I'd like a copy of the
 

Course Description                 homework policy, grading, general information
 

Scope and Sequence              7th grade            Prentice Hall               Pre-Algebra  Essentials
 

Scope and Sequence              8th  grade           McDougal Littel         Algebra  Essentials
 

Texts           8th grade

Algebra  I -  Concepts and Skills
(McDougal Littell)
 

All documents included in this website (lesson plans, homework, warm ups, notes, quizzes and test)  are  ' pdf '  files.
To open these you will need download Adobe Acrobat Reader 6.0 to your computer. The process is easy and takes little time.

Use the link below to download.
 

Adobe Acrobat Reader
 

This is a course that will cover the entire topic range of the Prentice Hall Pre-Algebra text, Chapters 1 through 12.  Our Pre-Algebra program provides comprehensive coverage of all California Mathematics Standards with a focus on problem solving, critical thinking, and teaching students to think mathematically. See Scope and sequence.
 

Grading Policy

Grades are based upon the points earned from tests/quizzes, problem sets, notes, quarterly submitted portfolios, and proactivity points.
The weights assigned to each item are as follows:

                            • Tests                             30 %
                            • Quizzes                         30 %
                            • Homework                    20 %
                            • Portfolio                        10 %
                            • Proactivity                      5 %
 
 

Tests/Quizzes

Tests and quizzes will be posted on the individual monthly homework page. Each is a downloadable pdf file. Tests are not sent home until all students have taken the test. Quizzes are unannounced and given frequently.

If a student is absent on the day of a test or quiz, s/he is responsible for arranging to take a make-up test or quiz before or after school.
 

Homework Problem Sets

Students are required to retain all assignments, quizzes/tests, notes and problem sets in their classroom files.  Weekly problem sets are collected and graded during the quarter.  The continuous maintenance of an organized class file is essential to the development and understanding of study and organizational skills.

All assignments may be found on this website. Excuses are unacceptable.
 

Portfolios (1 per quarter)

Student portfolios are submitted toward the end of each quarter. The portfolio contains examples of student work which best exemplifies progress in terms of problem-solving organization and neatness (following directions), as well as concept understanding. In an accompanying one page  narrative (typed, double spaced), each student will discuss perceptions of their individual progress, their strengths and the areas which require continued stress and improvement.
 

Assignments

Homework will be assigned at least four days each week and is due at the beginning of the next class meeting.  In-class assignments and projects may also be given.  All work will be graded on completeness and neatness.  Work must be done in pencil with the problems copied and all work shown.  All  assignments must have a heading.
Assignments are each worth four points (8 points during the 3rd quarter and 4th quarter).

Late work, excluding absences, will be accepted for half credit up until the day of  the unit test.
 

Homework Heading

Place the assignment # in the upper left hand corner along with the page number and listing of the problems.  In the upper right hand corner, place the student name and period # and then the date.  (see example below)

           HW  # 5                                                                               John Smith - Period 3
             Problem Set 2     (1-28 [odd], 36a, 40)                             September 19, 2007
 

Student Leadership:

                  Take ownership for your work - be a proactive partner

    •   Come to class prepared with an organized binder, binder paper and pencils every day.
    •    Be courteous and respectful to teachers and to the other students.
.   •    Be attentive at all times.
    •    Be an active, contributing member of the class.
    •    Ask questions.....always
    •    Respect school property and the property of others.
 

Substitutes

Substitutes may be required on a few occasions. Respectful or appropriate behavior when a substitute is teaching is expected.
 

Absences

It is each student's responsibility to make arrangements upon returning from an absence to get a list of make-up work.  Tests and quizzes can be made up before school, after school, or during lunch at a mutually agreed time.
 

Extra Help

 If a student is having difficulty with the work, or if s/he feels the need for some extra review, I am usually available before school and after school.  Parents may contact me at any time with questions or concerns although a daytime and evening phone number should be left; I will return calls as soon as possible. I can also be reached via e-mail.
 

    Blach telephone              650    934-3814
    e-mail                              jallyn@blachschool.org
 
 

Grades by Percent

    90-100         A range
    80-89           B  range
    70-79           C range

This is the 'we need to talk' range and I have already contacted you

    60-69           D range