Mastering Math: GED Prep (FLEX)

This is a flex class with communication posts, activities, resources, and/or assignments to keep students engaged. Although there are not live classes and this course is an independent study course, I do check their progress and offer additional support when needed. If a student is struggling with a specific skill and the resources are not sufficient, then I am always happy to set up a live session. In addition, student/ teacher interaction will take place through a variety of discussion topics on Outschool and Nearpod, real-life scenario questions relevant to the skills covered in this class, and other activities (Quizizz, Kahoot, etc) to ensure high quality interaction between all participants.  Email and other means of communication is key, and I make that a priority. 

Students will receive a progress report to identify and tackle any challenges. Individualized instruction and extra support are provided to accommodate all learners. With effort, success will be evident in this class.

Students will receive and be responsible for watching prerecorded videos, reviewing handouts, and completing activities and assignments weekly for each skill taught in this course. Email is an alternative option to receive responses in a timely manner. There will be posts on the classroom page to keep communication open.  This course is similar to the live class, but is an alternative means for learners who cannot participate in the scheduled live classes due to scheduling conflicts, comfort level or unfamiliarity with the live version of the class. This also provides learners an opportunity to engage with the teacher and classmates  through weekly guided discussions. I will provide ongoing feedback to learners and respond to questions or concerns. This flexible learning course will offer a sense of community so we can each learn from each other's observations, thinking, and experiences.

Students will be encouraged to communicate and reason mathematically and become problem solvers and critical thinkers.  Opportunities for each student to acquire the specialized vocabulary and language patterns of mathematics are provided in a variety of methods (video clips, notes, graded worksheets). Students will also receive "tips and tricks" throughout the class and gain an understanding of what to expect on the actual GED test.

The following is a tentative schedule of what will be covered.  Each student will have strengths in one area and maybe challenges in another which is the benefit of the initial pretest. The results of the pretest will us to focus on specific areas as needed.  

Goal 1: Numbers and Number Sense
Representation, number relationships, and equivalent values for integers, fractions, decimals and rational numbers.
Place values and number properties.
Real-world applications with percents, ratios and proportions.
Determining the appropriate operation (i.e., multiplication, division, etc.) to use to find an answer.
Solving problems using mental math, paper/pencil or with a calculator.
Solving problems by estimating and determining reasonableness of answers

Goal 2: Measurement & Geometry
Answer questions related to area, surface area, perimeter, volume, capacity, weight, mass and angle measurement.
Determine the y-intercept of a line, a line's slope and the intersection of two lines.
Utilize both metric and standard units of measure, and be able to convert between.
Utilize the Pythagorean theorem to solve problems.
Analyze and describe geometric figures, including the concepts of parallelism, perpendicularity, and congruence.

Goal 3: Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability
Work with tables, charts, and graphs to construct, interpret and draw inferences.
Calculate and analyze data with measures of central tendency (e.g., mean, mode, median and range).
Make predictions and inferences based on data analysis and probabilities.
Analyze statistical reports and recognize data sampling and bias.
Use experimental or theoretical probabilities to make predictions and determine possible outcomes.

Goal 4: Algebra, Functions, and Patterns 
Solve problems using algebraic expressions and equations, including linear, quadratic and exponential equations.
Depict information from tables, graphs and written descriptions as variables and equations.
Recognize and use indirect and direct variation techniques.
Represent information found in tables and graphs as patterns and relationship among numbers.

Students should try to solve problems independently.  Self-discipline and motivation are necessary for success.  Students will be expected to watch videos, complete homework, complete quizzes, and ask/answer questions that are posted in the classroom.  

PREREQUISITES:  Be ready to shine!