Ms. Teresa

Welcome to the start of a new school year! This year, students will be studying mathematics. The curriculum is problem centered. This means that the students will investigate mathematical ideas within the context of a realistic problem, as opposed to looking only at numbers. Some problems involve real-world applications or unusual situations, while others are purely mathematical. A problem’s context provides a vehicle for understanding and remembering the mathematical concepts. We are excited about this curriculum and its potential for helping students develop strong mathematical knowledge and skills. We are looking forward to a successful year for all of our students. Course Description and Objectives The following is an overview of the curriculum for this year.

Semester 1:

Stretching and Shrinking

Similarity

Similar figures; scale factors; basic similarity transformations and their algebraic rules

Kaleidoscopes, Hubcaps, and Mirrors

Symmetry and Transformations Symmetries of designs; symmetry transformations; connecting geometry and algebra

Bits & Pieces II Using Rational Numbers Understanding and skills with addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of fractions and decimals; solving percent problems

Semester 2:

What Do You Expect?

Probability and Expected Value Expected value; probabilities of two-stage events

Variables and Patterns Introducing

Algebra Variables; representations of relationships including tables, graphs, words and symbols

Comparing and Scaling Ratio, Proportion, and Percent Rates and rations; making comparisons; proportional reasoning

Accentuate the Negative Integers

Understanding and modeling integers; integer operations; four-quadrant graphing

•Textbook: Students will be issued 7 books spread throughout the year.

• Binder: 1-inch or 1.5-inch binder that will be used for math only. They are expected to keep their book in this binder at all times.

• TI-89 Calculator: We will be using this everyday.

• Pencils: Students are expected to do math work in pencil only and please bring plenty of erasers.

• Paper: An ample supply of loose-leaf notebook paper and spiral notebook because we will be doing a lot of scratch work!