Pre-Algebra 2008-2009
Dear seventh grade parents and students,
Seventh grade algebra prep class will help students make the transition from the concrete thinking of arithmetic to the abstract thinking needed in algebra & geometry. Students will learn to apply mathematical thinking and technology to everyday situations. Students will be given the tools to become independent learners and to keep their work and binder organized.
Supplies Needed
New Syllabus Mathematics 6th Edition
New Syllabus Mathematics Workbook 1
One white binder
White folders
Lined paper and graph paper (spiral paper is not acceptable)
Scientific calculator
Red, green, or purple ink pen for correcting
Dry-Erase markers
Pencil and eraser (ALL homework and class work MUST be done in pencil)
Student Responsibilities
-Be prepared for class each day
« Keep binder organized and stocked with lined/graph paper
« Bring text, workbook, binder, assignment notebook, and pencil case to class each day
« Do homework in pencil with all steps shown
-Tests and quizzes
« Come in for review sessions (when announced)
-Attitude
« You are responsible for your own work and behavior
« You are expected to be courteous and sensitive to all other members of the class
« Have the courage to ask for extra help when needed
« Be positive!
Grading Philosophy
40% Assessments
30% Homework/Assignments
10% Warm-ups
10% Organization
10% Behavior/Attitude/Participation
Final exam in June covers the major topics discussed during the year.
Philosophy on Homework
Homework is practice. It is expected that students will attempt their homework every night and give it their best effort. Assignments that are graded are assigned points and written as a fraction on the assignment paper. The numerator tells you how many points were earned; the denominator tells you the total number of points for that assignment. Students may earn back full credit for missed points by making THOUGHTFUL corrections. It is expected that all students will make thoughtful corrections when they have lost points. This has two benefits: students learn from their mistakes, hopefully coming to a better understanding of the concept or skill and students are able to earn an A homework average, helping their overall average.
What are Thoughtful Corrections?
Thoughtful corrections mean doing more than just changing your incorrect answer to the correct answer. It may mean showing the calculation on paper. It may mean providing a short sentence explaining what you misunderstood. Students will be instructed as assignments are returned during the year what they may do to make thoughtful corrections. The only time students do not need to make thoughtful corrections would be when they earn all possible points the first time.
Extra Help Times
A B C D E F
Period 4 Period 4 Period 4 Period 4 Period 4
Period 8
Period 9 Period 9 Period 9 Period 9 Period 9
After School* After School* After School* After School* After School* After School*
*After school is not available Wednesdays or Fridays or otherwise noted on website (A Note from Miss A)
Please get a pass from me to leave your study hall. Ask for this pass before your math class starts or after your math class ends.
I believe that if students do their homework each night and become actively involved in class discussions and activities, they will have a successful seventh grade year in math. If you ever have a question or concern, please feel free to email or call me.
Mathematically Yours,
Heidi K. Abraham
414.540.3260