GSE MATH 8 CLASS SYLLABUS 2016 2017

Mr. Burgess
Mrs. Cuda
Mrs. Harrison

email: tburgess@paulding.k12.ga.us
email: vcuda@paulding.k12.ga.us
email: aharrison@paulding.k12.ga.us

CURRICULUM INFORMATION: In Grade 8, the students will focus on three critical areas: (1) formulating
and reasoning about expressions and equations, including modeling two variable linear equations, and
solving both linear equations and systems of linear equations; (2) grasping the concept of a function and
using functions to describe quantitative relationships; (3) analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and
figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean
Theorem. In each area, they will explore real-life scenarios to gain an understanding of how math is
applicable to everyday life. To facilitate the learning process, we will operate a standards-based classroom
in which students will have the opportunity to grapple with, make sense of and apply the mathematics.
In a standards-based classroom, the emphasis is on student understanding and problem solving, as
opposed to just getting an answer. Toward that end the following activities can be expected:
Teachers pose complex, thought provoking
Class discusses different solutions and methods.
problems.
Students summarize the class conclusions.
Students struggle with problems.
Students practice similar problems.
Students present various ideas or solutions to
the class.
ASSESSMENTS: There will be weekly assessments during each unit of study. It is the students
responsibility to be diligent with study habits, notebook organization and math homework to ensure every
possible success in this class and on the Georgia Milestones Assessment.

TEXTBOOKS: There is not one primary textbook for instruction. Instead a variety of resources including
the Connected Mathematics, Coach books, Crosswalk series, selected tasks, and frameworks from the
DOE, internet and teacher-generated materials will be used.
SUPPLIES: (These will be needed throughout the school year)
Composition notebooks/3-Ring Binder with
Glue Sticks (if you are using composition
dividers
books)
Pencils
Colored pencils (optional)
Erasers
1 pack of Copy Paper (optional)
Graph paper
Expo markers (optional)
TI-30 calculator
Handheld pencil sharpener with cover
(optional)

HOME LEARNING: Students are expected to review any notes and material covered in class
every evening. Please expect daily homework assignments. Any work sent home is essential to
reinforce the material taught in class.

Please fill out and have student return tomorrow.

STUDENTS NAME: _____________________________________________________
PARENT(s) / GUARDIAN(s) INFORMATION: (Please PRINT clearly)
________________________________________________________
(NAME)

(CELL PHONE #)

(E-MAIL)

______________________
(RELATIONSHIP)

GSE Math 8 Course Guide

**This a guide. Time actually spent on each unit may

vary and is subject to change

2nd Quarter

3 4 5 1

3rd Quarter

5 1 2 3

4th Quarter

5 1 2

Show What You

Know

Solving Systems
of Equations

Linear Models
and Tables

Linear Functions

1st Quarter

5 1 2

Functions

Geometric
Applications of
Exponents

Solving MultiSimilarity Step Equations

Transformations,
Congruence, and

Exponents

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Students are expected to complete and turn in assignments on time.
Students who are absent will have the same number of days absent plus one to make up all work. For
example if a student was absent for two days, he/she would have three days to complete make-up work.
Tests and quizzes should be made up the when the student returns.
To find review and test practice, please visit the teachers website.
10 points will be deducted each day (up to three days) for late work.

GRADING POLICY:
Unit Tests and projects: 60%
Select homework, quizzes, reflections, daily classroom activities, skill checks: 40%

GRADE RECOVERY:
Grade recovery will be available for any student who earned a summative grade below an 80. Students
will need to complete an error analysis sheet within one week of receiving the assessment. They will
need to turn in the error analysis sheet with the assessment in order to schedule a time (with their
teacher) to re-take the assessment.

HELP SESSIONS: Will begin on Thursday, September 13th at 7:45am.

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS:

DISCIPLINARY STEPS:

1. Students are expected to arrive on time to class.

Parent Notification
2. Students should be prepared with daily materials.
Detention
3. Appropriate, respectful behavior is expected at all times.
and Parent Conference

1st infraction: Student Warning and

2nd infraction: After School

3rd infraction: After School Detention
4th infraction: Administrative Referral

STUDENTS EXPECTATIONS:

Mathematics is not a spectator sport. The preceding quote is the premise of the 8th grade math
student expectations.
Active participation is crucial to student success. To
that end, students are expected to:
1)
Maintain a math notebook, in which they will take notes (including copying example problems) on
a daily basis.
This is extremely critical to student success since we do not use a traditional textbook; therefore,
students will rely heavily on their notes and examples as a reference throughout the year.
2)
Complete all assignments, including homework and projects.

3)
4)

Be attentive in class, participate and remain on-task (even during partner or group work).
Work collaboratively with peers - actively participate and contribute to group assignments.

5)

Ask questions when additional information is needed.

**Students should expect this semester to feel more like a high school experience.
Expectations will be higher, the rigor increased, and the students held more accountable
for their actions / inactions. Students must come prepared to class with pencil, eraser,
homework, notes, etc. each day.

I have read and understand the policies and procedures described in the syllabus.
Student Signature: ___________________________________________

Date _________________

Parent Signature:____________________________________________ Date _________________

***BE SURE TO COMPLETE BOTH SIDES OF THIS FORM ***