WMS: Math Update: MAP testing and a call for calculators...

Dear Families,

MAP Tests Started Today

This week we have started our MAP testing for Math and Reading. This morning our Blue group had their math test and tomorrow morning it will be our green group's chance to show what they've got! The MAP test is a computerized math test that pings where students are at. In the process, it shows them more advanced things (things that they've never seen before from 11th grade math) and also some much earlier things. I always get interesting questions about "what does this symbol mean?" after the MAP test. It might be worth asking your child what things they saw that they might be curious about!

Call for Calculators

Also, as we work with percentages, it will be very beneficial to students to have a calculator handy. This afternoon I had about 12 students want to borrow my 5 calculators. Hmm. We shared, but it was a little frustrating. I know that students have calculators in the cell phones these days. But since I cannot allow them be used in the classroom, students should have a simple calculator with them these last few weeks of school. It needn't be anything complicated! All it needs to be able to do is +, -, x and ÷. 

Homework

I have a hard time assigning homework when kids have big-looking test/assessments. So yesterday and tonight, the kids' only homework is to get a good night's rest. I know I just mentioned in my last email that I was still assigning homework, and that will be true next week, too! I apologize if that caused confusion.

Thanks for all you do to support your child's education!

Brian MacNevin