Monday, November 30th

Sixth Grade

Lesson 48 - Dividing a number by a decimal. This is when the number on the outside of the division box is a decimal. Remember the rule: Over, Over, Up! First, move the decimal on the outside number until it is a whole number (it will go to the right). That's the first "over". Then, however many places you moved that decimal, move the decimal on the number inside the box over the same number of places. That's the second "over". Then, put the decimal up in the answer. Begin dividing like normal. For example: 5.464 divided by 0.02. In this problem, the 0.02 would be on the outside of the division box. In order for it to be a whole number, you have to move the decimal 2 places to the right so it is now just 2. Then, you'd move the decimal in the number 15.46 two places to right as well and have 546.4. Then, put the decimal up and divide by 2.

Seventh Grade

Spelling - First two pages of Unit 15 are due tomorrow.

Vocabulary - Unit 7 cards are due tomorrow. The unit is due Wednesday. The test will be on Thursday!

Grammar - Work on the punctuation packet. It will be due Thursday, but don't wait until Wednesday night to do it all!

Math - Lesson 4-8. Dividing by decimal numbers. See the 6th grade explanation above. The only difference is, you also have negative numbers. Remember the rule for signed numbers in division: if the signs are the same, it's positive. If the signs are different, it's negative.

Eighth Grade

Today, we spent time going over the distributive property. Be sure you understand the problems I gave you because there is a quiz tomorrow! For those of you that were absent today, please finish the worksheet with the expression on one side.

See you tomorrow!
Mrs. Swickey

Wednesday, November 18th

Sixth Grade

Today, the class took a test. There is no homework!

Seventh Grade

Spelling - Vocabulary Connections pages in Unit 14. Be sure you are studying each night!

Vocabulary - Unit Review for Units 4-6 is due tomorrow. Remember, you do not have to do the word families. There will be a test on Friday. You may use your cards if you have them.

Literature - Read the rest of Chapter 21 in Treasure Island and complete the worksheet for Part IV. Remember, you must answer the questions fully and in complete sentences! I expect thoughtful answers, not just whatever will get it done quickly.

Math - Lesson 4-2. #2-32 evens. Ordering and comparing decimal numbers. This was review for most everyone. Just remember, when you have negative numbers and are asked to write the numbers in order from least to greatest, think about the numbers without the negative and order them greatest to least. For example, -3.154 is LESS than -2.301. Another way to think about it is to imagine them on the number line. Whatever number would be furthest to the left on the number line is smallest.

Eighth Grade

We began reviewing for the Test over Chapter 3 which will be on Friday. You are to work the following problems from the practice test: #7-14, #21-38, and #45-48.

See you tomorrow!

Mrs. Swickey

Monday, November 16th

Sixth Grade

Lesson 45 - Writing Decimals in expanded notation and other kinds of multiplication. For the decimals in expanded notation, you will be using fractions for the numbers in decimal places. For example, 3.045 would be (3x1) + (4x 1/100) + (5 x 1/1000). The 4 is in the hundredth place so you multiply by 1/100. The 5 was in the thousandth place so you multiply by 1/1000.

The other kinds of multiplication are:

• When a multiplication dot is used between the number

• When a number and letter (or several letters) are stuck together. 3w, wl, bc, lwh, etc. These all mean to multiply the things stuck together.
  

• When parentheses are used: 3(5), (4)(8).

Seventh Grade

Spelling Unit 14 - First two pages.

Literature - Read chapter 19 of Treasure Island. The class took a quiz over literary elements and how they are used in the book.

Grammar - Using apostrophes. Ex. A & B. on page 352-354

Math - We discussed lesson 3-1 and the class turned it in. We did not have time for a new lesson. We will start one tomorrow!

Eighth Grade

Lesson 4-12 Absolute Value Equations

I promised you examples, so here you go! Remember the steps.

Step 1. ISOLATE THE ABSOLUTE VALUE ON ONE SIDE. (If you don't do this first, you will not get the correct answer.)

Step 2. Write what is inside the absolute value signs equal to both the positive and negative of whatever number is on the right side. You will have TWO equations.

Step 3. Solve both equations. You will have TWO answers.

Detailed explanation of the following problem is below.



First, you have to get the absolute value by itself. To do this, get rid of whatever is NOT in the absolute value sign, but is on the same side. In this case, you have to get rid of the -4 by adding 4 to both sides. Now you have the absolute value all alone on the left side and 12 on the right side.

Second, you set what is inside the absolute value equal to both +12 and -12. At this point, you don't use the absolute value lines anymore and you have the two equations:

b + 3 = 12 b + 3 = -12

Third, solve each of these equations as you already know how. You get TWO answers because there are two different numbers that would work for b in the above example.

Here's another example:
In this example, the first step is to get rid of the +4 by subtracting 4 from both sides. This gets the absolute value all alone on the left side. Now you can write what is inside absolute value (the a/10) equal to both +16 and -16. You will have two equations to solve now. You will get two answers again.

For the first several problems, you won't have to do step 1 because the absolute value is already all alone.

The assignment is #2-20 ALL. You will get two points for each equation.

See you tomorrow!
Mrs. Swickey

Thursday, November 12th

Sixth Grade

Lesson 43 - Simplifying, comparing, and ordering decimals. To simplify decimals, if the decimal numbers ends with zeroes, you can remove the last zeroes. For example, if you added two numbers and the answer was 5.030, you could take off that final zero and have 5.03. If you multiplifed two numbers and ended up with 40.000, you can remove the three zeroes after the decimal point and have the whole number, 40. (You don't need to put a decimal point if it is a whole number.) To compare decimal numbers, you need to line up the numbers as if you were going to add them. Fill in any spaces with zeroes to make each number have the same number of decimal places. Then, compare the numbers after the decimal points. For example, if you were to compare 0.03 and 0.4, you would write them like this:

0.03
0.40

and compare the numbers after the decimal, in the first number, there is just a three, in the second number, it's a 40, so 0.4 is larger.

To order, you do the same thing, only with more numbers. For example, if you needed to order these: 0.051, 0.04, 0.15, and 0.405

Line them up like this:

0.051
0.040
0.150
0.405

Notice that on the 0.04 and 0.15, I added a zero after them so that all four numbers would have three digits after the decimal point. Now, just order the numbers after the decimal. Since 40 is the smallest, 0.04 is the smallest. Next is 51, so 0.051, then 150, so 0.15, and 405 is largest so 0.405 is the biggest. Don't forget to write them in order: 0.04, 0.051, 0.15, and 0.405

Seventh Grade

Spelling - Study for the test over Unit 13 tomorrow!

The class took a Vocabulary test today, so there is no vocabulary or Grammar homework. After the test, the class wrote about their study habits and we did a few memory activities to discuss the importance of paying attention! We will discuss in detail the reasoning for doing the activities in class tomorrow.

Math - The class continued with the memory activities during math and took the vision screening test.

Literature - Read up through chapter 17 by tomorrow!

Eighth Grade

Lesson 3-9, #2-15. Multi-step equations with variables on both sides.

For the first two equations, you will just need to get the variables on the same side of the equation. To do this, add or subtract the term with the variable from both sides. (Do whatever you need to do to eliminate it from one side.) For example:

3x + 5 = 2x -3

Here, you would subtract 2x from both sides. This would eliminate 2x from the right side. On the left side you would now have 1x (or just x) because 3x - 2x = 1x. So you would then have this:

x + 5 = -3

To solve this, you would subract 5 from both sides. -3 - 5 = -8, so x = -8

To solve #4, and any that have parentheses as part of the problem, you must first eliminate the parentheses by using the distributive property. For example:

-2(4x - 8) = 10x + 2

So, you would distribute the -2 across the parenthesis by multiplying it by both 4x and -8. You would have:

-8x + 16 = 10x +2

Notice that when I multiplied -2 x -8, it is now positive 16. Be careful and include the signs that are in front of the numbers.

Now, you would get the terms with the variables on the same side of the equation by subtracting 10x from both sides.

-8x + 16 = 10x + 2
-10x -10x

-18x + 16 = 2

This eliminates the 10x on the right side and -8x - 10x = -18x would be on the left side.

Now you solve like normal by subtracting 16 from both sides and since 2 - 16 = -14, you'd be left with this.

-18x = -14

Now, divide both sides by -18. You would have the fraction -14/-18. Simplify by dividing both by 2 and eliminating the negative signs. Your answer would be 7/9.

I used Mimio to make this problem to show you how to solve problems with fraction bars and numbers in the denominator. Step by step instructions are written below.

Step 1: First think of what number would make a common denominator. In this case, the common denominator is 4. Now, multiply both sides by that number. On the left side, you would cross off the 2 on the bottom and make it a 1 (or just nothing) and cross off the 4 and make it a 2. Just like regular multiplying fractions. Then, on the right side, you would cross off both 4's. Now you have eliminated the denominators.

Step 2: On the left side, you are left with the 2, so you have to use distributive property to multiply it by x + 4. So it would be like doing this: 2(x+4) = 2x + 8, which it what it shows on the next line. Nothing happens on the right side, but if you had a number left on the top (instead of crossing it completely out like in this case) you would distribute there as well. You will have to do that on #6.

Step 3: Now you have an equation with variables on both sides. Subtract the x from both sides. This eliminates it on the right side and gives you just x on the left side. (2x - x = x)

Step 4: Now you have the equation, x + 8 = 9. Subtract 8 from both sides and you get your answer! x = 1

Remember, #9 is extra credit.

Also, be sure to show ALL the work. I will give you credit for both the answer and the work. (So, if you get the answer wrong but had some steps right, you will still get points.)

See you tomorrow!
Mrs. Swickey

Wednesday, November 11th

Sixth Grade

Lesson 42 - Equivalent division problems and missing numbers with decimals and fractions.

Seventh Grade

Spelling - Be sure to finish the unit by Friday... and study!

Vocabulary - There is a test tomorrow over Unit 6! Be sure to study tonight.

Literature - Read chapter 16 in Treasure Island.

Grammar - Rewrite your object paragraph. This is a second draft, but is not your final draft. Don't forget to skip lines!

Math - The class took a test today. We have reviewed for two days, but the class still did not do well on it. I will not take up anymore class time going over the material. The students are doing fine on the assignments, seem to understand during review, but it is not following through to the tests. Yesterday, I wrote problems on the board that were identical to the test problems except I just changed the numbers, and again, most of the students felt comfortable with the concepts, but that didn't help either. What I will do though, is allow those who wish to take the makeup test to stay after school tomorrow from 3:15-4:00 to take it. If this is a conflict for you, please write me at the address in the sidebar. We can discuss an alternate time.

Eighth Grade

Worksheet reviewing equations. Everyone is doing pretty well, but I want it to be solid before we move into harder equations.

See you tomorrow!
Mrs. Swickey

Monday, November 9th

Sixth Grade

Test Review 7. Today, we just worked through the test review. The test is tomorrow! No homework other than going over the review questions.

Seventh Grade

Spelling - Unit 13, first two pages.

Vocabulary - Unit 6 is due tomorrow! Please don't wait until the last night to complete the unit. That puts too much pressure on you! Be sure you are doing a little each day. I give you a full week to work on the unit. Take advantage of that!

Literature - We read chapter 15 in Treasure Island today. The homework is a worksheet with questions and activities for Part III (chapters 13-15). This is due tomorrow!

Math - We went over the practice test for Chapter 3 - Inequalities - today. We will continue to review tomorrow. The test will be Wednesday.

Eighth Grade

Lesson 3-7. #2-21 ALL. Remember, to solve two-step equations, you need to follow these steps:

1. Combine any like terms that are on the same side of the equation. (If necessary)
2. Eliminate any constant terms. (the numbers being adding or subtracted from the variable)
3. Eliminate the coefficients. (the numbers that the variable is being multiplied or divided by)

When working with fractions, if you have to add or subtract, use common denominators. If you have to multiply or divide, be sure you have changed any mixed numbers into improper fractions by using the u-turn. If you are dividing, remember that to divide a fraction is the same thing as multiplying by the reciprocal.

See you tomorrow!
Mrs. Swickey

Thursday, Nov. 5th

Sixth Grade

Lesson 40. Adding place holder zeroes to decimal problems.

Seventh Grade

Spelling - Test tomorrow over Unit 12. Be sure you are studying!

Literature - define the vocabulary words for Part III.

Math Lesson 3-6, #2-19 ALL. Dividing to solve inequalities. You solve these the same way that you do equations, remembering that when you divide BOTH SIDES by a negative number, you flip the sign! You all did a fantastic job today in class! Feel free to write if you need any clarification.

Eighth Grade

Lesson 3-5, #2-32 evens. Choose one of the challenge problems to solve. If you get it right, you will get extra credit! (If you missed one on #2-32, it cancels that out. If you miss zero, you will get about 5 points extra.)

See you tomorrow!
Mrs. Swickey

Wednesday

I'm sorry this is so late! It's been a long day.

Sixth Grade

Lesson 39 - Multiplying decimals. Remember, the important thing about multiplying decimals is to worry about where the decimal goes until after you've multiplied. You don't have to line up the decimals to multiply. Just ignore the decimals and multiply the numbers. Then, when you have finished multiplying, count how many numbers are AFTER a decimal in the problem. For example, if you had the problem 3.5 x 0.25, there would be three numbers after decimals, the 5 in 3.5, and the 2 and 5 in 0.25. So, you would count over three places from the right and put your decimal there. In the above problem, after multiplying you would have 875 - count over three places from the right of the 5 and you would have 0.875.

Seventh Grade

Spelling - Unit 12. Make sure you are working on the unit. It needs to be finished by Friday!

Vocabulary - Unit 6 cards are due on Monday and the unit is due Tuesday.

Literature - We read part of Chapter 13 in class today. Finish reading the chapter at home tonight.

Grammar - We worked on direct quotations today. For homework, complete Exercise B on page 335-336.

Math - We went over yesterday's assignment but did not have time for a new lesson due to Archbishop Beltran's visit!

Eighth Grade

Lesson 3-4, #6-40 Evens. Solving Equations with addition and subtraction. Remember, to solve these equations, you have to first check to see if you can combine any like terms on one side of the equals sign. For example, in the problem 5.8 + x -3.2 = 6.7, you can combine the 5.8 and -3.2 because they are both constant terms and are both on the left of the equals sign. After combining them, you have 2.6 + x = 6.7. Now, you need to get the variable by itself on one side so you need to subtract 2.6 from both sides. Your answer would be 4.1. Remember, you get the variable alone, by eliminating what is with it. To do that, you must subtract it if the number is positive, or add it, if the number is negative. In this problem, b - 3.5 = -7.2, you would ADD 3.5 to both sides because it has a minus sign in front of it. Then, to add 3.5 to -7.2, you would actually subtract the numbers because 7.2 is negative and 3.5 is positive. The answer would be -3.7. It is negative because 7.2 is bigger than 3.5 so you use its sign.

See you tomorrow!

Mrs. Swickey

Monday, November 2nd

Sixth Grade

Lesson 37 - Adding and subtracting decimals. The most important thing to remember with adding and subtracting decimals is to line up the decimal points! It's okay if the numbers aren't lined up on the right edge. Also, remember to carry any numbers into the next column.

Seventh Grade

*******DON'T FORGET YOUR PERMISSION SLIPS**************************

If you don't have your permission slip and money for the field trip on November 24th by tomorrow, you will not be able to go as I will not reserve a place for you! I want everyone to go so please remember.

Spelling - Unit 12. This is a unit review. Work the first two pages tonight.

Grammar - pp. 320-324. Exercise B and DWS. Please follow directions carefully!

Literature - Read Chapter 12 of Treasure Island and complete the Part II questions from the worksheet.

Math - Lesson 3-4, #2-20. You solve the addition or subtraction inequalities the exact same way that you solve equations. For the first page, you have to write the solution as a solution set. For example, if your answer was: x > -4, you would write the solution set as:

S={all the numbers greater than -4}

If your answer was: 7 < s="{all"> 7.

Eighth Grade

Lesson 3-2, #2-15 ALL and worksheet pages 24 & 26 EVENS ONLY. Today, we worked on simplifying expressions by combining like terms. Remember, you cannot combine terms that do not have the exact same variables. Also, on the side of the worksheet with subtraction between the parentheses, remember to distribute the negative sign to all the terms in the second parentheses. For example: (4xy + 3x - 2y) - (2xy + 5x - 7y)

First, you need to write the problem, distributing the negative sign across the second parentheses. So, you would have 4xy + 3x -2y - 2xy - 5x + 7y. Nothing in the first parenthesis changed, but the sign of each term in the second parenthesis did change. Now you can combine like terms. Remember to use the sign that is in front of each term. So, 4xy - 2xy = 2xy; 3x - 5x = -2x; -2y + 7y = 5y; so the answer is 2xy - 2x + 5y.

In the book, for the first section, remember to write three columns. # of terms, coefficients, and constant terms. For the first column, just write how many terms are in the expression, in the second column, identify the numerical coefficients of each variable, and in the constant column, write any constant terms - that is, numbers that do not have their own variables.

See you all tomorrow!

Mrs. Swickey