8^th Grade POR Math  2009-2010

 

Mrs. Kelly                   Period 7                Room:  28 

 

Welcome to eighth grade mathematics!  This year will be very exciting and challenging.  You will be expected to try your hardest and be an active participant as you expand your mathematical knowledge. 

 

• We will be covering many pre-algebra skills this year, including some beginning algebra skills such as identifying, writing, and graphing equations.  We will also cover topics in geometry, numbers and operations, data analysis, and probability.  Problem solving and journal writing will be used to increase communication of mathematics knowledge using numbers, pictures, graphic representations, and words. You will continue to learn that there is more than one way to solve a problem. In addition, there will be ongoing preparation and review for the NJASK8.

 

• We will use several sources of instruction among which will be the IMPACT series and supplemental math series by AGS and McDougall-Littell. In order to be successful in this course, students should come to class prepared and ready to learn.

 

• Remember that practice is necessary to develop and maintain skills.  Therefore, homework will be assigned most nights.  You should complete assignments with diligence and effort to receive credit.  If a problem causes difficulty, you should provide a written explanation of what is not understood.  Credit will not be given for problems left blank or when no work is provided to support an answer.  If you miss a class, you are still responsible for seeing me to make up the work. Each “on time” and reasonably completed homework assignment is worth 5 points. Points will be deducted if the assignment is late and/or incomplete.

 

• Extra help is available most days.  Please ask for extra help as soon as you feel that you are struggling!  Don’t wait until the day of the test to seek help.  Extra help the morning of a test will be available as long as you inform me and get a pass in order to gain early entrance to the school.  I am usually in school by 7:25 most mornings, and I am often available after school.

 

• Grading is determined on a “points” basis.  You can calculate your grade at any time in the marking period using the grading sheet you will receive.  We will practice using this sheet as a class.  Parents will be asked to sign this sheet twice during the marking period.  (Simply add up all of the points earned and divide by the total points possible.  Then multiply this number by 100 to calculate the percentage.)  Tests and quizzes will vary in points based upon the length and difficulty of the topic. Tests will range between 30-50 points each.  Quizzes will range between 5 -30 points each.  Your marking period grade will also include evaluation of homework, classwork, notebook grades, and Do-Now journals as well as participation and cooperation.  The total possible points for each of these will be indicated on your grading sheet.

 

• If at any time you or your parents need to contact me, you can email at:  kkelly@spfk12.org or call (908) 322 – 5215 ext. 128. 

 

• I also have a website on which I will post homework and other information about our class:  http://teacherweb.com/NJ/TerrillMiddleSchool/Kelly/ap2.stm .

 

Materials Requirements

 

All students should have a three-ring binder with a math section and a math folder.  Binders may be just for math or may contain other subjects as long as there is a section that is clearly designated for math.  NO spirals!  Be sure to have a supply of white-lined paper.  We will clean out our notebooks at the end of each unit.

 

Your math section will contain notes, classwork, homework, worksheets, and quizzes.  This will be kept in sequential order with a table of contents and will help to keep you organized. End of chapter/unit notebook checks may take place during the marking period.

 

I will provide a separate binder that will be kept in class. This binder will contain all Do-Now work, grade level refreshers, and signed tests. These binders are representative of your work and provide examples of what you can do and what you have learned.  Do-Now journals will be graded for neatness, effort, and accuracy. Open-note Do-Now quizzes will be given from time to time.

 

Pencils and a scientific calculator are required for all students.  Work completed in pen will not be accepted.  Scientific calculators will be provided for use in class.  I would encourage all students to have a calculator to keep at home.  The best type of calculator is one that calculates fractions, decimals and percents.

 

Classroom Rules and Expectations:

 

1. Be prepared with your materials, be on time, and ready to work.
2. Be respectful of everybody in your class.
3. Be an active, responsible learner.  Appropriate participation is welcome!

 

Your rewards for following these rules are self-respect, increased understanding of the subject, positive home communication, and better grades.

 

 

 

We are looking forward to a great year together!

 

 

I have read and understand the class requirements and expectations for eighth grade math.

 

 

________________________        _______________________

Student Signature Parent Signature

 

 

Date: ________________