T1-Wk8/9

1E1
Just finished the chapter on Percentage. Last we attempted a worksheet on percentage and change in percentage based on annual salary for the different types of qualifications. All of us had fun and it was quite an eye-opener where our discussions had the avenue to delve into the importance of completing our studies at least university level and not stopping halfway. The worksheet involved students figuring out the loss of salary and percentage change when one drops out of college and when a drop-out comes back to complete his/her education at the university. Students found it motivating to complete their studies and also this session allowed me the opportunity to discuss with them at a basic level, the importance of having an ambition and setting goals. Some students found it challenging to comprehend the questions before solving it. But most students are comfortable with the math.

It has been my observation that many of our students come to school in the morning without taking their breakfasts where studies have shown have that breakfast is a must for the peak performance of our students in school. So to put across this point to our sec1 s, the chapter on data handling was started with the students in groups coming out with ways to obtain data on how many of their classmates actually have breakfast before coming to school. Mostly they came up with surveys in different modes, i.e. questionaire. via MSN, SMS, forum, etc. but some came with creative ways like getting them to take breathalyser tests : ) Anyhow, the lesson was excellent for me to strike across the importance of them having breakfast and how it affects their behaviour and performance in school. It was pleasing to see some of them awed. Yet to see next lesson whether it made difference to their meal habits. Stay tuned.

1T2
Initially, very dependent on the calculator, the class was finding multiplying decimals a mammoth task. After being introduced to the ' Count Invisible ' method, most of them are comfortable with multiplying decimals. However, dividing decimals is proving a little daunting to some of them, but many of them are progressing with the consistent practice. Some of them must be given credit to showing great interest and initiative to come forward to ask questions and even clarify concepts, sometimes after school which is heartwarming seeing coming from a class with so many interests.