WMS Math Coach Newsletter

I am here to answer any math questions and help support your child in grades 6-8 math! I look forward to hearing from you!

Cristina Spicer

cristina.spicer@watertown.k12.ma.us

Students will take the math MCAS on April 30th and May 1st. Please encourage your child to take their time, write down their work on white paper and get a good night rest before the test.

Grade 6: Students in grade 6 are finishing up their unit on area and surface area. Area measures the number of square units that cover a shape without gaps or overlaps. Next, we will head into negative numbers and absolute value.

Grade 7: Our 7th grade is deep into their unit on expressions, equations and inequalities. At the end of April we will transition to thinking about angle geometry.

Grade 8: 8th graders are working on square roots, cube roots, and the Pythagorean Theorem.

Here is what you can expect for your student in math class:

• A blend of learning on paper and with technology.
• Standards-aligned lessons that help students express their brilliance.
• Feedback that shows students what their ideas mean without judgment and encourages perseverance and revision.
• Resources within each lesson to meet the needs of diverse learners.
• A Family Resource for each unit that includes explanations of key math concepts and problems to try with your student. We hope your student will enjoy exploring math using technology, working with friends to solve problems, and learning about different concepts.

• What is the problem asking?

• What do you already know?

• Where have you seen something like this before?

• Can you brainstorm a few strategies to get started?

• Can you look back at the work you did in class for help?

Students took our iReady diagnostic at the end of January. You will receive a family report in your student's report card in March. For more information, visit the iReady Family Center.

• Maintain a positive math attitude
• Ask them to explain their thinking
• Tell them how you use math in your everyday life