Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Welcome back!  I hope everyone had a wonderful time with friends and family as we celebrated Memorial Day and reflect on what it means.  Both of my grandfathers served in World War 2 and I grew up hearing about what they went through.  

We began a shorter week by reviewing multiplying fractions in math followed by dividing fractions.  To divide a fraction, it is really multiplying with one extra step:  flip the second number then multiply.  For example, take 1/2 + 1/4.  With multiplying fractions, you multiply the numerators and the denominators.  1 x 1 = 1; 2 x 4 = 8 to get a product of 1/8.  It is asking, "What is one half of one fourth?"

With division of fractions, you multiply the first number by the reciprocal of the second.  In other words, flip the second number.  1/2 + 1/4:  1/2 x 4/1 = 4/2; 4 + 2 = 2.  It is asking, "How many fourths are in one half?"

In science, the students have taken their notes on the microbiology unit and how I have assigned a project.  Students are to research vitamins and  minerals that are essential to good heath.  After that, they are to choose three of each and create a Google Slides presentation.  I am giving them plenty of class time to do this as it is due on Friday.  There will also be an open note quiz this Friday as well.  

With next week being the last week of the school year, I want to get in grades this week while I can.