Math - Policies and Procedures Sixth Grade

Mrs. Wendy Bettez            

Welcome to sixth grade math! The sixth grade curriculum is primarily taught through a hands–on, problem solving approach using the Connected Math Program (CMP) and following the Grade Level Expectations (GLE’s) for math.  Students work cooperatively in groups as well as individually on concepts and skills developing strong mathematical habits.  The following is a list of CMP books and topics that will be covered this year.

Ø      Data About Us – Statistics

Ø      Bits and Pieces II – Using Rational Numbers (Fractions, Decimals, Percent)

Ø      Basic Geometry

Ø      Covering Surrounding – Two Dimensional Measurement

Ø      Variables and Patterns – Introduction to Algebra

Ø      Integers and Equations – More on Algebra

Ø      How Likely Is It? – Probability

REQUIRED MATERIALS

·        Red Binder (1” maximum size)

·        Composition notebook

·        Plenty of sharpened pencils & erasers

·        A ruler

·        Daily Agenda Book

CALCULATORS

            Students should have a scientific calculator (not graphing) and bring it to class daily, whether we use it that day or not. The school sells calculators for approximately $15.00; however, this is not required.  You may probably find scientific calculators at Staples or Office Max at a more inexpensive cost.  Please be sure to write your name on the calculator with permanent marker.

HOMEWORK

            It is imperative for students to practice skills and concepts learned in class, so daily homework will be assigned Monday through Friday. (Yes, homework may be assigned on some weekends.)  Unless otherwise stated, all homework is due the next math class.  Complete all assignments in pencil only.  Homework will be checked daily to be sure that it is complete & neat and will be stored in the red binder for future reference.

PROBLEM OF THE WEEK

            Throughout the year, students will work on problem solving through the Problem of the Week (POW).   There are approximately 6 to 7 each trimester so some weeks will not contain a POW.  The Problem of the Week will be worth a test grade and consist of 4 scores in the following areas: concepts, problem solving, skills/tools and written communication.

Each problem of the week must contain five distinct parts:

ü      The question

ü      Known information

ü      The strategy to solve the problem

ü      An explanation including the work

ü      A conclusion

A rough draft form of each problem will be provided to guide students through the problem. However, the POW must be turned in Final Copy Form.

QUIZZES AND TESTS

            Students receive grades in four areas and a separate grade for each on the report card. The four areas are math concepts, skills, problem solving, and written communication in math. Students will be given advanced notice of quizzes and tests, usually 2 – 5 days notice accordingly.  Quizzes count once and tests count twice. Both quizzes and tests may count in only one or more areas in math, for instance, a quiz may be given to assess only math skills like multiplication and division.

ABSENCES AND MAKEUP WORK

             If a student is absent, it is his or her responsibility to find out what work needs to be made up. For each day absent, students have that many days to make up the homework, test, or quizzes missed. A zero is received for any work not made up. It is strongly recommended that students come in after school for extra help if they have been absent for an extended period due to illness.

CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR

            Students are expected to follow classroom guidelines and the school three “R’s” policy listed below. I call it “Minding your P’s and R’s.”

                                    Be Prompt                                Be Respectful

                                    Be Polite                                  Be Reliable

                                    Be Prepared                             Be Responsible

                                    Be Productive

                                    Be Patient

                                    Be Positive

            The math classroom needs to be a safe exploratory environment where students can ask questions, extend their thinking, practice concepts & skills, and make mistakes without being afraid of what others might say.  Disruptive students interrupt learning and steal valuable class time from all of us, and, will be dealt with accordingly. 

            Students, who are not disruptive but continually shout out, stop the thinking process of other students in class. This can be a worse offense in some cases. They will receive three chances to gain control over the impulsive behavior. With the fourth warning, a note will be written in the agenda to the parents about the behavior. If the behavior continues after the note, the student will be removed from the classroom. Learner quality grades will be affected by student behavior.

PARENT / TEACHER CONTACT 

            Please, contact me through your child’s agenda, via email (bettezwendy@coventryschools.net), or a phone message left with the school and phone number for me to return the call. In some instances, I will provide you with my home phone…please do not hesitate to call me in the evenings. I used to work a 9-5 schedule before teaching so I understand how difficult it can be to “speak” with a child’s teacher.

Please sign and return this bottom portion by Friday Sept.14^th.

We have reviewed the Team 6C Mathematics policies and procedures.

Student Signature: __________________________________________________