This Week in Math

This week, we have started a new Math unit based on part of the Data Management strand of the curriculum. So far, students have conducted a survey in class, and have constructed graphs based on that data. Students will be asked to plot coordinates on a grid in the (x,y) format, and will continue to interpret graphs, and use graphs to make an argument. Playing "Battleship" at home is a great way for students to become familiar with the coordinate system. At the conclusion of the unit, students should be able to discuss the significance of scale and interval on displaying data correctly, as well as explain the difference between dicrete and continuous data.

We have also started using Tangrams at the start of every Math class. Students work in pairs to solve puzzles that are fun and challenging, but also improve spatial sense and geometrical awareness. PBS Kids has a great website, with one page featuring online Tangram puzzles. We will continue starting most math periods with these puzzles.