Seneca Valley School District August 21, 2014

Mr. Eric Cupp, M.Ed. – Room 90

Pre-Algebra

We have a new resource this year called Connected Math. It is a series of 8 booklets that the students will be using throughout the year. It is not a typical textbook, but rather the new generation of mathematical learning that focuses on problems solving and thinking rather than “drill for skill.”

Goal

To help students recognize and appreciate the usefulness of math and to assist the transition from elementary to high school math by providing a beginning foundation in Algebra and Geometry. Each student should be able to not only solve pre-algebra problems, but make connections to real world situations. We will focus on conceptual understanding throughout the year.

Evaluation

Quizzes of 5-20 points will occur normally every other week with chapter assessments of 40-50 points at the end of each chapter. Homework is a vital part of this class. It will normally be given every day, but I will try to limit homework on Fridays. There will be a few projects throughout the year that ties into the concept that is being taught at the time. The majority of all projects will be completed in school.

The grading scale used is consistent with SenecaValleySchool District policy:

A=100%-90%; B=89%-80%; C=79%-70%; D=69%-60%; F=59%-0%

Homework/Participation Policy

Homework is for practice and reinforcement of what was just taught. My policy for homework is as follows: more is not better; it’s about the quality, not necessarily the quantity. Homework is to be completed prior to arriving at school. I usually give students time in class to being their assignment.

FYI

Students must maintain homework and past work in a three-ring binder. In the binder students will keep their lesson sheets and homework.

Students must maintain a B average throughout the Pre-Algebra class to be recommended for Honors Algebra I in seventh grade. I will not recommend a student who does not maintain this average.

If you know ahead of time that you will be missing a certain number of days due to an educational trip, please let me know so that I can get material to you before you leave. As stated in the student handbook: “anytime a student misses school it is his/her responsibility to obtain all class work prior to departure. It is also understood that all work will be due the day that he/she returns to school.”

It is YOUR responsibility to see me if you don’t understand something you missed. I am available most mornings from 8-8:30.