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Pre-Algebra 8th Grade Syllabus

Jill Fernandez

"Math is the way to understand all sorts of things in the world around us."  Galileo

LEARNING OUTCOMES- Begin with the end in mind

Students will accurately communicate and successfully demonstrate a variety of mathematical ideas and concepts.  Students will develop and incorporate diverse mathematical skills in their everyday lives to solve real-world problems.  

TEXTBOOK- Big Ideas Math, Pre-Algebra, by Ron Larson and Laurie Boswell, Published by Big Ideas Learning, LLC, 2015

COURSE DESCRIPTION- Pre-Algebra/Eighth grade mathematics focuses on teaching numerous math topics aligned to the Florida State Standards for Mathematics, with an emphasis on communication, collaborative learning, problem-solving skills and applicable use of technology.  Major topics include:

  • The Number System- Approximate Real Numbers; Perform Real Number Operations
  • Expressions and Equations- Use Radicals and Integer Exponents; Connect Proportional Relationships and Lines; Solve Systems of Linear Equations
  • Functions- Define, Evaluate, and Compare Functions; Model Relationships
  • Statistics and Probability- Analyze Bivariate Data
  • Geometry- Understand Congruence and Similarity; Apply the Pythagorean Theorem; Apply Volume Formulas

MATERIALS AND ORGANIZATION- Be Proactive 

Every day in class you will need to bring the following materials:

  • Executive Function/Math binder with paper and pencils
  • Math Workbook and/orJournal
  • Calculator
  • Planner

GRADING, LATE WORK, ABSENCE POLICIES- Put First Things First

Grades will be weighted according to the following percentages:

  • Assessments- Tests or project 60%
  • Assignments- Quizzes or classwork 20%
  • Employability/Homework 20%- Homework will be assigned Monday through Friday, and will be checked at the beginning of class. To receive full credit for an assignment ALL PROBLEMS must be attempted with the process shown.  Late homework will result in a reduction of the weekly homework grade. Homework may occasionally be graded for accuracy.  

Grading Scale: 90-100 A, 80-89 B, 70-79 C, 60-69 D, 59 and below F

Late Work- Completing your work as scheduled is vital to your success in math class. Assignments (Classwork) turned in late will receive a 10% per day deduction, with a 3 day maximum acceptance of late work.

Extra Credit- An extra credit option is available each nine-week grading period. This option is intended to assist a student’s grade by 2-3%, and is beneficial for those students who find that their overall grade is slightly below the next higher letter grade.

Absences- It is the student’s responsibility to find out their missing work when an absence occurs.  In addition, assignments are posted online. Students must also copy the missing date’s work from a classmate’s planner upon their return from an absence. Please note** If an absence occurs because a student leaves school early or arrives late, they are expected to retrieve their work before leaving school for the day.

DISCIPLINE PLAN- Think Win-Win

In order to create a positive learning environment and to ensure each student’s mathematical success, the following rules outline my expectations for student behavior.

Classroom Rules:

  • Follow directions the first time that they are given
  • Pay attention in class and participate- Class participation and active questioning for clarification play a vital role in your success in this class.
  • Be prepared with all materials
  • Be respectful in all of your actions and words
  • Adhere to all Sky Academy rules.

***Consequences for disregarding our classroom rules will be documented, and a parent or guardian may be notified.