Our middle school teachers work hard to ensure students have a strong understanding of essential math concepts while also having opportunities to practice using those skills. For example, during a seventh grade percentage unit, Mrs. Funk invited her students to use percent calculations to measure time. Students created time logs of how they spent their day, categorized uses, calculated totals and averages, found percentages, imputed datasets in Google Sheets, wrote formulas, and created charts. The information was collected to raise awareness about how students use their time. This learning is essential in middle school because time is a gift and we can honor God by being good stewards of it. Calculating accurate percentages is important, but using our time well truly matters.
In sixth grade, students were exploring mean, median, mode, and range with Mrs. Musch. Student groups collaborated to create surveys about aspects of their life. Sample questions included, “How often do families go out to eat?” and “How often do kids attend church functions?” Students distributed the surveys and presented their findings to peers and staff. They shared informational slides and summarized the gathered data using mean, median, mode, and range. They also communicated important takeaways regarding what the data meant. While students were completing this project, parents were invited to share examples of ways they collect and use data in their vocations. They shared data used from their jobs in financial planning, education, and in analyzing pet medicines for veterinarians. This allowed students to see examples of data coming to life. Knowing how to analyze data and share results helps learners understand discernment and how to make wise choices in all areas of our lives.
In both examples, students discovered how math is important and part of God’s created order. While mastering percentage and mean/median/mode, students explored priorities, stewardship, habits, and communication. At BCCS, we want students to develop skills AND practice them in meaningful ways. That's why math matters!