Vocabulary

variable => a symbol, usually a letter, used to represent a number

constant => a number that is added to or subtracted from a variable

coefficient => the number that multiplies or divides the variable

    5n+4 = 19

function=> a relation of numbers in which each number of the input is paired with one number of the output according to a specified rule. Example y is a function of x.

5x+4=y   where x=2

5(2) +4 = 14    y=14

Variable, Patterns and Functions

        The next unit in your child's course of study in mathematics this year is Variables, Patterns and Functions. Its focus is on variables, those letters that replace numbers in an equation; patterns, including generalizing patterns to create a rule; and functions, algebraic expressions where an input  number follows the operational rule to an output number...X + 2 = Y  where X can be any number.
You can help your child with this unit by:

• Encouraging him or her to practice mental math strategies and practice multiplication tables, especially if they are not mastered 

• Helping him or her to make observations and notice details of everyday things...look critically at the world around them

• Looking over assigned homework and making sure that your child can explain his or her answers and if they cannot...

• Encouraging him or her to attend extra help nights
   

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.
 

Sincerely,
Wendy Bettez