Why Study Mathematics? (link to an article shared by Mr. Fertig)
Middle school mathematics makes a dramatic shift from the concrete world of elementary mathematics to the abstract world of high school algebra. All Corpus Christi Saints take 6th grade math, which begins the year with a review of decimals and fractions. After Christmas we introduce variables, writing expressions and solving simple one-step equations. After sixth grade math, the majority of Saints will take Pre-Algebra as 7th graders and Algebra I as 8th graders. They will then be ready for Geometry as high school freshmen. We will cover all 6th, 7th, 8th and Algebra I math standards as set by the Archdiocese and KSDE. Some students demonstrate readiness for Algebra I as 7th graders, as evidenced by both MAP and KITE standardized test scores and classroom performance. These students will then take Geometry as 8th graders and be ready for Algebra II as high school freshmen.
Students can expect daily math homework, regardless of the class they are in. My website is updated daily with homework assignments. Textbooks are available online, so students should always have access to all the information necessary to complete their homework. Tests are given every chapter. Quizzes are always announced in advance, and while rare for 6th grade, they are more common for Algebra students. The majority of homework assignments are graded for completion; students will know when assignments are graded "for straight points" (usually review worksheets). Calculators are allowed on the majority of assignments, with a few exceptions in 6th grade and even fewer restrictions in Algebra. A decent scientific calculator is a good purchase when preparing for 6th grade. (I personally like the TI-30XS Multiview; the TI-30 XIIS is also a popular choice.) Graphing calculators are unnecessary (and not allowed) at this level.
Students are always welcome to come ask for help just about any time I am not teaching, whether it is my plan time or during Mixed Core. It truly does not bother me one bit--I have learned that when the student has a question, that is the most teachable moment I can get! We also have Labs after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays for students to get help on any subject. Unlike the elementary labs, students do not need teacher permission to stay for labs. Any student can come to any labs for any (academic) reason.
If you are looking for summer math for your student, I have found Khan Academy and IXL Math to be helpful. Reviewing last year's work and/or previewing the upcoming year can be good if it doesn't become drudgery. I would also highly recommend any problem solving activities and games, instead of drill work. A few to try are: Equal vs Fair and Gerrymandering Task Activity Sheets. The card game Set is fabulous too (find it at the Toy Store downtown or online). Just keep them thinking, considering all possible solutions to any problem, and read as many books as you can.
Archdiocese Grading Scale
A+ 100%
A 99-96%
A- 95-94%
B+ 93-92%
B 91-89%
B- 88-87%
C+ 86-84%
C 83-78%
C- 77-75%
D+ 74-73%
D 72-70%
D- 69-68%
F 67-0%
Online Textbooks and Links
6th Grade Math www-k6.thinkcentral.com
Pre-Algebra, Algebra and Geometry https://www.pearsonrealize.com/index.html#/
Khan Academy www.khanacademy.org
Mrs. Powell's website
Dr. Trytten's website
Mr. Fertig's website
Middle school mathematics makes a dramatic shift from the concrete world of elementary mathematics to the abstract world of high school algebra. All Corpus Christi Saints take 6th grade math, which begins the year with a review of decimals and fractions. After Christmas we introduce variables, writing expressions and solving simple one-step equations. After sixth grade math, the majority of Saints will take Pre-Algebra as 7th graders and Algebra I as 8th graders. They will then be ready for Geometry as high school freshmen. We will cover all 6th, 7th, 8th and Algebra I math standards as set by the Archdiocese and KSDE. Some students demonstrate readiness for Algebra I as 7th graders, as evidenced by both MAP and KITE standardized test scores and classroom performance. These students will then take Geometry as 8th graders and be ready for Algebra II as high school freshmen.
Students can expect daily math homework, regardless of the class they are in. My website is updated daily with homework assignments. Textbooks are available online, so students should always have access to all the information necessary to complete their homework. Tests are given every chapter. Quizzes are always announced in advance, and while rare for 6th grade, they are more common for Algebra students. The majority of homework assignments are graded for completion; students will know when assignments are graded "for straight points" (usually review worksheets). Calculators are allowed on the majority of assignments, with a few exceptions in 6th grade and even fewer restrictions in Algebra. A decent scientific calculator is a good purchase when preparing for 6th grade. (I personally like the TI-30XS Multiview; the TI-30 XIIS is also a popular choice.) Graphing calculators are unnecessary (and not allowed) at this level.
Students are always welcome to come ask for help just about any time I am not teaching, whether it is my plan time or during Mixed Core. It truly does not bother me one bit--I have learned that when the student has a question, that is the most teachable moment I can get! We also have Labs after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays for students to get help on any subject. Unlike the elementary labs, students do not need teacher permission to stay for labs. Any student can come to any labs for any (academic) reason.
If you are looking for summer math for your student, I have found Khan Academy and IXL Math to be helpful. Reviewing last year's work and/or previewing the upcoming year can be good if it doesn't become drudgery. I would also highly recommend any problem solving activities and games, instead of drill work. A few to try are: Equal vs Fair and Gerrymandering Task Activity Sheets. The card game Set is fabulous too (find it at the Toy Store downtown or online). Just keep them thinking, considering all possible solutions to any problem, and read as many books as you can.
Archdiocese Grading Scale
A+ 100%
A 99-96%
A- 95-94%
B+ 93-92%
B 91-89%
B- 88-87%
C+ 86-84%
C 83-78%
C- 77-75%
D+ 74-73%
D 72-70%
D- 69-68%
F 67-0%
Online Textbooks and Links
6th Grade Math www-k6.thinkcentral.com
Pre-Algebra, Algebra and Geometry https://www.pearsonrealize.com/index.html#/
Khan Academy www.khanacademy.org
Mrs. Powell's website
Dr. Trytten's website
Mr. Fertig's website