
practiced independently on translating algebraic expressions by completing Reteach 1.2.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete Practice 1.2.
prepare for the quiz on Friday by understanding and being able to apply the following skills:

.multiply mixed numbers
divide fractions and mixed numbers.
model the five different number properties discussed in class:

solve order of operation problems.
add, subtract, multiply and divide integers.
apply problem-solving strategies to real-life word problems.

In Pre-Algebra, students completed their Unit Six Summative Post-test. This unit dealt with: area, perimeter, The Pythagorean Theorem and volume and surface area of three-dimensional shapes. There was a great deal of information in this unit. Students were encouraged to use a note card to help with formulas on the assessment.
In class, students...

completed Unit Six Summative Post-test.

For homework, students SHOULD...

relax!

Enjoy the night off.

Class Topics: 02.14.12

2012-02-14T16:51:00.002-05:00

In EDM, students worked with Lesson 1.1 in our Holt Pre-Algebra curriculum which dealt with variables and algebraic expressions. We introduced some new vocabulary: variable, coefficient, algebraic expression, evaluate, and substitute.
In class, students...

defined the different terms from the lesson.
evaluated algebraic expressions when substituting a given value for a variable.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete Lesson 1.1 Reteach and Practice A. (Handout)

In Pre-Algebra, we reviewed one final day for our Unit Six Summative Post-test on Wednesday.

In class, students...

solved volume and surface area problems in small groups.
solved volume and surface area problems while working in a small group with Mr. Giomini.

For homework, students SHOULD...

review the videos from the blog posts over the past week.
use textbook to help prepare for tomorrow's assessment.

Class Topics: 02.13.12

2012-02-13T11:03:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students explored their Student Reference Book by completing a Scavenger Hunt to develop an understanding of Number Properties, Rational and Irrational Numbers. Lesson 6.5: The Properties of Number Systems is the last lesson for our EDM curriculum for Unit Six. On Tuesday, we will work in the Pre-Algebra curriculum for the next nine to ten days.
In class, students...

collaborated with a peer to complete a Scavenger Hunt.
used the Student Reference Book.
prepare for the quiz on Friday by understanding and being able to apply the following skills:

multiply mixed numbers
divide fractions and mixed numbers.
model the five different number properties discussed in class:

solve order of operation problems.
add, subtract, multiply and divide integers.
apply problem-solving strategies to real-life word problems.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete MJ221.

Good to see Goss back in class.

Who is this fly fellow looking
for 411 in his SRB?

In Pre-Algebra, students reviewed Volume of various three-dimensional shapes in preparation for our Chapter Six Summative Postest.
In class, students...

used appropriate formulas to calculate the volume of three dimensional figures.
collaborated with peers to critique and check each other's work.

For homework, students SHOULD...

use blog videos to review the different formulas and their applications.

Class Topics: 02.10.12

2012-02-10T07:05:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students worked with Order of Operations (Parenthesis, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction) in Lesson 6.6: Order of Operations in our EDM curriculum. Class started by calculating the answers to several review problems from earlier lessons in the week. Students then viewed a music video to help prepare them mentally for the task of Order of Operations/PEMDAS.
In class, students...

completed a Quick Check by calculating answers to several problems dealing with integer computations, dividing fractions and multiplying mixed numbers.
viewed the PEMDAS video posted below.
collaborated with a peer to complete MJ222 and 223.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete the following skills on Khan Academy - LOGIN BEFORE YOU START

Why does PEMDAS work? Here is an explanation from someone much smarter than Mr. Giomini:
The order of operations in which one is to interpret mathematical expressions such as "2 + 8/2 x 5" is a convention. This means that a long time ago, even before Mr. Giomini was born, people who didn't have iPhones, iPods, iPads, PS3's or even radios hung out doing a lot of mathematics and decided that PEMDAS should be performed in a specific way. There is no magic or illusion. People adopted this approach to solving order of operation problems using PEMDAS and it has stuck. It is like language, it makes it easier for people to communicate with each other, only instead of words, it uses numbers.

If only I could sing more often

to you students.

Look at how the solution forms
an ice cream cone
when done
correct.

In Pre-Algebra, we began to prepare for our Unit Six Summative Assessment by revisiting our formative pretest for the unit. Students collaborated with a small group of peers to make the necessary corrections to their formative pretest. Answer key were placed in different locations within the room to assist students in self-correcting their work.

In class, students...

corrected their Unit Six Formative Pretest.

For homework, students SHOULD...

analyze the type of questions that were asked on the formative pretest in attempt to infer what questions are posed on the summative assessment.
update your Formula Card if needed and begin know the formulas.

Class Topics: 02.09.12

2012-02-09T14:34:00.003-05:00

In EDM, we reviewed last night's homework dealing with adding and subtracting integers. This was something that was briefly introduced last year in the fifth grade so we didn't have a strong foundation in the concept coming into the sixth grade.

Once we felt better about our understanding of adding and subtracting integers, we introduced multiplying and dividing decimals.
In class, students...

corrected any errors from last night's homework.
solved some example problems from the last three days of class.
collaborated with a peer to compute solutions to both multiplication and division of integers.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete 2.3 Multiplication Packet.

In Pre-Algebra, students worked on Lesson 6.10: Sphere - Volume and Surface Area. We reviewed how to find the surface area of a pyramid if the base is a triangle without the height given. The Unit Six Summative Assessment is on Wednesday, February 15th.
In class, students...

worked with the formulas for volume and surface area of a sphere.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete problems 14 - 17, 21, 23, 30 - 35 on pages 324 - 327.
finalize your formula card for the assessment on Wednesday.

Class Topics: 02.08.12

2012-02-08T07:10:00.003-05:00

In EDM, students worked with positive and negative integers in Lesson 6.3: Addition and Subtraction of Positive and Negative Numbers. Students briefly worked in their EDM Journals, but then we transitioned into the Pre-Algebra's Power Point. We completed some example problems using Khan Academy and then broke out into pairs to complete 2.1 Adding Integers Practice C .
In class, students...

completed a Quick Check by computing solutions to three substitution problems.

Solve 4y + 8m if m = 5 and y = 3.
Solve 32 - g * u if g = 17 and u = 9
Solve 9 + y * d if y = 10 and d = 7

calculated sums and differences when working with positive and negative integers.
collaborated with a peer to complete 2.1 Adding Integers Practice C .
self-checked their work using a teacher created answer key.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete Lesson 2.2 Subtracting Integers Practice A.
review the Khan Skill that was assigned on Monday.

In Pre-Algebra, students reviewed answers from last night's homework that dealt with the surface area of prisms and cylinders. Students then began Lesson 6.9: Surface Area of Pyramids and Cones. Some new terms that were discussed were slant height and regular pyramid.
In class, students...

completed a Quick Check dealing with the two problems listed below:

A rectangular prismis 0.6 m by 0.4 m by 1.0 m. What is the surface area?
A cylindrical canhas a diameter of 14 cm and a height of 20 cm. What is the surface area to thenearest tenth? Use 3.14 for p.

asked questions dealing with last night's homework.
developed an understanding for calculating the surface are of pyramids and cones.

For homework, students SHOULD...

Pgs. 320 - 322: 1 & 2, 9 - 12, 19 - 24.

Class Topics: 02.07.12

2012-02-07T03:41:00.000-05:00

In EDM, students worked with Lesson 6.2: Dividing Fractions which was a nice follow-up to yesterdays lesson on multiplying mixed numbers and reciprocals. Before the lesson began, students calculated four mixed number problems that were pulled from yesterday's lesson and one dividing of fractions that was pulled from last night's video that was assigned as homework.
In class, students...

completed a Quick Check by calculating products for mixed numbers.
calculated answers to Math Message and compared answers with a peer.
explained the Division Property Algorithm.
collaborated with a peer to work on MJ209.
developed effective explanations for questions 21 and 22 on MJ209.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete the remainder of MJ 209 in not completed in class.
complete MJ 210.
present RAFT Writing Activity by 02.10.12. (1st and 3rd Period ONLY!)
work on Khan Skill. (Complete by Friday.)

Dividing Fractions

positive * positive = positive
negative * negative = positive
negative * positive = negative
positive * negative = negative

In Pre-Algebra, students worked with Lesson 6.8: Surface Area of Prisms and Cylinders. This has been a challenging unit leading up to this lesson and will continue to present difficulties.

In class, students...

completed a Quick Check dealing with the two problems presented below.

A cone has a radiusof 4 cm and a height of 10 cm. What is the volume of the cone to the nearestcubic centimeter? Use 3.14 for p.
A triangular pyramidhas a base area of 16 m2 and a height of 7.5m. What is the volume of the pyramid?

examined the differences between lateral face and lateral surface.

Surface area is the sum of the areas of allsurfaces of a figure.
The lateral faces of a prism are parallelograms thatconnect the bases.
The lateral surface of a cylinder is the curved surface.

practiced with examples from the book to develop a firmer understanding of the concept.

For homework, students SHOULD...

view the video posted below to review two previous volume skills and one new.
review the Power Point and Guided Notes from today.
complete pages 316 - 319: 1 & 2, 5 & 6, 9 - 14

Review and New

Explanation of the Origin

of the Surface Area Formula

for a Cylinder

You may find this easier

than the book's explanation.

Surface Area for a Triangular Prism

Surface Area for a Cylinder

Class Topics: 02.06.12

2012-02-06T03:27:00.002-05:00

In EDM, students received their Unit Six Formative Pre-Test from Friday. During the course of the week, students should check the blog to see Mr. Giomini model some problems from the pre-test. We then analyzed the breakdown of the individual questions from the Unit Six Formative Pre-Test comparing areas of strength and weakness amongst the three classes.

We began Lesson 6.1: Multiplication of Fractions and Mixed Numbers in Volume II of our Everyday Mathematics curriculum. Students explained the algorithm for multiplying fractions and applied it to mixed numbers.
In class, students...

discussed Unit Six Formative Pre-Test.
completed MJ 205 as a whole class.
began MJ 206 in class.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete MJ 205 and 206.
view the video on the blog that front loads tomorrow's lesson on dividing fractions using a reciprocal.

Follow these steps when dividing

fractions tomorrow.

Watch this video for homework tonight.

In Pre-Algebra, students reviewed their weekend homework dealing with Lesson 6.7: Volume of Pyramids and Cones.
Before progressing into lesson 6.8, we reviewed some of the different formulas that we have utilized in the past week to make sure that we are all on the same page. The problems we used in class dealt with real-life situations.
In class, students...

reviewed the homework from the weekend.
utilized the appropriate formula to solve various word problems.

For homework, students SHOULD...

make corrections to the front side of their Unit Six Formative Pre-Test.

Class Topics: 02.03.12

2012-02-03T09:51:00.004-05:00

In EDM, students completed their Unit Six Formative Pretest. This unit promises to be something different for the students as we will utilize parts of the Everyday Mathematics' curriculum and part of our Holt Pre-Algebra curriculum. Earlier in the year, we spent some time translating word phrases into algebraic expressions and equations. This unit will go a bit beyond that I am eager to see how the students respond.
In class, students...

completed their Unit Six Formative Pretest.
discussed some effective study skills for school and at home.
showed where students can find our construction project from yesterday.

For homework, students SHOULD...

view the video posted below to assist in preparing for Monday's assignment.
post a comment if the urge hits you.

You should be able to solve
this from start to finish
after Unit Six.

EDM: Watch for homework and
comment if the urge happens.

Construction project modeled for you.

In Pre-Algebra, students applied the new formulas for pyramids and cones to real-world problems in Lesson 6.7: Volume of Pyramids and Cones. After introducing the formulas, students copied them onto their Formula Cards which should look something like the one pictured below. We then practiced with formulas using our textbook and handout. Please refer to the videos posted below over the weekend to keep the application of these formulas fresh in your mind.

In class, students...

reviewed homework from last night.
added new formulas to their Formula Cards.
solved computations and real-world applications for various volume scenarios.

For homework, students SHOULD...

review the videos posted to the blog both from 02.02.12 and 02.03.12.
complete the handout that was issued today in class.

Watch how we come up with one-third

for our new formulas for

pyramid and cone.

Class Topics: 02.02.12

2012-02-02T03:20:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students collaborated with peers and developed effective feedback to complete a construction project. The assignment dealt with creating a geometric design by following specific directions. The assignment is graded on a rubric that the students had access to both prior and during the assignment.
In class, students...

collaborated with peers to complete a construction task.
generated effective feedback to assist a peer in completing a task.

For homework, students SHOULD...

work on RAFT Writing Activity (First and Third Period Only).
practice the following Khan Academy skills to front-load for the Unit Six Formative Pretest.

Order of Operations Video

Skill Practice

Simple Equations Video

Skill Practice

Monica, Grace and Cat Girl
are busy constructing.

Shark Boy can work both in
and out of the water with a ruler.

The two S's measure with
precision.

In Pre-Algebra, students worked with volume, specifically Lesson 6.6: Volume of Prisms and Cylinders. We discussed what makes a prism a prism and learned that it is a three-dimensional figure named for the shape of its bases which are two congruent polygons. After introducing the formulas we talked about how they are applied to calculate for volume.

In class, students...

viewed a video on finding volume.
applied the formula for volume of a prism and cylinder to problem situations.
worked on Problem Solving 6.6.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete Problem Solving 6.6.

A little taste of the application of

the skill from today.

Class Topics: 02.01.12

2012-02-01T15:07:00.001-05:00

In EDM today, students analyzed their Unit Five Summative Posttest. As of right now, the class average for all three classes is roughly an 88% which is impressive.
In class, students...

received their Unit Five Summative Posstest back to analyze.
read a model paper written by Mr. Giomini. (1st and 3rd Period)

For homework, students SHOULD...

create a rough draft for their RAFT Activity. (1st and 3rd Period)
refer to Mr. Giomini's rough draft.

In Pre-Algebra, students received their Chapter Six Mid-Chapter Quiz. We discussed common mistakes and reviewed the expectation that students will provide work on their assessments. After, we began Lesson 6.5: Three-Dimensional Drawings. Using isometric paper, students constructed different three-dimensional shapes according to directions.

In class, students...

reviewed quiz results.
constructed three-dimensional drawings.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete Problem Solving 6.5 and Challenge 6.5.

Class Topics: 01.31.12

2012-01-31T03:05:00.000-05:00

In EDM, students completed Day Two of their Unit Five Summative Posttest. We are just about finished with Unit Five. We will spend the remainder of the week analyzing test data, writing a creative piece using Geometry as our foundation and construct a design using appropriate tools and a rubric.
In class, students...

completed Day Two of their Unit Five Summative Posttest.

For homework, students SHOULD...

post a comment to the blog sharing your feelings about the assessment that we just finished.

This is a genre of music called
Math Rock. Give it a listen.

In Pre-algebra, students completed their Chapter Six Mid-Chapter Quiz. Prior to beginning the quiz, students reviewed homework from over the weekend dealing with area and circumference of circles.

In class, students...

reviewed area and circumference of circles.
completed a Chapter Six quiz.

For homework, students SHOULD...

enjoy the night off.

Class Topics: 01.30.12

2012-01-30T08:27:00.002-05:00

In EDM today, students completed DAY ONE of their UNIT FIVE SUMMATIVE POSTTEST. The assessment covered the skills listed below.

classifying and describing 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional figures using their properties.
using standard geometric vocabulary.
identifying and defining relationships between planes.
predicting and describing transformations.
drawing similar figures that model proportional relationships.
building 3-dimensional objects and sketch 2-dimensional representations.

In class, students...

completed Day One of their Unit Five Summative Posttest.
discussed questions that were challenging once assessments were collected.

For homework, students SHOULD...

review the concepts of area and perimeter.
know the difference between supplementary and complementary angles.
understand the characteristics of a polygon.
identify similarities and differences between different types of polygons.
use given formulas to find area of a specific geometric shape.

Noah reviewing his
scale model.

Casey calculating area for
Mr. Hartwell's remodeling job.

In Pre-Algebra today, students completed a Gallery Walk in preparation for their Chapter Six Mid-Chapter Quiz. We covered the following topics in the Gallery Walk:

area and perimeter of squares, rectangles and trapezoids.
utilized The Pythagorean Theorem to solve real-life problems.
used our understanding of Pi to solve problems dealing with area and circumference of a circle.

In class, students...

collaborated with peers to solve twelve different problems.
self-checked responses to questions using answers provided to each question.

For homework, students SHOULD:

complete 1 –18 on page 298.

Class Topics: 01.27.12

2012-01-27T04:06:00.005-05:00

In EDM, students worked with volume and surface area. We also introduced the area and circumference of a circle. The focus was more on how to use the formula to calculate both the area and circumference when given to the student in a problem situation.
In class, students...

completed several review problems that are reflective of the problems they will see on their Unit Five Summative Post-test.
reviewed some skills using Khan Academy.

For homework, students SHOULD...

review/retake their Unit Five Pre-test.
check over the Unit Five Pre-test Answer Key located on the blog.
use the Class Topics posts to help prepare for the assessment.
practice the following skills on Khan Academy:

In Pre-Algebra, we introduced Lesson 6.4 - Area and Circumference of Circles using a hands-on approach to uncovering the relationship between circumference, diameter and Pi. We then applied our new skills to some word problems that applied our understanding of area and circumference of circles to real-world scenarios.

In class, students...

used circular objects to uncover the mystery of Pi.
worked with peers to solve real-world problems that dealt with area and circumference of circles.

For Homework, students SHOULD...

complete 6.4 - Problem Solving. (handout)
complete the following Khan Academy Skill:

Video - Skill - use the word pi when answering some of the questions

Sam is intrigued by the measure
of the circumference.

Robo measures as Kate the Great
watches on.

Risch is the man of the group.

Number 45 on the assist.

The gentlemen discuss
pi, circumference and
diameter.

Class Topics: 01.26.12

2012-01-26T04:13:00.007-05:00

In EDM, students reviewed skills from Unit Five. We looked back at our Unit Five Pre-test and began to deconstruct the assessment so that we could focus on the vocabulary in the questions. Students solved problems that include the following skills: perimeter, area, proportional reasoning, volume and surface area.
In class, students..

reviewed the Unit Five Pre-test to help prepare for the Unit Five Summative Post-test.
critiqued a peer's work.
discussed the traits of a two and four point question.

For homework, students SHOULD...

practice the following skills on Khan Academy:

In Pre-Algebra, we analyzed word problems that incorporated The Pythagorean Theorem. Students were encouraged to construct diagrams to assist in solving the problem. We also had a volunteer record a demonstration of how to solve a problem dealing with The Pythagorean Theorem.

In class, students...

reviewed homework from last night.
discussed common areas of confusion with The Pythagorean Theorem.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete the final page of The Pythagorean Theorem packet.

Class Topics: 01.25.12

2012-01-25T03:18:00.005-05:00

In EDM today, students worked with Lesson 5.10: Parallelograms. This is the last lesson of the unit and assists in seeing similarities and differences among the different quadrilaterals. Refer to the chart below the help with differences.
In class, students...

reviewed a recent Khan Academy skill that was assigned for homework on Monday.
investigated the different angle measures of a quadrilateral.
completed various tiered assessments.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete MJ202.
complete assignments not completed in class.
complete Khan assignments from Monday.

Look at the characteristics of the
different quadrilaterals.

In Pre-Algebra today, students traveled to Ancient Greece and met Uncle Pythagoras while working in Lesson 6.3 - The Pythagorean Theorem. To begin, we viewed a video on The Pythagorean Theorem to help us get a visual on the method. This promises to be a daunting task, but one that I know we are capable of in class.
In class, students...

viewed a video on The Pythagorean Theorem.
practiced applying the Pythagorean Theorem to triangles with missing legs and hypotenuses.

For homework, students SHOULD...

review the video posted below.
complete the handout. (First page odds/Third page all)

Class Topics: 01.24.12

2012-01-24T03:29:00.005-05:00

In EDM, students dissected some of the commonly missed questions from yesterday's Discovery Education Assessment. Students viewed their results are were able to see their progress from our first assessment back in September.

Students identified parallel lines and angle relationships in Lesson 5.9. We discussed skew lines and brainstormed where one may find skew lines, complementary and supplementary angles.
In class, students...

completed the following Quick Check: Mr. Giomini has a garden that has an area of 36 sq ft. Decide two different sets of dimensions for the garden and which will require the fewer amount of materials to build a fence around.
worked in small groups to complete differentiated tasks dealing with parallel lines, transversals and angle measures.

For homework, students SHOULD...

view the video posted below.
review Guided Notes for Lesson 5.3 and 5.4.
complete any task that was not completed in class for homework depending on the group you were working with at the time.

In Pre-Algebra, students began to explore how to find the area of triangles and trapezoids by using a parallelogram. We reviewed the concepts introduced in Guided Notes 6.2: Perimeter and Area of Triangles and Trapezoids.

In class, students...

modeled how to find the area of a triangle using a square.
discussed how diagonals dissect shapes from one vertice to a non-adjacent vertice.
explained how the area of a trapezoid is half of the area of a parallelogram.
completed a Lesson Quiz for a five point grade.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete Guided Notes for Lesson 6.3.
complete Practice 6.2 and Challenge 6.2.
complete problems 27-31 on pg 288.

Class Topics: 01.23.12

2012-01-23T04:13:00.001-05:00

Today in class, both EDM and Pre-Algebra students completed their second Discovery Education Benchmark Assessment. This assessment helps us identify strengths and weaknesses of our students according to our state standards and indicators. Once the assessment is complete, students progress is then charted on a line graph which measures their growth compared to their first Discovery Education Benchmark Assessment.
For homework, students SHOULD...

EDM:

Pre-Algebra:

Interesting

Class Topics: 01.19.12

2012-01-19T09:55:00.002-05:00

In EDM, students collaborated in small groups complete several application word problems that dealt with several of the skills from our current unit of study in Mathematics.
In class, students...

collaborated with peers to solve various story problems dealing with Geometry.

For homework, students SHOULD...

review the different skills worked on in Unit Five in preparation for January 30th summative posttest.
use Khan Academy to brush up on past skills.

In Pre-Algebra, students reviewed last night's homework. We had some good discussions about some of the application pieces from last night's homework.

In class, students...

reviewed last night's homework.

For homework, students SHOULD...

use the skills below to practice.

Area of a Trapezoid

Class Topics: 01.18.12

2012-01-18T11:23:00.002-05:00

In EDM, students reviewed their homework from last night. We discussed rotations when occurring on a coordinate grid. Students then independently solved short answer and extended response questions dealing with scale factor and proportional relationships.
In class, students...

solved short answer and extended response questions.
viewed models to see what two and point responses would look like on an assessment.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete MJ190.

Scale factor example

In Pre-Algebra, students received their Chapter Six Formative Pre-test back from yesterday's class. This is an excellent tool to use as we begin to prepare for the Chapter Six Summative Assessment. Students then began Lesson 6.1: Perimeter and Area of Rectangles and Parallelograms.
In class, students...

calculated the area and perimeter of various two dimensional geometric figures.
explained why finding the area of a parallelogram is the same as finding the area of a rectangle.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete pgs 280 – 284: 1-8, 16, 18-20, 22-25(all), 29-33.
complete Guided Notes for Lesson 6.2 on the blog.

CAN complete...

an additional worksheet on the blog.

Illustration of today's lesson.

Class Topics: 01.17.12

2012-01-17T03:13:00.003-05:00

In EDM, students worked with Lesson 5.6: Congruent Figures. Students were presented with a problem asking for them to create a similar shape that models a 1:4 relationship between the two shapes. Corresponding angles and sides were discussed when identifying similar shapes.
In class, students...

created a personalized definition for the word congruent.
complete MJ 184 and 185 both as a class and independently.

For homework, students SHOULD...

review Guided Notes for Lesson 5.6.
complete MJ187.
complete the Blog Review Questions. (Link Here)
view the following video and play the game if you would like.
post a comment if the urge hits you.

Look for corresponding sides and angles.

Which shape is similar to the top yellow one?

In Pre-Algebra, students discussed common strengths and weaknesses from the Chapter Five Summative Post-test that was administered last week. Students also examined the short answer and extended response questions that were a component of last week's assessment. These questions were graded, but not calculated into the summative grade.

In class, students...

determined key vocabulary/concepts in the short answer and extended response questions from last week's assessment.
completed the Chapter Six Formative Pre-test.

For homework, students SHOULD...

complete the Guided Notes for Lesson 6.1: Perimeter and Area of Rectangles and Parallelograms. (These are located on the blog.)
determine appropriate answers for 6.1 Challenge.

Romanesco is an excellent example of a
fractal in nature.

Class Topics: 01.13.12

2012-01-13T11:36:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students in first period constructed different shapes and then illustrated their designs on isometric grid paper. This helped with students visual perception of three-dimensional objects.

EDM students in third and fifth period completed a quiz dealing with the following skills:vertical, adjacent, complementary, supplementary angles, angle construct and transformations. Grades will soon be posted to GBW.
In class, students...

First Period

constructed three-dimensional objects using Omnifix Cubes.
illustrated their constructions on isometric grid paper.

Third and Fifth Period

completed Unit Five Quiz.

The New Girl is a rock star with her illustrations
while Tebow is trying to constuct
a new design.

Leo has an eye for three-dimensional shapes.

Schill was loving this activity.

For homework, students CAN...

work on Khan Academy with skills we are working on in class.

In Pre-Algebra, students constructed different shapes and then illustrated their designs on isometric grid paper. This helped with students visual perception of three-dimensional objects.

In class, students...

constructed three-dimensional objects using Omnifix Cubes.
illustrated their constructions on isometric grid paper.

For homework, students CAN...

preview Chapter Six in their textbook and prepare for the pretest on Tuesday.

Class Topics: 01.12.12

2012-01-12T13:08:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students in first period completed a quiz dealing with the following skills: vertical, adjacent, complementary, supplementary angles, angle construct and transformations. The grades have been posted to GBW.

In third and fifth period, students plotted image points on a coordinate grid based on specific directions and a pre-image. This task proved to be difficult especially for those of us who struggle with visual exercises.
In class, students...

First Period:

completed Unit Five Quiz

Third and Fifth Period:

completed MJ178 as a class.
began MJ179 - 181.

For homework, students should...

First Period:

practice some of the skills listed below.

Third and Fifth Period:

complete MJ179 - 181.

In Pre-Algebra, students completed their Chapter Five Summative Post-test. Results will be posted either later today or by the end of the school day Friday.

In class, students...

completed the Chapter Five Summative Assessment.

For homework, students can...

relax and reflect on how they can improve both in and out of class.

Class Topics: 01.11.12

2012-01-11T07:15:00.004-05:00

In EDM, students in first period worked with Lesson 5.5: Isometry Transformations. Students produced transformations using a pre-image to create a new image while maintaining the same size and shape.

Students in third and fifth period began Lesson 5.4: Coordinate Geometry. These students located ordered pairs on a coordinate grid and constructed polygons by connecting different pairs.
In class, students...

First Period

completed MJ 178 - 183.

Third and Fifth Period

completed MJ174 - 176

For homework, students should...

All Classes

copy their Guided Notes for Lesson 5.4 and Lesson 5.5 from the blog.

First Period

complete MJ 178 - 183.

Third and Fifth Period

complete MJ174 - 176.

In Pre-Algebra, students were presented with various skills learned in Chapter Five: Plane Geometry. Various skills that are assessed tomorrow include:

classifying and drawing plane figures
understanding and using angle relationships and line relationships
use congruence to solve problems.
describing and showing geometric transformations, symmetry and tessellations.

In class, students...

reviewed the above mentioned skills.

For homework, students should...

use the Chapter Five Study Guide and Review on pages 272 - 275.
refer to previous posts to view either videos and use Khan Academy.

Pretest Jitters

Class Topics: 01.10.12

2012-01-09T16:53:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students in third and fifth period continued work on converting fractions to different sectors of a circle graph by using an algebraic equation in Lesson 5.3: Using a Protractor to Make a Circle Graph. Students reviewed how to convert fractions to decimals to percents and then applied their knowledge of circle graph construction with their knowledge of angle measures to use a protractor to develop a circle graph when given a table of information.

Students in first period began Lesson 5.4: Coordinate Geometry. These students located ordered pairs on a coordinate grid and constructed polygons by connecting the different pairs.
In class, students...

identified complements and supplements to various angle measures.
completed MJ169 and 170. (Third and Fifth Period)
discussed the method for plotting an ordered pair by first locating the origin and x-axis.
completed MJ174 and 175.

For homework, students should...

complete MJ 171, 172, and 173. (Third and Fifth Period)
complete MJ 176 and 177. (First Period)

Pretest - Questions Six and Seven

Pretest - Question Eight

In Pre-Algebra, students worked with material from Lesson 5.9: Tessellations. This was the last lesson of Chapter Five before our Chapter Five Summative Post-test on Thursday, January 12. Students viewed a video in an attempt to create their own shape that tessellates.
In class, students...

predicted and verified patterns involving tessellations.
followed directions in an attempt to create a tessellating figure.
constructed an original figure to tessellate without gaps or overlaps.

For homework, students should...

work on tessellation.
review Guided Notes 5.5 - 5.7.

Tessellation Example Videos

Class Topics: 01.09.12

2012-01-09T03:53:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students were able to connect previous knowledge with our current topic of angle measures in Lesson 5.3: Using a Protractor to Make a Circle Graph. Students reviewed how to convert fractions to decimals to percents and then applied their knowledge of circle graph construction with their knowledge of angle measures to use a protractor to develop a circle graph when given a table of information.
In class, students...

generated a list of new vocabulary from last week's work.
identified complements and supplements to various angle measures.
completed MJ169 and 170.

For homework, students will...

review the Guided Notes from Lessons 5.1 and 5.2.
complete Guided Notes for Lesson 5.3 using the example on the blog.
complete MJ171 and 172.

Which of the angles are Angle D's supplement?

What is Angle DCE's complement?

In Pre-Algebra, students worked with Lesson 5.8: Symmetry. During this lesson, students brainstormed where examples of symmetry are found in nature. We also drew the reflection of an object when given a line of symmetry. Rotational symmetry was introduced which is something new from last year's understanding of symmetry.
In class, students...

brainstormed examples of symmetry in nature.
created lines of symmetry on different objects.
examined new vocabulary for the lesson.
completed Guided Notes of Lesson 5.8.

For homework, students should...

complete problems: 5, 7, 11, 13-16, and 17(all parts)
review Guided Notes for lessons 5.4 and 5.5.

Can you identify the lines of symmetry and what
this is a picture of from nature?

Symmetry in Nature

Class Topics: 01.06.12

2012-01-06T11:40:00.000-05:00

In EDM, students were presented data that showed a breakdown of their Unit Five Formative Pretest. We then worked with vertical, adjacent, supplementary and complementary angles.
In class, students...

completed MJ 166 and 167.

For homework, students CAN...

practice the following skills on Khan Academy:

Complementary and Supplementary Angles

Unit Five Pretest Examples

In Pre-Algebra, students worked with their homework from last night dealing with congruence. Students then also worked with transformations: translations, rotations, and reflections.

In class, students...

discussed area's of concern from last night's homework.
worked with basic transformations.

For homework, students CAN...

review lessons 5.1 - 5.3 for next week's summative assessment.

Class Topics: 01.05.12

2012-01-05T07:50:00.000-05:00

In EDM, students were introduced to Lesson 5.1: Measuring and Drawing Angles. Students used protractors to both measure angles and construct angles to a given degree. The class identified different types of angles and estimated angle measures before using protractors to validate their estimates.
In class, students...

discussed last night's homework.
identified and measured angles on MJ162.
constructed two angles when given a specific degree measure on MJ163.

For homework, students should...

complete MB 5.2 (numbers 3 - 6).
visit Khan Academy to complete the the skill listed below:

Measuring Angles

view the video below to prepare for tomorrow's lesson.

In Pre-Algebra, students used properties of congruent figures to solve problems. Both congruent and corresponding angles and sides were introduced. The method of labeling shapes and how to correctly label a corresponding shape were examined.

In class, students...

discussed strategies to help improve future assessment accuracy.
completed Guided Notes for Lesson 5.6:Congruence.

For homework, students should...

complete problems 6 - 11, 14 - 16, and 22 - 26 on pgs 250 - 253.

Extra Practice:

Which sides and angles are congruent?

Class Topics: 01.04.12

2012-01-04T03:45:00.000-05:00

In EDM, students completed their Unit Five Formative Pretest. The title for this unit is: Geometry: Congruence, Constructions and Parallel Lines. Throughout the unit, students will work with protractors and straightedges to construct various illustrations. Professions that incorporate the skills assessed in this unit include: engineer, architect, astronomer, city planner, electrician, construction worker, carpenter, cabinet maker, surgeon, navigational system operator, computer game engineer and several others.
In class, students...

completed their Unit Five Formative Pretest.

skills assessed were:

classifying and describing two and three-dimensional figures using their properties
using standard geometric language/vocabulary
identifying and defining relationships between planes
predicting and describing transformations
drawing similar figures that model proportional reasoning

For homework, students should...

complete MJ 164 and MB 5.1 - don't do numbers one and two on the Math Box

In Pre-Algebra, students completed their mid-chapter quiz for Chapter Five.
In class, students...

completed their Chapter Five Quiz.

For homework, students should...

preview lesson 5.6 using their textbook and the power point provided to them on the blog.

Class Topics: 01.03.12

2012-01-03T03:35:00.002-05:00

I hope you enjoyed your
Winter Break.

In EDM, students examined in more depth some of the common mistakes made on the Unit Four Summative Post-test from before the Winter Break. Students discussed what made this unit the most successful overall unit of the four we have have assessed.
In class, students...

reviewed their Unit Four Summative Post-tests.
examined the graphical representation of their improvement comparing their Unit Four Formative Pretest Score vs. their Unit Four Summative Post-Test Score.

For homework, students should...

complete Guided Notes for lessons 5.1 and 5.2.
view some of the following videos and practice the skills that coincide with the lesson in preparation for tomorrow's Unit Five Formative Pretest.

Measuring Angles ---- Practice
Complementary and Supplementary Angles ---- Practice
Angles at the Intersection of Two Lines ---- No Practice
Coordinate Geography ---- Practice
Congruent Figures ---- Practice
Parallel and Perpendicular Lines ---- Practice
Volume ---- Practice
Volume and Surface Area ---- No Practice

In Pre-Algebra, students reviewed lessons 5.1 - 5.5 in preparation for tomorrow's mid-unit quiz. Students also created a calendar on the Active Board to understand what assessments await before the close of the quarter.
In class, students...

examined the Chapter Five Formative Pretest to look for types of questions that may appear on tomorrow's quiz.
generated questions about material from lessons 5.1 - 5.5.

For homework, students should...

use their textbook as a tool to review for tomorrow's quiz.
review their Guided Notes for Chapter Five to help with quiz preparation.

Class Topics: 12.20.11

2011-12-20T16:57:00.005-05:00

In EDM, students were given their Unit Four Summative Assessment back. Some students are still wrapping up the assessment, but about 95% of the three EDM classes are completed.

In class, students...

viewed their Unit Four Summative Assessments.
asked questions about problems they may have missed on the assessment.

For homework over the break, students can...

view some of the following videos and practice the skills that coincide with the lesson.

Measuring Angles ---- Practice
Complementary and Supplementary Angles ---- Practice
Angles at the Intersection of Two Lines ---- No Practice
Coordinate Geography ---- Practice
Congruent Figures ---- Practice
Parallel and Perpendicular Lines ---- Practice
Volume ---- Practice
Volume and Surface Area ---- No Practice

In Pre-Algebra, students reviewed their homework from last night. We only had a thirty minute class due to our school volleyball game.

In class, students...

reviewed slope.

For homework over the break, students can...

review Lessons 5.1 - 5.5 in preparation for the quiz the day after we return from break.
view the videos below to help with slope.

Class Topics: 12.19.11

2011-12-19T07:02:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students completed the second part of their Unit Four Summative Assessment. The skills assessed on the post-test included:

creating equivalent fractions.
calculating sums, differences and products for fractions and mixed numbers.
converting fractions to decimals to percents.
compute the specific percent of a given number.
illustrate how multiplying two fractions produces a specific product.

In class, students...

reviewed questions prior to the assessment.'
completed the Unit Four Summative Assessment.

For homework, students should...

enjoy a night off.

In Pre-Algebra, students began lesson 5.5: Coordinate Geometry. This lesson introduced the students to finding the slopes of parallel and perpendicular lines.

In class, students...

completed the Warm Up that reviewed previously covered material from Lesson 5.4.
viewed the video below to help introduce the concept of slope.
worked to complete the Guided Notes for Lesson 5.5.

For homework, students should...

complete Reteach and Practice 5.5.

Class Topics: 12.15.11

2011-12-15T03:24:00.000-05:00

In EDM, students reviewed questions from the Unit Four Pretest and discussed areas of concern leading into tomorrow's Unit Four Summative Assessment.
In class, students...

analyzed common mistakes on material that was covered during Unit Four.
discussed ways in which they have been preparing for the assessment.
generated questions that they have about tomorrow's assessment.

For homework, students should...

view videos on the blog to help prepare for tomorrow's assessment.
use Khan Academy to help freshen up on skills such as:

adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators.
converting mixed numbers into improper fractions.
generating equivalent forms for fractions, decimals and percents.
calculating products when multiplying fractions.

In Pre-Algebra, students demonstrated ways in which they took various shapes to construct specific polygons. We discussed last night's homework and clarified any misconceptions that may have been made when working with the Triangle Sum Theorem.
In class, students...

completed Lesson 5.4 which dealt with Polygons.
decided if all squares are rectangles.
investigated whether squares are not rhombuses.
developed a formula to find the sum of the angle measures of a n-gon.

For homework, students should...

complete problems 5-12, 16-18, 36a/b and 39-42.
read the short articles about Selena Pasadyn.
respond to the following question by posting to the blog:

Is Selena a once in a lifetime person, or is she just like you and I? Explain using three to four sentences. Your opening sentence does not count as one of your three to four sentences.

A twelve year old running for states.

Class Topics: 12.14.11

2011-12-14T07:07:00.002-05:00

In EDM, students continued their collaborative work in small groups as they analyzed, discussed, and answered various story problems. The Unit Four Summative Assessment is Friday the 16th and Monday the 19th.

In class, students...

collaborated with peers to develop solutions to various story problems.
checked their work with Mr. Giomini to see if they were correct or to see what steps still needed to be taken.

For homework, students should...

utilize the Unit Four Pre-Test Answer key posted to the blog to assist in preparing for Friday's assessment.
review the Google Form posted to the blog to develop a firmer understanding for what is on Friday's assessment.
use the Khan Academy websites listed below to help prepare for Friday's Unit Four Summative Assessment.

play different games on Sumdog to help Troy win the Lorain County competition.

In Pre-Algebra, students were introduced to Lesson 5.3: Triangles. Students worked the Triangle Sum Theorem and utilized algebraic equations to calculate for missing angle measures.

In class, students...

classified and described two-dimensional and three-dimensional geometric figures and objects using their properties.
described andused properties of triangles to solveproblems involving angle measures and side lengths of right triangles.
used multipleclassification criteria to classify triangles.

For homework, students should...

Tonight:

complete numbers 7, 14 - 20, and 27 - 35 on pages 234 - 238.
complete Challenge 5.3 (handout)
play different games on Sumdog to help Troy win the Lorain County competition.

Continuing Practice:

Khan Academy Practice: Triangles
Khan Academy Practice: Similar Triangles

Class Topics: 12.13.11

2011-12-13T06:00:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students reviewed their blog posts from last night and analyzed whether some of our answers were answering the correct part of the question. Students then were shown the video below that modeled how to solve one of the more challenging problems on our Unit Four Pre-Test.

Students then collaborated in small groups to develop reasonable solutions to story problems that incorporated the different computations that we have been working on in class and applied them to real-life situations.

In class, students...

explained their thoughts on last night's homework and analyzed others' work for possible errors.
collaborated with peers to develop solutions to various story problems.
checked their work with Mr. Giomini to see if they were correct or to see what steps still needed to be taken.

For homework, students will...

answer the blog question posted below in red.
use the Khan Academy websites listed below to help prepare for Friday's Unit Four Summative Assessment.

play different games on Sumdog to help Troy win the Lorain County competition.

Blog Question

At Best Buy, they have a new 80" HD TV listed for $899.99. Due to the low demand, they have offered to give customers a 35% discount on the television if they come in today. Target has the exact same television listed for $750.00. If you buy the television, you receive a $25.00 gift card. Explain to me which store I should buy the TV from and why.

In Pre-Algebra, students reviewed some of the constructions from last night's homework dealing with parallel and perpendicular lines as well as transversals. Students then collaborated together in groups of two to complete geometric constructions of various angles and line segments.

In class, students...

developed a better understanding of Plane Geometry by constructing different geometric drawings.

For homework, students will...

play different games on Sumdog to help Troy win the Lorain County competition.

Class Topics: 12.12.11

2011-12-12T04:05:00.000-05:00

EDM students worked with converting fractions to decimals to percents a bit more today in preparation for Day One of Unit Four Summative Assessment on Friday the 16th. Students began to apply their understanding of percents to problem situations such as the ones listed below:

The local Wacky Water World Park has70 employees, of which 40% are temporary. How many employees work temporarily at the the park? How many full-time employees work at the park?
Charlie boughtcupcakes for his sister’s birthday party. 20% of the 45 cupcakes had sprinkles on top. How many cupcakes had sprinkles? How many cupcakes came without sprinkles?
At the craft store, Nancy bought a bag of yellow and orangemarbles. The bag contained 90 marblesand 70% of them were yellow. How manyyellow marbles did Nancy receive?

These are good examples of the types of percent questions students may see on their Unit Four Summative Assessment on Friday the 16th.

In class, students...

explained that a percent can be both greater than 100 and less than 1.
completed MJ150 in class.
collaborated to come up with solutions for story problems such as the ones listed above.

For HW, students will...

Tonight:

complete MJ 151.
respond to the question posted below.

Remainder of week:

view the following videos and complete the corresponding skills using Khan Academy.

participate in the Sumdog Competition online. The school needs your support!

BLOG QUESTION:

The regular price of a television in a store is $373.60. The Sunday paper has an ad saying that this store is having a sale on this television. The ad says that this television will be sold for 18 % less than the regular price. What is the sale price? Give your answer to the nearest one hundredth of a dollar.

Pre-Algebra students worked with parallel and perpendicular lines today since we were ran out of time last Friday. We discussed the various ways to prove that two lines are parallel. Students then viewed and analyzed a pieceof abstract art or architecture and explainhow parallel lines, transversals or perpendicular lines are used in thecomposition.

In class, students...

developed solutions for both the Warm-up and Problem of the Day.
discussed Lesson 5.2 and its relevance to Plane Geometry.

For HW, students will...

Tonight:

complete problems 7 – 10, 14 – 20, 23, 26 - 33 on pgs 228-231.

Remainder of week:

participate in the Sumdog Competition online. The school needs your support!

Class Topics: 12.09.11

2011-12-09T06:49:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students completed a short quiz that covered material from Lessons 4.1 - 4.7. There has been an example quiz on the blog since Monday that students were made aware of in class throughout the week.

In class, students...

calculated sums, differences and products for problems involving fractions.
deciphered between essential and non-essential information to solve story problems.
applied their understand of multiplying mixed numbers to a new situation.

Over the weekend for hw, students should...

view the following videos and complete the corresponding skills using Khan Academy.

participate in the Sumdog Competition online. The school needs your support!

In Pre-Algebra, students worked with Plane Geometry in Lessons 5.1 and 5.2. In 5.1, we reviewed how to correctly identify and label points, planes, lines and angles. While working in Lesson 5.2, students worked with parallel and perpendicular lines. Transversal lines were also introduced.

In class, students...

completed Guided Practice and Practice and Problem Solving on pages 224 and 225.
worked to complete Guided Practice and Practice and Problem Solving on page 230.

Over the weekend for hw, students should...

review the skills listed below to help keep today's information fresh.

participate in the Sumdog Competition online. The school needs your support!

Class Topics: 12.08.11

2011-12-08T03:05:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students developed an understanding of how fractions, percents and decimals are connected. We performed conversions using both fractions and mixed numbers when converting to percents and decimals. Students discussed real-world applications for fractions, percents and decimals.

In class, students -

completed MJ148 as a class.
brainstormed and listed various uses for fractions, percents, and decimals.
worked in small groups to complete tiered assignments.

HW -

Tonight:

review Guided Notes for quiz tomorrow.
continue to practice on Sumdog.

Continuous:

review math facts.
use Khan Academy to practice skills introduced in class.

In Pre-Algebra, students analyzed their Chapter Five Pre-test results from Tuesday. We then discussed in small groups what lessons in Chapter Five needed thorough dialogue and what lessons needed a quick refresher.

In class, students -

analyzed pre-test performance.
constructed a table identifying areas of strength and weakness from scored pre-tests.
worked in break-out groups to investigate the different topics to be covered in Chapter Five.
formed small Expert Groups that will be responsible for instructing different lessons in Chapter Five.

HW -

continue practicing skills listed on Khan.

work on Sumdog.

Pre-Algebra Chapter Five Pre-Test Results

Interesting Math Trick

Class Topics: 12.07.11

2011-12-07T03:12:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students collaborated in small groups to complete various story problems that involved different applications of the fractional computations that we have been working with in class.

In Class:

Students -

Solved different story problems dealing with fraction computations.

HW:

Tonight -

Complete MJ144
Practice the following skills on Khan Academy.
Work on Sumdog. (If it is working.)

Continuous -

Review Guided Notes for the quiz on Friday.
Complete the example quiz posted on December 5th that will prepare you for Friday's quiz.
Discuss with peers problems from previously covered material.
Investigate where you can apply the skills you are attaining in class outside of school.

In Pre-Algebra, students completed their Chapter Five Lesson One Guided Notes. Compasses and straightedges were used to practice with constructing different geometric models.

In Class:

Students -

Introduced to Lesson 5.1 in their Pre-Algebra textbooks.

HW:

Tonight -

Review/Complete Guided Notes from Lesson 5.1.
Work on Sumdog. (If it is working.)

Continuous -

Prep work for tomorrow:

Discuss with peers problems from previously covered material.
Investigate where you can apply the skills you are attaining in class outside of school.

Class Topics: 12.06.11

2011-12-06T02:53:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students constructed visual representations of fractional computations involving the multiplication algorithm on grid paper.

In Class:

Students -

Constructed visual representations of fractional computations.
Introduced to the website Sumdog and assigned username and password.

HW:

Review Guided Notes: Lessons 4.3 and 4.4.
Work on Sumdog.

In Pre-Algebra, students completed the Chapter Five Pre-Test. Chapter Five is titled "Plane Geometry" and covers topics such as: triangles, polygons, coordinate geometry, congruence, transformations, symmetry, and tessellations just to name a few things.

In Class:

Students -

Completed Chapter Five Pre-Test.
Introduced to the website Sumdog and assigned username and password.

HW:

Complete pg 220: 13 - 30.
Prep work for tomorrow:

Work on Sumdog.
Post a comment to explain the increase in assessment scores for Chapter Four.

Look at the difference between your
pre-test and post-test scores.

Class Topics: 12.05.11

2011-12-05T02:54:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students were introduced to the fraction multiplication algorithm. We began to learn how to justify that one-half * one-third does equal one-sixth using graphing paper and crayons.

In Class:

Students -

modeled how to multiply fractions using the multiplication algorithm as a general pattern.
completed MJ140 as a class.
collaborated with a peer to complete MJ141.

HW:

MJ142 (First Column)
SL 4.4 (All)
4.6 Blog Review (Optional)
Review Guided Notes for Lesson 4.1 and 4.2
Quiz on Friday, December 9th: Here is a link to what the quiz may look like.

Justification for 1/6 * 4/5.

In Pre-Algebra, students completed their Chapter Four Summative Assessment that was begun on Friday.

In Class:

Students -

completed Chapter Four Summative Assessment.
discussed challenges on the assessment.

HW:

Work on Khan Academy
Use Websites posted last Friday to help prepare for Tuesday's Chapter Five Pretest

Class Topics: 12.02.11

2011-12-02T03:15:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students practiced skills that have been introduced both this week and last.

Practice these skills over the weekend as well. The more you practice, the easier these tasks are going to become for you. View the videos as well to help refresh your memory.

In Class:

Students -

simplified fractions.
calculated sums and differences for fractions with unlike denominators.
discussed solutions with peers.
explained thinking using mathematical language.

HW:

Students will -

Use the links about to continue your practice over the weekend for the four skills above and any other skill that you desire.

In Pre-Algebra, students closed out Chapter Four by completing their Chapter Four Summative Assessment. Skills assessed were:

identifying populations, samples, and sampling methods
evaluating whether a sample was biased
demonstrating an understanding for the measures of central tendency
constructing appropriate graphical representations for various data sets
arguing reasons to support that a graphical representation is misleading
communicating using mathematical language/terms

Check GBW during the weekend to see how students performed on the assessment.

In Class:

Students -

completed the Chapter Four Summative Assessment

HW: (Optional)

Students can -

Prepare for the Chapter Five Formative Assessment by reviewing/introducing yourself to the following skills:

Points/Lines/Planes/Angles

Part II

Parallel and Perpendicular Lines
Triangles
Polygons
Congruence
Coordinate Geometry
Transformations
Symmetry
Tesselations

Class Topics: 12.01.11

2011-12-01T03:31:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students continued to work with adding and subtracting mixed numbers. Today's calculations included mixed numbers with unlike denominators which is slightly different than last night's homework.

Students were separated into flexible groups to work through five different stations. The stations included:

MJ 136 and 137
Fraction Word Problems
Fraction Review Cards
Mixed Number Calculations
Challenge Story Problems

In class, students:

Collaborated with peers to complete timed tasks.
Analyzed story problems and suggested approaches to the problems.
Used cards and dice to play games to practice fraction skills.

HW:

Complete MJ136 - 137.
Review Khan Academy Skills posted below

Visual Representation of Subtracting Fractions w/ Unlike Denominators

In Pre-Algebra, students finished their graphical representations for the data that they selected in class yesterday. Students presented their graphs and findings to the class. This served as a review for Friday's Chapter Four Summative Assessment.

In class, students:

Collaborated together to complete a task.
Developed appropriate graphical representations for a set of data.
Presented their finished product to the class.

HW:

Complete the Chapter Review at the end Chapter Four.
Review Chapter Four Summative Assessment.
View the second video definitely and then respond to the questions below:

Select what you feel is your mindset: Fixed or Growth.
Explain if you feel your intelligence is predetermined or is constantly evolving.
Infer as to why I posted the second video for you to watch.

Class Topics: 11.30.11

2011-11-30T02:08:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students analyzed student work samples and discussed whether the answers were correct or incorrect. Students then calculated sums and differences for mixed numbers.

In Class Students:

Analyzed student work samples.
Generated Greatest Common Factors to simplify fractions.
Dissected story problems involving fractions.
Completed MJ132 (whole class)
Completed MJ133 (small groups)

HW:

MJ 133 - 134
Khan Academy Skills from last night

In Pre-Algebra, students worked collaboratively to create short video topics to help with test preparation.

In Class Student Worked in Small Groups To:

Create examples of populations/Samples/Sampling Method
Construct stem-and-leaf plots
Identify the measures of central tendency for data sets
Construct a box-and-whisker plot from a data set
Make inferences based on a histogram that was constructed
Use data to create a scatter plot

HW:

Review Guided Notes for Lessons 4.3 - 4.5

Any correlation here?

Class Topics: 11.29.11

2011-11-29T02:53:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students worked on Khan Academy to sharpen their addition and subtraction of fractions with unlike denominators. Students were broken into different groups where some were working on tasks with Mr. Giomini while others were computing sums and differences while also reporting their answer into simplest terms.

In Class:

Khan Academy

Small Group Work

HW:

Practice Adding and Subtracting Fractions using Khan Academy
Lesson 4.3 Review on Blog
Website Practice -

In Pre-Algebra, students investigated scatter plots by creating one analyzing our shoe size and the length of our hand in inches from the wrist to the tip of our longest finger. We determined whether there was a positive, negative, or no correlation.

In Class:

Constructed a Scatter Plot
Discussed Correlations
Introduced Lesson 4.7: Scatter Plots

HW:
Website Practice -

What assumptions can be made about
experience and income? What
profession might this be applicable?

Just some examples of scatter plots.

What is the correlation?

Class Topics: 11.28.11

2011-11-28T02:58:00.001-05:00

In EDM today, students demonstrated their knowledge of adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators. Students worked in small groups to collaborate on different calculations. Estimations were made to help with developing a better understanding of the value and size of different fractions and their closeness to benchmark fractions such as 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and 1 whole.

In Class:

Math Message on MJ129
MJ 130 in small groups
Small Group assignments

HW:

MJ130/131 for First Period
Khan Academy Coach: giominis@alstudent.org
Lesson 4.3 on Blog - Optional

In Pre-Algebra, students analyzed graphs for misleading information. Students also worked in pairs to construct an appropriate graph for the following set of data:

Scores out of 36	Frequency
36	4
35	1
34	5
32	10
30	2
28	1
26	2
24	1
22	0
20	1

In Class:

Discussed last week's quiz results which are posted in GBW.
Analyzed various graphs for misleading information.
Made changes to misleading graphs so information could be better represented.
Constructed an appropriate graph and presented it to the class.

HW:

Pre-Alg: Pgs. 200 – 203: 1 – 8, 12, 14 - 20

Why am I misleading?

Help me! I am misleading!

Are the seventh graders truly not giving?

Horses are the biggest animal
so shouldn't they be the biggest icon?

Working Today to Get Better Tomorrow

2011-11-23T08:06:00.001-05:00

Students,

Everyday, WE need to ask ourselves, "What am I doing today so that I am better tomorrow?"

Personally, I am reading and taking notes using Google Docs for a book titled Fair Isn't Always Equal which helps me better understand practices that I can implement into the classroom that will improve student achievement and confidence. On a daily basis, I am collaborating with Ms. Banjoff and Mr. Hartwell. We discuss: best practices, assessment creation, websites that can be infused into lessons, and how to increase the rigor in our different courses.

Enjoy the next few days off, but realize that you too can do something that will help ensure your success once we return to class on Monday the 28th. On the blog, under Class Topic 11.22.11, there are suggestions.

EDM students, refresh your memories with some addition and subtraction of fractions with unlike denominators.

Pre-Algebra, look through Chapter Four in your Pre-Algebra textbook to help prepare for next Friday's Chapter Four Summative Assessment. Watch the videos that I have posted that deal with scatter plots. This is called "front loading", being introduced to a topic before it is presented in class. Utilize these opportunities.

Take care,

Mr. Giomini

Class Topics: 11.22.11

2011-11-22T03:25:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students exhibited their ability to incorporate the skills learned yesterday by simplifying fractions into simplest form. Students then began to compare fractions with unlike denominators using <, >, or = in their comparisons.

Students demonstrated their ability to compare fractions using two strategies: quick common denominator and least common denominator/least common multiple.

Classwork: MJ127 and 128.
Classwork: Fraction War
HW: Begin to use the following websites to help prepare you for adding and subtracting fractions:

Optional HW: L-4.2 on blog

In Pre-Algebra, students completed their Google Form quiz online while working in the computer lab. The quiz involved the following skills:

identifying the appropriate population, sample, and sampling method a for specific scenario
recognizing the different measures of central tendency for a set of data
arguing what, if any, information was needed in order to solve a problem

Over the break, it would be wise to pull some of the practice sheets from the blog that deal with Chapter Four in preparation for next weeks summative assessment. Also, view the video from yesterday and today dealing with scatter plots to assist in front loading you for next week. You will also see some websites to help with your introduction to scatter plots.

Class Topics: 11.21.11

2011-11-21T03:12:00.001-05:00

In EDM today, students reviewed their Unit Four Formative Assessment results. This formative assessment helps students concentrate on the skills that they can sharpen during Unit Four - Rational Numbers.

Students discussed what a rational number is and viewed a video to help introduce our topic for today: Equivalent Fractions. Two approaches were used to find equivalent fractions: finding equivalent fractions by multiplying and finding equivalent fractions by dividing. Using the divisibility rules below helps a great deal.

Complete MJ124 with a partner - In Class
Complete MJ125 independently - In Class
HW: MJ125 and 126
Optional HW: L-4.1 on blog

Learn these rules to help
with simplifying fractions.

In Pre-Algebra today, students worked in the computer lab to complete a Google Form as a review for tomorrow's quiz. The material on the quiz covers Lessons 4.1 - 4.5 in the Pre-Algebra textbook. Students received username and passwords for their online textbook.

Completed Google Form
HW: Use on-line textbook and Guided Notes to prepare for tomorrow's Google Form summative quiz

Good video to watch in preparation

of material that we will look at after break.

Class Topics: 11.18.11

2011-11-18T03:39:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students took the Unit Four Formative Assessment - Rational Number Uses and Operations. This unit addresses the skills listed:

creating equivalent fractions
comparing fractions
computing sums and differences for fraction and mixed number computations
converting fractions, decimals, and percents
finding the specific percent of a number

For HW this weekend, I want students to view and comment on the following two videos

COMPARING FRACTIONS

ADDING FRACTIONS

In Pre-Algebra, students displayed data sets in numerous ways based on what the data involved. Our focus was frequency tables, histograms, bar graphs, and line graphs.

Classwork: Lesson 4.5 Power Point - Displaying Data
HW: Construct a double line graph utilizing the data in one of the tables below. The double line graph must incorporate the following -

Appropriate Title
Labels for both the x and y axis
Appropriate intervals for the y-axis
Two inferences made in relationship to the data.

Wins Per Month of Two Major League Teams

Month/Team Wins	Cleveland Indians	Boston Red Sox
April	18	11
May	14	19
June	10	16
July	10	20
August	15	17
September	12	7

Average High Temperature (Fahrenheit) in Two Cities

Month/City	Baardheere, Somlia	Portland, OR
April	98	42
May	95	48
June	93	53
July	91	57
August	91	57
September	95	52

Class Topics: 11.17.11

2011-11-17T03:05:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students collaborated in small groups to complete various tasks:

construct a stem-and-leaf plot and determine the mean, mode, and median of the data set
translate word phrases into algebraic expressions and equations
decompose story problems to answer specific questions
HW: Blog Review - 11.17.11 and Retake Letter if needed

In Pre-Algebra, students collaborated in groups of three to organize data and created an appropriate box-and-whisker plot to show the data set.

Class Work: Construct two box-and-whisker plots to compare the following sets of data:

Number of Tropical Storms: 26, 17, 9, 10, 5, 10, and 7
Number of Hurricanes: 16, 9, 4, 5, 3, 4, and 3

HW: Pgs 188 - 192: 1 - 4, 11, 15, 17, 26, 28, 29 - 32, 33 - 36
View Video on blog and compare to yesterday's. Which is better and in what way(s)?

Class Topics: 11.16.11

2011-11-16T03:12:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students analyzed and reflected on both their successes and short-comings on the Unit Three Summative Assessment. We compared the different data set of the three periods to look for trends amongst the three classes.

HW: Blog Review - 11.16.11

In Pre-Algebra, students analyzed box-and-whisker plots. Students took their previous knowledge of arranging data sets from least to greatest and locating the median. Once the median was identified, students decomposed that information into first and third quartiles. Our box was they constructed over an appropriate number line and finally whiskers were drawn to indicate both the least and greatest value.

HW: Analyze the picture to answer the following questions.

Which company sold the most stocks in the third quartile?
Which company sold the fewest stocks in the first quartile?
Infer as to which company may be a newly formed organization and state why you made that inference.

HW: View the video again at home and let me know if you felt it was beneficial to your gaining a better understanding of box-and-whisker plots.

What fact(s) can be obtained from
analyzing these box-and-whisker plots?

Logic Puzzle Challenge

2011-11-15T13:21:00.001-05:00

"I've always been 45 years older than your Dad", said Grandma to
young Rish. "But now the two digits in my age, both prime, are
the reverse of the two in your Dad's age". How old is Grandma?

Mr. Giomini on the weekends.

Class Topics: 11.15.11

2011-11-14T14:50:00.001-05:00

In EDM, students completed their collaborative assignment from yesterday. At the conclusion of class, groups presented their finished assignment to their peers. Look for some videos either today or tomorrow.

HW: EDM Mathematics Review - 11.15.11 - Located on the class blog

In Pre-Algebra, students discussed measures of central tendency: mean, median, and mode. We examined how an outlier can distort the measures of central tendency, especially the mean.

HW: Pgs 184 - 187: 8 - 20, 26, 27, 29, and 30

This is in your Guided Notes

Infer as to why there are more border crossings
in California and Texas.

Class Topics: 11.14.11

2011-11-14T03:10:00.001-05:00

In EDM today, students collaborated to begin working on a problem solving situation that will take us through the next two days. The project incorporates skills that have been covered in both Unit One and Unit Three. Those skills include:

calculating solutions to a function table using specific values for either x or y
creating an appropriate graph for displaying data

Students are to complete the following for homework tonight:

EDM Mathematics HW - 11.14.11 - Which is located on the blog

Working together to accomplish a common product.

In Pre-Algebra today, students explained to me the difference between the various samples that were introduced last week and developed scenarios using peers to model them to exhibit comprehension of the material.

Stem-and-leaf plots along with double stem-and-leaf plots were then constructed implementing the classes testing data from our Chapter Three Summative Assessment.

Veteran's Day

2011-11-11T11:44:00.001-05:00

Today is Veteran's Day and below you will find a poem and a short video to help you understand the sacrifices that past and present veterans have made for both you and others around the world. Take a moment out of your day to remember and thank those who have made these sacrifices for us and others.

The Bravest Man I Know

by Amanda Whitney

The bravest man I know.

Is a man I've never met.

He's a man who risks his life

To save a friend,

Not only to save a friend,

But to save a nation.

Risking his life

For those he does not know.

Stepping up

Leaving loved ones behind,

So that somewhere,

Someone else won't have to.

He is a man who follows orders

Even though he knows he might die.

The bravest man I know.

Is the man who would rather die,

So one more person could go home

To see his family again.

The man who stares death in the face,

But never blinks.

The bravest man I know.

Is the man who risks his life

So one day the world may be a better place for his children.

Or any man who goes against his biggest fear.

DEATH

Just to save someone he loves.

The bravest man I know.

Is the man who fights

So another man can have the taste of sweet freedom.

Not fighting only for his own benefit,

But for many others all over the world,

Fighting to make this world a better place.

That's the bravest man I know.

Class Topics: 11.11.11

2011-11-11T06:54:00.001-05:00

In EDM today, students completed day two of their Unit Three Summative Assessment. Today's component of the assessment consisted of:

translating word phrases into algebraic expressions and equations
converting various rates of change to unit rates
developing appropriate rules of number patterns.

Algebraic Vocabulary

In Pre-Algebra today, students deciphered samples between being either: random, systematic, or stratified. They continued to analyze data in Lesson 4.2 by organizing into stem-and-leaf plots.

Double Stem-and-Leaf Plot

Stem-and-Leaf Plot Comparisons

Class Topics: 11.10.11

2011-11-10T05:26:00.001-05:00

In EDM today, we reviewed for the Unit Three Summative Assessment by answering the questions below. Tomorrow, we will complete second part of the assessment which involves a great deal of translating word phrases into algebraic expressions and equations. Students will also need to be able to convert word problems into unit rates.

Review Questions:

Which number property is modeled below?

a + b = b + a

Which number property is modeled below?

a(b * c) = ab * ac

Which number property is modeled below?

a * (b * c) = (a * b) * c

How can I simplify the expression below using the distributive property?

6(y + 8u - 12)
Hint: Look inside the parenthesis for common terms. If there are no common terms, "share/multiply" the six by everything inside of the parenthesis.

Use substitution to solve the problem below:

Solve 4p + (t - 9) if t = 18 and p = 5.

In Pre-Algebra today, the students worked with the following samples:

Biased
Random
Systematic
Stratified

Students completed their Guided Notes for Lesson 4.1 and should review those tonight while deciding on the different types of samples in their homework tonight.

Random Sample: by chance

Systematic Sample: chosen according to a rule or formula

Stratified: at random for a randomly chosen subgroup

Class Topics: 11.09.11

2011-11-09T03:06:00.001-05:00

In EDM today, the students completed the second round of Jeopardy in preparation of the Unit Three Summative Assessment.

ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS/EQUATIONS

UNIT RATES

As of right now, 3:11 am, 32 out of 79 students have completed the Unit Three Google Form Review on the blog. I am hoping that this number improves. We have spent a great deal of time preparing for this assessment so I hope you utilize the resources made available to you. Everyone can earn an A tomorrow and Friday if you use the appropriate test taking strategies and focus on the task in front of you.

In order to succeed, you must be willing
overcome obstacles standing in your way.

In Pre-Algebra today, the students were assessed of their knowledge as it pertains to Chapter Four. The topic for Chapter Four is Data Analysis and Graph Construction. The students will go beyond bar graphs and circle graphs. Refer to the video below to help familiarize yourself with box-and-whisker plots.