8th Grade Homepage

Welcome!

I am so excited to be teaching your 8th grader math, science and career tech this year! Please use this website to stay up-to-date with units of study, assignments, projects and other announcements. 

Illustrative Mathematics (Open Up Resources)

This year we will be using Illustrative Math (Open Up Resources) for our math curriculum. Illustrative Math has recently earned the highest-ever rating from EdReports, and is the only middle school math series to receive the highest designation, Meets Expectations, in all three review categories (Focus & Coherence, Rigor & Mathematical Practices, and Usability.) All resources are online, so a math text book will not be sent home. However, students will have handouts, notes, examples and access to the online curriculum at school and home. Additionally, Illustrative Math has parent resources to help you support your student’s learning,

Although it was not on the original supplies list, I am recommending that students have a binder for math with dividers, since there is no text book. This will help keep their notes, handouts and practice problems organized.

Grading Policy

Grades in this class will be comprised mostly of tests/quizzes (labs in science), and homework and in-class assignments.

  • Tests/Projects/Labs (50%): A large portion of your student’s final grade will be based on test scores. Students should: be sure to know the content, ask questions in class, ask for help outside of class to deepen understanding, participate in class, and complete all assignments.. Notice of tests dates will be given so students will have ample time to prepare.

  • Quizzes (30%): If students complete homework, and are active participants in class, this will help them to know the skill we are learning, and should do well on quizzes. Encourage your students to ask questions if they need help.

  • In-Class & Homework (10% each for 20% total): In-class assignments and homework will be graded largely on effort, completion and participation. Since this is the time to practice the skill we are learning, I do not expect them to be perfect right away. Students should try all problems and questions, even if they do not fully understand it. Homework quizzes may be given the following day. These questions will match the homework exactly.

  • Late Work: I will accept late assignments. However, only partial credit will be give. I will not accept late work after the end of that particular unit/chapter.

  • Problem of the Day (included in In-Class Assignments): Most days there will be a Problem of the Day at the beginning of math class. It is the student’s responsibility to fill in the square for that day. Each Friday I will collect them for a completion grade. If students are absent, that POD will be excused, but the student must write that they were absent in the corresponding square.

 

Test Retake Policy - Summative Assessments may be re-taken 1 time per assessment.

  • Student responsibility to request & schedule retake

    • Retakes will NOT be taken during regular class time. See teacher to schedule a time

  • Must be done within one week after original assessment is returned

  • All homework for the unit must be completed

  • Student must complete “re-take” assignment before retake will be given

  • Retake can only be taken if original assessment is below 82%

  • Must have a parent signature on original assessment to complete retake