Discussion for February 7th

Algebra I

Today we discussed
Today we expanded our discussion of adding and subtracting rational expressions to include working with mixed expressions and complex fractions.  Basically, complex fractions are simply fractions divided by other fractions and rational expressions.  The key is to simplify the numerators and denominators first before performing the division.  This is just another flavor of following the order of operations, recalling that when there are fractions with expressions either in the numerator or denominator, there is an understood set of parentheses around those expressions meaning to simplify those first before tackling the division of the fraction.

Sections Covered in Textbook
1) 8-8: Mixed Expressions and Complex Fractions (pages 334-337)

Video Tutorials
1) What is a Complex Fraction?
http://www.virtualnerd.com/algebra-1/rational-expressions-functions/mixed-complex-fractions/complex-fractions/complex-fraction-definition
2) Simplifying Complex Fractions (*DIFFERENT METHOD THAT WHAT WE DID IN CLASS*)
http://www.virtualnerd.com/algebra-1/rational-expressions-functions/mixed-complex-fractions/complex-fractions/mixed-over-mixed-simplify-example
3) More on Complex Fractions
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h04zou8v2JY

Assignments
1) Pages 336-337 #'s 9-29 odd; #30.

**PLEASE CHECK ODD ANSWER IN BACK OF TEXTBOOK

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Pre-Algebra

Today we discussed
We are still working with rational expressions in class and discussed how to compare rational numbers that are in different forms.  When we mention comparing numbers, we are referring to whether one number is greater than, less than, or equal to another number based upon where they fall on the number line.  The further to the right of the number line a number is, the greater that number is.  In order to be able to compare numbers accurately, both numbers should be in the same format.  So, when comparing a decimal number with a fraction, one of the numbers should be converted to the other number's format so you are comparing either two decimals or two fractions.  The same thing can be said for comparing a fraction or decimal number to another number written in scientific notation.  Make sure both numbers are in the same form so comparison becomes easier.

Sections Covered in Textbook
1) 6-12: Comparing Rational Numbers (pages 240-242)

Video Tutorials
1) Comparing and Ordering Rational Numbers
http://www.virtualnerd.com/pre-algebra/rational-numbers/definitions-basics/compare/order-fractions-decimals

Assignments
1) Page 242 #'s 10-27 all; #34

**PLEASE CHECK ODD ANSWER IN BACK OF TEXTBOOK

OPTIONAL!