Monday, May 31, 2010

Final Blog

Here is what we studied this semester. Look over the description and answer the three questions posted below:

Chapter 6 was about fractions (simplifying fractions by factoring, multiplying, dividing, adding & subtracting fractions).

Chapter 7 was about applying fractions (ratios, proportions, percents, mixture/work problems, scientific notation).

Chapter 8 was about functions (slope of a line, equation of a line, graphing using slope-intercept form, determining the equation of a line).

Chapter 9 was about systems of linear equations (solving using several methods - graphing, substitution, and add/sub - wind, water current problems & puzzle problems).

Chapter 10 was about inequalities (combined inequalities, conjunctions & disjunctions, absolute value, systems of linear inequalities).

Chapter 11 was about rational and irrational numbers (irrational square roots, square roots of variable expressions, add/sub/mult/div radicals, multiplying binomials with radicals, radical equations).

Question #1: What were the three most difficult concepts for you this semester and why? How will you study for these for the final?

Question #2: Some students love the challenge of mathematics, and others not so much. Do you like mathematics? Why or why not?

Question #3: Regardless of whether you enjoy studying mathematics or not, do you feel like this Algebra class was successful in moving you through this enormous amount of material? Why or why not?

Monday, May 17, 2010

The Home Stretch

One chapter left. One quiz left. Then the final. You're almost there! Write three adjectives to describe how you're feeling.

If you were to give some advice (or a warning) to the upcoming 7th graders, what would it be?

Will you work hard until the end, or give up because you're tired? Name two things you will do DIFFERENTLY from what you've done all year?

(You must answer all questions thoroughly to receive all points on this assignment. Remember, lame answer = lame grade.)

Monday, May 3, 2010

Chapter 9 Word Problem Challenge

This last chapter was a very important chapter because it teaches us methods of solving all sorts of real-world problems that involve more than one variable.

Write a wind, water current, or puzzle word problem that you think is challenging. Then solve the problem, providing only the answer in the same post. The most challenging two problems from the class with the correct answers will receive bonus.

Moving Along...

Yes, we're moving fast. I supply examples in class and explanations in the solutions on the wiki, as well as post keynotes and open my door to questions every day. Answer the following questions:

1) Are you preparing yourself the way you should be? If yes, how are you preparing? If not, what are you doing, and what could you be doing better?

2) The bar has been set high in the mathematics department at KIS. Do you feel like you are a strong enough student to excel in high school mathematics? Are you organizational skills excellent, adequate, or below where they need to be?