Ms. Hendrickson and Mr. Wright

Grade 7 Math

Point Webster Middle School

2016 - 2017

Welcome!

Curriculum:

We will follow the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks in addition to the Common Core State Standards for Math. In Grade 7, instructional time will focus on four critical areas:

(1) Developing understanding of and applying proportional relationships;

(2) Developing understanding of operations with rational numbers and working with expressions and linear equations;

(3) Solving problems involving scale drawings and informal geometric constructions, and working with two- and three-dimensional shapes to solve problems involving area, surface area, and volume; and

(4) Drawing inferences about populations based on samples.

Students will work individually, with partners, and in small groups. Students are encouraged to use their classmates to learn, and to communicate with each other about math on a daily basis.

Topics that will be covered this year include:

Integers

Rational Numbers

Expressions and Equations

Inequalities

Ratios and Proportions

Percents

Constructions and Scale Drawings

Circles and Area

Probability and Statistics

Students will also take the 2015 Spring MCAS for Mathematics. Students will utilize test preparation resources throughout the year to prepare for this assessment.

Textbook

Students will utilize the Big Ideas textbook and workbook series this year. They can also find their textbook online at BigIdeasMath.com.

Materials Needed for Class:

3-ring binder with filler paper and dividers

Sharpened pencils with erasers

Red Big Ideas workbook

Personal calculator

Math Binders:

Students’ math binders should be divided into 5 sections: Do Now’s, Notes, Classwork, Homework, and Tests/Quizzes Students are expected to keep their binders organized. Binders will be cleaned out periodically throughout the year.

Grading:

Students will be graded as follows:

Tests (25%)

Quizzes (20%)

Homework (25%)

Classwork (10%)

Binder Checks (10%)

Participation/Effort (10%)

Homework:

Homework is extremely important in this class. It is generally given on a daily basis and due the following day. I will check every homework assignment to see if it is fully completed. All work must be shown for every problem. Circle problems that you do not understand but show me that you tried to do the problem to receive credit. You will not be penalized for wrong answers so long as you put your best effort forward. Any problems that were found difficult will be discussed in class. Work must be neat, complete, and done in pencil. All homework should have the proper heading and a date. Students may turn in homework up to one day late for half credit.

Quizzes/Tests:

Quizzes are given after a few sections of each unit. Tests will be given after completion of each unit. Students are expected to study before each test or quiz and be prepared to succeed. We will discuss study strategies in class, but I encourage students to see me if they are struggling and need some quick study tips.

Extra Credit:

Extra credit may be offered periodically at my discretion, but it can be completed only after all required work is finished.

Absent Policy:

If a student is absent from class it is their responsibility to come see me the day they get back for any work they missed. Homework that was due a day a student was absent will be due the day they return. Any quizzes or tests that were missed must be made up within one week upon return to class unless students have made other arrangements with me.

Extra Help:

I am available before and after school on certain days if you need extra help. Please see me to schedule extra help if you do not understand a concept.

Classroom Expectations for Students:

1.  BE RESPECTFUL. Treat others how you would want to be treated.

2.  Come to class prepared. This means bringing your homework from the night before, and all supplies on the supply list.

3.  Raise your hand.

4.  Do not speak while your teacher is speaking or another classmate has been called on.

5.  Participate in class and ask questions.

6.  No leaving the room without permission or a pass.

7.  Sign out to use the bathroom.

8.  No profanity.

9.  Work hard and give your BEST effort.