How to Use Algebra Tiles to Multiply Polynomials: with pictures!

I set a pretty average goal for myself a couple months ago to blog about all the ways to use algebra tiles. But then of course life got in the way and here I am only on post #3-- how to use algebra tiles to multiply polynomials. I'll get there, but it may take more time than anticipated!

My favorite use of algebra tiles is for factoring quadratics, especially where the A value is greater than 1. Using the tiles makes this process so much more concrete than any other method (in my opinion). Because it's my favorite, I jumped to blog about it first. But before we even get to factoring, we learn how to multiply the binomials, which is what this post is about.

But first! If you don't have a set of algebra tiles, here is a free set of printable paper algebra tiles. If you print on 2-sided card stock (like Astrobrights) it'll mimic the positive and negative sides of the plastic tiles.

Here we go!

How to Enlarge a PDF into a Multi-Page Poster for FREE! 3 Simple Steps

When I first started hanging math word walls on my classroom bulletin boards, I figured out a super roundabout way to enlarge a pdf to print on multiple pages. There were multiple conversions involved and the whole thing took entirely too long. So I enlarged a few things, put them up in my classroom and moved on. 

But I recently revisited this whole free poster thing because there had to be an easier way. And my "revisiting", I mean I asked in our Facebook group and got an answer in 3.2 seconds from a super helpful teacher Ms. Potter. And yes, I had been doing things the hard way!

I could very well be the very last person on Earth to know how to do this but like we tell students, "Always ask your question because guaranteed there is someone else in the room who is wondering the same thing." So if you are like me, here are 3 super-simple steps to enlarge a pdf into a multi-page poster. 

How to Eliminate Glare on a Laminated Classroom Word Wall

That glare from a shiny, laminated word wall is killer. Between the florescent lights and the windows, there's always somewhere in the room where the glare coming off the lamination blocks sight of the references underneath it.

I've been on the search for flat lamination pouches for a while now. I even tweeted Staples, who replied that they'd send the idea to their corporate office. To date, there are no flat laminating pouches at Staples. Or anywhere else. 

But there is an easy solution! I finally figured this one out today and I want to share it with you! 

So what's the solution?

Clear, flat spray paint!

How to Use Google Forms to Streamline Homework Data Collection

I absolutely love our math Facebook group! There are so many wonderful, caring, thoughtful, intelligent, sharing teachers in there always willing to help each other. The community has grown way past what I had ever imagined when I opened it in 2017. At that time I had added my husband as the first member because I was so afraid no one would join! 

One of the awesome math teachers in the group is Danielle Fulbright. Danielle posted about the way she uses Google Forms to streamline homework data collection and so many wanted to know more. Danielle doesn't (currently:) blog, so I asked if she would want to write a guest post. And she accepted! So below is Danielle's post.

Math $1 Deals Tuesdays in July 2019

Math Dollar Deals are back for 2019-- our 4th annual celebration! Each Tuesday in July my math friends and I will be putting math resources on sale for just $1. 

Kara from Learning Made Radical (my partner scavenger hunt friend:) is heading things up this year. You can find more info about all the deals in her post:


SECONDARY MATH DOLLAR DEALS


You can also search #mathdollardeals on Teachers pay Teachers each Tuesday in July to find the resources on sale that week.


I hope you have a great July! 


-Shana

A Growing List of Favorite Math Books for Kids of All Ages (and Adults!)

A month or so ago, I asked in our Facebook group what the best way to build a list of favorite math books would be, and of course the most popular answer was a Google Form! I wanted to make a go-to list for any teacher or parent to find a new math-themed book to read. The math books in the list now range from books for preschoolers to adults. 

Teaching Summer School Algebra? Here's how you can make it fun and engaging for the kids who need it most

There are two ways to approach summer school algebra: as a punishment for slacking off all year or as an amazing opportunity to turn math attitudes around. There are solid reasons for taking either approach, but which has the better possibility of changing a kid's life forever?