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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Mean Absolute Deviation Foldable Note-Taking Guide
This foldable will help make the process of learning how to calculate the mean absolute deviation of a data set easier to digest! In the new Texas TEKs, 8th grade students must be able to calculate the MAD of a small data set.
This foldable note-taking guide helps students take this process one step at a time. I encourage students to reference this structured example as they work more complex problems, and analyze the MAD of multiple data sets. This foldable guide is designed to get them s
6th - 9th
Math, Numbers, Statistics
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
"Family of Functions" Novel Intro to Transformations of Linear Functions
In my experience, students often have a tough time grasping the concept of a "parent function" or a "family of functions". With this visual, basic introduction to transforming linear functions, my hope is to make a memorable impression on students. A little bit of silly sometimes goes a long way... enjoy!
You're invited to stop by my classroom anytime at mathycathy.com/blog!
7th - 10th
Algebra, Algebra 2, Math
Big "G" Gallon - Graphic Relates Gallons, Quarts, Pints, and Cups
Here's a visual students won't easily forget! Relate visually that every gallon has:
4 quarts
8 pints
16 cups
Use as a reference to help students answer questions like:
How many pints are in a quart?
How many cups are in a half gallon?
Post in your classroom, or copy on colorful paper for students to keep as a reference.
For a perplexing look at how much various products cost per gallon, please check out my "How Much Per GALLON?" activity!
Enjoy!
4th - 8th
Basic Operations, Math, Measurement
Congruent Figures Naming Corresponding Parts Geometry
Brief notes and definitions introduce the concept of congruent figures and their corresponding parts. Then, students can apply the definitions individually or in groups using the shapes sheet that follows. Teacher notes provided for classroom implementation and "tips"!
3rd - 12th, Adult Education
Geometry, Math Test Prep, Measurement
Finding Equation of a Line Through 2 Points "Chunking" Activity
My 8th grade students really benefit from taking a multi-step process and "chunking" the task into smaller, structured parts. This resource worked well to help simplify the process of finding the equation of a line through two given points with an emphasis on slope-intercept form. Enjoy.
6th - 12th
Algebra, Math, Math Test Prep
Multiplying Binomials: Discovering Special Products
A reflective discovery that guides students to generalize patterns for special products by examining patterns, this resource fits nicely into any polynomials unit. Two copies are included in the PDF file - a color copy intended for annotating using an iPad, and a greyscale version for photocopies. Enjoy!
6th - 12th, Adult Education
Algebra, Algebra 2, Math
Relations & Functions Representations Mat: Mapping, Table, Graph Great for iPad!
The concepts of "relation" and "function" are very vocabulary-rich! Students sometimes struggle with all of the synonyms... inputs, x-values, domain, independent variable... and so on! I designed this "representations mat" to help students see and apply these concepts in a visual way. First, I generate a relation consisting of 5 ordered pairs. Next, students use the "mat" to identify the domain and range, represent the ordered pairs in a table, create a mapping diagram, plot the points in th
6th - 10th
Algebra, Graphing, Math
Geometry Foldables 2 Interactive Note-Taking Guides! Visual Vocabulary
Talk the talk! Geometry is full of vocabulary terms, many of which students typically mix up! Try these foldable note-taking guides - students co-create their own colorful diagrams, labeling points with their own names, etc.
Included are two jam-packed foldable note-taking guides. Concepts/terms addressed include:
Angle
Acute Angle
Obtuse Angle
Right Angle
Straight Angle
Complementary Angles
Supplementary Angles
Congruent Angles
Vertical Angles
Parallel Lines
Perpendicular lines
Transversal
3rd - 10th
Geometry, Math, Measurement
Ratios and Rates - Graphic Organizer Helps Students Relate Concepts
When students initially study the concepts of fraction, ratio, rate and unit rate, it's important to relate the concepts, yet clearly express their subtle differences. Using this graphic organizer to help students clarify these concepts provides a visual study tool as well as a formative assessment opportunity for you as the teacher! Finally, to be sure students understand how these concepts compare, students generate their own examples of each idea. Great opportunity for students to relate t
6th - 9th
Fractions, Math, Other (Math)
Factoring Polynomials Box Method "Puzzles" 2 Problem Sets SEE VIDEO TOO
For students who are new to factoring, this structured puzzle "box method" can be very helpful! I have used these as examples or guided practice. Pages 1 and 2 include trinomials with a = 1. Pages 3 and 4 include trinomials with a ≠ 1. Never used the "Box Method" to factor? Watch this video to see how this method organizes student work for factoring and solving quadratic functions. --- > Mathy Cathy Demonstrates Box Method HERE
6th - 12th, Adult Education
Algebra, Algebra 2, Math
Mystery Scale Factor Challenges: Area & Perimeter of Similar Figures TEKS 8.10D
Aligned to Math 8 TEKS 8.10D Help your students truly understand how a scale factor affects the area and perimeter of similar figures — not just memorize formulas! This hands-on, discovery-based resource guides students to uncover the relationships for themselves, then apply their understanding through practice and collaboration. What’s Included:Area Discovery Worksheet — Students investigate how changing side lengths by a scale factor k impacts area ( A → A × k² ).Perimeter Discovery Workshe
5th - 9th
Geometry, Math Test Prep, Measurement
CCSS, TEKS
7.G.A.1
, MA.8.10.D
SIMPLE INTEREST Financial Literacy Foldable Note-Taking Guide & Problem Solving
This foldable guide will help students understand some financial jargon! Included in this financial literacy guide are defined variables and problem-solving examples for which students:
* Solve for the simple interest, I
* Solve for the principal, P
* Solve for the interest rate, r
* Solve for the number of years, t
* Calculate the total amount owed (P + I)
A sample key is provided for your convenience.
Thank You!
Cathy
6th - 8th
Basic Operations, Math, Math Test Prep
Dimensional Analysis Customary Conversions - Pairs Activity Too!
Converting rates using "dimensional analysis" proves to be challenging for students, yet the skill crosses the math and science line and is important for students to understand. This resource provides a concise introduction to the concept of dimensional analysis as a method for converting units, walking students through the process. After several examples, students are guided to complete a "pairs check," providing opportunity for communication as well as individual accountability. Answer keys
7th - 12th, Adult Education
Algebra, Math, Science
SET IT UP! Equations ~ Defining One Variable In Terms of Another
This resource helps students practice setting up equations by defining one variable in terms of another. Various scenarios are presented with clear instructions to only use one variable. Students write "LET Statements" and set up appropriate equations. Though the directions say not to solve the equations, I wouldn't stop a curious student from taking the next step! :-) Answer key is also included. Enjoy!
5th - 12th, Adult Education
Algebra, Math, Math Test Prep
Proportions, Maps & Scales Lesson - Math, Measurement & Geography
Proportions, interpreting scales, reading maps, measurement... this lesson covers lots of great concepts in a motivating and fun way.
"How far is it from your school to other local cities? Do you have a guess? Record it in the table provided, then let's get measuring! See the scale on your map? That tells us how distances on the map relate to "real" distances. Measure from the center of each city's dot to the center of the dot representing your school's city. Now, use these measurements
5th - 9th
Math, Measurement, Other (Math)
Quick Reference Quadratic Functions in Standard and Vertex Forms QR CODE
This side-by-side comparison of the standard form of a quadratic function and vertex form of a quadratic function is a quick reference for students new to quadratics.
Two versions are included for you. Version 1 includes a QR code, which takes students to a dynamic graph for students to explore the impact of a, b and c in standard form and of h and k in vertex form.
Version 2 does not include a QR code.
Enjoy!
7th - 12th
Algebra, Algebra 2, Math
Slope-Intercept Form: Introductory Discovery Activity
A great way to introduce students to Slope-Intercept Form!
Students begin by graphing four linear functions by hand (all equations are written in slope-intercept form, but this is not noted to the students). Guided questions lead students to discover slope-intercept form by comparing their graphs to the equations/functions...
they can visually see the slope and y-intercepts from their graphs...
and inevitably they notice that these very values were staring them in the face all along within
7th - 12th, Adult Education
Algebra, Algebra 2, Graphing
Find 'N Fix: Twist on Error Analysis: Role Playing for Student Engagement
Get out those red pens! For a twist on "error analysis", I like to use this template and work out some problems by hand. Some problems are correct, and some are incorrect. I make copies of the sheet for my students, and then, with red pens in hand, they "grade" the papers. Let me tell you - students REALLY enjoy taking on this role!
Some ideas of how to obtain authentic "wrong" work could include misconceptions gained through student work, such as a recent test, quiz, or homework assignme
5th - 9th
Arithmetic, Math, Math Test Prep
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
Showing 1-20 of 48 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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