7th+Grade+Math+-+Course+Info+&+Syllabus

. ** Seventh Grade Mathematics ** Seventh grade mathematics is designed to cover the Grade Level Content Expectations that are set forth by the state of Michigan. These include the mathematical strands of algebra, geometry, numbers and operations, and data & statistics. Lessons will build not only mathematical skills but also listening, note taking, questioning, group work, writing, discussing, memorizing, practicing and organization.
 * Course Syllabus **
 * 2009-2010 **
 * Teacher ** : Mrs. Tracey Jaggi
 * Best Time to Contact: ** Weekdays, 7:20 am – 3:15 pm
 * Telephone: ** 471-2796 (school), 473-0570 (voice mail)
 * Email: ** tjaggi@homeoftheshamrocks.org
 * Web Page: ** http://jaggimath.wikispaces.com
 * Course Textbook: ** Prentice Hall Course 2 Mathematics, 2004
 * __ Course Description __**
 * __ Course Objectives __**

__ Number & Operations __ 1. Understand and solve problems involving rates, ratios, and proportions 2. Recognize irrational numbers 3. Compute with rational numbers (positive and negative whole numbers) __ Algebra __ 1. Understand and apply directly proportional relationships and relate to linear relationships. 2. Apply basic properties of real numbers in algebraic contexts __ Geometry __ 1. Draw and construct geometric objects 2. Understand the concept of similar polygons, and solve related problems __ Data & Probability __ 1. Represent data and interpret: 2. Compute statistics about data sets I believe that the job of a teacher is to give each student every opportunity to be successful with the required curriculum and social aspects of our school. In order for this to happen, students must also understand their role in this process. It becomes imperative that students make the best use of class time, complete assignments and study for all assessments. It becomes even more important for students to seek help when they feel they may need it. As the teacher, I will use a variety of instructional strategies and techniques to best fit the learning styles of all my students. In addition to the above course objectives, basic skills and concepts taught in previous years will be reviewed. Any student who has difficulty with these prerequisite or current grade level skills will be given additional instruction and homework in order to be successful in this and future math classes. It is my goal to have all my students feel more confident with their math abilities as they move to the next grade level. Grading Scale: 100 – 97 = A+ 89 - 87 = B+ 79 - 77 = C+ 69 – 67 = D+ 96 – 93 = A 86 – 83 = B+ 76 – 73 = C 66 – 63 = D 92 – 90 = A- 82 – 80 = B- 72 – 70 = C- 62 – 60 = D- 59 or below = F It is expected that every student adhere to all school policies that are outlined in the student handbook. Everyone must behave in a manner that does not interfere with the learning of others. This includes, but is not limited to the following: __ Consequences __ In an effort to correct inappropriate behavior, parents will be contacted and if necessary other resources may be used such as our counselor, school specialists, and/or principal. After a warning, the student can expect at least one of the following consequences: __ Absences/Make up work __ It is the student’s responsibility to obtain and make-up any classwork, homework, test, quiz, etc. that is missed. Students will be allowed the same number of days that they missed to complete their make up work. (Miss one day, one day to turn it in work; miss two days, two days to turn in work, etc.) There is a calendar in the classroom that lists all assignments given in each class. If an absence is known in advance, please see the teacher. Often work can be given ahead of time to give the student more time to complete the work. __ Late Work __ If a student is unable to turn in an assignment on the specified due date, they will have until the unit test is given to turn it in. The maximum number of points a late assignment can receive is 75% of the original points possible. Any assignment turned in after this extension will be assigned a score of zero (0%). It is important that if a student begins to have trouble, they must see the teacher to make arrangements for additional help of due date extensions. Students who show concern and responsibility for their own learning can easily overcome academic obstacles.
 * Calculate rates of change including speed
 * Convert ratio quantities between different systems of units
 * Solve simple proportion problems using such methods as unit rate, scaling, finding equivalent fractions, and solving the proportion equation a/b = c/d
 * Demonstrate the concept of square root and cube root, and estimate using calculators.
 * Solve problems involving operations with integers
 * Estimate results of computations with rational numbers by rounding to the nearest given place value, rounding to the nearest whole number, front end estimation and compatible numbers.
 * · Represent directly proportional and linear relationships using verbal descriptions, tables, graphs and formulas, and translate among these representations.
 * For proportional or linear situations, solve applied problems using graphs and equations.
 * Understand and use basic properties of real numbers
 * Combine algebraic expressions and solve equations.
 * Add, subtract, and multiply simple algebraic expressions of the first degree; (92x ÷ 8y) – 5x + y, or -2x (5x – 4), and justify using properties of real numbers.
 * Use a ruler and other tools to draw squares, rectangles, triangles and parallelograms with specified dimensions.
 * Use compass and straightedge to perform basic geometric constructions: the perpendicular bisector of a segment, an equilateral triangle, and the bisector of an angle; understand informal justifications.
 * Understand that in similar polygons, corresponding angles are congruent and the ratios of corresponding sides are equal; understand the concepts of similar figures and scale factor.
 * Solve problems about similar figures and scale drawings.
 * Show that two triangles are similar using the criteria: corresponding angles are congruent (AAA similarity), the ratios of two pairs of corresponding sides are equal and the included angles are congruent (SAS similarity), ratios of all pairs of corresponding sides are equal (SSS similarity); use these criteria to solve problems and to justify arguments.
 * Understand and use the fact that when two triangles are similar with scale factor of r, their areas are related by a factor of r2.
 * Represent and interpret data using circle graphs, stem and leaf plots, histograms, and box-and-whisker plots, and select appropriate representation to address specific questions.
 * Create and interpret scatter plots and find line of best fit and use an estimated line of best fit to answer questions about the data.
 * Calculate and interpret relative frequencies and cumulative frequencies for given data sets.
 * Find and interpret the median, quartiles, and inter quartile range of a given set of data.
 * __ Instructional Philosophy __**
 * Recommended Supplies: ** Students are required to bring these materials to class everyday. If you do not have these, please see the teacher.
 * Textbook (provided by the school)
 * 3 ring binder for math handouts and notes
 * Loose leaf lined paper in binder
 * Writing instrument(s): Pencils preferred; mechanical pencils are fine, but you must have your own lead
 * Student Assessment **
 * Note ** : Students must show their math work to receive full credit on any graded assessment. Simply writing only the answer is not sufficient unless instructed to do so.
 * __ Classroom Expectations, Rules & Procedures __**
 * Arrive to class with all necessary supplies & materials, be prepared! //This means sharpen your pencil or get paper before class starts!//
 * No talking without permission - //especially during tests, quizzes or lessons.//
 * Remain in your assigned seat at all times – //no exceptions!//
 * Appropriate use of hallway passes: //Don’t ask for passes unless absolutely necessary and especially when you will miss part of the lesson!//
 * Participate in class: //know what we are doing at all times!//
 * RESPECT everything! //…other students, materials, the school, adults, and especially yourself!//
 * No academic dishonesty or cheating – //this includes talking during a test or quiz even if a student is finished and/or turned it in!//
 * After school detention
 * Loss of classroom privileges
 * Reduced points on work (cheating, talking during test, quizzes, etc.)
 * Referral to principal

It is my promise to keep my classroom a positive learning rich environment. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at school or by emailing me. I look forward to working with you and making this school year very successful! Together we can show our Shamrock Pride and be proud!