8th Grade Math Syllabus
Welcome to 8th grade math! In this course, we will cover a variety of topics including measurement, geometry, data analysis, linear equations, and linear functions. This material may seem challenging as students will transition from concrete to abstract thought, but they will develop many skills such as problem solving and critical thinking skills.
**Class notes are required and should be reviewed daily and homework diligently completed. Homework is assigned Monday through Friday and will be due the next school day. Quizzes/Tests will be given throughout the quarter. Students should review by looking over their notes, the sections/chapter from their book and by practicing some of the homework problems and class examples. Remember, practice makes perfect!
Students will need a graphing calculator this year. While Chicod will provide them with a TI-83+ for classroom use, I feel it is essential for them to continue using a graphing calculator at home in order for them to become proficient with this type of calculator! Their End-of-Grade Test has a portion that is graphing calculator active. I would rather have the students keep their personal calculator at home so we won’t have any lost or misplaced calculators.
Grading Scale: Grade Determination:
A 100-93 Homework: 20%
B 92-85 Quizzes: 20% (chapter quizzes, bellringer quizzes, etc.)
D 76-70 Classroom participation: 15% ( includes completeing classroom assignments, answering questions in class,working during
time alotted to complete homework, etc.)
F 69 and below Tests: 45%
Homework :( 20%)
Math 8 students will receive homework every night. It is important that all assignments be completed on time in order to be fully prepared for the quizzes and chapter tests. All assignments will be graded for completeness and effort and will be reviewed in class. If a student has missed an assignment due to an absence, he or she should make it up following the guidelines in the student handbook.
Quizzes: (20%)
Quizzes could be on one or several concepts within a chapter. It can be announced or a total surprise. It is important for students to review their notes daily and be prepared! Students will be required to keep an organized notebook of bellringers, notes, and assignments/quizzes. Students will have a bellringer quiz every friday covering the bellringers assigned throughout the week.
Classroom Participation(15%)
Math 8 students are expected to participate and be engaged during class. Students must complete in-class assignments, as well as particate in class discussions. Points will be awarded based on the number of questions asked and answered as well as completeing assignments during class.
Tests: (45%)
Tests are an assessment of what the student has learned throughout the chapter. They should apply their knowledge to similar problems that were taught during the chapter.
Extra credit will be available periodically!
****ALL homework, quizzes and tests MUST be completed in PENCIL!!!
LATE Assignments :
All student work should be completed and turned in . If work is not turned in on time, the grade on that work will be determined as follows: If the late assignment is turned in within 24 hours of its due date, the student will receive 80% of the points they have earned. If the assignment is turned in after 24 hours from the due date, the student will receive 70% of the points they have earned. However, all late assignments must have all work shown. If only answers are turned in, no points will be given.
Class Rules:
- Be in your seat when the bell rings
- Raise hand before speaking or moving from assigned seat ( unless otherwise instructed)
- Bring all books and materials to class
- No cursing, teasing, or gossiping
- Follow directions the first time they are given
Consequences:
- 1st offense: verbal warning
- 2nd offense: silent lunch
- 3rd offense: student/teacher conference and parent contact
- 4th offense: parent/teacher conference
- 5th offense: office referral
These consequences are only a guideline. Necessary actions will be taken as a situation warrants ensuring an environment for optimal learning. Students need to make good choices.
Parents, please encourage your child to do his/her best. The math skills that are learned this year serve to help with next year’s course!
If you have any questions, please call, e-mail me, or drop me a note! Email is the best way to contact me, and will recieve the quickest response. I look forward to a wonderful year teaching your child math!!!
Sincerely, Mrs. Jessica McDaniels