Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of
students and parents.
- How is my grade figured?
- When can I come in for extra help?
- What should I do when I am absent?
- What if I miss class for ball games, field trips, etc.?
- Why do you make us show our work? Isn't the answer all you need?
- When will my notebook be graded?
- What math class will I take next year?
- When will you pass out grade sheets?
- Can I do any extra credit to bring up my grade?
How is my grade figured?
I use what is called a TOTAL POINTS system.
To figure your overall grade
1. Add up all the points you have earned in the class
2. Add up all the points possible
3. Divide the points you earned by the points possible.
I have included a points break-down of each type of task below.
Daily In-class Activities = 5 points each
Homework assignments = 5 points each
Quizzes (middle of unit) = 50 points each
Tests (end of unit) = 100 points each
Semester Exams = 150 points each
Math Notebook = 100 points each time graded
Total points possible depends on how many of each item is assigned during the
grading period.
When can I come in for extra help?
I offer math tutoring after school on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. If that won't
work for you, ask to make an appointment with me.
What should I do when I am absent?
1. Get a copy of all handouts, worksheets, etc. from Mrs. Phillimore.
2. Copy someone's notes or download the PowerPoint lessons online.
3. Do assignments and turn them in.
4. Make up any quizzes or tests.
Plan to do all of this work outside of class time. According to the student
handbook, you get the # of days absent + 1 to make up all work, tests, etc.
See the examples below.
Absent 1 day = 2 days to make up work
Absent 2 days = 3 days to make up work
Absent 3 days = 4 days to make up work
etc.
What if I miss class for ball games, field trips, etc.?
School sponsored events are not technically absences. It is your
responsibility to keep up with the class. This means you need to see Mrs.
Phillimore BEFORE the absence to find out what you need to do. Please find a
time to see her that does not interfere with other classes!
Why do you make us show our work? Isn't the answer all you need?
1) I need to see that you are using the correct procedure, notation, etc.
2) The more you write out the steps, the more likely you are to remember the
steps later.
3) You can study the steps you write down in notes or homework assignments to
prepare for tests. If you look back and see only answers, you might not
remember how you got them!
When will my notebook be graded?
I usually grade notebooks at the end of each quarter; however, it can be
graded at any time. Be prepared! Keep everything up to date and bring your
notebook to class every day!
What math class will I take next year?
This is the usual order of classes.
Algebra I (or Alg. A/B)
Geometry
Algebra II
Trig/Precalculus (For most students, this is an elective.)
When will you pass out grade sheets?
I do my best to pass out gradesheets at the end of each week.
If you do not get a gradesheet from me, you can also check your grades on
PowerSchool. Your parents can get the password by calling the school office.
Can I do any extra credit to bring up my grade?
1. If you do all your coursework and study for tests, you will not need extra
credit!
2. Get your gradesheet signed on the 4th and 8th week of a the quarter for 5
points each.
2. Come into tutoring to do extra work. To cut back on cheating, all work
must be done in tutoring and turned in before you leave.
3. Other extra credit opportunities will be announced in class.