Math with Mrs. TomTeaching math today does not look like it did when many parents were students themselves, and we think that is a good thing! What students are expected to be able to do goes well beyond math facts, computation, and the four operations—addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Mrs. Tom's math students can expect to experience math through direct instruction, independent inquiry, game-based learning, and cooperative learning environments. All of which are researched-based strategies that give your student the best chance for success.
Resources
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All assignments will be posted in Google Classroom - make sure email notifications are turned on! |
Junior High Math Curriculum
Required Materials
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Math Interactive BindersStudents will use a 3-ring binder to create an interactive binder. Binders will include:
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Math Norms
- Everyone can learn math at the highest level. Believe in yourself! I believe in you. There is no such thing as a “math person.” Everyone can reach the highest levels they want to with hard work.
- We value learning over knowing. Math is not about speed, memorizing procedures, or “getting done”; it is about ideas, creativity, and sense-making. Questions are really important!
- Mistakes, failures, and struggles are expected. Everytime you struggle your brain grows, connects, and strengthens. Math is a growth subject; it takes time to learn and it is all about effort and overcoming obstacles.
- Collaboration moves our thinking forward. We listen to and value each other’s ideas, ask questions, push for reasons, and are open to revising our thinking.
- We are aware of when to step up and step back. We share our ideas and make space for others to share theirs. We do not steal someone's learning by giving them the answers.
Group Norms
- No quitting. Struggle is normal. We can get stuck and then get ourselves unstuck.
- No loners. Everyone participates. No one is done until everyone is done.
- No spoilers. Find out what others think and don’t rush to the answer. Help others do things for themselves.
Helping Your Student
As parents, helping your child with math may be challenging at times. Keep in mind, math is still math, even though we're asking your child to think deeper and analyze more critically than ever before. There will be times when everyone is overwhelmed. When this happens, take a break. Email me about the problem, and we will work together to get everyone the support they need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Grading - Subject to change for 22-23
7th Grade Quarter Grade Calculations will be based upon the following criteria:
8th Grade Quarter Grade Calculations will be based upon the following criteria:
Assignments are defined as work that is completed in class (sometimes extending home if time is short) Retakes & Corrections
Module and Unit Assessments are eligible for retake. Students can elect to retake one assessment each quarter and the two grades will be averaged together. In order to retake an Assessment, students must complete test corrections and submit to the teacher for review within 2 school days of the day the test is returned. Students who do not turn in test corrections are not eligible to retake. Teachers determine if corrections are sufficient to qualify for retake. Teachers will schedule retake dates and times. Typically within one week of return date. Retake tests are not exactly the same as the original but are guaranteed to assess the same standards. Grading Scale & Final Grades - See Junior High Handbook |
There are 4 types of assignments In seventh and eighth grade math.
Completion Practice - 3 points Completion assignments are for practice and skill development. They typically fall at the beginning of a lesson and are the first time students begin working with the material. These assignments are only checked for completion and scored accordingly (3,2,1 or 0). Assignments are not eligible for makeup after the day they are due. IXL Skill Practice - 8 points with a possible 2 point extra credit IXL skill practice is aligned with our current lessons and is used to reinforce lessons. Students work on skills until they achieve an 80 Smart Score (skill proficiency). If students continue to a 100 Smart Score (skill mastery) they will receive 2 points of extra credit. Skills are eligible for makeup within 24 hours of the class period they are due. No extra credit will be awarded for late assignments. Lesson Checks - 10 points in assessment category Lesson Checks Incorporate skill application and higher-order thinking skills. These are typically the last assignment of a lesson and assess students ability to apply their new knowledge. These assignments are graded for accuracy and must be completed in the classroom. Not eligible for retakes. Students are allowed to use their notes. Assessments - points vary Assessments Include Module and Unit test. Students are allowed to create a 1 page cheat-sheet to use on the test. In eighth grade students complete a semester standards check to prepare them for high school exams. This assessment is scored like a regular assessment and is not 20% of their final grade like high school finals. |
Updated: 8/19/2023