Math Happenings

All of the seventh grade classes have been working on ISAT review packets. The ISAT test will be administered the first week in March. This is a very important test and the results will be placed in the student's permanent record. Both the students and I will be happy when they are over.

On February 8th many of our students participated in a presentation given by math whiz Mike Byster. Mike has been featured on ABC's news magazine 20/20 and he had to leave Lincoln Hall early as he was being interviewed by People magazine. His premise is that if a student can improve his/her memory and following directions skills, that student will be more successful in school. His math "tricks" are all based on finding and utilizing patterns. The students were truly amazed by his presentation and would have liked him to stay longer.
You can find out more information about Mike if you go to www.Brainetics.com.

In the accelerated algebra class, the students are exploring linear equations. Ask your child to show you a linear equation.
S/he can then tell you if it is a function and utilizing a table how to graph that equation. It is a treat to watch these students process a brand new skill.

Pre-algebra and introduction to pre-algebra students are reviewing and expanding their knowledge of ratios, proportions and percents. They will be applying these skills to real life situations involving discounts, sales tax, tips, percent of increase or decrease, and simple interest. The students will also be using percent concepts to figure out their test scores so that they will be able to know their grade immediately!
The next unit for the pre-algebra students will be geometry
and the introduction class will be reviewing whole numbers and decimals.