Math
Math Periods 1, 2, 6, 7
We have hit the ground running in math this year. During first quarter, students will be working with all levels of equations. They will solve one-step, two-step and multi-step equations, including equations with the variable on both sides of the equal sign. In addition, students will begin working with linear functions and graphing on the coordinate plane. It is important that your child is proactive in his/her learning and seeks extra help whenever he/she is falling behind to get caught up before any test or quiz. Mr. Paone looks forward to working with you this year!
Accelerated Math – Period 8
Students will complete the first three chapters in the Glencoe Algebra I book this quarter. Topics that will be covered include: writing expressions, order of operations, properties of identity and equality, and solving all levels of equations. Students will also study linear and non-linear functions and will graph linear equations on the coordinate plane. We will move at a fast pace this year, so it is very important that students are proactive in their learning by seeking extra help before any test or quiz. Mr. Paone is looking forward to an exciting year!
KMS and the Common Core State Standards
Math classes at KMS are based on the Common Core State Standards, a rigorous set of standards which have been adopted in 46 US states, whose aim is to prepare students for college and career. Although many parents feel confused and intimidated by what feels like "new math," the main shift we are seeing in math is in the type and intent of instruction. The Common Core urges teachers to teach for deeper understanding of concepts, rather than rote memorization of procedures. This shift can make it difficult for parents to help children at home. However, students will rise to the higher expectations, and will become mathematical thinkers who can apply their learning to real-world situations and to other content areas.
Smarter Balanced Assessment
The Smarter Balanced Assessment will be administered to students in the spring of 2015. For information about the Smarter Balanced Assessment, visit the website:
Use this link to see a sample Smarter Balanced Assessment:
Math Classes at KMS
At KMS, classes are grouped in each cluster in the following manner:
- Grade 6 - Five classes of one math level- all grouped heterogeneously Programs utilized: Big Ideas Green Additional supplemental materials vary
- Grade 7 - Four classes of one level-all grouped heterogeneously Programs utilized: Big Ideas Red Additional supplemental materials vary - One Accelerated class Program utilized: Big Ideas Red Accelerated and other supplemental materials
- Grade 8 - Four classes of one level-all grouped heterogeneously Programs utilized; Big Ideas Blue Additional supplemental materials vary -One "Topics in Algebra" class Program utilized; Algebra 1 Glencoe McGraw Hill
Mathematical Habits of Mind
"MATHEMATICAL HABITS OF MIND" (Adapted from "Understanding University Success and A Consensus Model for Preservice Teacher Education in Mathematics and Science".) We are listing all eighteen habits of mind because we believe they truly encapture our philosopy of teaching mathematics and our belief that all students can become successful mathematicians.
We would like students to:
- Be curious about "how" and "why" math works
- Take risks when doing math
- Work hard and be persistent when doing math
- Value exploration and investigation when doing math
- Develop confidence in solving math problems
- Develop math intuition when solving math problems
- Develop logical thinking skills when solving math problems
- Write and discuss math using math terms correctly
- Learn how to estimate effectively
- Be able to check answers for reasonableness and accuracy
- Know when and how to use different problem solving strategies
- Know how to use technology appropriately and effectively
- Appreciate that math is the language of nature and science
- Use math to simplify and make sense of real-life situations
- Recognize that it is possible to learn from mistakes
- Become quantitatively literate
- Be able to work effectively as a member of a group
- Be able to work effectively alone