Middle School Math on a Mission
Posted January 5, 2012
Our students in grades 6-8 have been doing some serious explorations in math, including bridge and tower building, the mathletes competition and keeping track of MCAL Basketball scores through statistical analysis using various mathematical tools. "Good luck to all our students on their various projects," said teacher Melissa Freeman.
Grade 6 Builds Bridges
The grade 6 math classes had a blast during the weeks prior to winter break building popsicle stick bridges. Small groups of students competed to create the strongest structure possible based on the students’ mathematical knowledge of geometric shapes and their attributes.
Within each bridge team, members performed different jobs including: architect, director, supply coordinator, and accountant. This year’s winning structures held just under 400 lbs! Congratulations to all our 6th grade participants.
Grade 7 Builds Towers
Our seventh grade students were challenged to use geometry in another format: creating the best overall structural tower possible. Teams accrued points for number of levels constructed, weight held, and any left over money from their supply budget.
Our winning group earned more than 1,000 points for their final structural creation!
Grade 8 Does Mathletes
Our eight graders are honing their problem solving skills through a various scenarios, in particular through preparation for our upcoming Mathletes competition, where students solve a variety of problems both individually and in teams.
Please wish our 8th graders luck on for their next round on Tuesday, January 10 at 4pm at the San Jose Middle School in Novato.
Middle School Tracks Basketball Scores
Finally, all our middle school students have started their annual MCAL Basketball project, where they pick and follow a local Marin County Athletic League varsity basketball team through the duration of the season.
Along the way they learn to read box scores, collect data, make predictions, and display results. In addition to statistical analysis, this project focuses on the relation between fractions, decimals, and percent.
Students are encouraged, but not required, to attend at least one game during the season. Good luck to all the teams!
