WEBSTER MIDDLE SCHOOL

Dear Parents or Guardian:

Welcome to the 2013/2014 year at Webster Middle School. My name is Ms. Sung, I will be your child’s 8thth grade Pre-Algebra teacher. I am looking forward to an exciting year with your son or daughter as we discover new concepts and review, the math world together. The goal of this class is to ensure that the students learn the required materials in 8th grade Pre-Algebra, in a positive learning atmosphere where they can reach their maximum learning potential. To ensure the success of your child’s education, it is necessary for the teacher, parents, and students to work together as a team. Please read the following information with your child. This syllabus addresses the course outline to meet California State Standards, necessary materials, grading policy, classroom rules, and expectations. After thoroughly reading all the information with your child, sign the last page of the syllabus and return it to me as soon as possible. Please let us know if you have any academic concerns.

Sincerely,

Ms. Sung

______

There are a few things I want to highlight for you:

  • Homework- Homework will be assigned daily Monday-Thursday. The homework assignments will be collected randomly. If a student is absent, it is the student's responsibility to obtain missed assignments. It is also the student's responsibility to turn in all late assignments. To receive credit for late assignments, it must be submitted the following day of the students return to class.
  • All assignments must be completed using a pencil.
  • Binders- Students will need a 3 ring binder. In the binder, students will keep an organized section for math class. In this section, the students will need four additional dividers for: daily warm-ups, daily notes, homework, and tests/exams.
  • A Spiral notebook is necessary for note-taking in class.
  • Exams - Exams will be given every Friday. Unless, otherwise informed by the teacher.
  • It would be beneficial to your child to have your assistance in reviewing his/her notes, warm-ups, and homework assignments.
  • Make up exams- make-ups will be offered during lunch, it is the student’s responsibility to make an appointment.
  • Textbooks–Algebra Readiness by Prentice Hall
  • Work habits and cooperation:

4 Tardies = "U" on the report card in work habits.

5 Tardies = referral to the dean's office for detention.

7 Tardies = "U" in both work habits and cooperation.

  • Grading scale:

90-100%A

80-89%B

70-79%C

60-69%D

Anything below 60% is considered a fail.

Course Outline

Examine the Language and Tools of Pre-Algebra by learning how to: Solve Variable and Algebraic Expressions, Integers and Exponents, Equations and Applications, Rational Numbers, Rates, and Proportions, Applications of Percents, Linear Functions and Graphing, Inequalities, and Exponents and Equations.

Necessary Materials

Each student is expected to come to class prepared with the following materials:

  • Binder with subject dividers
  • Lined 8.5” X 11” paper
  • 3 sharpened pencils, work must be completed using a pencil
  • Erasers
  • Agenda Books
  • 3 ring folder (for worksheets)
  • Pencil sharpener
  • Kleenex
  • Supply case
  • Stapler
  • Spiral notebook

Class Rules

  • Student will be in his/her seat, with supplies out, and ready to begin class when the bell rings. After student is quiet and in his/her seat, begin working on the daily warm-up.
  • Student will raise his/her hand for permission to speak or move around the room during class.
  • Student will keep hands, objects, and comments to himself/herself.
  • Student will follow the teacher's direction and be productive in class at all times.
  • Student will be required to follow all school rules including, no chewing gum in class.
  • Student should be respectful and use polite language (e.g. "thank you" and "excuse me") with fellow students and teacher.

The breach of the above rules will result in implementation of consequences.

Consequences

As a disciplinary policy, the following set of consequences will take place for constantly breaching the class rules.

1. Verbal warning

2. Phone call home

3. Referral to the Deans office

4. Parent/Teacher conference

5. Detention

The above set of consequences may be subject to change depending on circumstances.

Rewards

  • A phone call home
  • A certificate
  • “Above the Line” lottery ticket

Procedures

  • The teacher, not the bell, will dismiss the students from class.
  • Students will enter the classroom quietly and in an orderly manner.
  • Students will sharpen all pencils and throw away trash before being seated.
  • Students will be asked to walk quietly in a line during any fire drill or transport to other areas of the school.
  • Students will need to have a hall pass given to them by the teacher if they require leaving the classroom for any reason.
  • Students not following rules consistently will be given consequences for their actions.
  • All homework and class work must be completed using a pencil.
  • Students must show their work at all times.
  • During tests, all students must use a cover sheet to cover their work.
  • Students must use appropriate paper heading at all times.

Expectations

All students are expected to be respectful, prepared, and make their best effort to succeed in class.

………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

I have read and reviewed the Class Syllabus on-line with my child.

Please sign and return

Parent signature Date

Students name Students signature

Period ______