INTRODUCTION TO THE SEVENTH (7th) GRADE MATHEMATICS COURSE Welcome to the parents and the stars (students) of the “Galaxy” Community. My name is Miss Chen and it will be my pleasure to work with parents in providing a beneficial learning experience for our stars. The information below outlines the 7th Grade Mathematics program. Please feel free to send me an email at chena@ocps.net or call (407-249-6440) for any questions, which may arise. A wonderful and productive year as we strive to work together!! COURSE DESCRIPTION: To increase specific Mathematics skills in the areas of Number Sense, Measurement, Geometry, Algebra, Data Analysis and Probability, as outlined by the Sunshine State Standards and to hone general skills including communication, organization and conduct of our students. IMPORTANT EXPECTATIONS FOR SUCCESS: Be on-time for class Show respect for both teachers and peers Be alert to learn and participate Complete all assignments Review and practice before tests GRADING SCALE A = 90 – 100 B = 80 – 89 C = 70 – 79 D = 60 – 69 F = 59 & less GRADING WEIGHT Class work = 30% Homework = 15% Tests = 35% Notebooks = 10% Participation = 10%
USING THE STUDENT’S PLANNER:The Student Planner should be used DAILY to record the agenda and homework from the FOCUS BOARD in the classroom. Grades for assignments should also be entered in the section “Record of Achievement”. NB. Parents should check the student’s planner to assess their progress and for any comments or action necessary. If the instructor writes a note in the planner, then the parent should sign beside it, indicating acknowledgement. In addition, parents should sign at the end of each week to indicate that they have noted the week’s activities. TOPIC BREAKDOWN:TERM 1: (a) Decimal Patterns and Algebra; (b) Algebra: Integers; (c) Fractions, Decimals & Percents TERM 2: (a) Algebra: Linear Equations; (b) Applying Fractions; (c) Ratios & Proportions; (d) Geometry TERM 3: (a) Geometry (continued); (b) Geometry: Measuring two-dimensional figures; (c) Geometry: Measuring three-dimensional figures; (d) Data Analysis TERM 4: (a) Data Analysis (continued); (b) Algebra: Inequalities & Functions; (c) Applying Percent; (d) Probability (continued); (e) Square Roots & Pythagoras Theorem (f) Precision and Measurement
TYPES OF ACTIVITIES: Bell work – each student will be responsible for noting the agenda and homework in their planners and completing the questions displayed within 7 minutes after the bell. One sheet will be used per week to record the five days Bell work. This must be kept in your portfolio until Friday when it is graded. Tests - mid and end of chapter tests will be given accordingly. A review will be done using the study guide at the end of each chapter. Other tests on basic skills may be added as necessary. Workbooks - practice on skills gained from each chapter will be reinforced through exercises from the Word Problem and Notables workbooks which correlate with the prescribed Mathematics text. This may be given as homework or class work. August 8, 2005 1
Countdown to FCAT and FCAT Practice Workbook - the Countdown to FCAT daily questions at the beginning of the Mathematics text which correlates with the chapters and the FCAT Practice Workbook which is ordered by Sunshine State Standards will be used to prepare for the FCAT exam. Note taking - building of relevant vocabulary and concepts will be reinforced by use of notes taken and recorded in a designated composition book.
MAKEUP WORK:It is the responsibility of the student to pick up all missing assignments due to an excused absence. The student will be allowed one day to complete the assignment including tests/quizzes. Tests/Quizzes must be taken in the morning between 8:30am and 9:30am. A pass must be picked up the day before. The agenda, homework, class work may be noted in the planner from log book. Handouts will be available in a labeled area. SUPPLIES:Each student will need the following: Portfolio/Binder – Organization is vital to success! Students are required to keep a neatly organized portfolio or three- ring binder with 3 sections. Please ensure that there is adequate loose leaf paper available. Composition book for Notes and Vocabulary Pencils Red Pen – this will be used for classroom assessment. Facial Tissue CONTACT DATA:Please fill out the attached index card with requested data. Optionally, please note on the back of the card, special information you may want the teacher to consider in assisting your son/daughter.
Detach the receipt and return it along with the completed contact card attached, no later than August 12, 2005.
****************************************************************************** My son/daughter and I have read and acknowledge receipt of the letter, “GALAXY TEAM INTRODUCTION TO THE 7th GRADE MATHEMATICS COURSE”.
STUDENT (Print Name & Sign)
DATE
PARENT (Print Name & Sign)
DATE
August 8, 2005
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