1. 6th Grade Math Presentation
BECKENDORFF JUNIOR HIGH
5TH GRADE PARENT NIIGHT
6th Grade Math Presentation
January 20, 2015

2. Goals for this presentation:
Provide you with useful information regarding Academic and PreAP mathematics
Provide you with helpful tips on how to best prepare your child for the transition from 5th to 6th grade math
If you are trying to decide between PreAP and Academic, provide you with useful tools to make your decision.

3. The transition from elementary to junior high begins with a bang! 
Academic Mathematics
The transition from elementary to junior high begins with a bang! 
Integers
Decimals
Word Problems
Algebraic
Reasoning
Multiply and
Divide Fractions

4. 6th grade Math Curriculum:
Is on the college ready track!
Is rigorous – New TEKS for Junior High!
Is taught in a 45 minute classroom setting, which is challenging for students as they transition from the elementary setting of 1 hour – 1 hour and 30 minutes.

5. A Successful Math Student:
Is prepared for class with:
an open mindset
a positive attitude
necessary supplies
Is willing to raise their hand for help when needed AND asks good questions to further their understanding

6. Let’s talk about items for your toolbox

7. WHY? PreAP Mathematics 6th PreAP 7th PreAP
6th grade PreAP Mathematics is a jam-packed curriculum in that it consists of the 6th grade TEKs and 1/3 of the 7th grade TEKS.
6th PreAP
7th PreAP
8th – HS Algebra
9th – Geometry
10th – Algebra II
11th – PreCal
12th - Calculus
WHY?

8. How do I decide if my child is ready for PreAP?
A common misconception is that if your student has all A’s and scores “advanced” on STAAR), they are ready for PreAP.
Although that is a good indicator, it is not the only indicator. We will talk about some indicators in the next slides.
Cont.

9. Characteristics of a PreAP Math Student
Problem solver in everyday situations
Primarily an independent learner
Has developed strong learning/study habits
Shows perseverance when challenged
Displays emotional maturity when frustrated
Demonstrates reasoning skills pertaining to mathematical concepts in everyday life
Shows confidence in their own math abilities
Strong/mastered fast facts skills
Strongly values learning- Loves to learn!!

10. How do I decide if my child is ready for PreAP?
As the first six weeks consist of many crucial 7th grade TEKS, some students tend to struggle at the beginning of the school year. It is common for a typical straight A student to score a C or lower on an assignment, quiz, test, or report card. The question is, “How do we help them persevere?”
Cont.

11. How do you know if your child is ready for a faster- paced classroom?
Talk with your child about what happens in their classroom on a daily basis.
After one day of a lesson, does your child need more time to learn the material?
How does your child feel about the pace of the 5th math class now?

12. How do I decide if my child is ready for PreAP?
Does your child have the motivation and maturity to work at a faster and deeper level of math?
Has your child mastered his/her basic math facts? Is computation something that is done quickly? Having this prior knowledge allows teachers to make connections and begin reasoning skills when presenting new concepts.

13. How do you know if your child is fluent?
COMPUTATION
Fluency with computation is crucial.
Adding & Subtracting Whole Numbers (1-20)
Multiplying & Dividing Facts (through 12’s)
Adding and Subtracting Decimals and Fractions with Unlike Denominators
If your student is not fluent with computation, they will most likely struggle with completing classwork, quizzes, tests, and homework.
How do you know if your child is fluent?

14. How do you know if your child is fluent with computation?
Talk with your child about how they do on facts in school.
Watch your child when they are completing homework at home to see how long it takes them to complete computation problems.
KATHI
Emphasize that we are adding to their toolbox.
Cont.

15. Continued…
Use websites like to see how long it takes your child to complete a facts quiz.
Use flash cards to review facts with all operations and watch the clock to see how long it takes to complete a certain number of problems.

16. How do I help prepare my child for 6th grade math?
Review facts with flashcards or websites like:
Engage in mathematical activities such as discussing how many ounces are in a cup, ½ cup, and ¼ cup while baking or cooking.

17. Decision? Academic math is on the college prep track.
As you make the decision of signing your child up for Academic or PreAP math, please take these things into consideration:
Academic math is on the college prep track.
PreAP Math is a fast paced curriculum consisting of 7th grade TEKS
Academic math students are challenged with the curriculum.
In PreAP math, grades of “B’s” or better are considered successful.
It is crucial that you talk to your child and investigate their readiness.

18. Thank you for coming tonight!
Welcome!