WELCOME TO HONORS MATH

Here is a summary of Honors Math expectations:

GRADES

Trimester grades are computed from the following:

1. 3 to 4 test scores

2. Standardized Test Practice (STP) worksheets, averaged at the end of each trimester and equivalent to one test grade.

3. Problem of the Week (POW!), averaged at the end of each trimester and equivalent to one test grade.

4. Projects

5. Homework

6. Copybook

HOMEWORK

Homework is assigned every day and is an important part of the program. The homework grade starts at 100. Two points will be deducted for a missing homework. A demerit will be given after three missing assignments. Your child will stay in for lunch to complete any missing assignments. A homework completed but not brought to class will be treated as a missing assignment.

MAINTENANCE SHEETS

Maintenance worksheets are given each week - typically on Friday and due the following Friday and are graded

STANDARDIZED TEST PRACTICE (STP)

The STP worksheets assist in preparation for the Terra Nova Test and high school scholarship tests, as well as sharpen skills in test taking. The worksheets are given on Tuesdays and are due the following Tuesday.

STP worksheets are graded and are open book tests. Students are permitted to ask for help from their parents, one another, and myself. Researching the solution is strongly encouraged since there will often be material that has not been taught. All work should be shown when applicable.

The last page is a critical thinking activity and does not count towards the grade.

PROBLEM OF THE WEEK (POW)

POW is given on Monday and due on the following Friday. Sometimes two weeks will be given to complete the problem. Students are expected to solve the problem and explain how they arrived at the solution. Their explanation should include how, why, and what they did to solve the problem. All computation, with labeling, must be shown. The problem is graded using a rubric.

Each child will be given a POW folder in the beginning of the school year. This folder will include the rubric and other graphics to help with problem solving, depending on the type of problem.

A typed explanation is preferable and the mathematical work completed by hand separately, using the problem solving blocks worksheet that is provided. Math work can be also included in the explanation, if desired. Neatness and presentation is an important part of the POW.

Correct solutions are placed in a drawing for prizes at the end of each trimester.

Parents are welcome, and most encouraged, to share in the fun of problem solving!

FIRST IN MATH

Students are expected to earn 150 stickers each week, and are checked each Monday morning. Students will be given a demerit if they have not met the requirement, even if by one sticker.

Contests

All students in Grades 5 to 8 will participate in the Catholic Math League Competition. This contest involves other Catholic schools across the nation. The contest consists of four tests for each grade level, which are 30 minutes long, taken in November, December, February, and March. The three highest scores in each grade is our school score for that grade level. To check our school's and individual student's standings, go onto www.catholicmathleague.com. Dates of the contest TBA.

Grades 7 & 8 will participate in the Immaculate Heart of Mary Math Competition. Archdiocesan schools across the nation take part in this contest. Top 100 scores in the nation go on to compete in the final. Date of the contest TBA.

I am available most days during lunch time for students who are having difficulty. If you have any questions or comments, please contact me by email.

MATHEMATICS KNOWS NO RACES OR GEOGRAPHIC BOUNDARIES; FOR MATHEMATICS, THE CULTURAL WORLD IS ONE COUNTRY.