This year’s 8th grade math class will be co-taught by Ms. Q and Ms. Sherman. We will follow the Connected Math 3 curriculum (CMP3) which is based on the Common Core Standards and the CVSD Common Learning Targets. The ultimate goal of the course is to prepare students for high school math class.
The topics we will be covering this year are as follows:
REVIEW: Balancing equations, complex fractions, operations with positives and negatives integers and solving and graphing linear equations
Exploring linear and non-linear models (Thinking with Math Models)
Exploring exponential growth graphs and equations, exponent rules and scientific notation (Growing, Growing, Growing)
Use of the Pythagorean Theorem, square roots, cube roots, rational and irrational numbers (Looking for Pythagoras)
Exploring quadratic functions (Frogs, Fleas, and Painted Cubes)
Solving linear systems graphically, algebraically and exploring inequalities (It’s in the System)
Symmetry, congruence, transformation of similar figures through translation, reflection and rotation (Butterflies, Pinwheels and Wallpaper)
CVSD Learning Targets:
Creating Equivalent Expressions
Solving Linear Equations
Solving Systems of Linear Equations
Creating Linear Equations
Creating Systems of Linear Equations
Graphing Linear Equations
Geometric Reasoning
Proportional Reasoning
Justifying Claims
Solving Quadratic Equations
Creating Nonlinear Equations
Graphing Nonlinear Equations
Class Community Expectation
Keeping the class environment respectful, productive, focused, and fun is our mission. We expect students to come to class prepared to learn with completed homework, class materials, a growth mindset and a positive attitude. Students are asked to share their mathematical thinking both in small groups and before the large group when appropriate. They will also be asked to write and explain their work and participate in Private Think Time (PTT), homework, classwork, entrance/exit tasks,tests, and quizzes. When students do not understand something in class, it is their duty to raise their hand to get clarification. Students are encouraged to seek out additional help when they are struggling during core periods.
Organization
Students will need the following organizational materials: hardbound grid composition notebook and binder. The composition notebook or “math journal” will be utilized for Private Think Time (PTT), dyad discussion, day-to-day math investigations, homework and vocabulary. Entries should have a clear title and date, for example: Problem 1.3 Exponential Growth 9/5/18. Please use pencil. It is important to keep a meaningful journal; we will have periodic checks for content and organization.
The binder will house returned test/quizzes, entrance/exit tasks, and vocabulary. Any graded homework that is handed in must have a name in order for credit to be given. Having organized class materials enables students to easily reference valuable resources.
Assessment
Each unit of study will have learning targets that students will work toward mastering that are connected with the Common Core Standards and CVSD Learning Targets. These learning targets will be recorded in
JumpRope. Remember that meeting the learning targets within a unit takes time; students are given multiple opportunities to show their mastery throughout the year. Class participation and homework completion are work habits that are also assessed.
Every two weeks JumpRope is updated with current assessments and work habits. If a student does not meet the standard on specific learning targets they will be asked to come in for re-teaching of the material missed on the assessment. When the reteaching is completed the student will take a retake test and that score will be reflected in JumpRope.
The scores you will see on JumpRope represent the following:
4: Exceeding
3: Meeting
2: Building proficiency
1: Does not meet standard
N: No progress made/ Not turned in
Homework and Parent Support:
Periodically students will have vocabulary and other assignments as homework. IXL is an online math program that allows students to practice math problems related to the topics we are studying. Students need to complete 45 minutes a week to meet the standard for this assignment. There is no math homework over the weekend. Google Classroom is where you can find class information and assignments, so if a student is absent they can stay on top of missing work.These assignments are placed only as announcements and are not turned in on Google Classroom. If a student consistently misses work, parents will be contacted.
Parents can be supportive by periodically checking JumpRope and Google Classroom. We would like students to work through their math independently. If math struggles occur, we encourage students to come in for extra help.