Mathematics

 

This year, our class is using the Harcourt Mathematics textbook.The emphasis is on problem solving. Just like in reading, now that students have developed some proficiency in basic math skills, we now start to apply those skills. Students become better problem solvers as they learn to apply their reading skills and the process of reasoning to solve problems.

We will go through text book Chapters 1-7. Then, usually around October, we will skip to Chapter 15. As we are working on Chapters 15-28, we will also begin memorizing multiplication facts. The last month or two of school, we will concentrate on multiplication and division skills, and complete Chapters 29 and 30.

In addition to textbook lessons, mathematics is supplemented with the Sunshine Math and Accelerated Math programs.

 

Pre-tests

For each math chapter, I will give a pre-test to any student who is interested in trying. Students who score a 90% or above on the pre-test will get an A for all of the assignments in the math chapter.

Instead of doing the regular class work, these students will be given an alternate assignment of more difficult, problem-solving activities. Most of the time, these assignments will be based on math concepts, but they may occasionally include enrichment projects in other subjects. These assignments will not be graded as part of the report card grade for math. However, students will still be held responsible for doing quality work. Also, any student who does not work quietly and independently will lose the privilege of doing independent work and will have to join the rest of the class in doing the regular chapter assignments.

 

Basic Fact Practice

Your child will be expected to memorize the basic addition and subtraction facts as well as multiplication and division facts. Three minute timed tests of 50 problems are given on a regular basis. Students earn a C for 20 to 29 problems correct, a B for 30 to 49 problems correct, and an A for 40 or more problems correct.

Often, mastering the basic facts takes a few minutes of practice at home daily in addition to the practice we do in class.

 

Online Textbook

Our math textbook is available online a www.harcourtschool.com. Click on the green "e-products" button. You must log in using a user name and password. See me if you need to know your child's user name and password. The Student Edition includes the following features:

Multimedia Glossary

  • Under the "Vocabulary" section of  Chapter Resources, click glossary terms to hear the words and see their corresponding definitions. Terms can also be viewed by clicking any vocabulary word highlighted in yellow.

Quick Review Quizzes

  • Under the "Warm Up" section of Lesson Resources, click the "Quick Review" link to access an interactive quiz that provides immediate feedback to students.

Problem of the Day

  • Under the "Warm Up" section of Lesson Resources, click the "Problem of the Day" link to access a challenging problem that reinforces problem-solving skills.

Number of the Day

  • Under the "Warm Up" section of Lesson Resources, click the "Number of the Day" link to access an interesting exercise that works with numbers.

Practice Set

  • Under the "Practice Set" section of Lesson Resources, click the "Practice Set Lesson" link to view an interactive set of questions that provides immediate feedback to students.

Interactive Activities

  • Under the "Activities" section of Lesson Resources, click the links to view interactive activities, Math Jingles, E-labs, Math Models, or CNN Video Activities.

Grades

Math grades are taken from chapter tests, class work, and basic fact assessments.

Because there are 30 chapters in our math textbook, chapter tests will occur frequently.