Overview

Welcome!

Applied Mathematics is the math class for all of NOVA's incoming 6th graders.  It truly is to help in the student's transition from elementary math class (whatever that may have entailed) to future math classes at NOVA.  There is really no "level" to this class, but there are a number of units and base skills that are expected.  Otherwise, what you get from this class is up to the students - they can stretch themselves as far as they are motivated to reach in algebraic concepts, practice old and new skills they feel unsure of, work individually and with others to problem-solve, experience working with math in various "real life" situations, and gain confidence and competence at the same time.  At the end of this course, Mr. Jeff and I seek to know each student individually and help everyone to know which math steps are the best next ones to take on the math horizon.

It has been brought to my attention that it might also help to not only have a space for incoming parents and students to reference (and ask questions), but also to post my "skills" syllabus ... so here you go!

September - mid-October:  Graphing, statistics, order of operations, and basic mechanics of math.

Mid-October - November: Decimals - computation, order of operations, and applications of; graphing of decimals.

December - mid-January:  Negatives - computation, order of operations, and applications. Graphing and explorations with.

Mid-January - Mid-February: Fractions - ALL operations with fractions including negatives, simplifying and how to use them in application.

February - Mid-March - Ratios, Proportions  - This unit focuses on deeper understanding and uses for these valuable concepts with lots of applications.

March - Probability and Percents - This unit builds on the previous units and reaches high into actually understanding and using these skills appropriately.

March - April - May - Finances and Living a Life - This touches some 8th grade finance social studies standards, but also requires many math skills through the 8th grade standards.

May - Batting clean-up: Reviews, extensions, whatever else we need to round out our school year!

Problem-solving and real-life applications are ongoing throughout the entire school year.  Everything we do can be used in situations that the students feel ready to tackle.  This is where you can stretch yourself and take math to the level you enjoy grappling with.

Again, the minimum requirements are to help the students feel successful and prepared for class, but there are no maximums ... we will take care of you!