As a math teacher, my students often ask me, “Ms. Rollins, when am I ever going to use this?” And my answer is always the same: all the time. Seventh grade math is full of real-life applications that go far beyond the classroom. Whether you're buying a pair of sneakers and calculating the final price with an 8% sales tax, going out to eat and leaving a 20% tip on a $50 meal, or deciding between a 12-pack of soda for $5.99 and an 8-pack for $4.99, you're using math. These everyday situations require the same skills we practice in class. Sometimes, it’s hard for students to see the connection between what we’re learning and the real world. They may think math only exists during our daily lessons, but in reality, math plays a constant role in helping us make smart financial choices, understand value, and manage our lives more effectively.