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
Fraction Operations Paper Foldable Study Guide - Summarize Succinctly!
After working with the 4 basic operations with fractions, some students inevitably confuse the "rules". This foldable study guide is designed to provide students with a visual, parallel comparison of the basics for adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing fractions. Seeing them in this format will reinforce the similarities and differences between the operations, which is a brain-friendly strategy!
Simply photocopy the two pages back-to-back, make one "hot dog" fold and two "hamburger"
3rd - 8th
Basic Operations, Fractions, 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
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
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
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
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
Fraction Fiesta! Bundle Encourages Conceptual Understanding of Fractions
It’s a fraction fiesta! Resources galore that encourage conceptual understanding of fractions and operations. Included in this bundle are 40+ pages of activities and assessments that are sure to appeal to diverse learners: • Visual and real-life examples of fractions • Exploring fractions close to “1” • Using ratio tables to simplify and find equivalent fractions • Two calculator explorations • Comparing and ordering fractions activities that can use dominoes as manipulatives • Understanding
3rd - 7th
Basic Operations, Fractions, 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
April Fool's Day Cumulative 6th Math Quiz! Different Problems Have SAME ANSWER!
Want to sneak a cumulative Math 6 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 6th Grade Math Texas TEKS (state standards) to help students prepare for state testing, the Math 6 STAAR Exam. The funny part is that every problem has the exact same answer - NINE! A sample key is included. Watch students as they start to see the pattern in their
3rd - 8th, Adult Education
Basic Operations, Math Test Prep, Order of Operations
CCSS, TEKS
6.G.A.1
, 6.G.A.2
, 6.NS.B.2
+27
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
April Fool's Day Cumulative 4th Math Quiz! Different Problems Have SAME ANSWER!
Want to sneak a cumulative Math 4 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 4th Grade Math Texas TEKS (state standards) to help students prepare for state testing, the Math 4 STAAR Exam. The funny part is that every problem has the exact same answer - 112! A sample key is included. Watch students as they start to see the pattern in their a
1st - 7th, Adult Education
Arithmetic, Basic Operations, Math Test Prep
CCSS, TEKS
4.MD.A.1
, 4.MD.A.2
, 4.MD.C.5
+14
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
Showing 1-20 of 31 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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