2020/2021 Syllabus

We are excited to have all of you here at Koontz! This is going to be a great year filled with fun and learning all at the same time! This information is provided as a summary of our math and science expectations for our students. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

Math

The mathematics curriculum is organized into five strands: (1) Operations & Algebraic Thinking; (2) Number & Operations in Base Ten; (3) Number & Operations - Fractions; (4) Measurement & Data (includes volume) and, (5) Geometry. Problem solving strategies are embedded into each of the 5 strands. Grade five is a pivotal year. It is a culmination and synthesis of what has come before in grades K through 4 and a transition to the greater independence and responsibilities students need to exhibit in middle grades.

Classwork/Journals

Classwork is considered work done in class with the guidance of the teacher. All students should be able to complete the assignments with proficiency if they are paying attention and following along during class.

Homework/Participation

Homework during the first grading period will consist of practicing and mastering multiplication facts. We do this to be sure students are able to be successful in fifth grade math concepts. Beginning at the start of the second grading period, students will be assigned five problems per day Monday through Thursday. Students are expected to keep up with their weekly homework, show all their work (equations, models, number lines, explanations, etc.) and will be given a grade for completion. Students will receive full credit for homework if it is turned in on time and if they show all of their work.

Math Assessments

Units will be divided into sessions. At the end of each session, there may be a quiz on that particular skill. A unit test will be given at the end of each unit to assess student proficiency. All unit tests count for 40% of the total grade for each grading period. Additional quizzes and/or informal assessments will be given based on student performance. All quizzes count for 30% of the total grade for each grading period. The information from these and other assessments will be used to determine students’ understanding of the concepts and if additional instruction or enrichment is needed.

Science

The focus for 5^th grade is on using evidence, models and reasoning to form scientific explorations. Science concepts include weather; matter, properties & change; heat & energy transfer; forces & motion; interdependence of plants & animals; human body and genetics.

Homework/Participation

• In the rare case that homework is assigned, teachers may grade the work for completion. This work should be completed by the due date established by the teacher.
• Teachers may take participation grades based on engagement and effort during any class assignment and/or activity.

Classwork/Journals

• Science Journal - Each student is required to keep a science journal during class. All journals should be neat, organized, and thorough in order to demonstrate their participation. Students will glue/tape handouts, graphic organizers, etc, as well as write notes and complete classwork in their journals. Teachers will assess journals based on these criteria, which will contribute to their classwork and/or participation grade.
• Classwork - Classwork is considered work done in class with the guidance of the teacher. All students should be able to complete the assignments with proficiency if they are paying attention and following along during class.
• Labs - Students will participate in hands-on or digital labs to enhance their learning experiences during science class. Labs will contribute to classwork grades.

Quizzes/Projects

A variety of quizzes, assessments and projects will be used throughout each unit to check for understanding. Some projects may need to be completed at home.

Unit Tests

A unit test will be given at the end of each unit to assess student proficiency over an entire unit of study. These tests will given via School net, which looks very similar to format of the Science End-of-Grade test. All unit tests count for 40% of the total grade for each grading period. Students will complete a study guide before each unit test that will help them prepare. Students are expected to take these home and use as a study tool.

Grading Policy

Weighted Categories

• Assessments 40%
• Classwork 40%
• Participation 20%

Grading Scale

• A 90%-100%
• B 80%-89%
• C 70%-79%
• D 60%-69%
• F 0%-59
• You can check on your child’s progress by using the “Parent Portal” through the school website. “Parent Portal” only allows access to your child’s personal grades for all of his/her classes and is protected by a username and password (obtained from the office for security).

Classroom Rules

• Koontz Students take the LEAD (Leadership, Empathy, Accountability, and Determination)
• Refer to the Koontz Intermediate PBIS Handbook for more information.
• Leader Cards are awarded each 9 weeks for Academics, Attitude and Attendance. Students will need 6 points to participate in the “celebration” at the end of each grading period.