Math 7/8 Syllabus 2007/2008
Teacher- Mr. James
Course
Objectives: To introduce basic math, algebra, and geometry concepts so that
students are sharpened in their skills preparing them to take pre-algebra the
following year.
Text: Mathematics Applications and Concepts, (Glencoe Mathematics, 2006)
Materials
Required: Students need 3-ring binder, pencils, paper, etc. They may also need graphing paper to graph
solutions, etc. Students are allowed to
use calculators.
Homework/ Quizzes: Students should expect to be assigned homework regularly. Homework is to be completed the next day in class, as I will collect it and go over it in class with them daily. If a student is absent, he or she needs to find out what the assignment is and complete it ASAP. For homework, I am simply requiring that students do the assigned work and SHOW THEIR WORK! We will correct mistakes in class, and I will grade them based on their effort for homework. Typically we will have a weekly quiz which will count in the homework portion of our grades. I will grade quizzes for accuracy, as this will prepare us for chapter tests.
Tests: Tests will
be administered approximately every 2-3 weeks.
I will try to announce exams a week ahead of time and provide plenty of
preparation. I will grade each student
and the class as a whole. Class
averages will not affect individual grades, however, I
do believe deeper education occurs as we learn in community. (Individual grades will not be
announced!)
Participation: I expect
students to participate daily in the classroom. Our time together in class covering lessons
is very important and requires that students be involved in the process.
Grades: I do not
want students to fear grades in my class.
Grades are simply an evaluation of their learning and do not define who
they are as image bearers of God. Students
should focus on the learning process (support, structure, challenge) so that
they are challenged to grow and increase their skills and knowledge. Here is how grades will be broken down in my
class:
Homework/
Quizzes – 50%
Chapter
Tests – 40%
Participation
– 10%
Classroom
Discipline: Of course we will follow the rules set forth by the school in
class. However, I have two rules in
class that I take seriously that will aid in promoting a positive learning
environment in the classroom. 1) When I am speaking, teaching, etc. in class
every one is focused upon me. No one
else is allowed to speak unless called upon.
If a student would like to speak, he/she must raise their hand. 2)
When another classmate is speaking, the same rule applies and if someone
wants to speak they must raise their hand and I will call upon them to
speak. Following these rules along with
those mentioned in the student/parent handbook will be enforced in class to
promote a positive communal learning environment.