I am Lebanese-Canadian. I am a product of an international school as I am a graduate of the American Community Schools of Athens. I received my electrical engineering degree from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in 1988 and worked for two years in a Lebanese company based in Athens. After immigrating to Canada in 1990, I went back to school and earned my Bachelor of Education from the University of Western Ontario in 1992, followed by a Master in the Teaching of Mathematics from Concordia University in 1999. That was also the year I began teaching on the international circuit, starting with Egypt. I, along with my wife, Caryn Pelletier, have also taught in Ghana, Italy, Tanzania, Qatar, Vietnam, and Nigeria. I enjoy traveling, watching movies, listening to music, doing crossword puzzles and playing board games. I am passionate about animals and Liverpool Football Club.
Week of June 18th
Grade 8A /B Math: Have a wonderful and safe summer!! For the students that are leaving the school, I wish you all the best in your future. For the students that are returning, see you next year!!
Grade 9A /B Math: Have a wonderful and safe summer!! For the students that are leaving the school, I wish you all the best in your future. For the students that are returning, see you next year!!ester exam.
IB Math AI SL 11: Have a wonderful and safe summer!! For the students that are leaving the school, I wish you all the best in your future. For the students that are returning, see you next year!!
Week of June 11th
Grade 8A /B Math: We went over the semester exam.
Grade 9A /B Math: We went over the semester exam.
IB Math AI SL 11: We went over the semester exam. The students got introduced to the Math Exploration, which is the Math Internal Assessment.
Week of June 4th
Grade 8A /B Math: We had the semester exam.
Grade 9A /B Math: We had the semester exam.
IB Math AI SL 11: We had the semester exam.
Week of May 28th
Grade 8A /B Math: We reviewed for the semester exam by redoing old unit tests and Dr Frost assignments.
Grade 9A /B Math: We had a unit test on Quadratic Factoring and Equations. We also reviewed for the semester exam by redoing old unit tests and Dr Frost assignments.
IB Math AI SL 11: We had a unit test on Probability.
Week of May 21st
Grade 8A /B Math: We practiced solving problems using the Pythagoras Theorem. We also learned about similarity and how to find missing sides of similar figures. We had a unit test at the endo of the week.
Grade 9A /B Math: We learned how to use the Null Factor Law with our factoring skills in order to solve quadratic equations.
IB Math AI SL 11: We learned about the addition law of probability. We now can recognize mutually exclusive events and independent events. We learned how to use tree diagrams to find probabilities, including sampling with/without replacement problems. Finally, we calculated conditional probabilities from both Venn and tree diagrams.
Week of May 14th
Grade 8A /B Math: We learned how to apply Pythagoras' Theorem to find missing sides of a right triangle and to solve word problems. We also learned how to use the converse of Pythagoras' Theorem to check if a triangle is a right triangle.
Grade 9A /B Math: We learned how to factor trinomials with and without a leading coefficien. We also learned how to factor a Difference of Squares. We had a concept check on all factoring types.
IB Math AI SL 11: We learned about experimental and theoretical probabilities. We looked at the different ways of representing the sample space. We also reviewed sets and Venn Diagrams in order to calculate probabilities.
Week of May 7th
Grade 8A /B Math: We had a test on our Coordinate Geometry unit. We then did an investigation to discover Pythagoras' Theorem as an introduction to the new unit.
Grade 9A /B Math: We learned how to common factor how to factor by grouping. We also had an introduction on how to factor trinomials.
IB Math AI SL 11: We learned how to rank data to find Spearman's correlation coefficient. We also worked on problems as a review for the test at the end of this week.
Week of April 30th
Grade 8A /B Math: We worked graphing equations using the gradient and y-intercept, writing the equation of a line from its graph, and finding the x- and y-intercepts. We had a concept check at the end of the week.
Grade 9A /B Math: We had a test on simultaneous equations. We also went over the test and started the new unit on quadratic factoring.
IB Math AI SL 11: We discussed correlation between two variables and how to describe it. We also learned to use the graphing calculators to find the regression line and the coefficient of correlation. We learned how to interpret the slope of the regression line and how to use the line to interpolate and extrapolate. We practiced IB problems on these topics.
Week of April 16th
Grade 8A /B Math: We worked on finding the gradients from two points and did some review activities. We had a concept check at the end of the week.
Grade 9A /B Math: We worked on different variations of word problems using simultaneous equations. We had a concept check at the end of the week.
IB Math AI SL 11: We wrapped up the Descriptive Statistics unit by looking at cumulative frequency graphs and finding percentiles. We also had the unit test.
Week of April 10th
Grade 8A /B Math: We reviewed the material that we had studied before the break - coordinate geometry and graphing linear functions. We were introduced to the concept of slope/gradient and learned how to find it from a graph and from two points.
Grade 9A /B Math: We worked on a modeling activity where students used simultaneous equations to compare two possible vacations of their choice. We also had a concept check on solving simultaneous equations.
IB Math AI SL 11: We continued our study of descriptive statistics. We looked at measures of spread. We also drew, interpreted and compared box-and-whiskers plots. We also learned about standard deviation and how constant changes to the data affects the mean and standard deviation.
Week of March 26th
Grade 8A /B Math: We continued studying how to graph functions. We also looked at horizontal and vertical lines.
Grade 9A /B Math: We learned how to solve linear systems algebraically using the substitution and elimination methods..
IB Math AI SL 11: We learned how to find the mean, median and mode of data in frequency tables as well as grouped data using the graphing calculator. We solved word problems involving mean, median and mode. Finally, we looked at how outliers affect the averages and which measure is best used in certain situations.
Week of March 19th
Grade 8A /B Math: We started our new unit on Coordinate Geometry and Functions. We looked at how to plot points in the Cartesian plane. We also learned what a function is and how to represent it using a table of values and a graph.
Grade 9A /B Math: We had a test on Coordinate Geometry. We also started the new unit on Simultaneous Equations and how to solve them graphically.
IB Math AI SL 11: We continued with the unit on Descriptive Statistics unit. We learned how to organize data in frequency tables and represent the distribution using column graphs and histograms. We also learned how to find the mean, median and mode of simple discrete data.
Week of March 5th
Grade 8A /B Math: We did a couple of activities involving ratios and percentages. The first activity involved comparing the ratios of different colored Skittles in a bag. The other involved simulating the capture-recapture method of estimating a population using Goldfish crackers. We also had our unit test.
Grade 9A /B Math: We reviewed linear equations before the unit test at the end of the week.
IB Math AI SL 11: We started the Descriptive Statistics unit. We discussed how statistical studies are conducted. We learned the difference between a census and survey. We also learned about sampling errors and sampling techniques.
Week of February 26th
Grade 8A /B Math: We worked on solving percent problems using proportion as well as dividing quantities using ratios
Grade 9A /B Math: We worked on graphing lines, including horizontal and vertical lines. We also learned how to write linear equations in different forms.
IB Math AI SL 11: We studied Voronoi diagrams. We also had a unit test.
Week of February 19th
Grade 8A /B Math: We started work on Ratios and Proportions
Grade 9A /B Math: We worked on parallel and perpendicular slopes and finding points on a line.
IB Math AI SL 11: We had a concept check and we started studying Voronooi diagrams.
Week of February 5th
Grade 8A /B Math: We did an activity involving clothes shopping and discounts. We then used this activity as a basis for an activity assessment in which students bought a pet, bought a house and planned a vacation with accessories and add-ons.
Grade 9A /B Math: We continued our work on gradients, including parallel and perpendicular lines. We also had a concept check.
IB Math AI SL 11: We found equations of perpendicular bisectors and horizontal & vertical lines. We also started using the graphing calculator to graph lines and solve simultaneous equations.
Week of January 29th
Grade 8A /B Math: We continued our work with percent and learned about percent increase and decrease. We also had a concept check.
Grade 9A /B Math: We did applications of the midpoint and distance formula. We also learned about the gradient between two points.
IB Math AI SL 11: We continued our studies on linear equations. We learned to test if a point is on a line and how to graph linear equations. We also had a concept check.
Week of January 22nd
Grade 8A /B Math: We started the new unit. We learned how to switch between percent, fractions and decimals. We also learned how to find the percent of two quantities and the percent of a quantity
Grade 9A /B Math: We started the unit unit. We learned about the importance of the coordinate system. We also learned how to find the distance between 2 points and their midpoint.
IB Math AI SL 11: We continued with our Analytic Geometry unit. We learned how to find the gradient between 2 points. We also learned about the relationship between the gradients of parallel and perpendicular lines. Finally, we practiced writing linear equations in three different forms.
Week of January 15th
Grade 8A /B Math: We reviewed for the exam by working on Dr. Frost assignments and writing concept checks. The exam was on Wednesday.
Grade 9A /B Math: We reviewed for the exam by working on Dr. Frost assignments and writing concept checks. The exam was on Thursday.
IB Math AI SL 11: We reviewed for the exam. The exam was on Thursday.
Week of January 8th
Grade 8A /B Math: We reviewed for the exam by working on Dr. Frost assignments and writing concept checks.
Grade 9A /B Math: We reviewed for the exam by working on Dr. Frost assignments and writing concept checks..
IB Math AI SL 11: We worked on problems involving the distance andmidpoint formulas in 3D. We also reviewed for the exam.
Week of January 2nd
Grade 8A /B Math: We started reviewing for the exam.
Grade 9A /B Math: We did some math magic and analyzed the tricks.
IB Math AI SL 11: We started Coordinate Geometry unit. We studied the distance and midpoint formulas in 2D and 3D.
Week of December 11th
Grade 8A /B Math: We had a test this week and went over it. We also celebrated the upcoming holidays.
Grade 9A /B Math: We had a test this week and went over it. We also celebrated the upcoming holidays.
IB Math AI SL 11: We had a test this week and went over it. We also celebrated the upcoming holidays.
Week of December 4th
Grade 8A /B Math: We reviewed solving equations for the unit test at the end of the week..
Grade 9A /B Math: We studied how to solve inequalities, including compound inequalities. We also reviewed for the test next week.
IB Math AI SL 11: This week we studied how to find the volume for tapered solids and how to find the angles between a line and a plane. We also reviewed for the test next week.
Week of November 27th
Grade 8A /B Math: We learned how to solve equations, including repeated unknowns. We also had a Concept Check about this topic.
Grade 9A /B Math: We continued to solve word problems, but this week we included age and value problems. We also had a Concept Check about this topic.
IB Math AI SL 11: This week we studied how to find the surface area and volume of 3D Figures.
Week of November 20th
Grade 8A /B Math: We learned about the differences between expressions and equations. We also learned about what a solution to an equation is and about solving equations using inverse operations. It was also really nice meeting you during the Parent Teacher Conferences.
Grade 9A /B Math: This week we worked on word problems and how to set up the equations. It was also really nice meeting you during the Parent Teacher Conferences.
IB Math AI SL 11: We had a trigonometry test. We also started the new unit on 3D Figures. The first lesson was on unit conversions. It was also really nice meeting you during the Parent Teacher Conferences.
Week of November 13th
Grade 8A /B Math: We learned how to use the distributive property to simplify expressions. We practiced problems using the website Dr, Frost. We had a concept check on the distributive property.
Grade 9A /B Math: We studied how to solve rational equations. We practiced problems using the website Dr. Frost. We had a concept check on solving linear and rational equations.
IB Math AI SL 11: We reviewed more trigonometry.
Week of November 6th
Grade 8A /B Math: We wrapped up the unit on Algebraic Expressions by studying dividing algebraic fractions. We also had our unit test.
Grade 9A /B Math: We started a new unit on Equations and Inequalities. We studied how to solve linear equations.
IB Math AI SL 11: We learned how to find the arc length and area of sectors. We also practiced IB questions and had the unit test on Trigonometry and Sectors.
Week of October 30th
Grade 8A /B Math: We continued our study of algebra by practicing collecting like terms and finding algebraic products. We also learned how to simplify and multiply algebraic fractions. We also had a concept check on what we learned the previous week.
Grade 9A /B Math: We wrapped up the unit on Algebraic Expansion with some practice, a concept check and a unit test.
IB Math AI SL 11: We had a concept check on the sine and cosine rules and their applications. We also learned to solve problems involving bearings.
Week of October 23rd
Grade 8A /B Math: We studied the language of algebra by learning the terminology and command terms. We also learned how to simplify expressions by combining like terms and multiplying terms.
Grade 9A /B Math: We continued our study of Algebra by looking at the special cases of Difference of Squares and Perfect Trinomial Squares. We also extended our knowledge to multiplying a binomial with a trinomial.
IB Math AI SL 11: We learned how to use the sine and cosine rules to find missing sides and angles in non-right triangles. We also solved word problems using these rules.
Week of October 16th
Grade 8A /B Math: We did an investigation to find out how Algebra is a generalization of arithmetic. We also had a concept check on algebraic notation, translating words into algebra, and substituting into expressions.
Grade 9A /B Math: We continued our study of Algebra by looking at the Distributive Property and multiplying binomials.
IB Math AI SL 11: We did word problems involving angles of elevation and depression. We also studied how to find areas of triangles using trigonometry. We had a concept check on right triangle trigonometry.
Week of October 2nd
Grade 8A /B Math: We started the Algebra unit, studying the different notations, translating verbal descriptions into algebraic expressions, and substituting and evaluating expressions.
Grade 9A /B Math: We had our first end-of unit assessment this week. We then reflected on how to improve preparations for assessments.
IB Math AI SL 11: We started the trigonometry unit this week. We defined the trig ratios, found missing sides and angles in right triangles and other geometric shapes.
Week of September 25th
Grade 8A /B Math: We had our first end-of unit assessment this week. We also worked on some communication questions and reflected on how to improve preparations for assessments.
Grade 9A /B Math: This week, we continued our work on the the laws of exponents. We also had a concept check.
IB Math AI SL 11: We had our first end-of unit assessment this week. We also reflected on how to improve preparations for assessments and did an error-analysis of the assessment.
Week of September 18th
Grade 8A /B Math: This week, we worked on order of operations, exponents, factors and multiples.
Grade 9A /B Math: This week, we worked the laws of exponents. We also practiced some communication questions
IB Math AI SL/HL 11: This week, we had the first concept check. We also worked on the laws of exponents and scientific notation.
Week of September 11th
Grade 8A /B Math: This week, we worked on estimation and finding the upper and lower bounds of measurements and applied them to word problems.
Grade 9A /B Math: This week, we worked on estimation and finding the upper and lower bounds of measurements and applied them to word problems.
IB Math AI SL/HL 11: This week, we continued our work on estimation and finding upper and lower limits. We also found the percent error of our estimations.
Week of September 4th
Grade 8A /B Math: This week, we enjoyed getting to know each other. We also started working on place values, rounding and significant figures.
Grade 9A /B Math: This week, we enjoyed getting to know each other. We also started working on place values, rounding and significant figures.
IB Math AI SL/HL 11: This week, we enjoyed getting to know each other. We did some diagnostic work to establish the students' prior knowledge. We also started the IB program with the topic of estimation.