Dear
Family,
The next unit in your child’s course of study in mathematics
class this year is
Bits and Pieces II: Using Fraction Operations. This is the
second of three number units that focus on developing concepts and
procedures for computing with fractions, decimals, and
percents. or specific parent help, follow the
link: http://connectedmath.msu.edu/parents/
UNIT GOALS
In this unit, the focus is on understanding and developing
systematic ways to add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions.
While working on this unit, students investigate interesting
problem situations to help them develop algorithms for fraction
computation. In addition, students will use benchmarks and number
and operation sense to estimate solutions for computations to help
them decide if their answers are reasonable.
HELPING WITH HOMEWORK
You can help with homework and encourage sound mathematical habits
as your child studies this unit by asking questions such as:
• What models or diagrams might be helpful in understanding
the
situation?
• What models or diagrams might help decide which operation is
useful in solving a problem?
• What is a reasonable estimate for the answer?
• What strategies or algorithms would help you solve this
problem?
In your child’s notebook, you can find worked-out examples
from problems done in class, notes on the mathematics of the unit,
and descriptions of the vocabulary words.
HAVING CONVERSATIONS ABOUT THE MATHEMATICS IN
BITS AND PIECES II
You can help your child with his or her work for this unit in
several ways:
• There are various logical procedures for computing with
fractions. At times, students may be working with ideas and
algorithms that are different from the ones you learned. Be open to
these approaches. Encourage your child to share these methods with
you as a way to help them make sense of what they are studying.
• Ask your child to tell you about a problem that he or she
has enjoyed solving. Ask for an explanation of the ideas in the
problem.
• Look over your child’s homework and make sure all
questions are
answered and explanations are clear.
A few important mathematical ideas that your child will learn in
Bits and Pieces II are given on the back. As always, if you have
any questions or concerns about this unit or your child’s
progress in class, please feel free to email me.
Sincerely,
Ms. Quezada
| 