Program Challenge Math 2016 – 2017

Rosemon Tidwell – Teacher

The Douglas County mathematics curriculum is based on the Common Core Georgia Performance Standards (CCGPS). See web address: www.georgiastandards.org. Douglas County based their pacing guide on the Georgia Framework.

Our current textbook ,Glencoe Georgia Math which teaches the standards through a sequence of connected problems in an inquiry-based classroom will be used as a resource along with other teaching aids. The primary goal is to have students make sense of mathematical concepts, become proficient with basic skills and communicate their reasoning and understanding clearly.

Grading Policy

Tests/Projects 35 % Classwork 40 % Homework 15% CATS 10%

Students are expected to give 100% effort on each assignment. The level of mastery will vary based on the skill and where we are in the development of that skill. When a new skill is introduced there may be a level of uncertainty and/or confusion. However, as we work with skills, students are expected to work toward mastery.

To keep both students and parents informed, grades will be posted weekly (usually Tuesday). Students will use a code name to identify their grade. These code names will insure the privacy of the student’s grade. Students should record their average in their agenda book in order to share with you. Parents may also view grades by accessing Douglas County Infinite Campus website.

Behavior Expectations

Students are expected to follow all school and class rules and procedures. Because of the nature of the course, self-motivation is essential to the success of students. Students must be aware that their conduct can affect the learning of others.

Attendance

Attendance is very important! If a student is absent he/she misses the experience of developing their understanding by working on the problems and discussing key concepts and strategies. It is the student’s responsibility to get his/her missing assignments. If possible they should have a friend in the class that they can contact.

Homework Policy

Homework is assigned to reinforce the skills introduced in class and to apply those skills in real-life situations. All homework assigned must be completed to the best of the student’s ability. Points will be deducted for unexcused late work. Make-up assignments are expected to be completed in a timely manner. Math is a sequential skill subject so it is important that minimum amount of time is wasted before make-up work in attempted.

Calculators

The use of calculators is allowed on some assignments. Eighth grade students should be proficiency in decimal, fraction and integer computation. Students will use TI-83+ Graphing Calculators in the 8th grade mainly to reinforce the graphing units. They will use these calculators in class and are not required to buy one.

Future Placement

Placement in 9th grade math class is based on 7th grade Milestone scores and their performance in class this year. Eighth grade CRCT scores will not be released by the time we do high school registration.

Communication

Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns during the year. We have an established form of communication through the agenda book. The use of email is also a useful form of communication. My email address is .