12/21/2007- 1/4/2007 Happy Holidays!

The blog will be on break until we resume classes on January 7th.  Your test scores will be entered sometime between now and then.  Have a good, restful break.

12/21/2007 Applied Geometry - Semester Test

Semester Test today

12/20/2007 Algebra 1 & 2 - Semester Tests

Today Algebra 1 & 2 will be taking their semester tests.  Good luck and do well!

12/18/2007 Algebra 1 - Semester Test Study Guide

Today students will receive the semester test study guide, informing them of what will be on the test Thursday.  Students will work on them during class and I will give them the answers before class is over so they can direct their review before the test.

Semester Test on Thursday

12/18/2007 Algebra 2 - Semester Test Study Guide

Today students will receive the semester test study guide, informing them of what will be on the test Thursday.  Students will work on them during class and I will give them the answers before class is over so they can direct their review before the test.

Semester Test on Thursday

12/17/2007 Algebra 1 - Semester Review

Today I will give students the study guide for Wednesday afternoon's semester test.

Homework:

prepare for Wednesday's semester test

12/17/2007 Pre Algebra - Semester Review

Today students will review for Wednesday afternoon's semester test.  I will be handing out the previous chapter's tests to look over.

Homework:

prepare for Wednesday's final

12/17/2007 Applied Geometry - Chapter 6 Test & Begin Semester Review

Today students will take the Chapter 6 Test and begin to review for Friday mornings semester test.  I will give them last year's semester test today to begin review and we will play a review game on Wednesday.

Homework:

prepare for Friday's semester test

12/14/2007 Algebra 2 - Semester Review

We will grade our section 5 homework today (our last grade entered for first semester) and then begin our review for semester finals.  We will be taking a look at all the old chapter test today and on Tuesday students will receive a study guide that mimics the actual test, per our usual routine.  The semester final will be Thursday December 20th.

Homework:

review for semester test (collect,organize and review notes and example problems & complete review sheets)

12/13/2007 Algebra 1 - Semester Review

We will begin our review work for the semester test today.  The students received a packet of the old tests from 1st semester.  On Monday of next week, students will receive a study guide that will be similar to the test.  Wednesday afternoon we will have our 1st semester test.

Homework:

Complete review work

12/13/2007 Pre Algebra - Chapter 4 Test

Today students will take the Chapter 4 Test and begin review work for the semester final.  The review sheet that they pick up today after the test will be due on Monday.

Homework:

Review sheet

12/13/2007 Applied Geometry - Chapter 6 Review

Today we are going to review for the Chapter 6 Test.  On Monday, we will take the Chapter 6 Test, Wednesday we will review for the semester test and Friday morning we will take the semester test.

Homework:

Complete review sheets and begin preparing for semester test

12/12/2007 Algebra 1 - Chapter 6 Quiz & Begin Semester Review

Today we will go over our review assignment for Chaper 6, take a quiz and then begin our review for next Thursday's semester test.

12/12/2007 Algebra 2 - The Quadratic Formula

Today we learned the final method for solving a quadratic equation, the quadratic formula. I showed them how to use it to solve an equation. See some more examples here. We did some examples on the board, then they used the examples to help them with the homework. We will begin our review for next Thursday's semester test on Friday. Also, for extra credit, students can derive the quadratic formula from 0=ax^2+bx+c by completing the square.

Homework:
page 295 #'s 18-44 even

12/11/2007 - No School

We got iced out today, so we will resume B-day classes tomorrow and continue with the planned activities.

12/10 thru 12/16/2007 Extra Credit

Go here for this weeks extra credit.  It is worth 5 points and is due by Sunday evening.

12/10 Algebra 1 - Solving Compound Inequalities & Review

Today we will discuss solving compound inequalities. Students will be graphing them, writing them and then solving them. When finished, they will do a review exercise in preparation for the quiz over sections 1 through 3 on Wednesday. After the quiz Wednesday, I will distribute the first round of Semester Review materials.

Homework:
page 387 1-17 all (Quiz Wednesday)

12/10/2007 Algebra 2 - Completing the Square

Today we learned yet another method for solving a quadratic equation, called completing the square. This method involves changing the form of the equation by adding something to both sides, so we are able to take the square root of both sides to solve, as we did on Monday. This is the next to last method we will investigate for solving quadratic equations. After doing some examples on the board, students do a worksheet and some problems from the book. See some examples of completing the square here.

Homework:
page 286-287 #'s 48-60 even & worksheet
(Photo courtesy mathmistakes.info)

12/7/2007 Algebra 1 - Solving Multi Step Inequailites

Today we continued our work with inequalities, solving multi-step inequalities. We reviewed our work from section 1 on a worksheet, then did some examples from this section on the board. Students completed a worksheet in class, then worked on the assignment.

Homework:
page 343 15-35 all

12/7/2007 Pre Algebra - Chapter 4 Review

Today students will be reviewing for the Chapter 4 that will be on Tuesday, December 11th.

12/7/2007 Applied Geometry - Trapezoids & Kites

We will wrap up Chapter 6 today, moving away from parallelograms, but still studying quadrilaterals. Today's types of quadrilaterals are trapezoids & kites. Students began class by filling ot a sheet that contianed definitions and properties of our 2 figures. We then went through a chart of all our figures studied in Chapter 6, listing the properties for all. We did some worksheets together in class solving for parts of trapezoids & kites, then students worked onthe graded assignment.

Homework:
pages 433-434
14-18, 20-25, 27-36

12/6/2007 Algebra 1 - Solving Multi Step Inequailites

Today we continued our work with inequalities, solving multi-step inequalities. We reviewed our work from section 1 on a worksheet, then did some examples from this section on the board. Students completed a worksheet in class, then worked on the assignment.

Homework:
page 343 15-35 all

12/6/2007 Algebra 2 - Solving Quadratic Equations by Finding Square Roots

Today we worked on simplifying the square roots that are solutions to our quadratic equations. For example the square root of 18 can be simplified to be 3 times the square root of. 2. We will also be simplifying fractions that have square roots as the denominator.

Homework:
pages 267 - 268 #'s 52-68 even & worksheet

12/5/2007 Algebra 1 - Solving Inequalities

Today we will be solving linear inequalities (example: x - 5 < 12).

Homework:
page 337-8 #'s 22-60 even

12/5/2007 Pre Algebra - Scientific Notation

Today we reviewed the concept of scientific notation with the students. In addition to converting numbers from scientific notation to standard form (and vice versa), we also ordered and compared numbers that are in scientific notation and multiplied numbers that are in scientific notation. Students did a worksheet in class and then worked on their assignment for Friday.

Homework:
p. 207 13-33 all, 40-50 even

12/5/2007 Applied Geometry - Rectangles, Squares & Rhombuses

We will continue our study of parallelograms today, focusing on special parallelograms: rectangle, rhombus & square. Students will use the properties of these special parallelograms to find side lengths and angle measures. They will also show that a particular parallelogram is one of these by showing that one of the properties is true. We did some worksheets together in class, then students worked on the graded assignment.

Homework:
p. 412 10-16, 18-31

12/4/2007 Algebra 1 - Solving One Step Inequalities

Today we will be solving linear inequalities (example: x - 5 < style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Homework:
page 337-8 #'s 22-60 even

Extra Credit 12/3-12/9/2007

Here is the extra credit for this week. Must be submitted by hard copy or by email by Sunday night.

12/4/2007 Algebra 2 - More Factoring & Solving

Today we learned how to factor quadratic expressions (the reverse process of the FOIL method). We also learned that factoring can produce solutions to a quadratic equation. This will be our first method for solving. Demonstrations can be viewed here. We did some examples together in class, then students worked on a worksheet. The video below demonstrates how to factor to solve a quadratic equation.



Homework: worksheet 1-30 and page 260-1 #'s40,46,48,52,56,58,66,68,74,78

12/3/2007 Algebra 1 - Chapter 5 Test

Students took the Chapter 5 Test

12/3/2007 Pre Algebra - Zero & Negative Exponents

Today we introduced the rules for zero and negative exponents. Simply put, negative exponents change places in the fraction and become positive, for example three to the negative 2nd power on the top becomes three to the positive second power on the bottom. Also, any number or expression to the zero power becomes 1.

Homework:
page 202 #'s 16-39 and 43-50

12/3/2007 Applied Geometry - Conditions for Parallelograms

We will continue our work with parallelograms today, using the six conditions for parallelograms (the 5 from last week and a new one, if one pair of sides are both parallel and congruent) to decide if a given quadrilateral is a parallelogram. It will serve as a good review of the properties of parallelograms as well as some more algebra, setting up equations and solving.

Homework:
pages 402-403 1-7, 9-15, 17-23

11/30/2007 Algebra 1 - Chapter 5 Test

Students took the Chapter 5 Test

11/30/2007 Algebra 2 - FOILing & unFOILing

Today we will review the FOIL technique we learned on Wednesday and begin factoring (unFOILing). I put some more example problems on the board, gave the students the process for factoring (unFOILing) and then they worked on the assignment.

Homework:
p. 937 #'s 1-21 & p. 938 # 1-30

11/29/2007 Algebra 1 - Chapter 5 Review (Test Monday)

Today we will review for Monday's Chapter 5 Test. Students will complete the worksheet in class today.

11/29/2007 Pre Algebra - Mulitplication and Division Rules for Exponents

Today we studied the multiplication and division rules for exponents. Students took notes explaining where the rules come from and over some examples. They did a worksheet in class for a grade and then worked on the assignment due for Monday.

Homework:
p. 197 16-35 all, 46-56 even

11/29/2007 Applied Geometry - Parallelograms

Today's lesson continues with our study of polygons, parallelograms in particular. Our main focus is solving problems that use the five properties of parallelograms.

1) Opposite sides of parallelograms are parallel
2) Opposite sides of parallelograms are congruent
3) Consecutive angles are supplementary
4) Opposite angles are congruent
5) Diagonals bisect one another

Some examples of the problems we will be doing can be viewed here. We will do some example problems together in class on a worksheet.

Homework:
page 395-396 #'s 3-12, 15-25, 32-43

11/28/2007 Algebra 1 - Chapter 5 Review (Test Friday)

Today we will review for Friday's Chapter 5 Test. Students will complete the worksheet in class today.

11/28/2007 Algebra 2 - Quadratic Equations

We are turning our focus to quadratic equations in this Chapter. They have graphs that are the above shape, a parabola and equations that are of the form y=ax^2+bx+c. Our objectives are to:

1) Find the vertex of the graph of a quadratic function
2) Graph a quadratic function in standard form, vertex form or intercept form
3) Use the FOIL method to write a quadratic function in standard form

I did some examples on the board for the class, then they worked on a worksheet, they turned in during class, and finally the students worked on the graded assignment. You can look at the website we used in class to demonstrate here.

Homework:
p. 253-254 #'s 17-19, 20-35 every 3rd, 38-48 all

11/27/2007 Applied Geometry - Polygons

Today we started Chapter 6, focusing on polygons. The definitions for this section are regular polygon, concave & convex polygons, the sum of the interior angles of a polygon, the sum of the exterior angles of a polygon, and each interior and exterior angle measure in a regular polygon. We did a worksheet together in class and then students worked on the graded assignment.

Homework:
p. 386 #'s 6-26, 29-32, 35-42

11/27/2007 Algebra 1 - Chapter 5 Assessment

Today, students will be doing a packet assessing where their strengths and weaknesses are in Chapter 5. (We did not do very well as a group on the quiz.) We will go over it together in class and tell which sections the problems come from so that students can focus their review work.

Homework:
page 801 #'s 1-20 all

11/27/2007 Pre Algebra - Least Common Multiple

Today we will be reviewing least common multiple and its application to comparing fractions with unlike denominators. Students took notes of some example problems explaining the process and then we did some more examples on a worksheet.

Homework:
p. 190 #'s 16-35, 39-46

11/26/2007 Algebra 1 - Chapter 5 Assessment

Today, students will be doing a packet assessing where their strengths and weaknesses are in Chapter 5. (We did not do very well as a group on the quiz.) We will go over it together in class and tell which sections the problems come from so that students can focus their review work.

Homework:
page 801 #'s 1-20 all

11/26/2007 Algebra 2 - 'A Beautiful Mind' finale

Today students finished watching the Movie 'A Beautiful Mind'. For Wednesday, they will need to to do 2 things.

1) Write a biography of the main character, John Nash
2) Write a personal review of the movie

Both assignments are to be typed (double spaced, 12 point font, 1 page minimum)

Do not copy/paste from websites. You may gather information from them, but the writing must be your own.

11/21/2007 Algebra 1-Chapter 5 Quiz

Students took a quiz over the two days (3 sections) of notes so far.

10/21/2007 Pre Algebra-Chapter 4 Quiz

Today students will take a quiz over the first 3 sections of Chapter 4.

10/21/2007 Applied Geometry-Chapter 5 Test

Today students will take the Chapter 5 Test.

11/20/2007 Algebra 1-Chapter 5 Quiz

Students took a quiz over the two days (3 sections) of notes so far.

11/20/2007 Algebra 2-'A Beautiful Mind' movie

Students watched the movie "A Beautiful Mind" today in class, after seeing the test results for Chapter 4.

11/19/2007 Algebra 1-Writing Equations of Lines Given 2 Points

We will be writing equations of lines again today, but this time, we will be writing equations given two points or given a perpendicular line and a point.

Homework:
worksheet (done in class)
pages 288-289 18-38 even

11/19/2007 Pre Algebra-Equivalent Fractions

Today we used greatest common factors to write fractions in simplest form and write equivalent fractions. Students took some notes over some examples, then did a worksheet in class.

Homework:
page 185, #'s 12-26 even, 30-36 even, 42-46 even
page 192 #'s 1-21 all (skip # 13), this assignment is to review for the quiz over sections 1-3 that we will take on Wednesday

11/19/2007 Applied Geometry-Chapter 5 Review

Students will Review for the Chapter 5 Test, which will betaken on Wednesday.

11/16/207 Algebra 1-Writing Equations of Lines Given 2 Points

We will be writing equations of lines again today, but this time, we will be writing equations given two points or given a perpendicular line and a point.

Homework:
worksheet (done in class)
pages 288-289 18-38 even

11/16/2007 Algebra 2-Chapter 4 Test

Today students will be taking the Chapter 4 Test.

11/15/2007 Algebra 1-Writing Equations of Lines(Given Slope & Y-Intercept and Slope & Point)

Today we begin Chapter 5, shifting our focus from graphing equations to writing equations given certain information. Our objectives our:

1) Write the equation of a line given the slope and y-intercept
2) Write the equation of a line given the graph
3) Write the equation of a line given the slope and a point
4) Write the equation of a line given the slope and x-intercept
5) Write the equation of a line parallel to a given line thru a given point

Examples of these problems can be found here (click on Example 2) and here (click on Example 2). I did some example problems on the board in the notes, then students practiced on a worksheet and some problems from the book,

Homework:
p. 276 12-20 even & p. 282-3 20,24,30,32 & worksheet

11/15/2007 Pre Algebra-Greatest Common Factor

Students will be reviewing greatest common factor today. They will take some notes over some example problems on the board and then practice on a worksheet. They will be finding the greatest common factor of 2 numbers, deciding if 2 numbers are relatively prime and finding the greatest common factor of monomials (example: 3x and 27x).

Homework:
page 179 #'s 12-31 all

11/15/2007 Applied Geometry-Pythagorean Theorem & Special Right Triangles

Today we worked the study of right triangles, specifically the Pythagorean Theorem and special right triangles. To see some sample homework problems worked out, click here or here. Students took notes from the board, then we worked through some example problems on the board.

Homework:
page 353 #'s 15-17, 19-27, 30-35 & page 360 #'s 1-3, 5-7, 9-11, 13-15

11/14/2007 Algebra 1-Writing Equations of Lines(Given Slope & Y-Intercept and Slope & Point)

Today we begin Chapter 5, shifting our focus from graphing equations to writing equations given certain information. Our objectives our:

1) Write the equation of a line given the slope and y-intercept
2) Write the equation of a line given the graph
3) Write the equation of a line given the slope and a point
4) Write the equation of a line given the slope and x-intercept
5) Write the equation of a line parallel to a given line thru a given point

Examples of these problems can be found here (click on Example 2) and here (click on Example 2). I did some example problems on the board in the notes, then students practiced on a worksheet and some problems from the book,

Homework:
p. 276 12-20 even & p. 282-3 20,24,30,32 & worksheet

11/14/2007 Algebra 2-Chapter 4 Review

We will be reviewing for the Chapter 4 Test today, we will take the test on Friday. Please visit the poll question on the right to help guide our review Friday before we take the test.

Test Friday

11/13/2007 Algebra 1 - Graphing Review

We will be reviewing the graphing section from Chapter 4 today. As a group, the 3 classes did not perform very well on that section of the test, so we need to spend some class time reviewing. We will do some examples on the board together and then students will practice on a worksheet. We will grade it in class today when everyone is finished.

11/13/2007 Pre Algebra - Factors & Prime Factorization

Today students worked on prime factorization. They identified prime and composite numbers and listed factors. They also gave the prime factorization of numbers by doing factor trees.

Homework:
page 175 #'s 16-22 even, 24-31 all, 34-45 all

11/13/2007 Applied Geomemtry-Triangle Inequality and the Hinge Theorem

We focused on two ideas today, the Triangle Inequality Theorem and the Hinge Theorem. Both will be used to give information about missing sides or angles in a triangle or triangles. Students copied some notes regarding these theorems from the board to start class, then I showed them some examples of how to apply them to some problems. See more examples here. You can play around with the Triangle Inequality Theorem here.

Homework:
p. 336-338 #'s 18-31, 42-53 & p. 343-344 #'s 9-14, 18-23

11/12/2007 Algebra 1-Graphing Equations Review

We will be reviewing the graphing section from Chapter 4 today. As a group, the 3 classes did not perform very well on that section of the test, so we need to spend some class time reviewing. We will do some examples on the board together and then students will practice on a worksheet. We will grade it in class today when everyone is finished.

11/12/2007 Algebra 2-Solving Systems With Inverse Matrices

We continued our use of inverse matrices today. We will be using them to solve systems of equations. The process is as follows:

1) Set up matrix equation similar to above
2) Find the inverse of the square matrix
3) Multiply on the left time the column matrix

See a video demonstration here.

Homework:
p. 233 #'s 24-32 even & worksheet

11/7/2007 Applied Geometry - Midsegements in Triangles

Today we continued with triangles, focusing on the midsegments. The midsegments of triangle are parallel to the opposite side & half as long as the opposite side. Students need to review the midpoint formula, distance formula & slope formula. We did a worksheet as a group in class to practice, then students worked on the homework.

Homework:
page 324 #'s 10-16, 18-19, 21-26, 39-41

11/7/2007 Pre Algebra - Chapter 3 Test

Students took the Chapter 3 Test

11/7/2007 Algebra 1 - Chapter 4 Test

Students took the Chapter 4 Test Today

11/6/2007 Algebra 1 - Chapter 4 Test

Today, students will take the Chapter 4 Test. We will begin Chapter 5 on Monday when we return.

11/6/2007 Algebra 2 - Matrix Cryptography

We did an activity to show a use of matrices today. Matrices can be used to encrypt messages and decode the messages. See video examples (#4 & #25) here. There is another website that explains it here as well. If this sort of thing sounds interesting to you, here is a scholarship opportunity offered by the NSA (National Security Agency) open to high school students. This page outlines some of the things that a cryptanalyst does for the NSA. If you have any questions I would be glad to speak with you about them. The presentation that we did in class today should be up on the web to be viewed shortly.



Homework:
page 228 #'s 40-44, 53b (use [1 -2 (first row) 1 -3 (second row)]

The worksheet packet given in class can be done for extra credit over the weekend

11/5/2007 Pre Algebra-Review

Students will be reviewing Chapter 3 today, and we will Test on Wednesday.

11/5/2007 Algebra 1-Review

Today we reviewed Chapter 4 and the Test will be Wednesday.

11/5/2007 Applied Geometry - Triangle Midsegment Theorem

Today we continued with our section from last time, doing some more practice problems.

11/2/2007 Algebra 1-Review

Today we reviewed Chapter 4 and the Test will be Tuesday.

11/2/2007 Algebra 2-Inverse Matrices

Today we learned about how to find an inverse matrix and how to use it to solve a matrix equation. A short explanation is shown above. To see some video demonstrations, click here.

Homework:
page 227,-8 14-28 even & worksheet

11/1/2007 Pre Algebra-Solving Multi Step Inequalities

Today we will be wrapping up Chapter 3, and we will be solving multi-step inequalities. The same rules for solving equations apply and we will still be flipping the inequality if we multiply or divide by a negative. The students will be doing a worksheet in class and an assignment out of book.

Homework:
page 151-152 10-21, 25-27

11/1/2007 Applied Geometry-Medians & Altitudes in Triangles

Today we continued our study of segments in triangles, specifically medians & altitudes. We learned that the medians of a triangle intersect at a point two-thirds of the way across the median, called the centroid. For some demonstrations of these problems, go here.

Homework:
p. 317-318 #'s 1-6,8,9,12,13,17,18,21-26,28-32

10/31/2007 Algebra 2-Determinants & Cramer's Rule

Today we continued studying matrices and their uses. Today we will be using determinants to solve systems of equations using a process called Cramer's Rule.

Follow this link to see video demonstrations of both.

Students practiced on a worksheet and a few problems from the book.

Homework:
page 218-9 #'s 18-26 even, 40, 42, 46 & worksheet

10/30/2007 Pre Algebra-Solving Inequalities

Today we worked on solving inequalities using multiplication and division. When solving, if you multiply or divide by a negative number, then you must flip the inequality. For example, the solution to -3x ≤ 6 is x ≥ -2.

Homework:
page 146 #'s 12-35

10/30/2007 Algebra 1-Slope Intercept Form

Today we continued our study of equations and graphs. Our focus today was on slope-intercept form.

y = mx + b

Our objectives are:
1) Solve an equation for y
2) Find the slope and y-int of an equation in y=mx+b form
3) Graph an equation using slope and y-intercept

To see some examples of these problems, click here.

Homework:
page 244 #'s 14-54 even (graph paper here)

10/30/2007 Applied Geometry-Bisectors in Triangles

We continued our study in Chapter 5 today. Students copied notes with the theoerems, definitions and examples from section 2 today. We went through the definitions of circumcenter and incenter of a triangle and applied them to some problems that required us to find segment lengths. See some demonstrations here.

Homework:
(done in class) page 311-313 #'s 3-10,12-19,22-34

10/29/2007 Algebra 1-Slope Intercept Form

Today we continued our study of equations and graphs. Our focus today was on slope-intercept form.

y = mx + b

Our objectives are:
1) Solve an equation for y
2) Find the slope and y-int of an equation in y=mx+b form
3) Graph an equation using slope and y-intercept

To see some examples of these problems, click here.

Homework:
page 244 #'s 14-54 even (graph paper here)

10/29/2007 Algebra 2-Multiplying Matrices

Today's lesson continues our focus on matrices. Today we will be multiplying matrices together. There is a good video demonstration here. After some examples on the board, students practiced multiplying matrices together on a worksheet and then did a short graded assignment from the textbook.

Homework:
worksheet & page 212 #'s 27-34

10/25/2007 Algebra 1-Slope Formula

Today, students reviewed the slope formula. We looked at calculating slope given 2 points, giving the kind of slope based on a graph, and found a missing coordinate when given the slope.

Homework:
pages 230-231 #'s 12-46 even

Extra Credit 10/25/2007-11/2/2007

Extra Credit for this week and next can be found here.

10/25/2007 Algebra 2-Matrix Operations

Today students will begin Chapter 4, focusing on matrices. Today we will introduce and define matrices, define their dimensions, matrix addition, subtraction and scalar multiplication. Students will take notes in class over theses definitions and some examples. They completed the assignment in class.

Homework:
pages 203-205 #'s 12-36 even, 37-38, 42,44,45

10/24/2007 Applied Geometry-Perpendicular and Angle Bisectors

Today students went through the Perpendicular and Angle Bisector Theorems. In the notes, we set up some example problems to show how solve for certain pieces of the diagrams and how to set up an equation to solve for a variable.

Homework:
page 304 #'s 2-7, 12-17 page 329 #'s 1-3

10/23/2007 Algebra 2-Chapter 3 Test

Today students took the Chapter 3 Test.

10/23/2007 Algebra 1-Graphing Using Intercepts

Today students studied x and y intercepts for linear equations, how to find them and how to use them to graph.

Homework:
pages 221-222 #'s 14-58 even

10/22/2007 Algebra 1-Graphing Linear Equations

Today we began our introduction to graphing linear equations. We looked at ordered pairs and if they are solutions to equations, found ordered pairs that are solutions to equations and graphed equations by finding ordered pairs that are solutions.

Homework:
page 214-215 #'s 12-54 even

10/22/2007 Pre Algebra-Solving Equations Review

Today students worked on a review out of the book. We reviewed solving equations from Chapter 2 and so farin Chapter 3.

10/22/2007 Applied Geometry-More Proofs

We will continue or work with proofs today, focusing on proving that Corresponding Parts of Congruent Triangles are Congruent (CPCTC). Students will be doing some proofs in class.

Homework:
page 263 #'s 4,8-11,19

10/19/2007 Algebra 1-Graphing Linear Equations

Today we began our introduction to graphing linear equations. We looked at ordered pairs and if they are solutions to equations, found ordered pairs that are solutions to equations and graphed equations by finding ordered pairs that are solutions. (Note: 5th period was missing half the class due to the sophomore class party, so we will pick this section up on Tuesday along with section 3. You can, however do the assignment if you don't want to have 2 due for next Thursday).

Homework:
page 214-215 #'s 12-54 even

10/19/2007 Algebra 2-Chapter 3 Review

Today students reviewed for the Chapter 3 Test. It will be on Tuesday, October 23rd. It will be the first grade for the 2nd quarter.

Homework:
Complete Review Packet and Prepare for Tuesday's Test

10/18/2007 Pre Algebra-Solving Equations with Variables on Both Sides

Today students will continue their work solving equations. Today's equations will have variables on both sides. Students will find that some of these equations have either no solution or all real numbers as a solution. Students will copy some example problems down to begin class, then we will do a few together. They will practice on a worksheet, then work on the assignment.

Homework:
page 134 #'s 11-22 all

10/18/2007 Algebra 1-Chapter 3 Test

Today students will take the Chapter 3 Test. When finished, they will take some notes reviewing plotting points in the coordinate plane and do an assignment for Friday.

10/18/2007 Applied Geometry-Intro to Proof

Today students were introduced to 2 column proofs today. We focused on proving triangles congruent in some examples on the board.

Homework:
page 246 #'s 7,13,1 page 256-258 #'s 6,13,22 page 281 #'s 2,7

10/17/2007 Algebra 2-Solving Systems of 3 Equations

Students will take notes over solving systems of 3 equations. One of the examples we will do together in class. The video above shows an example. When finished, students will complete a worksheet due for Friday.

10/17/2007 Algebra 1-Chapter 3 Test

Today students will take the Chapter 3 Test. When finished, they will take some notes reviewing plotting points in the coordinate plane and do an assignment for Friday.

10/15 & 16/2007 Algebra 1-Chapter 3 Test Review

Both classes will be reviewing for the Chapter 3 Test. A day will take the test Thursday and B day will take the test Wednesday.

10/16/2007 Applied Geometry-Chapter 4 Test

Today students will take the Chapter 4 Test.

10/15/2007 Algebra 2-Solving(Graphing) Systems of Inequalities

Today students will be graphing to solve systems of linear inequalities. To review graphing linear inequalities, you can revisit that day's blog post here. The video above shows a simple example of graphing to solve a system of equations. You can see some more examples under "Example 1" here. Students took some notes over some example problems in class. The assignment was completed in class and was graded. There will be a short quiz over this section to begin class Wednesday.

Homework:
pages 160-161, #'s 21-26 all, 28-46 even (turned in today)

10/11/2007 Algebra 1-Rates, Ratios & Percents

Today's lesson shows students how to find unit rate, convert between measures and find the percent. Students looked at some example problems. You can see some examples here and here.

Homework:
page 183 #'s11-19, 23-27, 30-35 page 799 #'s 45-53

10/11/2007 Algebra 2-More with Systems of Equations

Today we reviewed systems of equations again in class. Students worked in their groups. We used sysytems of equations and the substitution method to find out when the cost of a Hybrid Prius would equal the cost of a gas Honda Civic.

10/10/2007 Pre Algebra - Chapter 2 Test

Students took the Chapter 2 Test today.

10/10/2007 Applied Geometry- SSS and SAS Congruence

Students began class by copying some notes on our 3 main ideas today:

1) Congruent Triangles
2) SAS Congruence Theorem
3) SSS Congruence Theorem



I illustrated some examples of what it means to be congruent triangles and what we can do with it. Students completed a worksheet packet for practice, which we went over at the end of class. Here are some homework examples for section 3 & section 4 .

Homework:
pages 246-248 #'s 5-9, 11-17, 28-29 & Worksheet B

10/9/2007 Algebra 1 Solving Decimal Equations

Today students solved decimal equations using the same methods we have been using in the previous 4 sections.

Homework:
page 169 #'s 14-38 even & page 799 #'s 9-30

10/9-10/12/2007 Extra Credit

Go here for this week's extra credit. Leave a comment or turn in your answere to me before the end of school Friday.

10/9/2007 Algebra 2-Solving Linear Systems with Linear Combination

Today in class we reviewed solving systems of equations by the substitution method, and I introduced the new method of solving, the linear combination method. I explained a few examples and then student spracticed on a worksheet. For demonstration of this method, follow this link and click the 'Video" button next to the second example.

Homework:
3.2 worksheet #'s 1-14

10/5/2007 Algebra 1-Solving Decimal Equations

Today students solved decimal equations using the same methods we have been using in the previous 4 sections.

Homework:
page 169 #'s 14-38 even

10/5/2007 Applied Geometry-Congruent Triangles

Today students were introduced to the idea of congruent triangles. Students did some example probelms identifying corresponding part of congruent traingles and solving for x when presented with congruent triangles.

Homework:
pages 234-236 #'s 3-10,13-18,31-34

10/5/2007 Pre Algebra-Chater 2 Review

Students will be reviewing for the Chapter 2 Test. During class, they will complete pages 108-111 #'s 6- 46 even and for Wednesday, they will do worksheet pages 75-76 #'s 1-67 odd.

Homework:
worksheet pages 75-76 #'s 1-67 odd
(Chapter 2 Test is Wednesday October 10th)

10/4/2007 Algebra 1-Solving Equations with Variables on Both Sides

Students took notes over example problems on the board and we graded our homework. See some more examples here. Our goal today is to solve equations with variables on both sides of the equation. We will use the same techniques that we used in the previous sections.

Homework:
page 157, #'s 18-40 even.

10/4/2007 Algebra 2-Systems of Equations

We began our work in Chapter 3 today. Chapter 3 deals with systems of equations, also called 2 equations, 2 unknowns. We will take 2 (or more) equations involving 2 variables and solve for both. To introduce the idea today, I will show students how to find the solution by graphing and how to check whether an ordered pair is a solution. I will introduce one of the algebraic methods of solving to them today, the substitution method. After today students should be able to:
1) Check ordered pairs to see if they are solutions to systems of equations
2) Solve a system of equations by graphing both equations
3) Give the number of solutions to a system of equations from the graph
4) Use the substitution method to solve a system of equations

Students will practice in class with this worksheet. Here is a link for a video demonstration of the substitution method.

Homework:
page 143 #'s 12-18 even, 32-40 all & page 152 #'s 11-13,16,18,19,22

10/3/2007 Pre-Algebra-Solving Decimal Equations

Today we will be solving decimal equations. We will be doing the same processes that we did in the previous 2 sections, but dealing with decimals.

Homework:
page 105 #'s 12-35

10/3/07 Algebra 1-Solving Equations with Variables on both sides

Students took notes over example problems on the board and we graded our homework. See some more examples here. Our goal today is to solve equations with variables on both sides of the equation. We will use the same techniques that we used in the previous sections.

Homework:
page 157, #'s 18-40 even.

10/3/2007 Applied Geometry-Angle Relationships in Triangles

Today's focus is on the Triangle Sum Theorem, which states that the interior angles of a triangle add up to be 180 degrees. Our objectives are:

1) Give the Triangle Sum Theorem
2) Give the Third Angle theorem
3) Give the Exterior Angle Theorem
4) Find the measures of interior and exterior angles in a triangle

We completed a worksheet in class for practice, then students worked on our graded assignment. Video demonstrations and step by step solutions can be found here.

Homework:
page 227-230, #'s 16-23, 29-34 & 41-43

10/2/2007 Algebra 2-Test

Students took the Chapter 2 Test today.

10/2/2007 Algebra 1-Solving Multi-Step Equations

We began class with a review of the last 2 lessons, solving 1 step equations with addition, subtraction, multiplication & division. The new lesson focuses on solving multiple step equations. I did some example exercises from the book on the board. You can see some more examples solved in the videos presented here. The video above shows how to do an example as well. We practiced solving these equations on a worksheet. We went through it together in class afterwards, then students worked on their homework assignment.

Homework:
page 148, #'s 16-36 all

10/1/2007 Pre Algebra-Solving Equations with Multiplication & Division

Today we continued our work solving equations. We will be either multiplying both sides of the equation by a number, or dividing both sides of the equation by a number.

Homework:
page 99 #'s 8-24, 28-33

10/1-10/5/2007 Extra Credit

Go here for this week's extra credit assignment. Leave a comment or turn in your answer to me.

10/1/2007 Algebra 1-Solving Multi-Step Equations

We began class with a review of the last 2 lessons, solving 1 step equations with addition, subtraction, multiplication & division. The new lesson focuses on solving multiple step equations. I did some example exercises from the book on the board. You can see some more examples solved in the videos presented here. The video above shows how to do an example as well. We practiced solving these equations on a worksheet. We went through it together in class afterwards, then students worked on their homework assignment.

Homework:
page 148, #'s 16-36 all

10/1/2007 Applied Geometry-Classifying Triangles

We have a short lesson today, beginning our focus on triangles. In the first section of the chapter, our objectives are:

1) Classify triangles by their angle measures
2) Classify triangles by their side lengths
3) Find angle measures and side lengths in triangles

Students filled out some worksheets containing our 7 definitions, we worked through some of the algebra involved in find side lengths in isosceles and equilateral triangles, then they practiced with a worksheet and did a short, graded assignment.

Homework:
pages 219-220 #'s 1-10, 12-19, 23-32, 35-37

9/27/2007 Pre Algebra-Solving Equations with Addtion & Subtraction

Today students starte dsolving equations. Today's equation involve solving by either adding somethin gto both sides of the equation, or subtracting something from both sides of the equation. For example, in x+3=-4, students will be subtracting 3 from each side, giving a solution of x=-7. Students will do a workhseet in class and then an assignment out of the book.

Homework:
page 93 #'s 1-25 all

9/27/2007 Algebra 1-Solving Equations with Multiplication & Division

Students got their Chapter 2 Tests back today, then we continued with Chapter 3. We went through the homework together, then worked through some examples in the new section.

Homework:
page 142 #'s 14-19 all, 24-47 all

9/27/2007 Applied Geometry-Chapter 3 Test

Today students will take the Chapter 3 Test.

9/26/2007 Algebra 1-Solving Equations with Division and Multiplication

I will be absent this afternoon so the students will be copying notes on section 2 from Chapter 3. The homework that is due for today and the assignment that students get in class today will both be graded in class on Monday. Have a good weekend!

Homework:
page 142 #'s 14-19 all, 24-47 all

9/26/2007 Algebra 2-Chapter Review & Project

Students received the Chapter 2 Review Packet & the Chapter 2 Project today. Both are due on Tuesday October 2nd at the beginning of class. The project involves researching some cell phone plans and writing them as piecewsie functions. The test will be on Tuesdya as well.

Homework:
Review Packet & Project (due Tuesday October 2nd)

9/25/2007 Pre Algebra-Equations

Students were introduced to equations today and their solutions. Homework problems focus on what a solution is and using mental math to solve some simple equations.

Homework:
p. 87 #'s 8-30 all

9/24-9/27/2007 Extra Credit

Go here and answer the 2 questions correctly for 5 points extra credit this week. You may need a computer larger than a calculator to do it.

9/25/2007 Algebra 1-Chapter 2 Test & 3.1 Notes

Today students will be taking the Chapter 2 Test, and beginning Chapter 3 by taking notes over section 1, Solving Equations with Addition or Subtraction, and doing some practice problems.

Homework:
page 135 #'s 13-41 all

9/25/2007 Applied Geometry-Chapter 3 Review

Students reviewed for the Chapter 3 Test, which will be on Thursday, September 27th.

Homework:
Chapter 3 Review Packet

9/24/2007 Algebra 2-Piecewise Functions & Absolute Value Functions

Today we wrapped up Chapter 2 by studying piecewise functions and absolute value functions. The links a bove should help you if you can't use an example from the notes to help. The video above demonstrates how to graph an absolute value function. The video below will help with piecewise functions.



Homework:
pages 117-118 #'s 13-20, 22-30even, 36-40 even, 56,58
pages 125-126 #'s 12-17, 18-24 even, 34-39, 50

9/24/2007 Algebra 1-Chapter 2 Test & 3.1 Notes

Today students will be taking the Chapter 2 Test, and beginning Chapter 3 by taking notes over section 1, Solving Equations with Addition or Subtraction, and doing some practice problems.

Homework:
page 135 #'s 13-41 all

9/21/2007 Applied Geometry-Writing Equations of Lines

Today we continued with our study of equations and their graphs. We focused on writing equations when given different information. Students will be writing equations of lines when given: a) slope and y-intercept b) slope and point and c) 2 points. Students took notes over examples of each method. The video above shows one of these methods. You can click here for some help with the b) type example.

Homework:
page 194 #'s 2-22 all, 24-30 even (write all equations in y=mx+b form)

9/21/2007 Pre Algebra-More Section 3 & Review

It seems as though students need a little more work with our section 3 concepts from Wednesday. Today we will review those. We will do another worksheet for practice today in class. I will not grade the homework that was due for today, I will just count it as practice. The worksheet in class today (Practice B p. 27 #'s 1-20) will be graded and recorded. Students will also do a short review on the Chapter up to this point, page 84 in the book #'s 1-22.

Homework:
page 84 #'s 1-22

9/20/2007 Algebra 1-Review for Test

The Chapter 2 Test is Monday, students did 2 review activities. One out of the book, page 122 1-18, 21-48 and then the Chapter 2 Review Packet.

Homework:
Chapter 2 Review Packet

9/20/2007 Algebra 2-Graphing Inequalities

Today we continued with our study of graphing, moving on to linear inequalities. Students will be solving linear inequalities and graphing them to give the solution. The solution looks like the example below:


Some examples were presented to the students in the notes, then they practiced graphing inequalities on a worksheet in class. You can also view some other examples here.

Homework:
pages 111-112 #'s 14-17 all, 18-22 even, 27-41 all

9/19/2007 Pre Algebra-Simplifying Variable Expressions

Today students will continue simplifying and using the distributive property. We will be working with variable expressions again, and will be identifying the terms, coefficients, like terms, and constants in these expressions. Students will practice on a worksheet in class and then work on the assignment for the remaining time. Some futher explanantion from the book's website can be found here.

Homework:
page 81 #'s 10-30 & 33-35

9/19/2007 Algebra 1-Division & Fraction Review

Today students reviewed division of real numbers and were reminded that division is really multiplying by the reciprocal. We also briefly reviewed some of the rules for adding and subtracting fractions. Most of the assignment deals with multiplying fractions.

Homework:
page 111 #'s 16-47, 52-57 page 783 #'s 2-64 even

9/19/2007 Applied Geometry-Slope

Students reviewed slope today. They took notes giving different representations of slope, from the formula to graphs. The first part of the video above shows how to use the formula. The assignment will have students estimating slope, finding the slope, comparing steepness and deciding if slopes are parallel or perpendicular. We completed a worksheet in class for practice and then worked on the assignment.


Homework:
page 185 #'s 2-5,10-22,26-28 (no graphs)

9/18/2007 Algebra 1-Division & Fraction Review

Today students reviewed division of real numbers and were reminded that division is really multiplying by the reciprocal. We also briefly reviewed some of the rules for adding and subtracting fractions. Most of the assignment deals with multiplying fractions.

Homework:
page 111 #'s 16-47, 52-57 page 783 #'s 2-64 even

9/18/2007 Algebra 2-Writing Equations of Lines

Today we continued with our study of equations and their graphs. We focused on writing equations when given different information. Students will be writing equations of lines when given: a) slope and y-intercept b) slope and point and c) 2 points. Students took notes over examples of each method. The video above shows one of these methods. You can click here for some help with the b) type example.

Homework:
page 95 #'s 14-28 even, 29-34 all, 36-40 even, 44-54 even, 62

9/17/2007 Applied Geometry-Angles & Parallel Lines

Today in class we defined parallel lines and defined some angles when a transversal cuts 2 parallel lines. We went through some examples on the notes in addition to the definitions, did a worksheet in class, then students worked on the homework. Some additional instruction is available on the book website for the 2 sections here and here.

Homework:
page 148-149 #'s 1-25 page 158-159 #'s 1-23

9/17-9/21/2007 Extra Credit

This week's extra credit problem can be found here. Submit your answer in writing, via a comment or email to me before Friday @ 3PM.

9/17/2007 Algebra 1-Multiplication & The Distributive Property

Today we reviewed multiplying positive and negative numbers and the Distributive Property with the students.

Homework:
page 96 #'s 16-49 all page 103 #'s 20-68 even

2/17/2007 Pre Algebra-Distributive Property

Students studied the Distributive Property today and its uses for simplifying algebraic expressions and mental math. We graded the homework that was due for today, went through our notes and example problems and then completed a worksheet in class. After grading it students worked on the homework assignment out of the book. For some extra practice and examples, click here.

Homework:
pages 73-75 #'s 2-10, 12-35, 38, 46-49

9/14/2007 Algebra 1-Multiplication & The Distributive Property

Today we reviewed multiplying positive and negative numbers and the Distributive Property with the students.

Homework:
page 96 #'s 16-49 all page 103 #'s 20-68 even

9/14/2007 Algebra 2-Quick Graphs Using Intercepts

Today in class we looked at graphing equations using slope-intercept form, the slope of a line and the y-intercept. We reviewed from last chapter how to solve an equation for y and then used that equation to graph lines. The video above deomnstrates this method.

Homework:
page 86 #'s 16-45

9/13/2007 Algebra 1-Adding & Subtracting Real Numbers

This afternnon we were on shortened periods due to the theacher's inservice at 2 PM. The students took notes over the addition and subtraction rules of real numbers. The homework for Friday has students practicing adding and subtracting positive and negative numbers.

Homework:
page 75 #'s 12-32 all page 82 #'s 16-58 even

9/13/2007 Pre Algebra-Chapter 1 Test

Today students took the Chapter 1 Test and then notes over section 2.1 concerning the properties of multiplication and addition.

Homework:
page 66-67 #'s 16-40 all

9/13/2007 Applied Geometry-Chapter 1 Test

Students took the Chapter 1 Test after we graded the HW assignment.

9/12/2007 Algebra 1-Adding & Subtracting Real Numbers

This afternnon we were on shortened periods due to the theacher's inservice at 2 PM. The students took notes over the addition and subtraction rules of real numbers. The homework for Friday has students practicing adding and subtracting positive and negative numbers.

Homework:
page 75 #'s 12-32 all page 82 #'s 16-58 even

9/12/2007 Algebra 2-Slope

The tests have been graded and are in the computer. The mean score was a 90.2%, the mode was a 94%, and the range of scores was 79-99. Everyone passed, but that is expected when we are reviewing previous concepts. Keep up the good work and carry over your success into future tests.

Students reviewed slope today. They took notes giving different representations of slope, from the formula to graphs. The first part of the video above shows how to use the formula. The assignment will have students estimating slope, finding the slope, comparing steepness and deciding if slopes are parallel or perpendicular. We completed a worksheet in class for practice and then worked on the assignment.

Homework:
pages 79-80 #'s 18-44,50

9/11/2007 Algebra 1- Chapter 1 Test & 2.1 Notes

Today students took the Chapter 1 Test and began Chapter 2 by taking notes over section 1, the Real Number Line.

Homework:
pages 67-68 #'s 18-26 (write one inequality only), 27-61 all

9/11/2007 Pre Algebra-Chapter 1 Review

Today students worked on the Chapter 1 Review Packet. there will be a test on Thursday.

Homework;
Chapter 1 Review Packet
*Extra Credit page 56 #'s 1-37 all

9/11/2007 Applied Geometry-Perimeter,Area & Circumference & Test Review

Today students reviewed perimeter, circumference & area. They took notes over some example problems and then completed an assignment. See some examples here. Students also recieved the Chapter 1 Review Packet and will be taking the Chapter 1 Test on Thursday.

Homework:
page 38 #'s 3-5,7-12,14-19 & Chapter 1 Review Packet
***Test Thursday***

9/10-914 Extra Credit-all classes

Go here for extra credit (5 points) this week. Answers are due to me by Friday @ 2:35.

9/10/2007 Algebra 1-Chap. 1 Test & 2.1 Notes

Today students took the Chapter 1 Test and began Chapter 2 by taking notes over section 1, the Real Number Line.

Homework:
pages 67-68 #'s 18-26 (write one inequality only), 27-61 all

9/10/2007 Algebra 2-Chap. 1 Test and 2.1 Notes

Today students took the Chapter 1 Test and took notes over section 2.1 in the book, regarding functions.

Homework:
pages 71-72 #'s 19-28,30-33,43-50

9/7/2007 Applied Geometry-Transformations

Today we looked at transformations in the coordinate plane. To see a video explaining some of them, click here. You can see more of them and get some help on your homework by watching these examples from the book's website. You can see more examples here as well. Students drew some example translations from the notes on the board and then did some worksheets in class.

Homework:
pages 53-54 #'s 3-5,8-11,19-23,25-26

9/7/2007 Pre Algebra-Coordinate Plane

Today students reviewed the coordinate plane. We reviewed how to plot points and find the coordinates of points. Students were given some example problems in their notes and did a worksheet in class. There were two sections of problems given for homework, one of which was a review assignment, and there will be a test next Thursday.

Homework: page 49 #'s 8-24,28 & pages 52-53 #'s 2-64 even

9/7/2007 Algebra 1-Test Review

Today we reviewed for the Chapter 1 Test, which will be Monday, September 10th. We did a short review activity from the book first, then students worked on the Chapter 1 Review Packet, which resembles the test.

Homework:
Chapter 1 Review Packet (Test on Monday)
page 57 #'s 1-22 all (10 pts. extra credit)

9/6/2007 Algebra 1-Test Review

Today we reviewed for the Chapter 1 Test, which will be Monday, September 10th. We did a short review activity from the book first, then students worked on the Chapter 1 Review Packet, which resembles the test.

Homework:
Chapter 1 Review Packet (Test on Monday)
page 57 #'s 1-22 all (10 pts. extra credit)

9/6/2007 Algebra 2-Test Review

Today students reviewed for our Chapter 1 Test by doing some review work out of the book and on a test review worksheet. Our test will be on Monday, September 10th.

Homework:
Test Review Sheet (Test Monday)
page 61 #'s 1-31 all (extra credit)

9/5/2007 Pre Algebra-Subtraction,Multiplication & Division

Today in class, we moved forward to the subtraction, multiplication and division. Remember that subtraction can be rewritten as the addition of the opposite. When multiplying or dividing two numbers with the same sign, the result is positive. When multiplying or dividing two numbers with opposite signs, the result is negative. For more help with the subtraction section, click here. For more help with the multiplication and division section, click here.

Homework:
pages 36-37 #'s 12-31, 35-42 page 45 #'s 12-23, 29-34

9/5/2007 Algebra 1-Functions & Review

Today we will wrap up Chapter 1. Our last section deals with functions. We will define functions and determine whether certain relations are indeed functions. We will do two assignments in class today, one from section 7 (page 49-50, #'s 10-18, 26, 28) and one to review Chapter 1 (page 54-55 #'s 1-21). Both will be done and graded in class.

Homework: none (Test over Chapter 1 next Monday)