This year in math has been really great! These kids are all so bright in their own way. We've spent a lot of time sharing how one another thinks through math problems. They've been open to learning from each other, and they've helped each other. It's really special to be a part of their meeting of the minds. I've given them a valuable introduction to algebra. Even if they seem to forget or get real rusty, their algebra foundation will still be there. I love that they've asked me to show them things that aren't necessarily part of our HA curriculum. Upon their request last year and this year, I've worked in lessons on the following: multiplying large numbers, long division, integers (adding, subracting, and multiplying), various things about fractions, exponents, order of operations, and decimals. I love when they come in and say things like, "hey, I saw ______ on NWEA (or a math program), can you show me what that is about?" I am truly sad that our time together has come to an end. I know they will all succeed at the intermediate school. I hope along the way they will hear me in the back of their minds telling them to read a word problem three times to interpret the problem, show their work neatly, truly check their work, and make sure their answer makes sense with the problem. When they have to answer a problem in sentences, I hope they remember me encouraging them to trust their voice and write their explanation the same as they'd explain it verbally. I'll keep my eyes and ears out for them in the years to come, I'm sure they'll make names for themselves as they continue on in the district.
One of the things kids like about being in HA is being in here with students from other homerooms. After a serious year of algebra (and other misc. math skills), we ended the year with activities that focused on one another. I'm going to miss this class so much!
