Recent Changes

2. You can check the white board for the current assignment, but I only keep that up there until the assignment is due.
3. iCal
Your Thatquiz warm-up homepage link
http://www.thatquiz.org/tq/classpage?00101347ace4ed3
{blackboard_math.gif}

You can find a running journal of our daily [[#|work and]] [[#|assignments]] This page will be a great resource for you to [[#|complete]] your [[#|work]] and study.
June 5, 2013
I gave until 10:00 Am to finish the factoring simple quadratic trinomials activity. That was worth a total of 10 points in the grad book and I came around to check and make sure that groups either finished or made ample progress to assess. All groups received either a 9 or 10 out of 10. After the was finished, we moved into factoring trinomials that do not have a=1. We learned two methods for factoring/solving these. Method #1 was the Long-Reverse of FOIL or "split the middle" method; Method #2 was exclusive to Mr. Burns and that was the "Slide and Divide Method. We took a look at both methods and I'll leave it to you to decide which method you prefer. You will be required to know one method for your final exam. I handed out a worksheet on factoring that is due for homework. You only need to do the evens and I want you to actually go ahead and solve the last 4 problems. That is due 6/7/13.
June 3, 2013
Today I gave about 10 minutes to complete any missing warm-ups still on your list. Hopefully you've finished them all by now. They are due on Friday at 3pm. That is when I'm going to close them out and put the warm-up grades into the gradebook. I went around to check and see if you completed your homework due for today. Then I asked if anyone had any questions on the homework assignment. We spent about 15 minutes reviewing factoring by GCF and grouping, then we moved into factoring quadratic trinomials, where a=1. Remember that we look for factors of "c" that add up to "b". In the last 30 minutes of class we worked on a group activity. Many of you didn't finish, so we'll pick up with that in the beginning of next period. There is no homework due next class.
May 28, 2013
We started with a warm-up online this morning. Then we went over the long homework assignment. Many people had it completed and asked really good questions while we went over it. I was actually impressed with the quality of the questions asked. We didn't have much time after the homework review, but we did begin to talk about the GCF and finding the GCF of polynomials. We'll start factoring next class.
There is no homework, but here is the classwork assignment. {GCF monomials.pdf}
May 23, 2013
We began finishing up the addition and subtraction of polynomials, and we began multiplication of polynomials today by discussing FOIL and the distributive property. We began the homework in class, then I handed out more work to be completed over the long holiday weekend. This will be collected and graded on 5/28/13.
{Homework 9.1-9.3.pdf}
May 21, 2013
I handed back the Unit 8 Test today extending an invitation to earn back some points. If you choose, you may correct the incorrect answers on your test, showing all work and/or explanations, and submit them to me on a separate piece of paper by 5/28/13. In turn you will earn back up to 1/2 of the points that you lost on the original problem. We sometimes call these "supercorrections" in the math department. You will see these more and more as the years progress.
We did start the next section today on Polynomials and Adding/Subtracting Polynomials. We discussed how to classify polygons and how to add/subtract like terms in polygons. Due to the shortened period, that was all that I could cover. There is no homework for next class, but be prepared for a long assignment next time. {9.1 Notes.pdf}
May 16, 2013
We took the Unit 8 Test today in class. We will begin the next unit next class.
May 14, 2013
We worked on a practice test for unit 8 today. Your test will be next class. 5/16/13
{Unit 8 Practice Test.pdf}
May 10, 2013
Your quiz supercorrections are due today. Also, we finished the Unit with the last section on exponential equations. We went over the scientific notation worksheet in class. There is no homework due for next class.
May 8, 2013
I handed back the quizzes today and gave you the opportunity to earn back some of the points that you missed when you took it. If you correct the problems that you got wrong, then you can earn back some point. Those will be due on Friday. The remainder of the class was dedicated to doing the NWEAs. I forgot to collect the 8.5 practice sheet, so I'll collect that next time. Next class we will finish Unit 8 with exponential functions. You can expect a Unit 8 test Thursday of next week.
May 6, 2013
We took a quiz on 8.3/8.4 today. Then I continued with 8.5 on scientific notation. We took some notes and I handed out a practice sheet, which many of you got close to finishing in class if you focused. That practice sheet is due next class. {8.5 Notes.pdf}
{8.5 Study Guid.pdf} {Practice 8-5.pdf}
May 2, 2013
After an online warm-up, we corrected the practice sheet, but I did not collect it. Instead, you will pass it in next class, after you have a quiz on 8.3/8.4. I'm letting you keep the practice sheet to help you study. I began the next section 8.5 on scientific notation, but I didn't get very far into it. There is no homework but to prepare yourself for the quiz next class.
April 30, 2013
We continued with sections 8.3/8.4 on the quotient rule, negative exponent rule, and zero exponent rules. We continued to work on the practice sheet. I graded the half of the practice sheet as classwork. You are to finish the odds for next class.
April 26, 2013
We took the quiz on Section 8.1/8.2. After that I finished the notes on Section 8.3/8.4 and handed out a practice sheet. I gave that out, but we did not get a chance to start it. Instead, we'll go begin that practice next class. There is no homework over the weekend.
April 24, 2013
We continued on with a review of 8.1/8.2 by going over your homework. I gave you back the same pre-assessment that you had You will have a quiz on Sections 8.1 and 8.2 on Friday. We just began the notes on the next two sections in class, beginning with the Quotient Rule for Exponents. Here are the notes on 8.2/8.3 {8-3 and 8-4 Notes.pdf}
April 22, 2013
I hope you all had a great vacation. I know I needed to take a step away from the white board to reconnect myself. We did finish Unit 7 right before break, so I began the next unit today in class, covering sections 8.1 and 8.2 on the product rule and power-to-power rule for exponents. I decided to make you my guinea pigs for a new procedure I thinking about using next year. That is, charting our progress toward meeting math standards while we learn them. I gave each person a blank graph and we used the pre-assessment that we did before break as our first benchmark. You graphed your score. I handed out the notes from 8.1/8.2 and then gave you a worksheet to complete for homework.
{8-1 and 8-2 Notes.pdf}
{Practice 8-1.pdf}
{Practice 8-2.pdf}
April 11, 2013
Today I gave you a warm-up which included some typical difficult questions on the PSAT. You got to work together on them. Then I gave an additional 30 minutes to work on the systems activity that we started last class. That additional 30 minutes should be enough to finish any problems that you didn't finish last time, as well as check the solutions to the problems that you already did. The last 20 minutes of class was dedicated to a pre-assessment, which I will use to guide my instruction on Unit 8 when we return from break.
{ExponentsRules_Assess1-OERMath.doc}
April 9, 2013
We began with a warm-up today on adding/subtracting fractions. Then I handed out the make-up work for those who were not here last class. Our last assignment for Unit 7 is a group activity on solving systems of equations. There are 5 systems of equations that you need to solve. Here's the assignment. {Systems Group Activity.pdf}
April 5, 2013
Many of you were out for the band/chorus trip and such so we went over the homework in class and I handed out the notes for the next section, which was solving systems of linear inequalities. You graph inequalities much like you graph linear equations with a y-intercept and a slope, but you must remember the some lines are dotted and not solid, and you have to shade the half-plane which has true solutions. We practiced this in class on this worksheet, which must be completed for next time. {7.5 Notes .pdf} {Systems of Inequalities Problems.pdf} . This completes Unit 7 and we'll have an activity next time. I also handed out this reference sheet for you. {ConsistentInconsistent Reference.pdf}
April 3, 2013
We started with a warm-up online today then continued working on the Elimination Method for solving systems of equations. We went over the homework and then I assigned the even problems on the same worksheet that was assigned for homework the night before. See April 1, 2013 post for worksheet. The evens are due on 4/5/13.
April 1, 2013
4th quarter starts today. 3rd quarter grades are closed. Good job, everyone! We are 3/4ths thru with the year. The rest of the year will go by very fast. Today in class we began with a new online warm-up. You had to use the distributive property to rewrite expressions. Then we went over the homework from section 7.2. Then we began the third method for solving systems of equations- The Elimination Method. We did about 5 practice problems on the board of various difficulties and then I set you free to do some on your own. Your homework is the Evens of the W.S. {Systems Elimination Problems.pdf}
March 28, 2013
Today I gave you a few minutes to complete any warm-ups that might still be lingering on your list. Then I moved on to the H.W. review, which seemed to give a lot of people trouble. We went over many of the problems on the homework and instead of moving to the next section, like planned, I stayed on this section and you worked on more problems. I got the sense that many people felt better after our review session today and will have no problem completing the homework for next time. The homework is to do the ODD problems on the worksheet from last class. See the previous class's post for the w.s. if you don't have it. {Systems Substitution.pdf}
March 26, 2013
We began with a warm-up on the board about linear equations and graphs. Then we went over the Unit 6 Test question by question. Remember that I gave you a notecard to use on your test in exchange for NOT redoing the test. The grade you received is the final grade. Also, your warm-up grade is worth more than this test, so make sure you finish them before friday. After going over the test, we talked about the second way to solve systems of equations-Substitution. {7-2 Notes.pdf} . Then I handed out/reviewed the classwork. {Substitution Practice #1.pdf} Your homework is to complete the EVENS on the following worksheet. {Systems of Equations Substitution.pdf}
March 22, 2013
We started the next unit today, Unit 7 on Solving Systems of Equations. 7-1 was how to solve systems by graphing. We reviewed how to graph linear equations and practiced graphing. {7-1 Notes.pdf} Then the last 40 minutes of class was spent finishing our Unit 6 test. If you don't finish the graphing systems worksheet, then you need to complete it for homework. {Systems Graphing Problems.pdf}
March 20, 2013
Shortened period today due to the snow. Class is only 42 minutes long, which throws a wrench into our Unit 6 Test plans. I allowed you to work for 40 minutes on your test today and you will have another 40 minutes on Friday to complete your test. There is no homework.
March 18, 2013
We began with an online warm-up on counting money. Then we spent a good portion of the period working on the Unit 6 Practice Test. You had ample opportunity to ask questions during this time, any many of you took advantage of that time. Remember that you have a blank notecard to use for this test, since you will NOT have the chance to retake it. So.... plan accordingly, study hard, and be prepared. Don't just practice until you get it right, practice until you can't get it wrong. We went over the answers to the practice test at the end of class, and asked more questions. I will put an answer key up soon.
There is no "homework" per se, but you need to study.
March 13, 2013
We began with an online warm-up on fraction to decimal conversions. Then we went over the homework on section 6.5- absolute value equations and inequalities. Most people had a firm grasp on the concept and did well on the homework, judging by the questions asked in class. This concluded Unit 6, so I handed out a Unit 6 Practice test to work on in class. If you had make-up work to complete, you could have worked on that, or you could have worked on the practice test. {Unit 6 Practice Test.pdf} . We will review for the test on Tuesday and your test will be on Thursday of next week. It will be the last Unit of the quarter.
March 11, 2013
We began the class with a warm-up. Then we went over the homework in class on absolute value graphs and transformations. We discussed the expanded parent function and what the parts of the parent function tell us about how the graph moved. Then we moved into the last section of Unit 6 on solving absolute value equations and inequalities. We talked about how the definition of absolute value helps us set up the two cases needed to solve. Remember that there are always two solutions to absolute value equations and inequalities. The notes for section 6.5 can be downloaded here. {6-5A Notes.pdf} {6-5B Notes.pdf} Your homework is {Practice 6.5.pdf} . It is due next class 3/13/13
March 7, 2013
We started with a warmup story this morning, followed by a recap of the homework that was due today. We went over the compound inequalities and worked out a few problems on the board. There was still a little confusion over the solution to conjunctions and disjunctions. If you still have questions that need to be answered, feel free to come in and talk to me or visit a math directed study hall. Any math teacher would be willing to help you understand it. After we completed the h.w. review, we went over section 6.4- Absolute value equations. Your homework is {Lesson 6.4.pdf}
March 5, 2013
Today we started with a warm-up online and then moved into section 6.3 (Compound Inequalities) We discussed how to solve compound inequalities, the notion of "and" vs "or", unions and intersections, and graphing solutions on a number line. You have homework due next class. Practice 6.3 is due on 3/7/13.
March 1, 2013
Today we began with a game of WIMP and then discussed sections 6.1 and 6.2 and went over any questions that may have arisen from me being out. We went over the homework assignments. I'm allowing any students who did not finish or who did not get it right the first time. I will grade those next week after everyone has turned the in again. Expect to move into the next section next week as well.
February 25-27, 2013
Due to illness I have been out and you had a substitute. The sub should have started sections 6.1 and 6.2 with you on Monday. The notes for that section can be downloaded here. {6-1 & 6-2 Notes.pdf} . You were to work on and complete the following 2 worksheets for next time. {6-2 Classwork.pdf} {6-2 Homework.pdf}
February 14, 2013- Happy Valentine's Day!!!
Today we began with a warm-up on the Grapher Program on our computer. You [[#|entered]] an unusual equation and graphed it on a 3-D coordinate plane. The results were interesting. Then we concluded the Geogebra Activity in class and I gave the answers to the last sheet. We discussed parallel and perpendicular lines and their slope relationships. I gave a few minutes to ask questions and look over the sheet before I gave you a quiz on section 5.6. If you were paying attention in class you should have realized that the problem that we did together on the board was almost the exact same problem on the quiz. There is no homework over break. We will start with Unit 6 when we return. Be prepared to speed things up a bit.
February 12, 2013
Today we began with a warm-up online. Then I got caught up with you since I hadn't seen you in a week. I collected the 5.5 Classwork sheet that was due the day the sub was in. I went over that worksheet and answered questions. Then I let you [[#|continue]] for the remainder of the period on the Geogebra Activity since many did not finish when I was out. That is your homework due next class. 2/14/13. {Geogebra Activity for Parallel and Perpendicular Lines.pdf} . You will have a quiz on section 5.6 next class as well.
February 8, 2013
SNOW DAY!!!
February 6, 2013
Today you had a sub in class. You had to [[#|complete]] and online warm-up and then take the 5.4/5.5 Quiz. After that you began a Geogebra Activity on Parallel and Perpendicular Lines. There is no homework for next class.
February 4, 2013
After a short warm-up graphing lines in S-I form and finding slopes of lines, we moved into the third and final form of a linear equation- Point-slope form. I explained the origins of point-slope form, describing how we use one known point and second unknown point "The Ghost Point" to rewrite our slope formula. The slope formula is then rewritten as y=y1=m(x-x1) We took a look at how to write the point-slope form of an equation knowing the slope and one point. Also we wrote the equation if we knew two points on the line. Finally, we examined how to convert equation forms from point-slope to standard form. This will come in handy when we graph linear equations and are asked to find certain aspects of the line. [[#|Your]] homework is to complete: {5.5 Practice.pdf} for next time. Also, there will be a quiz on sections 5.4 and 5.5 writing equations and graphing lines in both slope intercept and standard forms.
January 31, 2013
Today we began the second of three forms of a linear equation-Standard Form. This is Ax+By=C form. Remember that A can't be negative or a fraction, so you may have to adjust your equation a bit. We also learned how to graph equations in standard form. We use the x and y-intercepts to graph. These are found by substituting 0 in for x and y. These two points become the basis for our graph. Your homework was to complete the graphing worksheet. {Graphing Lines SF.pdf}
January 29, 2013
In today's class we continued and finished with writing equations of lines in slope-intercepts form. We also learned how to graph lines that are in slope-intercept form and how to recognize and graph "special cases". Remember that those are the horizontal and vertical lines. As a continuation of our art project, I made a photocopy of our Camden Hills Picture and you chose 5 lines on the picture. Then you had to find the equation of those 5 lines by finding the slope and y-intercept. At the end of the period, I handed out a worksheet on graphing lines in slope-intercept form. This is your homework. {Graphing Lines SI.pdf}
January 25, 2013
We began the class today in our new seating arrangement. The fates chose your seat and your partners. Then we did a timed online warm-up involving the mean. After the warm-up we continued with our notes on Section 5.4, the Slope-Intercept form of a linear equation. We worked on examples of how to write the equation based on different given [[#|information]]. Then we had a classwork assignment, which was collected after 20 minutes. {Practice 5-4.pdf}
Because class was a little shorter today due to the Freshman Circles, we had just enough time to do an art project. You had to draw a picture of what you think of when you think of Camden Hills. There was a catch- you had to draw the picture using only straight lines. We're going to take these pictures and do something with them next time. There is no [[#|homework]] for the weekend.
January 23, 2013
Today we began with a warm-up on the board involving a tilted container of water. Then we reviewed the Midterm Exam. I answered any questions still lingering on that material. Then we continued on with section 5.4- Slope Intercept form of a linear equations. In class we worked on a little review of finding the slope of a line knowing two points on the line. Then we took some notes on Section 5.4. We did not finish the notes for this section today, so there is no [[#|homework]] for next class.
January 15, 2013
Semester 1 Exam Day!!! Good Luck!!!
January 11, 2013
The entire class was dedicated today to finishing up any old [[#|work]] and working on the Practice Exam for the midterm. You had 1 hour to work on the practice and then we went over the answers. I know that we went over them quickly, but this material was covered in class and today was not the day to "teach" how to do things. Instead it was a day to get organized, refresh your memory and use your resources. We did go over the answers so everyone should have something to work with when you review again before your exam. Your exam is on Tuesday 1/15/13. If you have any questions you can see me anytime before the exam. I WILL NOT [[#|answer]] questions the day of the exam.
January 9, 2013
I gave some time today to work on the inverse variation problems on the worksheet after we took some notes. That was collected at the end of class. For those who finished early, you had time to: a. [[#|Complete]] any warm-ups, b. work on make-up work, c. begin the Midterm Practice Exam. We will [[#|continue]] working on the practice exam next time and go over the answers. It is NOT homework.
January 7, 2013
After going over the slope worksheet Practice 5.2 and answering questions, we plowed right along into the next section, 5.3 on direct and inverse variation. I only got to go over direct variation today and I handed out a worksheet for homework. You only needed to do the direct variation problems on the worksheet for homework. You can find the notes on the Unit 5 page to the left. The homework is here. {Direct-Inverse Practice.pdf} It is due 1/9/13
January 3, 2013
We continued on with the new concept of slope by doing an online exploration on slope. {Exploration-slope.pdf} This was considered classwork and most people finished it during the period. When that was finished I handed out Practice 5.2 A/B, which was a continuation of finding the slope using a graph and using two points on a line. This is your homework, due next class, 1/7/13. {5.2 Defining Slope.pdf}
December 21, 2012
Today we had a fun class with some fun activities and games. There is no homework due over break.
December 19, 2012
I collected your Unit 4 Tests today. Today in class, we went over the homework on page 223, and then we began with a new section on finding the slope of a line. We looked at a few ways to find the slope. How do we find the slope when we have the graph of a line? How do we find the slope if we are given two points on the line? Each of these uses the ratio rise/run to find. We took some creative notes in class to help us and then I handed out a worksheet on finding the slope for classwork.
December 17, 2012
No class due to snow!!! You should be working on your Unit 4 Test at home. You may use any of your resources to help you along the way. Please don't wait until the last minute to start. This test takes awhile and there are many parts. If you need a protractor and/or compass for your pie graph, you should see me to sign one out.
December 13, 2012
We began class with a quick timed warm-up. Then I handed out your Unit 4 Tests and we discussed what I expect. Unit 3 material is closed out for the year, so you can no longer redo anything from Unit 3. With that being said, we began Unit 5 today by talking about relations and functions. We discussed what makes a relation and function and how to find their domain and range. We also looked at how to develop an equation based on a linear graph, and how to determine the missing part of an ordered pair if you know the equation. You are to complete Pg 223 (5-12) for homework.
December 11, 2012
After a brief warm-up we began to discover the various way that we can display data and how those different types of displays can be useful. All of this is leading up to your Unit 4 Test, which will take a month's worth of climate data and have you analyze it. The last half hour of the class was dedicated to doing a "dry run" of our unit test. I gave you a week's worth of data. Many of you did not finish, so you need to complete that for homework. It is due next class.
December 7, 2012
Today we began in on the next section of our book, which covers the measures of central tendency: mean, median, mode, range, and a 5th, the average deviation. We discussed how to find these measures and their significance. We looked a a frequency table of our sibling numbers and used that to find all 5. There was no homework for the day.
December 5, 2012
Today we looked at another special ratio: The Golden Ratio. 1:1.1618. 1.1618 is called "Phi", named after the greek philosopher and mathematician, Phideas. He discovered that objects in this ratio were perceived to be more aestetically pleasing. We looked at some human faces to see how close they came to the golden ratio.
There is a quiz next class 12/7/12 over sections 4.1-4.3. This covers ratios, proportions, and percents as proportions.
December 3, 2012
We went over the homework this morning, looking at how to do problems with percents as proportion. Then we did an in-class activity with probability. We rolled dice and examined how close our experimental probability was the the theoretical probability. No homework for next class.
November 29, 2012
Today we began with a warm-up on reading and interpreting line graphs. We then went over the homework, which was about solving proportions and word problems with proportions. I then began to discuss midterm exams and what they will be like. I also gave you some ideas of how you could study for your math midterm. Here's what I said:
1. Review old test and quizzes and make sure you can do every problem on them. If you still can't do certain problems, begin practicing those types by looking in the book for more examples or contacting me for more practice.
2. Correct old homework assignments.
3. Make flashcard for any vocabulary.
4. Don't wait until the day before to study, and then spend 8 hours studying. Start now and study a little bit each day 10-20 minutes tops.
I did continue on in Unit 4 by discussing percents used at ratios in proportion problems. We looked at how to solve percent problems two ways:
the percent proportion method, and the key word method. You will be responsible for knowing both methods. I was going to do section 4.4 today, but we didn't get to it, so we did classwork instead during the last 15 minutes. Your homework for next class is Pg 176 (43-62)(67,72,73)
{4-2 Notes.pdf}
November 27, 2012
Today in class I handed back your Unit 3 Tests. We went over each problem and answered any questions. Remember that you can retake this test, if you feel that you can do better the second time. You just need to come to me and ask. Also, we began in on Unit 4 with section 4.1- ratios and proportions. We talked about what a ratio was and how to solve proportions, as well as how to determine if we have a true proportion. We looked at proportions in context of some Geometry by looking at similar figures.
{4-1 Notes.pdf}
Your homework for next class is Pg 168 (13-51 odds)
November 20, 2012
We had an in class activity that involved solving equations. You had to solve the puzzle in order to complete a task, which earned you a tasty treat.
November 16, 2012
Unit 3 Test Day. There is no homework for the weekend.
November 14, 2012
We started with a timed warm-up today on the distributive property and solving two-step equations. While you were working on that, I handed back all of the work that you've turned in over the last week. You had the opportunity to ask questions and correct mistakes on any homework OR to work on the practice test for Unit 3. Your Unit 3 Test will be on Friday. Here is the practice test. {Practice Test}
November 9, 2012
Today we began with a very short online warm-up to get us ready for class. I took a few minutes after the warm-up to discuss The Pit and the Pendulum movies that you watched for homework last night. I then went through the experiment that you conducted in class. We looked at the formula used to find the period of a pendulum given the length of the pendulum. We found some data to plug into the formula and then manipulated the formula to find the length of the pendulum given the period. Overall a successful class. There is no homework due next class.
November 7, 2012
Today we began with a graded warm-up, which turned out to be more of a half-class group assignment. I was fine with that. You all stayed focused and worked collaboratively, which is what I had hoped for. After you finished the assignment, we turned our attention to section 3.6- Formulas and literal equations. We learned how to use formulas, by substituting valued into know formulas, and we also looked at manipulating equations to solve for other variables. Remember that this is what real-life math looks like. The homework for next class has two parts:
1. Watch the two videos on the Unit 3 Page of the website.
2. Complete the Literal Equations Worksheet at the bottom of the Unit 3 page. {Literal Equation worksheet.pdf}
On Friday we will have a guest in class for a short time. We will be doing an in-class experiment using pendulums and the pendulum formulas. You will be using that formula and manipulating it to answer questions.
November 5, 2012
This is the first day of the 2nd quarter. Today we finished up sections 3.4 and 3.5 by reviewing the homework and working on a group paper on solving equations. The paper was a hodge-podge of different types of equations, some one-step, some two, some multi. You were to work as a group to solve 20 problems, showing all of your work, then putting them on 1 page. This took us to the end of the period. There is no homework due next class.
November 1, 2012
Today I allowed people to continue to finish working on any warm-ups online. Remember that the warm-ups are due at the end of the day on Friday 11/2/12. Then we continued on with sections 3.4 and 3.5, which covered multi-step equations and the distributive property revisited. We did many examples on the board today so that we had good practice for our homework. {3-4 to 3-6 Notes.pdf}
{Practice 3.4.pdf}
October 30, 2012
Today we began with Unit 3, solving equations. We practiced one-step and two-step equations, but we also learned that we need to justify our steps. We talked about the addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division property of equality. You got to start to work on your homework, which is a purple practice sheet on solving two step equations. The notes for sections 3.1-3.3 can be downloaded here. {3-1 to 3-3 notes.pdf}
October 26, 2012
Today we started with a warm-up and then corrected our Unit 2 Tests. I assume that many people will want to retake it. The end of the quarter is Friday 11/2. The retake MUST be done by then.
October 24, 2012
We took the Unit 2 Test today. There was an opportunity to get some extra credit if you completed the worksheet after the test. We will begin the new unit on Friday.
October 22, 2012
Today we began with a warm-up and then finished off Section 2.6 and 2.7 with a review of the problems on the Practice Sheets. Then we reviewed for the Unit 2 Test by playing Jeopardy. Your Unit 2 Test is on Thursday 10/24/2012
October 18, 2012
We took the NWEAs in class today. No new material. No homework.
October 16, 2012
Today was a shortened period due to the Pop Tech assembly. We had an off-line warm-up, in which we figured out how many dominoes laid end-to-end it would take to reach the moon. We figured out that it would take approximately 3 trillion dominoes. After the warm-up we reviewed the material from section 2.6 and 2.7, which you learned while I was out. I answered any questions and gave you some more information to make things a little easier. Then we were dismissed. I handed back Practice 2.6/2.7. This is to be resubmitted to me next class- 10/18/12
October 12, 2012
Today I was out and you had a substitute. You should have completed the warm-up first. The sub went over the answers to Practice 2.5. That was your homework for today. For the remainder of the period you should have looked over sections 2.6 and 2.7 in your books and taken some notes. You were then given Practice 2.6/2.7 to do for classwork, but you only needed to do the odds. The sub collected that and I will be looking for completeness and correctness. There is no homework for the weekend.
{Practice 2.6A.pdf}
{Practice 2.7A.pdf}
October 10, 2012
Today we began with a warm-up online that reviewed adding/subtracting/multiplying/dividing integers and absolute values. Then we finished Section 2.5 by going over the Properties of Addition/Multiplication. Groups made posters of these properties and presented them to the class while they took notes. I clarified a few of them so that they were easier to understand. At the end of the period, I handed out practice 2.5, which focused on how those properties are used in Algebra. Most people did not finish this in class, so Practice 2.5 became the homework for next class.
{Practice 2.5.pdf}
October 4, 2012
After going over the homework on operations with integers, we took the quiz on absolute value graphs and functions. In the last half hour of the class, we started section 2.5 by making posters on the Properties of Addition and Multiplication. We will continue with this after the weekend. There is no homework.
October 2, 2012
Today we continued on with absolute value graph and functions. We discussed how functions work and what happens to the absolute value parent function when we add, subtract or make negative. The graph moves or transforms. You will have a quiz on this material on Thursday 10/4/12. When we finished with absolute value functions, I continued on in Chapter 2 with adding/subtracting/multiplying/dividing integers. You're homework is Practice 2.2-2.4.
Sept 28, 2012
Today we began with a warm-up of reading and analyzing bar graphs. Then we played a game of W.I.M.P. Today's object was a BATTERY. After W.I.M.P. we explored absolute value graphs a little more, focusing on vertical translations. Next week, we'll look at horizontal translations and reflections of the absolute value parent function. There is no homework over the weekend.
Sept 26, 2012
I handed back the tests, which I think were great!!! Many of you completed the extra credit work from the book, so you received bonus points on your test. We went over the test a little before we moved on to Unit 2. Today we explored the number classification system, especially the Real Number System. We learned about real numbers, rational numbers vs. irrational numbers, integers, whole numbers, and counting/natural numbers. We completed a worksheet for classwork {Classifying numbers worksheet} and I collected it. For homework I handed out Practice 2.1, from which you should complete both sides.
{Practice 2.1.pdf}
Sept 24, 2012
Test Day!!! We took the Unit 1 Test today.
Sept 20, 2012
Today we took another look at patterns in numbers with our warm-up. Then we continued on with working on our Unit 1 Practice Test. Some of you completed it at home, but it was not homework. The rest of us should have finished it in class. When the Practice Test was completed, you had the opportunity to do some extra credit work from the book. If you complete Pgs 50-51 (all) then you can receive +5 points. If you do it, then it should be turned in with your test on Monday. Remember...you have a Unit 1 Test on Monday!!!
Sept 18, 2012
Today we took a look at our quizzes. Some were better than others, but overall, most people did well. You should definitely make sure that you understand the quiz material before you take the Unit 1 test next week. We finished off the unit today by doing another scatter plot, using real life data and technology. We examined the correlation between free and reduced lunch rates with bicycle helmet rates. We saw that there was a negative correlation, but we took that one step further. We analyzed that data, not just crunched the numbers. I asked you to describe a possible cause for the negative correlation, and then make a projection using the linear equation that we generated. This is what math is all about!! When we finished with our scatter plot data, I handed out the Unit 1 Practice test {Practice Test Unit 1.pdf} to start in class. This was classwork, not homework, but we will work on it in class next time. I will give you the answers and an opportunity to ask questions before you take your test on Monday 9/24/12.
Sept 14, 2012
At the start of today's class, we did not have a warm-up. It was quiz day!! Upon inspection, I think most people did quite well. I will have those graded A.S.A.P. Not long after we all finished the quiz, the FIRE ALARM went off. You guys did great. You stuck together, you moved off the road. I was impressed. When we finally got back to the room, we started in on Section 1.6, which was about Scatter plots and correlation. We talked about positive, negative, and no correlation between variables. We also talked about dependent and independent variables before we began a classroom experiment- The Wave. We only had 23 people in class to do the wave. Want to see 160,000 people do the wave at the Bristol Motor Speedway? Click here. The energy was high, but we got a chance to take data, plot data on Geogebra, and find the line of best fit. We looked at the equation of the best fit line and changed it to y=mx+b form. That's when class ended. You have no homework for the weekend. Have fun!
Sept 12, 2012
Today we began with an online warm-up and then went over the homework due today. There weren't many questions so I assume that everyone understood what they were doing. We took a step back to our sequences and looked at how to find the nth term of a sequence which doesn't have a constant 1st difference. We had to break our terms into 2 factors and then deal with each factor separately. There is no homework due next class, but there will be a quiz on sections 1.1 thru 1.3.
Sept 10, 2012
Today in class you had a sub. I had a sick daughter and she had to stay at home. In class today, the sub went over your homework and then suggested that you take a look at the next section in your book. You had to complete a vocabulary sheet in class and then begin on your homework, which was a packet called Practice 1.4
Sept 6, 2012
In today's class we began by looking at Mr. Burns's Shortcut to adding/subtracting fractions. I mentioned that this shortcut (also called the bow-tie or butterfly method) can be used in high level mathematics as well, so it's worth getting it down. I gave a warm-up using this shortcut on thatquiz.org. You now have two warm-ups that deal with arithmetic with fractions. I LOVE FRACTIONS!!! Check out this link if you need a refresher.
http://www.algebra.com/algebra/homework/NumericFractions/jgr45.lesson
After a short review of what we discussed last class on sequences, we started looking at extending sequences, specifically using an expression for the nth term. Today we explored how to find the nth term of a sequence if the sequence has a constant 1st difference. There are some notes which might help find the nth term. You can download them here {nth term notes.pdf} . Next class, we'll look at what happens if there is a constant 2nd difference. It's much more complicated.
We re-examined some math vocabulary and PEMDAS. All things that you have seen before.
Your homework for next class (9/10/12) is: Pg 16 (9-39 Multiples of 3) & Pg 21 (19-37 Odds)(43-55 Odds)
Sept 4, 2012
We began class today with a warm-up on fractions. I briefly explained the warm-up routine and how it benefits you at the end of the quarter. I talked about the minimum passing warm-up grade. After the warm-up I handed out a Algebra Book Scavenger Hunt {Alg book scavenger hunt.pdf} , which I collected for a classwork grade.
Then in class I doubled checked your homework, which consisted of 3 things:
1. A covered book.
2. A class binder
3. A signed contract
We began in with section 1.1- Sequences and Patterns- quickly going over what types of sequences there are and how to find the constant 1st difference and/or the constant 2nd difference.
Because we ran out of time, we did not get to the classwork, so there is NO HOMEWORK FOR NEXT CLASS.

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/WBMZRBB

You can find a running journal of our daily [[#|work and]] [[#|assignments]] This page will be a great resource for you to [[#|complete]] your [[#|work]] and study.
June 5, 2013
I gave until 10:00 Am to finish the factoring simple quadratic trinomials activity. That was worth a total of 10 points in the grad book and I came around to check and make sure that groups either finished or made ample progress to assess. All groups received either a 9 or 10 out of 10. After the was finished, we moved into factoring trinomials that do not have a=1. We learned two methods for factoring/solving these. Method #1 was the Long-Reverse of FOIL or "split the middle" method; Method #2 was exclusive to Mr. Burns and that was the "Slide and Divide Method. We took a look at both methods and I'll leave it to you to decide which method you prefer. You will be required to know one method for your final exam. I handed out a worksheet on factoring that is due for homework. You only need to do the evens and I want you to actually go ahead and solve the last 4 problems. That is due 6/7/13.
June 3, 2013
Today I gave about 10 minutes to complete any missing warm-ups still on your list. Hopefully you've finished them all by now. They are due on Friday at 3pm. That is when I'm going to close them out and put the warm-up grades into the gradebook. I went around to check and see if you completed your homework due for today. Then I asked if anyone had any questions on the homework assignment. We spent about 15 minutes reviewing factoring by GCF and grouping, then we moved into factoring quadratic trinomials, where a=1. Remember that we look for factors of "c" that add up to "b". In the last 30 minutes of class we worked on a group activity. Many of you didn't finish, so we'll pick up with that in the beginning of next period. There is no homework due next class.

You can find a running journal of our daily [[#|work and]] [[#|assignments]] This page will be a great resource for you to [[#|complete]] your [[#|work]] and study.
June 3, 2013
Today I gave about 10 minutes to complete any missing warm-ups still on your list. Hopefully you've finished them all by now. They are due on Friday at 3pm. That is when I'm going to close them out and put the warm-up grades into the gradebook. I went around to check and see if you completed your homework due for today. Then I asked if anyone had any questions on the homework assignment. We spent about 15 minutes reviewing factoring by GCF and grouping, then we moved into factoring quadratic trinomials, where a=1. Remember that we look for factors of "c" that add up to "b". In the last 30 minutes of class we worked on a group activity. Many of you didn't finish, so we'll pick up with that in the beginning of next period. There is no homework due next class.
May 28, 2013
We started with a warm-up online this morning. Then we went over the long homework assignment. Many people had it completed and asked really good questions while we went over it. I was actually impressed with the quality of the questions asked. We didn't have much time after the homework review, but we did begin to talk about the GCF and finding the GCF of polynomials. We'll start factoring next class.

You can find a running journal of our daily [[#|work and]] [[#|assignments]] This page will be a great resource for you to [[#|complete]] your [[#|work]] and study.
May 28, 2013
We started with a warm-up online this morning. Then we went over the long homework assignment. Many people had it completed and asked really good questions while we went over it. I was actually impressed with the quality of the questions asked. We didn't have much time after the homework review, but we did begin to talk about the GCF and finding the GCF of polynomials. We'll start factoring next class.
There is no homework, but here is the classwork assignment. {GCF monomials.pdf}
May 23, 2013
We began finishing up the addition and subtraction of polynomials, and we began multiplication of polynomials today by discussing FOIL and the distributive property. We began the homework in class, then I handed out more work to be completed over the long holiday weekend. This will be collected and graded on 5/28/13.
{Homework 9.1-9.3.pdf}
May 21, 2013
I handed back the Unit 8 Test today extending an invitation to earn back some points. If you choose, you may correct the incorrect answers on your test, showing all work and/or explanations, and submit them to me on a separate piece of paper by 5/28/13. In turn you will earn back up to 1/2 of the points that you lost on the original problem. We sometimes call these "supercorrections" in the math department. You will see these more and more as the years progress.
today on PolygonsPolynomials and Adding/Subtracting Polygons.Polynomials. We discussed
May 16, 2013
We took the Unit 8 Test today in class. We will begin the next unit next class.