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May 12-16, 2008

This page contains the assignments planned for 7^th grade math, pre-algebra, and language arts; and 8^th grade math and algebra. Due to assemblies, early dismissals, etc., all assignments are subject to change.

Seventh Grade

Subject	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
Math Period 7	Review for semester exams	Review	Review	Semester Exam	Problem solving
Pre-Algebra Period 9	Review for semester exams	Review	Review	Semester Exam	Finish Survivor
Language Arts Period 8	Review for semester exams	Review	Review	Semester Exam, part one (spelling)	Semester Exam part two (grammar)

All journals will be collected weekly on Fridays.

Eighth Grade

Subject	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
Algebra Period 3	Class Trip	Review for exams	Semester Exam	Problem solving	Graduation practice
Math Period 4	Class Trip	Review for exams	Semester Exam	(same)	(same)

Parents and Students: Don’t forget that extra math help is offered during lunch. Thursday is for 8^th grade students, and Friday is for 7^th grade students. Just bring your lunch and your questions!

***The 8^th-grade class will be going to Fun City Monday May 12, 2008. NO electronics such as cell phones, I-pods, portable video games, or portable DVD players are allowed on the trip. Lunch is provided for everyone. Everyone must wear the shirt that has been provided for the trip.

Tests/Projects:

whites@westprairie.org

Illinois Academic Standards

Middle School Math

State Goal 6: Demonstrate and apply a knowledge and sense of numbers, including numeration and operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division), patterns, ratios, and proportions

State Goal 7: Estimate, make and use measurements of objects, quantities and relationships and determine acceptable levels of accuracy

State Goal 8: Use algebraic and analytical methods to identify and describe patterns and relationships in data, solve problems, and predict results

State Goal 9: Use geometric methods to analyze, categorize and draw conclusions about points, lines, planes, and space

State Goal 10: Collect, organize, and analyze data using statistical methods; predict results; and interpret uncertainty using concepts of probability

Math web sites that may be of interest:

http://www.aaamath.com/

http://mathforum.org/dr.math/index.html

http://www.explorelearning.com/

http://www.cut-the-knot.org/index.shtml

Tips for studying math:

1. Frequent short study periods produce better results than "cramming".

2. Review previous sections a little each day.  Try making an index card file of rules, procedures, formulas, strategies, steps, etc.  Make reviewing fun by "shuffling the deck" of index cards and "dealing them out" to see whether or not you can recall the information.  

3. Neatly write out every step of the problem.  If our work is a mess, so is the visual input that is provided to the brain.

4. After practicing a problem, have someone check the process. If your process is wrong, the more you practice the incorrect steps the harder it will be learn the correct method.

5. Practice as much as possible. Just watching the teacher do the problem does not develop your ability to do the process.  Learning cannot be thought of as a "spectator sport".

6. Talk to your teacher regarding your progress, concerns, and goals.  

7.  Find a study partner.  It's always easier to solve problems when someone else is there to work at it with you.  Research has found that students who study in groups perform better than those who study alone.

8.  Label and date your notes from each class discussion.  Do the same with your homework.