Course Overview

Welcome to math class!  8th grade math builds on knowledge gained in previous grades and focuses on developing eight main areas of understanding: Real Numbers, Analyze and Solve Linear Equations, Use Functions to Model Relationships, Investigate Bivariate Data, Analyze and Solve Systems of Linear Equations, Congruence and Similarity, Understand and Apply the Pythagorean Theorem, Solve Problems Involving Surface Area and Volume.  We will be using a new math series called Envision Math which will include both print and online learning activities.

Behavior Expectations

As students join the Middle School, their ability to meet and exceed expectations for behavior becomes increasingly important.  I utilize positive consequences (including rewards, homework passes, etc.) when earned, and negative consequences (including point deduction, detention, and parent contact) when necessary.  I look forward to working with students and parents in order to ensure that all students behave in a manner that is conducive to learning.

There are three simple expectations for my class:

• RESPECT - Respect yourself, your classmates, time, materials, your school, and me.

• RESPONSIBILITY - Come prepared to class with all materials, several sharpened pencils, and all homework completed.  Know that you are responsible for your learning!

• MOTIVATION - Success requires hard work.  Do your best on assignments, stay positive and focused on your goals, participate, and ask questions.

Year-at-a-Glance

The school year will be divided into 8 topics as follows:

• Topic 1 - Real Numbers

• Topic 2 - Analyze and Solve Linear Equations

• Topic 3 - Use Functions to Model Relationships

• Topic 4 - Investigate Bivariate Data

• Topic 5 - Analyze and Solve Systems of Linear Equations

• Topic 6 - Congruence and Similarity

• Topic 7 - Understand and Apply the Pythagorean Theorem

• Topic 8 - Solve Problems Involving Surface Area and Volume

Grading

Students’ grades will be determined by performance in five weighted categories:

• Assessments/Long Term Projects: 40%

• Quizzes/Short Term Projects: 30%

• Homework:   15%

• Participation/Notebook/Project/CW:  15%

Grading Scale

A+  100 - 97

A     96 - 93

A-    92 - 90

B+   89 - 87 

B     86 - 83

B-   82 - 80

C+  79 - 77

C    76 - 73

C-   72 - 70

D+  69 - 67

D   66 - 65

F   64 and below

Extra Credit

Extra credit opportunities will be offered throughout the year.  Please check the extra credit section on my website for more information. This is the only time extra credit will be given. 

Absences and/or Make-Up Procedures

Students are expected to make up all missed work. Upon return from an absence it is the student’s responsibility to make sure he or she is aware of all assignments.  First check Google Classroom for assignments, then consult with me with any questions you have. The general time allowed to complete this work without a penalty will be the number of days the student was absent.  For example, if a student was absent two days, then he or she will have two days to make up any missed work. Any assignments not completed within the time frame discussed with the teacher will be an automatic zero.

• Scientific Calculator (FX-300MS recommended)

• Binder & loose leaf paper OR a notebook

• Two pocket folder

• Several sharpened pencils and/or lead if using mechanical pencils

• Erasers

• Crayons/Colored Pencils (optional)

Each student must have his/her own calculator!
There will be none available for use in the classroom.