December Update

First and foremost, Mr. James and I would like to wish all of you a blessed Christmas season. We hope that each and every one of you will enjoy the holiday break with your families.

Our time that remains at school before break will be a busy one. Algebra I and Math 8 are using a Cartesian graph to form a Christmas tree. It was review for most, but some learned how to graph for the first time.

Algebra I will be learning how to solve one, two, and multi-step equations with one variable. We will then learn how to combine like terms across the equal sign. After that, we will delve into equations with 2 variables and learn how to write literal equations.

Math 8 will be learning how to solve equations by adding or subtracting, multiplying or dividing. This will be new for a lot of students and/or a difficult concept to understand. It is the basis of algebra and they must grasp it to move on. Please help your student as much as you can with any homework assignment. After this, we will be studying fractions, equivalent fractions, and how to find GCF and prime factors.

Financial Literacy will be learning about all of the techniques used in advertising and how market researching works. We will be viewing a lot of commercials and helping the students understand how they entice us into purchasing their product. After that, we will touch on the practices of the Credit Bureau and collection agencies.

November Update

Algebra I- We will be solving one and two step problems. We will also be working with equations with variables on both sides of the equal sign. After that, we will be moving on to ratios, percents, and proportions.

Math 8- We are learning to multiply and divide integers. Then, we will move on to rational numbers and their functions in real life. The use of formulas and using exponents will lead to evaluating expressions.

Financial Literacy- We just finished a project that compares buying new to a 2 yr. old car. Look for the results at conferences. We will continue our quest to find truth and myth in lending, then we will be discussing consumer pitfalls and credit bureaus and collection practices. We will finish the month with a look at budgeting.

October Update

This month, in math 8 classes, we will be working on order of operations, integers and absolute value. We will also be discussing integers and properties of numbers. This will lead to solving equations.

In Algebra I we will be using order of operations to solve equations. Our discussions will lead to real numbers and their properties, ending with the distributive property.

The Financial Literacy discussion will be about Roth IRA and 401(k). We will be learning about the wealth building pyramid and monthly retirement planning. Preparing for college will also be discussed.

Wellness class will be studying nutritional values in our lives. We will be studying the major food groups and how each one can impact our health. In addition, we will be looking at economical ways to eat healthy.

September Updates

Algebra I and Math 8

We are off to a great start this year in both math classes. We are studying the 4-step problem solving procedure in both math classes. Ask your student to tell you the four steps to solving a math problem. We believe that by learning the procedure, any math problem will be made easier. In a week or two we should be finished with this lesson and both classes will move on in their separate course of study. Algebra I will be studying algebraic expressions, and Math 8 will be working on order of operations.

Mr. James and I want to make this year the best for your students, so we will need your help and cooperation in homework and studying for tests. All students should have a 1” math binder that is separated into sections. Please look through these sections on a regular basis. All homework and tests that are graded will be in these sections. We also want to let you know that if your student is not happy with a homework grade, they are able to
write “re-do” on the top of their paper and do the problems that they missed. We will grade them again and average the two grades. Tests are not included in this option. When progress book is up and running, please check frequently to see if your student has any missing work.

Please let us know if there is anything we can do to make your child’s school experience better. Please call the the school at 513-541-4000 ext.12 or e-mail cathy.fox@summitacademies.org , dustin.james@summitacademies.org. Our plan bell is from 2:30-3:24, that would be the best time to reach us.

Financial Literacy

The Financial Literacy class is having a great time learning about money and how to use it, save it, and invest it. Dave Ramsey is an entertaining speaker as we listen to his wise advice. We are impressed with all of your students willingness to learn and to stay focused on the lessons. Ask your students about the two brothers, Ben and Arthur, who had two different investment strategies. All students were amazed by this story.

Please call the school if there is anything we can do for you 513-541-4000 ext.12, or e-mail cathy.fox@summitacademies.org, dustin.james@summitacademies.org. Thanks for allowing us to teach your children.