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September 17, 2017

+ Aim: By the End of

the Year…
Math: The Only Subject that Counts Solving Students will be able to
solve systems of
Back to School Newsletter for Algebra 1 equations through
graphical and numerical
representations and by
factoring polynomials.
Graphing Students will be able to
graph equations and
inequalities by hand and
with the aid of
page 3 technology.
Justifying Students will be able
to justify their
solutions using
multiple methods
and be able to
explain their own
reasoning to other
students.
Analyzing Students will be able to
analyze their own work
and reasoning as well as
others’

Problem Students will be able to

Solving problem solve in group
activities using the
technological applications
described below.

+ Preparing Students For their Futures One

“Mathematics is Math Application at a Time
not about To Parents and/or Guardians:
numbers,
Eighth grade is a critical developmental period examining the diagram above, we find that
equations,
computations, or for your children, especially in terms of their both mathematics and technology apply across

algorithms: it is learning. Setting students up for success starts
about here: the foundational skills acquired during this
understanding.” stage will prepare them for future success in
high school math classes and beyond. In this
-William Paul Thurston
rapidly advancing community, instructional
technology is now an essential part integrated
into a student’s learning experience. While
the wide variety of disciplines that your
students encounter. In this algebra class we
will explore these knowledge banks
simultaneously to extend math comprehension
and increase career readiness through two
math applications: Geometer’s Sketchpad and
meStudying: Algebra 1.
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12 Check: x = x - 2
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For x=4:
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4 =4-2
6
2=4-2
2=2
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f(x) = x
For x=1:
1 =1-2
–5 5 10 15 1=1-2
–2 q (x ) = x – 2 1 ≠ -1
–4
So x=4 is the only solution.
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Geometer’s Sketchpad: Technological Instruction Engaging More

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Students in Problem Solving
This computer application promotes Sketchpad. In the diagrams above, I have with technology – benefit them in the
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an interactive, deeper understanding of
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mathematical concepts by functioning as
an interactive
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whiteboard. Features on this
application that this algebra class will
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concentrate on include rate of change,
ratio and
– 20proportion, and functional
relationships. The Geometer’s Sketchpad
program gives us the opportunity to
explore these topics in its program through
straightforward access to graphs, “scratch
paper,” and calculations. Practice with this
application now can also prepare students
for more advanced math classes where
they construct polygons, reflect or
transform shapes in the coordinate plane,
and measure the circumference or arc
length of a circle.
In our case, we can apply solving a
system of equations to Geometer’s
represented the two ways that we could short- and long-term!
solve sqrt (x) = x -2: graphically and
This method of learning is successful
numerically. Students are able to input
because students are producing math.
functions into this application and then
Instead of “depositing” information into
adjust settings to their preferences for
your student’s head and asking them to
clarity (such as changing color or line
memorize, stick to a formula, and repeat,
thickness and inserting text or
students will be more engaged in this
mathematical symbols). Here we can see
application especially because they have
how technology can reinforce the ideas or
grown up using technology. Creating math
computations learned in class.
with technology certainly makes math
Conceptually comprehending that the
more relevant than if we were just staring
solution of this equation is the intersection
at equations on a piece of paper. They will
of these two functions on the graph is very
not only interact with the program and
important! All learners have access to
with me, but with each other to justify
these features that provide an engaging
their solutions or explain an idea to a peer
learning experience. Additionally, while
(which further engrains that idea in their
exploring Geometer’s Sketchpad in class,
own mind).
students can work collaboratively, acting
as an expert or asking for assistance. These
problem solving skills – both in math and

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meStudying: Algebra 1
Providing a Range of Study Quizzes

With over 400 questions, meStudying: feedback in two ways: correctness and a step- formulas. It at least serves as a good
Algebra 1 is an iPad application that can act as a by-step explanation. Even though this starting point to capture student
quick practice tool or an extensive review with application cannot stand in for an instructor, understanding. My students and I
more detailed explanations. With problem banks these explanations lead students through the could also analyze the results of
for 12 algebra topics (from ratios and entire work of a problem. The inclusion of both these quizzes. I might need to
proportions to data analysis, with an additional written reasoning and numerical computations review a topic that all students
honors level section), this easily negotiable serves more student needs, whether those needs struggled with on these study
study tool records student progress in these may be help with a small error in the numbers quizzes. Students could also partner
subsections. With this application, I can ask or a more significant logical misstep. With only up with a classmate whose weakness
students to study specific material that we have one teacher and 30 students, this app will help was another student’s strength. Once
just covered in class or that they will be quizzed more students learn and practice again, students can utilize their
on. With their different learning styles come simultaneously. Students can therefore practice social and communication skills
different student strengths and weakness. From more efficiently and independently, empowered through this suitable and appealing
this, students could also decide which sections by the practice and study skills that are literally study tool. Middle and high
to study and become designers of their own at their fingertips. schoolers should take advantage of
learning. this technological study platform.
Though there is not an exhaustive supply of
When the study mode is turned on, as soon problems, meStudying gives students a good
as a student submits a response to a multiple selection for each topic with easy access to
choice question, the app provides immediate scratch paper, a simple calculator, and list of