Dec 29, 2012

Understanding Slope

A short slideshow for those with questions about the slope of a line: What it is, how to calculate, positive and negative slopes, and more.


Class Summaries: Dec. 14-20

The coordinate plane, domain, range, functions, slope and more. Enjoy!!

 


 


 


 



Dec 25, 2012

Tuesday's Teaser: Christmas Edition

*As Santa prepared to deliver the last of his packages down under in Sydney, Australia, he noticed two small boxes at the bottom addressed to: "Bambino, Rome Italy". Realizing that the boxes had been misplaced and that he only had 4 hours before the Bambino would wake up, Santa strapped a pair of Nike Air Max Hyperaggressor's on each reindeer and sped towards Rome. Exactly 4 hrs. later, Santa delivered the boxes and headed home to Mrs. C.
  
Find the distance (in miles, rounded to the nearest hundred) between Sydney and Rome, then calculate Santa's average speed during his trip.

First five correct emails receive 10 bonus points and something extra in their stocking.



* Information from the 2010 bestseller, "I Want to be an Algebra Teacher," by S. Claus

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Dec 24, 2012

Dec 6, 2012

Class Summary: Nov. 29/30

Warm-Up and sample problems from November 29th & 30th. Definition and discussion of fractions, rates, and ratiosLinks to class work handouts, as well.

 




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Dec 2, 2012

Should Have Been...

Sorry gang, I said not to do the Rates.5 topic when it should have been the Units topic. Anyone who has tried the Units topic knows what I mean.  Rates.5 is very do-able. Let's do that one instead of Units.

You will have until Wednesday for full credit.

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Nov 28, 2012

Class Summary: November 28

Test day. Completed class work on percent of change and the percent proportion.



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Class Summary: November 27

Practice questions for Wednesday's test. Introduction of the percent of change formula. Classwork: Sections 6-7 and 6-8 from workbook.

 

Class Summary: November 26

Introduction of the percent proportion and many practice quesiotns for the test.



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Nov 24, 2012

Reviews for Wednesday's Test

Bring a Pencil, or two.

This Wednesday, November 28, we will be having a 15 question test on fractions and decimals.

You can see how ready you are by taking all or part of the on-line test reviews I have created. You get immediate feedback, so you can brush up on any weak areas you may have.  

Click for the fractions review, The decimals review, and the mixed fraction review.

Nov 23, 2012

Class Schedule: Nov. 26-Dec. 14

Here's a look at our class calendar of events for the next three weeks.  Take note of the tests & Quizzes during that time.  We'll be busy, and then have a couple of weeks to relax for Christmas and New Years.


Nov 22, 2012

Khan Academy Schedule: Dec./Jan.

Here's the schedule folks:  You can download the document here, so you always have it on your hard drive.  As usual, if there are any changes, I will let you know. We should be right on track to cover each topic in class before it is due at the Academy.


December 1, 2012

*  Proportions 2

*  Percentage Word Problems 1


*  Rate Problems .5


December 8, 2012


*  Views of a Function


*  Domain and Range


*  Understanding Functional Notation




December 15, 2012


*  Identifying Slope of a Line


*  Identifying Linear Relationships


*  Equations from Tables


*  Finding the Equation of a Line


December 22, 2012


*  Slope-Intercept Form


*  Solving for x-Intercept


*  Solving for y-Intercept


*  Point-Slope Form


December 29, 2012


 No Khan Academy: Enjoy the New Year


January 12, 2013


*  Graphing Linear Equations


*  Equations of Parallel & Perpendicular Lines


*  Converting between Point-Slope and Slope-Intercept


*  Graphing Linear Inequalities


January 26, 2013


*  Systems of Equations


*  Graphing Systems of Equations


*  Solving Systems of Equations with Elimination


*  Solving Systems of Equations with Substitution

   
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Happy Thanksgiving

Enjoy the Holiday....

But don't spend it all inside the house.  Get out and do something you've never tried before. Monday is going to come fast.

Mr. Ferrari


Fractions Made Easy

Begin at the beginning...

 


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Nov 21, 2012

Changing Fractions to Percent Help

If you're still a bit confused about the process of changing fractions into decimals, spend a little time with the presentation below.   There's even a practice problem or two with answers to check your progress.  

We'll be testing on this exact topic next week, so now is a good time to gain confidence in solving these types of problems.




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Nov 20, 2012

Tuesday's Teaser

Where am I?  City & Country

First Five Correct Win 10 Bonus Points 
(cannot be exchanged for cash)




Learning Japanese or Spanish?


 
 If you are learning one of these languages or would like to learn, there are some great free sites out there to help you.

The first site is nihongomaster.com  Easy-to-follow lessons are divided into small segments so you decide how fast you want to learn.  Sounds, images and text support your learning style.

For help with Espanol, livemocha is a nice site for beginning speakers. 


Another nice way is through videos. You can hear the words spoken correctly, and of course, you can replay it as many times as you want to.  One of the best sites for video tutoring is Senor Jordan. The guy's a Spanish teacher, and the videos are fun.


More languages and sites soon, but any of the above would be a great place to start.

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Class Summary: November 20, 2012

Continue work with fractions, decimals and percents. Distributed homework packets for the Thanksgiving break.




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Nov 19, 2012

To All New Algebra I Students

Please read carefully. You are responsible for knowing and completing the requirements of the class.

If you have recently transferred to the Algera I class, there are a number of things that you need to know and do in order to pass the class.

The first document you really need to read is the Syllabus.  In order to know what's required of you, this document is a must. You can download it here.  Your next task is to get a gmail account. Your username should make it easy for me to know whose account it is. 

After getting your gmail account, you will then register at the Khan AcademyThe work done here is 25%  of your grade.  It is difficult to pass the class without your work at the Academy.  For complete instructions on signing up and how to navigate the site, check this document.

The list of required topics by week will be posted on this site with a link to the document you can download.  If you are absent, the day's activities are posted here as well, so you can always be up to date.

Finally, on the right side of this page, there are links to both the textbook and the workbooks used throughout the year.  You can download both and use them when you need to. If you are not sure of something, please ask me in class, or email me at: v6math@gmail.com




Nov 18, 2012

Thank You....

To all the students who spent so much time working on and completing their Khan Academy assignments.

Thursday:  966 Minutes

Friday:       657 Minutes

Saturday:  990 Minutes


Fantastic Work.  See you all Monday.



Nov 17, 2012

Braingenie: Math & More

Whether you need more help with a certain topic, or just want to prepare for a test, Braingenie can help.With thousands of topics to choose from in math and science, it's worth a visit and a bookmark. I would always suggest taking a 5-10 question practice test just before we have a scheduled test in class.  It's a great way to see how ready you are and to brush up on any weak areas.

Another nice thing about braingenie is the questions are not as involved (difficult, long, etc.) as Khan Academy. 
 
 Since we will be testing after the Thanksgiving break, you may want to keep this site handy.   

It's all free, you don't need to sign up, but if you register (still free) you can compete in real time against others, move up their rankings board, and fulfill your lifelong goal of world domination.








Class Summary: November 19, 2012

Percents, and how they relate to decimals and fractions.  Also, important note regarding Khan Academy schedule change and a "packet" to work on Monday, Tuesday, and over the break.




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Nov 16, 2012

Class Summary: November 16, 2012

Focus today on converting fractions to decimals and decimals to fractions. Classwork is 5-9 and 5-10 from the Study Guide Workbook.



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Nov 15, 2012

Class Summary: November 14-15

Decimals & More Decimals.  Adding, Subtracting, Multiplying and Dividing Decimals.



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Nov 11, 2012

Class Summary: November 13

Focus on Prime Factorization & Greatest Common Factor



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Nov 10, 2012

1st Quarter Final Grades

Drum Roll Please........



Get the document here.

Caution!.. I left the codes at school, so I tried to put the correct code.  There may be errors. This is unofficial until I check the correct codes.  Sorry, the school is locked now on the weekends and we cannot get in.  Most codes will be correct though.


Nov 9, 2012

Help With Equivalent Fractions

Still a bit confused about how to tell if fractions are equivalent?  Check out the slideshow below. Nice graphics, and easy to understand.


vfr


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Class Summary: November 9, 2012

Practice problems from final exam and mixed fraction questions. Classwork included equivalent fractions and working with mixed numbers.



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Nov 8, 2012

Class Summary for November 7

Lot's of warm-up questions, and an introduction to fractions:



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Nov 7, 2012

Algebra on your Android

For those Android phone owners, there are quite a few free Algebra, Math, Brain Teaser, and Reference Apps available.  I have previewed many of them, and will share the better oneby category here.

Algebra Tutors/Practice Problems 

1Algebra Tutor:  The main sections of this program are Learn and Practice.  The Learn section does a good job of taking you through step-by-step solutions in all the areas we will be covering this year. Both the Learn and Practice Sections have 8 different categories for Fractions.

When you can't get online, are on the bus with nothing to do, need a quick review, or want to work some practice problems, this is really a nice app to have available.



 2.  Master Algebra Lite:  Similar to Algebra Tutor, with some additional features. You can choose from Tutorials, Practice Skills (individual concepts), take a Practice Test (individual concepts), or go for the gold and take the Algebra Challenge (covers all concepts)

 Another nice feature is the ability to post and compare your scores with other users.  Nice interface, and handy to have.





3. Scrambled Equations:  Rearrange Equations to equal a given number.  Challenging, do-able, and fun.



 Reference Apps:

Need a formula, definition Number Property or Equation examples?  Then you need:

1.  Algebra Cheat Sheet:  All of the above for Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry.



2.  Algebra Reference:  Lots of formulas, but not as complete as the 'cheat sheet'.




Basic Mathematics:

Need to work on those Multiplication & Division Tables? Just want to keep your brain sharp and work on your speed? These apps are for you.

1.  Math Workout:  Best in class, in my opinion, for this type of app. Spend 5-10 minutes a day, and you'll be amazed at your improvement.  Who doesn't have 5-10 minutes to really improve their math skills?



2.  Math Attack: Good for practicing basic skills. More limited that Math Workout.




That's a good start for all the Android users out there.  Remember, all of the apps listed here are free.
Enjoy.

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Nov 6, 2012

Tuesday's Teaser

...few will enter, fewer will win.

Remember, all correct answers emailed to me (address on the right side), the next two days will earn 10 extra bonus points on our next quiz. (Sorry, no more new cars to give away) Here's the teaser:

You are downloading your new favorite movie, Dora's Ballet Adventure (Movie trailer can be found here,  the Sticker, Coloring, and Activity Book  here). After 11 minutes, you have downloaded 32mb. The whole movie is 704 mb. At this rate, how long will it take to download the entire movie. That's it. Solve it, & win big.

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Khan Academy Schedule for November

Here it is.  Don't forget; if you are having difficulty in a particular topic, write the problem or problems down, and bring it to class.  We'll work on it together.  Also, there are lots, and I mean lots of good, short videos available at the Khan Academy to help you.  
You can download the document here.

November 10, 2012

*  Adding and Subtracting Mixed Numbers

*  Comparing Improper Fractions & Mixed Numbers

*  Ordering Improper Fractions & Mixed Nimbers

*  Simplifying Fractions

November 17, 2012

*  Dividing Fractions Word Problems

*  Dividing Decimals 1

*  Converting Fractions to Decimals

*  Prime Factorization

November 24, 2012

*   Proportions 2

*  Percentage Word Problems 2

*  Units

*  Rate Problems 1


December 1, 2012

*  Identifying Slope of a Line

*  Identifying Linear Relationships

*  Equations from Tables

*  Finding the Equation of a Line

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New Class Seating Charts

For the benefit of those that need it most, new seating arrangements will be implemented beginning with our return to school on November 7th.  You can get an advanced look at our new arrangement below. Look for your initials to locate your new neighborhood.

1st Period Here

2nd Period Here

3rd Period Here

4th period Here




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Nov 4, 2012

Workbook for Fractions, Decimals, %

We begin the 2nd Quarter with a complete examination of the above topics. The workbook which covers these important real-life, everyday concepts is located here. We will cover all the skills from 8 to 39, so if you are absent or want to move along faster, the worksheets are there.

Enjoy the rest of your break, final exam grades will be posted on line soon.








Nov 2, 2012

November 2: Final Exam

Final Exam for first Qtr. today, If you were absent, pls. bring a note so you can take the final on Wednesday.



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Slideshow Maker for Your Portfolio

Free Software Slideshow Maker is a great tool if you are creating a digital portfolio. Photos, certificates, class work, whatever you have, is more interesting in slideshow fashion.

Below is a slideshow which took less than 5 minutes to create.  Download the software and give it a try.


Khan Academy




Saturday is the last day to complete (Master) all Khan Academy Topics. Take advantage of the opportunity to go back and complete any topic from any week during the first quarter.

Beginning 2nd Quarter, topics must be completed by the due date.  We know the schedule and understand what to do, so work completed more than 5 days after the due date will not be accepted. ( A maximum score of 80% for mastery is given if completed within 5 days after the due date).

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Help with Your Portfolio

This slideshow has many examples of items to include in your portfolio and ideas about designing and arranging it as well.  A really good resource to check out when the time is right.



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Oct 29, 2012

Class Summary for October 28

Review Questions for Final Exam on Friday, November 2nd. Classs work included.



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Oct 25, 2012

Take the STAR Math @Home

As mentioned in class, everyone is supposed to complete the STAR Math assessment by Wed. November 1st.  Our administration is allowing students to complete the assessment at home or wherever you do your interweb thing.  Here's how to do it:

1.  Get your User Name and Password from me. Feel free to email v6math@gmail.com for yours.
2.  Click Here to go to the STAR website
3.  Follow the instructions regrding your username and password.
4.  Complete the assessment.

This is not a test!!! Please do the problems yourself.  We want to see how much you improve this year, as you will do this again in May.

email if you have questions.

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Review for 1st Qtr. Final







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Oct 24, 2012

Class Summary: October 25th

Continue practice solving for a specific variable. Today's lesson includes more complex examples with solutions. Part I of the final exam review also completed today. Handout 2-8, both sides due today.



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Class Summary: New Topic Introduced

Notes, Sample problems, and answers involving solving for a specific variable. If you have not yet, you need to find and enter the formulas found in this presentation into your notebook.



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Oct 21, 2012

Review for Inequality Test

Sample Problems and solutions included for tomorrow's test.

Final Exam Review

Reminding everyone that our final exam is on Tuesday, October 30th. Our review will be available only on this powerpoint file, which can be downloaded here.

If you do not have powerpoint on your computer, you can download the free reader here.  This program allows you to view, but not change, a powepoint file--Exactly what you need for this.

Please work the problem before viewing the answer; the review is not submitted or graded. Below is a screenshot only. See the links above to get and view the file.


View as slideshow from the beginning and answer the questions in any order you want.  As usual, bring any questions you have to class, and we will answer them there.

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Oct 19, 2012

Absolute Value Inequalities

Class Summary from Friday, October 19. Absolute Value Inequalities, including compound inequalities.



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Oct 18, 2012

Compound Inequalities with 'or'

Practice Problems with answers for this type of inequality. Class work is detailed at end of slideshow.




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Oct 17, 2012

Multi-Step & Compound Inequalities

Class activities including guide to solving multi-step and compound inequalities. Class work is all problems from sections 5-3 and 5-4 from workbook. See link in pages section to download entire workbook.



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Oct 15, 2012

Class Summary for Tuesday Oct. 16

Introduction to Inequalities, including sample problems with answers.




Oct 13, 2012

Khan Academy Topic Change

The Khan Academy no longer has an "Adding Fractions 2" category. (Thanks Alyssa)
Subtracting Fractions will be substituted for the adding fractions 2 topic, due October 20, 2012.

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Oct 9, 2012

Revised October Khan Academy Schedule

Here is a complete list of topics for the month of October. Mastery (100% grade), is achieved by completing 8  or 10 (depending on the topic) correctly answered questions in a row. To achieve mastery, topics must be completed by 7:00 p.m. of each due date.

October 5, 2012

* One-Step Equations
* One-Step Equations with Multiplication
* Two-Step Equations
* Equations with Variables on both sides


October 13, 2012

* Comparing Absolute Values
* Absolute Value Equations
* Equivalent Fractions 1
* Equivalent Fractions 2



October 20, 2012

* Comparing Fractions 1
* Comparing Fractions 2
* Adding Fractions 1
* Subtracting Fractions 1


October 27, 2012


* Inequalities on a number line
* One-Step Inequalities
* Compound Inequalities
* Finding Absolute Values


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Class Summary Wed. Oct. 15, 2012

Here is a summary, complete with sample problems from class on Wednesday, October 15.  This presentation should prepare you for Friday's test on equations.



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Oct 8, 2012

Help with Fractional Equations

Here is a short video < 5 min., explaining how to solve equations with fractions.  The examples are just like the ones we are doing in class, so if you're not sure how to solve them, this video is for you.

Remember, our test in on Friday.


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Hoops Shot: 2 - Step Equation Game

 Want to have some fun and practice 2-step equations? Check out Hoop Shot.

Bonus:  Free drink or food from the canteen if anyone can beat my one player score. Take a screenshot, and email the results.  Good Luck





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Oct 7, 2012

Absolute Value Equations

If you would like some extra help understanding Absolute Value Equations, this is a great presentation on the subject.  It includes practice problems and the answers so you can check your understanding.

Well worth the 5 minutes it takes to view the presentation.  Especially before our test on Friday.

S 1


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Weekend Bonus Post



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Oct 6, 2012

October 5, 2012 Class Summary

Friday's class activities and assignment. The slideshow includes a good explanation of absolute value equations and how to solve them.
October 5

Oct 2, 2012

Class Summary, October 3, 2012

Catch up on Tuesday's class:

Oct 1, 2012

Class Summary: October 2, 2012

View the slideshow to catch up on Tuesday's Class.




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Monday's Class Summary

A list of resources if you need extra help, some pre test warm up questions, and a test. That was Monday.



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Sep 28, 2012

A Great Presentation if you are having difficulty with equations containing fractions





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TGIF: September 28, 2012

Review of class Activities including test review questions for Monday.




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Sep 27, 2012

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Activities and assignments from class.




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Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Activities and assignments from class.




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Sep 25, 2012

Class Summary: September 25, 2012

Everything you need to know about Tuesday's class...and then some.  If you missed the work, download the workbook, check the slideshow for the proper pages and problems, finish assignment, and you're up to date.






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