Happy November at all,
We have now completed chapters 1-4 in the program and will begin chapter 5 on Wednesday. (Half of the chapter 4 tests have been graded - I will correct the other half tomorrow, Tuesday.) Chapter 5 is all about ratios and proportions, a topic I very much enjoy teaching and one that is easily related to the world around us. We will be able to complete the chapter by Thanksgiving, but not before the end of quarter 1. So, your child's quarter 1 grade will consist of chapters 1-4 only. Report cards go home November 16.
Although this class completes most homework from the book, Khan Academy is assigned every once in a while. The site is great, but can be a little confusing at first. I've created this step-by-step guide for finding assigned problem sets and for checking your child's progress on the site, if you feel the need to do so. Check it out here: Khan Academy Tutorial (Since this class completes sets from several grades, a few of the windows may look slightly different.)
What you can do at home: Ask your child about income taxes! We did a "between chapters" lesson today on the three major income tax systems. It's a real-world lesson I love to do at some point each year. Research shows that middle schoolers love to engage in issues of fairness. Ask them, "Which type of income tax system do you think is most fair? Why?"
As always, I'm available for extra help on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Please let me know if there are any questions or concerns. Thank you!
Ms. Vila
