Course Description

Class work:
After a lesson is introduced, students are given class time to work on problems in that lesson. Some may finish most or all of the problems assigned in class. If finished, students may do other problems for additional practice or some of the more challenging problems in the section. There is also a separate set of challenge problems that will always be available. Throughout the year, I will encourage students to present their work clearly and completely. This will be an expectation on tests and written assignments.


Textbook and CD:
Students will receive a compact disc (CD) that contains a full text copy of our textbook. The CD also includes spreadsheets, video clips, graphing software, demonstrations, and simulations. The textbook stays in school and the CD stays at home.


Homework:
Homework will be used in a variety of ways. Students should begin by completing any unfinished class work from that particular day. If students use class time productively, most will not have much (if any) work left to finish at home.

Review homework (RHW) encourages students to reflect on methods and processes used on past problems. Students are expected to regularly review class work and must produce evidence of at least 60 minutes of self-study per week. Toward this end, grade 8 students will complete a minimum of two columns of review work every week in their notebooks. The most productive use of the review homework is when students do a little review work each night. For some students, additional review will be necessary in order to gain adequate practice.

Graded homework (GHW) reinforces the current topics being studied. This homework will include problems similar to those students have done in class and will be graded. Students will usually have one or two graded homework assignments per unit. They can use their textbook, notes, and practice work as references, but they should not receive any other assistance. The goal of these assignments is to give students some feedback on how well they understand the material. Please encourage your child to do his or her best without additional assistance.

Students will occasionally have longer assignments to be completed over several days or weeks. Those due dates will be posted on the class calendar.


Tests:
I normally return tests 2-3 days following the test date. If you or your child is unhappy with a test result, I encourage your child to go over the test again, correct any errors, and/or meet with me to ask questions. In general, when a student is absent for a test, the makeup will take place on the day of his/her return (unless it is an extensive absence). Unsatisfactory test results will be sent home for a parent signature.


Grade report:
The final grade report is made up of the four MYP assessment criteria, plus effort & attitude. Please visit the school website to see a copy of that criteria. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.