About the store
I've never been able to stick with the textbook...!
I have over 20 years of experience teaching mathematics to middle and high school students, as well as serving as a Math Coach. In these roles, I impacted thousands of students and their teachers in one of Pennsylvania's largest districts. In 2012, I relocated to Austin, Texas, where I've taught Math 8, Math 8 Accelerated, RTI Math, and Algebra I in a 1:1 iPad classroom.
Check out my blog for classroom happenings!
http://www.mathycathy.com
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Combining Like Terms "Silent Sort" Whole-Class Activity Kinesthetic
Early Algebra students often find new and unfamiliar vocabulary to be challenging. Once students define "term", "constant", "coefficient", and "like terms", hold them accountable through this engaging activity. First, cut the terms on Page 1 and give one slip of paper to each student. Then, guide students through a series of questions regarding the paper they received. The questions detailed in Page 2 of this activity guide students to stand up and sit down in a "Simon Says" type format...
6th - 12th
Algebra, Basic Operations, Math
Why is a Negative Times a Negative, Positive? Integer Multiplication Discovery
Use this spin on the typical multiplication tables chart to guide students to discover patterns and, ultimately, generalize the rules for multiplying integers... and if you dare... ask students to consider division while they're at it!
5th - 12th, Adult Education, Higher Education
Algebra, Applied Math, Basic Operations
Absolute Value Cut & Paste Quiz - Simplifying Expressions
A twist on the traditional "matching" assessment, this quiz assesses students' understanding of simplifying numerical expressions containing absolute values.
First, students work together to match specific problems to their corresponding answers. To add higher-level thinking, students then create an additional problem for each answer. This unique hands-on approach encourages cooperation and communication.
Great formative assessment too! Quickly scan student papers to find out misconceptio
7th - 10th, Adult Education
Algebra, Basic Operations, Math
Integer Battle! Adding Integers Competitive Game is a Winner With Students!
This game is a winner with middle school students! "Trick" your students into basic integer addition practice by giving them a reason to WANT to do the problems (to keep score for their team). Generally I structure this as a whole-class activity using two teams (split the class in half) and project the game board. Each team chooses an available number, and receives that number of points. Once students begin play, they start to realize strategies to either gain the most points... or PREVENT the
4th - 9th
Arithmetic, Basic Operations, Math
Order of Operations Formative Assessment - A Hands-On Group Activity!
This hands-on activity is a great way to get students thinking about the Order of Operations! Common misconceptions will quickly emerge so they can be corrected!
Place students in small groups. Cut the activity sheet into strips and mix them up. Place the *START* strip on the top of the pile, and paperclip them together. Give one stack of strips to each group of students.
Have individual students evaluate the expression in their notebooks before they even remove the paperclip from the st
6th - 10th
Basic Operations, Math, Order of Operations
BIG HUGE PUZZLE: Converting Fractions and Decimals Cooperative Fun!
This BIG HUGE PUZZLE measures 14 inches by 14 inches when complete! Students match up common "benchmark" fractions < --- > decimal conversions to demonstrate understanding of equivalent forms. Tenths, fifths, eights, fourths, thirds, sixths, and a few extra conversions are all included! Works great as a pairs activity, an anchoring activity, or even, at this size, as an interactive bulletin board to display in the classroom (which is why I designed it in the first place - to print on ca
5th - 9th, Adult Education
Basic Operations, Fractions, Math
BIG HUGE PUZZLE Converting Fractions, Decimals and Percents
This BIG HUGE PUZZLE measures 14 inches by 14 inches when complete! Students match up simple fractions, decimals and percents to demonstrate understanding of basic conversions. Works great as a pairs activity, an anchoring activity, or even, at this size, as an interactive bulletin board to display in the classroom (which is why I designed it in the first place - to print on card stock, laminate, and velcro the pieces to a bulletin board). This is nice to display even before teaching students ab
3rd - 12th, Adult Education
Arithmetic, Basic Operations, Math
Spice Up Warm-Up! 4-Corners Activity: Solving Multi-Step Equations
Spice up your warm-up time by using a "4-Corners" strategy. Using 4 different sets of similar problems, students work individually on a brief set of problems (students don't realize that there are 4 different versions of the problems yet!) Then, after a few minutes of independent work, send students to each of the 4 corners of the classroom according to the small card suit on his or her warm-up sheet to compare and discuss answers. Come back together as a class to discuss solutions and questi
6th - 10th, Adult Education
Algebra, Basic Operations, Math
Spice Up Warm-Up! 4-Corners: Add Subtract Fractions Mixed Numbers
Spice up your warm-up time by using a "4-Corners" strategy. Using 4 different sets of similar problems, students work individually on a brief set of problems (students don't realize that there are 4 different versions of the problems yet!) Then, after a few minutes of independent work, send students to each of the 4 corners of the classroom according to the small clip art on his or her warm-up sheet to compare and discuss answers. Come back together as a class to discuss solutions and questions.
4th - 9th
Basic Operations, Fractions, Math
Geometry Web Scavenger Hunt
Spark curiosity with a Geometry-based web online scavenger hunt. Who can answer the most questions correctly in the least amount of time? Individuals or teams could complete this as enrichment. Answers included!
6th - 12th, Adult Education, Higher Education
Basic Operations, Geometry, Math
Distributive Property Fun Scenario - Help Students Relate to Real-World Math
I have used this scenario with success for many years when introducing the Distributive Property to students. I present this prompt to students and ask them to explain their thinking regarding this "outfits" scenario.
Inevitably, someone shares that they thought of the price for each "outfit":
3(20 + 25)
And another student shares that they separated "shirts" from "jeans":
3 • 20 + 3 • 25
A great way to show students they already understand the concept of the Distributive Property!
To rea
6th - 9th
Basic Operations, Math, Order of Operations
Using Chip Models to Discover Integer Addition Rules
This activity guides students through the rules for adding integers using a visual approach. Using "chips" and the concept of "zero pairs", students will generalize rules for adding pairs of integers whose signs are different by examining patterns. A simple but effective approach, since students can "see" what's going on! Enjoy!
3rd - 12th
Algebra, Arithmetic, Basic Operations
April Fool's Day Cumulative 7th Math Quiz! Different Problems Have SAME ANSWER!
Want to sneak a cumulative Math 7 review in, but have a little April Fool's fun in the process? This cumulative "quiz" is just the trick! Nine problems in this review "quiz" address the concepts listed below, which are aligned to the 7th Grade Math Texas TEKS (state standards) to help students prepare for state testing, the Math 7 STAAR Exam. The funny part is that every problem has the exact same answer - EIGHT! A sample key is included. Watch students as they start to see the pattern in their
4th - 9th
Basic Operations, Financial Literacy, Math Test Prep
CCSS, TEKS
7.G.B.5
, 7.G.B.6
, 7.NS.A.1
+18
Solving Equations - How to Get Students to Organize Their Work!
The battle begins! Students are learning how to solve basic equations in one variable, and the problems are "so easy" they can "do it in their heads" and don't want to show work! Here is a strategy that has helped me get students to show the work I really want. Included is a basic adaptable worksheet for notes, and several sheets with equations and proper work modeled to show students a clear expectation of what's required.
6th - 10th
Algebra, Basic Operations, Math
Polynomial Operations - What's the Diff? Helps Students Separate Rules
Early algebra students often create their own rules based on generalized misconceptions. This resource is designed to help students see the difference between adding, subtracting and multiplying polynomials by simplifying similar problems. Having students explain the process helps contrast the different operations as well. Take the time to assess student understanding using this simple learning check.
6th - 10th
Algebra, Basic Operations, Math
Rational Number Operations Formative Assessment - iPad-Friendly QR-Codes Too!
A great formative assessment that encourages lots of peer dialogue. Students solve sets of problems involving operations with rational numbers. Consider posting the problem sets around various areas of the classroom, as students use the provided template for showing work. Use as a more formal assessment, or cooperative classwork. My favorite thing about this format is the math communication that occurs between students!
Two versions are included - one version is black-and-white, designed to
6th - 10th
Basic Operations, Fractions, Math
4-Corners Activity: 1-Step Equations & Inequalities with Negatives
Spice up your warm-up time by using a "4-Corners" strategy. Using 4 different sets of similar problems, students work individually on a brief set of problems (students don't realize that there are 4 different versions of the problems yet!) Then, after a few minutes of independent work, send students to each of the 4 corners of the classroom according to the small card suit on his or her warm-up sheet to compare and discuss answers. Come back together as a class to discuss solutions and questi
5th - 12th
Algebra, Basic Operations, Math
Foldable Note-Taking Guide Order of Operations GEMS (Includes Accessible Font!)
My favorite thing about using foldable note-taking guides is the PRIDE students take in completing them. There's something different about a tactile resource versus an expected and typical "worksheet" for taking notes. This foldable will help make the process of learning how to simplify expressions using the correct Order of Operations easier for students to digest! Since PEMDAS often breeds misconceptions (such as, that multiplication is performed BEFORE division... not true!) many have modifi
5th - 12th, Adult Education
Basic Operations, Math, Order of Operations
TEKS
MA.5.4.F
, MA.6.7.A
4-Corners Activity: Order of Operations / Simplify Expressions SPICE UP WARM-UPS
Spice up your warm-up time and add a low-stakes formative assessment strategy to your repertoire! Get students moving and talking about math (and possibly arguing about math) by using this "4-Corners" strategy! Using 4 different sets of similar problems included here, students FIRST work individually on a brief set of problems. Students may not realize that there are 4 different versions of the problems floating around the classroom just yet! Then, after a few minutes of independent work, se
4th - 12th, Adult Education
Arithmetic, Basic Operations, Math
CCSS, TEKS, VA SOL
5.OA.A.1
, 6.EE.A.1
, 6.EE.A.2
+7
DOTS game - Integer Addition Practice in Pairs
I remember filling a sheet of paper with "dots" and playing this classic paper-pencil game as a kid. Two players take turns connecting dots either vertically or horizontally with a line segment. When a player closes a square, he/she prints his/her initial in the square... you know the drill :-) This activity takes this classic game further by incorporating integer addition practice. Enjoy.
5th - 12th
Applied Math, Basic Operations, Math
Showing 1-20 of 25 results
About the store
Experience
I've never been able to stick with the textbook...!
I have over 20 years of experience teaching mathematics to middle and high school students, as well as serving as a Math Coach. In these roles, I impacted thousands of students and their teachers in one of Pennsylvania's largest districts. In 2012, I relocated to Austin, Texas, where I've taught Math 8, Math 8 Accelerated, RTI Math, and Algebra I in a 1:1 iPad classroom.
Check out my blog for classroom happenings!
http://www.mathycathy.com
Teaching style
My high-energy teaching style and commitment to engaging all learners ensure a variety of instructional techniques and materials. The resources I create evolve based on my students' specific needs and my goal of keeping them engaged and excited about mathematics. Rather than keeping all the classroom fun to myself, I take pride in sharing these classroom-tested resources here on TPT so that students around the world can benefit. I hope you can sense my dedication as you explore the diverse materials I've posted here with your own aspiring mathematicians!
Awards & shining teacher moments
I'm so proud to be a math educator!
To explore some of my accolades, visit this Media & Mentions list, which features published articles and video media of news stories and keynote addresses at a variety of professional conferences. I'm especially proud of my ShadowCon talk at NCTM - it's a great place to start on this list!
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/137ay9dShzcYDn8bB3wCIjjZ2sYucGwR0PG_4nZeKg04/edit?usp=sharing
My own education history
I received my Bachelor of Science in Education at Clarion University of Pennsylvania, majoring in Secondary Education/Mathematics. I received my Master of Science in Education from Wilkes University in Classroom Technology.
Additional biographical information
Middle school mathematics is my greatest passion! I began my teaching career in Pennsylvania, working exclusively with 7th graders for six years. I also taught SAT Preparation courses through Penn State Lehigh Valley and worked with potential first-generation college students in a Saturday and summer program, also through Penn State. Over the years, I have engaged in extensive private math tutoring with students ranging from grades 6 through 12. After a three-year period as a stay-at-home mom, I returned to full-time teaching as a math coach/specialist, collaborating with teachers and students across three middle schools in one of Pennsylvania's largest school districts.
In 2012, I moved to Austin, Texas, where I currently teach 6th, 7th, and 8th graders (and occasionally a few accelerated 5th or 4th graders) in my own 1:1 iPad classroom. I admit it — I can’t *just* stick with a textbook! Since the beginning of my career, I have consistently developed my own educational materials tailored to meet student needs, enhance engagement, foster dialogue, and promote conceptual understanding. Many of these effective resources are available here on TPT. Thank you for stopping by!
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