T.J.

Elder Middle School

th
8 Grade Mathematics Course Syllabus

Class/Course Instructor: Ms. R. Russell

Teacher Contact Information:

• Phone
o School: 478-552-2007 ext. 5029
o Google Voice: 478-220-8443
• Email: rrussell@wacoschools.org
• Remind
o Math- @rr8math
o GA Studies- @rr8ss
o Hawktime- @rrhawktime

Math Course Description:

The Math 8 Curriculum includes algebra processes and concepts so that the student will be better
prepared for the rigors of high school mathematics. The student will represent number patterns
using graphs, charts, and equations, analyze tables and graphs, and further understand the
concepts of expressions and equations. The curriculum provides students with the opportunity to
solve equations both individually and simultaneously, study geometric concepts, utilize the
coordinate plane, analyze statistics and further understand the right triangle.

Learning Goals:
1. To develop problem-solving strategies
2. To develop abstract and enhance algebraic thinking
3. To use a variety of technology in expanding algebra skills
4. To develop an enjoyment and appreciation for mathematics

Class / Course Delivery Method:

All instruction will be face-to-face.
Majority of assignments will be paper, but Chromebook assignments will be assigned as well.
Google Classroom and Remind will be used to communicate reminders with students.

Communication
Students and parents can communicate with the instructor using the following methods:
• E-mail: rrussell@wacoschools.org
• Remind 101
• Google Voice (call/text)
• Call school/leave message
Expected Classroom Behavior:
In addition to the expectations of T.J. Elder Middle School,
• COME IN EVERY DAY, PLANNING TO HAVE A GOOD DAY!
• Come to class prepared each day. (Pencils, paper, folder, notes)
• We do math in pencils ONLY. No pens or markers should be used to write unless
instructed to ( in the case of special projects).
• Actively participate during class.
• Ask for help if you need it.
• NO BLURTING OUT ANSWERS. Raise your hand and wait to be called on.
• Be respectful to everyone (teachers, peers, visitors)!
• Stay out of other people’s personal space. This includes the teacher’s desk and work area.
• No sharpening pencils or walking around during instruction time.
• Keep classroom disruptions/distractions at a minimum.
• Do not get up without permission. Raise your hand.
• Work on every assigned as though it is a stand-alone grade. Homework included.
• Do not take out your Chromebook unless told to do so. You should only be working on
assignments when allowed to use Chromebooks.
• No eating or drinking during class. You may only drink water.
*Ms. Russell will communicate with students through Remind, email, and/or Google Classroom.
*Ms. Russell will communicate due dates for assignments and projects in a timely manner.

Grading Procedures:
Students are required to complete all work that is assigned. All work will be graded for accuracy
unless otherwise communicated by the instructor.
• Daily Grades (homework, daily practice, and projects/tasks) – 60%
• Assessments of Learning (tests and major projects/performance tasks) – 40%
• Semester Exams – 10%

*Each student will be assigned a participation grade for the 9 weeks. This grade will be an
average of various assignments. Participation grades will include, but is not limited to, daily
assignments, homework, and any extra credit that may be assigned. Students should treat all
assignments that are not specified as stand-alone grades, as they will be included in
participation grades.

Make-Up Work and Late Work Policy

See Student Handbook page 46.

Math Content Standards to be Explored and Mastered:

• Exponents
• Geometric Application of Exponents
• Linear Functions
• Linear Models & Tables
 • Solving Systems of Equations
• Transformations, Congruence, & Similarity

Ga Studies Standards to be Explored and Mastered: 7TH HOUR ONLY

• Geography- 15%
• GA as part of American History- 50%
• Government/Civics- 20%
• Economics- 15%

Student’s Self-Efficacy
Washington County School District believes that it is important to nurture students’ self –
efficacy by positive verbal persuasion, mastery experiences, vicarious support, and reducing
stressful issues to improve their self – regulatory skills for learning by developing academic and
physiological attributes to support improved academic outcome. Washington County Schools
will also use formative assessments and data analysis to support improving students’ motivation
and self – regulatory skills.

Each student must sign to confirm receipt of the syllabus and understand the items outlined. The
following page needs to be returned to the teacher within 1 week of receipt. Each student should
retain the course syllabus in his / her notebook for reference.
 Parent and Student Confirmation of Receipt of the Syllabus

I, the student, _______________________________________ (print name) confirm that I have

received a copy of the remote learning management syllabus and fully understand the

expectations of this course of study. I understand that I must take an active and supportive part in

this class /course of study in order to be successful. I understand that tutoring is available to me

upon request.

I, the parent/guardian, ___________________________________(print name) confirm that I

have read this remote learning management syllabus and fully understand that I must support the

teacher and school to ensure that my child is working diligently at home to meet the standards of

this course. I understand that the school and the teacher will be available for parent/teacher

conferences during the teacher’s planning period or after school to discuss my child’s academic

progress.

Student Signature: ____________________________________________ Date: ____________

Parent Signature: _____________________________________________ Date: _____________