Goals
The main goal in this Math class is for you to understand the math topics we
study, rather than just memorize things. Sometimes you will use objects
(manipulatives) to help you see why certain rules and procedures work the way
they do.
You will keep a Math Notebook in which you will glue handouts that summarize
the concepts and skills taught in class. Your Math Notebook will also help you
as you study for tests and quizzes.
You will often work with a partner or in groups to solve and discuss problems,
and you will write about your problem-solving strategies to help you prepare
for the open-response sections of the Math MCAS.
Class Preparation and Supplies
Each day you must bring to class the following materials: agenda book, spiral
bound notebook used only for Math notes, at least two sharpened pencils (you
cannot use pen for your work in Math class), a pencil sharpener, an eraser, a
black dry erase marker, and two working glue sticks. You will not be allowed
to return to your locker for items not brought to class with you.
Class preparation is graded. You begin each term with a class preparation
grade of 100, but you lose 5 points for any day you do not have ALL the
required materials listed above.
Class work and Homework
You will get a weekly list of each day's class goals, class work problems,
and homework problems, which you will staple into your agenda book each
Monday. If changes need to be made as the week goes on, you will write the
changes in your agenda book space for that day.
You will have problems to work on each day in class to practice that day's
learning. Often, what you do not complete in class will become your homework
for that night. You may be able to finish the required work during class time,
but only if you focus during class and ask questions if you do not
understand the material as it is taught and as examples are worked out on the
board.
Homework counts for 15% of your term grade, and it is graded only for effort
and completeness, which does include SHOWING ALL WORK for every problem. You
begin each term with a homework grade of 100, but you lose 5 points for any
day you arrive to class without a complete homework assignment. (If you cannot
do any part of your homework due to illness or family emergency, you must
bring a note to class from a parent to avoid losing the 5 points on that day.)
Tests and Grades
The weekly schedule stapled in your agenda book lists the upcoming quizzes and
tests, so you can begin to review and study at least 3 or 4 days before the
day of the test.
Term grades are based on quizzes (35%), tests (45%), homework completion
(15%), and coming to class with all the required supplies (5%).
You should seek help during the Advisory Periods if you feel you do not
understand the material. Extra help can also be arranged on most days before
school with advance notice.
You may also use the Advisory Period to make up a test or quiz. On the makeup
test you will do problems similar to the ones you got wrong, but you can only
earn back one half of the original points for each makeup problem you
correctly complete. It is always better to be well prepared for the original
test so you can get the maximum points! Also note that in order to take
advantage of the makeup test opportunity you must take the makeup WITHIN TWO
WEEKS of receiving back a quiz or test.
