Goal – By the end of this year, our entire classroom family will be able to evaluate a complex problem, determine an appropriate solution strategy, explain and justify their reasoning, and persevere until they master the 8th Grade Mathematical Standards.
Problem Solving – Students will regularly tackle complex, reality-based problems. To be successful on these tasks, students must:
Read directions independently and thoughtfully.
Select appropriate strategies that will lead to a solution.
Demonstrate their thinking in all phases of problem solving.
Display the eight Mathematical Practices.
Evaluate their solutions for reasonableness.
Classroom Activities – All students are expected to work out problems on the board in front of the class. If you notice that another student is making a mistake, the proper response is to say “challenge” and wait to be called on.
Homework – There will be one homework page per week. It will be due Monday of the following week. A key will be posted if you get stuck, and you are encouraged to check your own work.
Assessments – Whenever appropriate, students will have an opportunity to demonstrate mastery of the content. Most weeks there will be an exit slip posted in Canvas. There will also be a formal assessment at the end of each unit. Students who have not mastered the content at grade level will have the option to re-take assessments after making an effort to increase their understanding.
Grades - Letter grades will be based primarily on Demonstrations of Mastery, though they can be impacted by classwork and homework. We will follow the VIDA Grading Scale:
A: 3.21 - 4.00
B: 2.41 - 3.20
C: 1.61 - 2.40
D: 0.81 - 1.60