Kayla Meisinger » 8th Grade Math

8th Grade Math

Welcome to 8th Grade Math!
 
 
Policies and Expectations:

Homework

Homework provides an opportunity for you to practice what you have learned during class.  This practice, when done thoroughly, helps you internalize and understand what has been presented during class.  It provides you with a self-evaluation of your progress; therefore, it is essential that you complete all assignments.  Not completing homework will hinder your chance of success.

Your Commitment

  1. When completing homework, you should expect to spend a maximum of 30 minutes on it.
  2. Answers must be thoroughly given.  Isolated answers are not permitted.  You must clearly and neatly demonstrate specific strategies for each example.  Credit will only be given for a neatly, and thoroughly completed assignment.  If an assignment is not turned in on time, you may receive half credit if it is in the next day.  After that, it will not be accepted for credit but it is still recommended that it be completed.
  3. It is important that you attempt all examples assigned for homework.  If you skip the more challenging problems, you are jeopardizing your chances of learning.  Remember, we learn from mistakes; so do not be afraid to take chances.
  4. To ensure a neatly completed assignment, all mathematics must be completed in pencil!!!
  5. Organize your work by date in your notebook. This allows you to reference notes, classwork or homework easily.

Grading

Formative (30%) will consist of quizzes including take-home quizzes, graded homeworks, exit tickets, and worksheets.

Summative (50%) will consist of unit tests and projects.

Diagnostic (15%) will consist of homework, reflections, and class participation.

Benchmark (5%) will be quarterly benchmarks.

Notebook

It is recommended to have two graph paper notebooks for this class.  In these notebooks, you will keep track of vocabulary, “Do Nows,” notes/class work and homework.  Other materials you will need this year are PENCILS and erasers along with a folder for keeping all handouts from class.  This will allow you to stay organized in class and be successful throughout the year.

Classroom Behavior

The goal of our classroom discipline policy is to create an atmosphere conducive to learning and allow more time on task for learning.  Our behavior policy will be reviewed in depth over the next few days however here are some basics.

The following rules will be in effect at all times:

  • Bring all appropriate materials to class (chromebook, notebooks, textbook/workbook, pencils, etc.)
  • Follow directions the first time given.
  • Raise your hand and wait to be recognized before speaking.
  • Absolutely no teasing or name-calling.
  • Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.
  • Use the “GOLDEN RULE.”

Incidentals

  • Exit passes will be given throughout the year to check for understanding of each concept learned.  
  • The goal of this class is for you to learn mathematics and retain it for future use.  We will be conducting cumulative benchmark assessments at the close of each marking period to ensure you are learning all the standards required for this year.
  • When you are absent, it is important that you keep up with all class work and homework assigned for those days.  Do not allow yourself to fall behind.  You may be kept informed of all assignments by following Google Classroom.
  • When you are absent on a test or a quiz day, you will make up that test on the first day you return to class.
  • The use of calculators is permitted during and outside of class, but only as a tool to check your work.  Your assignments should not consist of isolated answers, but should reveal your mathematical process and strategies.
  • All assessments will be stored in the back of the classroom in your individual folders to reference before benchmark assessments. 
  • Retakes are offered on every assessment in 8th Grade Math with the exception of Benchmarks.
  • In Algebra, retakes are not offered; however, I drop the lowest quiz for each marking period. My philosophy behind this is that everyone is entitled to a bad day. Remember, only one a marking period. 
  • Reflection journals will be utilized throughout the year to help students be mindful of their part in the education process.