In math, there are so many different ways to solve equations and math problems. One of my favorites though is the Order of Operations. I think this a such a useful technique because it tells you the order in which to solve problems. No, not your everyday problems, math problems! Anytime I'm doing a math problem I'm am always looking for places where I can use the Order of Operations. Most of the time I use the Order of Operations when I am trying to solve expressions or equations. Another method I like is rounding. I don't use it a lot but when I do, it is useful. I like how if the number is greater then 5 you move that number up one. If it is less than 4, it stays the same. All of these methods I find very useful, and I sure hope you do too!

Volume

10/15/2012

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    Volume is the amount of cubic units you can fit inside an object. We normally use volume for 3 dimensional objects like cubes. In oder to find the volume of something you multiply its length, its width, and its heighth to come to a conclusion about its volume. Like a cube, if the cube's length was 6 units, and it height was 6 units, and its width was 6 units; you would multiply its length, width, and heighth. So 6x6x6x=216 cubic units. 

    What if the object you were measuring was and irregular object? What would you do then? The rules would be the same. If you had an irregular object, all you would need to do would be to find its length, width,and heighth and multiply them. Just like we did for the cube. See, volume is really easier than people think. Just remember length, width, and heighth all multiplied together equal your volume! Don't forget the cubic units!

 
     Ever wonder why fractions and being confused always somehow tie together? Well, first, you need to calm down. Something students frequently get confused about is why when denominators get bigger the decimal gets smaller! Just listen, a fraction, is a peice of something. Like, for instance, 1/4 in decimal form is .25. They are the exact same thing, just represented in two different ways. If you have a piece of pie, split into 4 peices for you and you 3 friends; and you wanted to each get a piece, you and your 3 friends would all get 1/4 of the pie. In deciaml form you would get .25 piece of the pie, and so would you friends. Now look at this,


1/4 = .25


     Really a fration is a number being divided. So in this case, you would need to "read" the fraction. 1/4...is 1 divided by 4. 1 divided by 4 is .25. If you wanted it for a fraction it would be 1/4. Let's say you have a pie slipt into 2 pieces for you and your brother. Your brother and you each get...what??? Do the math.


1/2 = .50  Because 1 divided by 2 equals 1/2 in fraction form and .50 in deciaml form! See, fractions are fantastic!!!

 
  This week in Algebra, we have started learning about "Pirate Treasure."  In order to get to the treasure, you have to go through a series of confusing steps to get to your treasure. Your treasure is hidden under any palm tree on the island of "37 Palm Trees." It's your job to get the treasure, all you have to do is figure our the equation, and fast! Working backwards was tricky for me at first, but after a while I got the hang of it. Not only do you work backwards, you also take the opposite of the term you are working with!
    Algebra is a tricky class where you use  lots of patterns, puzzles, and lots more mathmatical tools that help you along the way. For now, though, Arrr!!!