Welcome to Seventh Grade Math!

We have a wonderful year of fun material ahead of us! But first, I would like to tell you…

… A little bit about ME:


I was born and raised right here on Long Island, but I lived in NYC for four years while I studied Mathematics at the Macaulay Honors College at Hunter College. Now, I am about to graduate from Stony Brook University with a Master of Arts in Teaching Mathematics. In addition to math, there are lots of things I love to do, such as:

  • Reading - I’m currently in the middle of three different books!
  • Playing with my dogs - I have three!
  • Yoga and dance - I danced for almost 16 years growing up, and still love going to the ballet!
  • Volunteering with a foundation called GlamourGals - check them out when you have a minute!



… A little bit about YOU:

Seventh grade math is full of so many exciting topics! Here are just some of the awesome things you get to see this year:

  • You will learn about ratios and proportional relationships, and explore how they can help us solve real-world problems.
  • You will discover more about the number system, specifically a group of numbers called rational numbers, and how to perform different operations with them.
  • You will use geometry to explore shapes in two-dimensions AND objects in three dimensions using area, surface area, and volume!
  • You are going to be introduced to the very beginnings of algebra by learning how to write and solve expressions and equations.
  • You will even learn about statistics, and how to analyze and compare data from the real world!

Through these experiences, you will develop your problem solving skills, and learn how to create strong mathematical arguments. Are you excited yet? I know I am!

… A little bit about US:

In order for us to have a great year, I am going to need your help! I can guarantee that we will all enjoy class, as long as we can do the following:

Ask LOTS of Questions!!

If you have a question, I want to hear it! I welcome all questions big and small; there is NO SUCH THING as a silly question. I ask questions all the time, because there is so much to learn! Asking questions is what mathematicians do all day, and so as junior mathematicians, I want to hear all the questions you have.

Make Mistakes!!

Guess what? Even math teachers make mistakes. In fact, I LOVE making mistakes! Did you know that making mistakes helps you learn more? It’s true, and science has proven it! When you get something wrong and take the time to figure out the answer, your brain gets stronger. I like to call this the “Miss Frizzle Method.” By making mistakes, we have the chance to learn something new together!

Do Your Best!!

I am going to always try my best, and so all I will ever ask is that you do the same in my class. This includes coming to class on time, being an active participant in our explorations, and doing the homework. If you need help with something, or do not understand something, I am always here to help! You can send me an email, ask me before or after class, or come to my extra help. I am here to help YOU succeed, because I believe that you can!

Now, I just have one more question for you…

Finally...

Communication is key, and so I believe that parents, students, and teachers should have frequent, open, and constructive communication. Please feel free to check out the rest of my website. You can contact me anytime by email at shannon.l.murphy@stonybrook.edu, or by the “contact” button located on the menu in the upper right corner. I look forward to hearing from you!


Math can seem hard and scary sometimes, but I promise that together, we can make math fun! I can't wait to work with you all this year, as we explore and learn about how beautiful and exciting the world of mathematics can be!

All My Best,

Ms. Murphy