We have finished our work in Geometry. We first learned how to find the area of basic shapes : rectangles, parallelograms, triangles, and circles. We explored using formulas to find the surface area of 3-d objects: rectangular prisms, cubes, pyramids, and cylinders.
We are now learning how to use a blueprint to make sled kites. Making kites offers students lots of opportunity to measure, to problem solve, and to be creative! Once we are finished we’ll have a spectacular afternoon of kite flying!
Next we’ll explore integers and how to compute with signed numbers.
Our final units will include an analysis of data in order to create circle graphs both by hand and with the computer. And finally, a unit on developing spatial skills in architecture. Students will identify, build, and draw front, back, left, right, and aerial views of structures. Students will also work to draw structures in 3-d using grid paper.
If there is time we will look at the art work of M.C. Escher and view a film that highlights his life’s works .
We will explore triangles.
- Learn to classify triangles according to sides and angles.
- Learn the side property and the angle property
We will use formulas to find the area of:
- Parallelograms A = b x h
- Triangles A = b x h ÷ 2
We will explore circles
- Vocabulary: radius, diameter, chord, circumference, Pi,
- Find the circumference C = pi x d
- Find the area A = pi x r x r
We are currently studying fractions and ratios.
Next, we will try our “luck” with probability.
Finally, we will review for the Connecticut Mastery Test in March.
December
Our next unit of study will be geometry. In geometry we will learn or review:
- geometric symbols
- lines, rays, planes
- perpendicular, parallel, and skew lines
- angle identification
- angle estimations.
- classification of quadrilaterals and other polygons
- translations, rotational and reflective symmetry
We will measure angles and practice using a ruler to construct stars.
We will use the art of origami in our box constructions.
November:
We’ve completed our Study of Data Analysis.
We learned how to organize and graphically display data. We learned how to analyze data using the mean, median, mode, range, and outlier. A major focus was what does the mean mean? It is a difficult concept to grasp that the mean can be 2.5 bikes. Some students realize that the mean is just a number, while others continue to have difficulty. It is only an introduction and exposure to students at this point in their mathematical concept development. More to come in later grades!!
We’re wrapping up our study of Algebra. Now we are working to understand decimals. Our first task is to understand what decimals are and why we need them. We will see how decimals and fractions are alike. We will learn how to add, subtract, multiply and divide with decimals.
