Text:  Pre- Algebra (Prentice-Hall 2001)
           Supplemental Material from Mathematics, Unlimited (Holt, Rinehart & Winston)

Course Overview: This is a course that will cover such topics as (a) algebraic expressions, (b) equations and inequalities, (c) operations with whole numbers, decimals, and fractions, (d) ratios, proportions, and percent, and (e) geometry, probability, and statistics.  Pre-Algebra provides comprehensive coverage of all California Mathematics Standards with a focus on problem solving, critical thinking, and teaching students to think mathematically.

Grading Policy: Grades are based upon the points earned from tests, quizzes, notebooks, homework/ assignments, extra credit projects, and behavior points.  The weights assigned to each item are as follows:

* Tests                                                                                                        50%
* Quizzes                                                                                                    25%
* Notebook, homework, extra credit projects, and behavior points              25%

* Tests/Quizzes: There will be one test for each unit (100 points per test).  Tests are not sent home until all
    students have taken the test.  There will be approximately two quizzes per unit.  Some quizzes may be
    unannounced.  If a student is absent on the day of a test or quiz, s/he must be responsible for arranging to
    takea make-up test or quiz before or after school as soon as possible.

    * Please note: Talking during tests and quizzes is not allowed and may result in zero points credit on the test or
       quiz.

* Notebooks: Notebooks (a three ring binder) are collected at the end of each quarter.  They are worth a 
    maximum of 50 points and must be arranged by separate sections with dividers:

Course requirement sheet/policies
Assignment page
Warm-ups in order by date
Assignments in order by date
Notes/Guided Practices in order by date
Quizzes/Tests
Practice Workbook

* 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 may be done in pencil or pen with the problems copied and all work shown.  All 
   assignments must have a heading.  Assignments are each worth four points.  Late work, excluding absences, 
   will be accepted for half credit up until the day of the unit test.

* Extra Credit: Such projects will be discussed in class.

* Behavior Points: Each student will begin with 50 behavior points each quarter.  Two points will be subtracted 
   for failure to follow any of the student conduct expectations.
 
 

Student Conduct  I expect all students to:

* Come prepared with an organized binder, binder paper, pencils, and a scientific calculator every day.  Pens, 
    colored pencils, or geometric tools may be helpful at times.
* Be courteous to the teacher and to the other students.
* Refrain from using profane language.
* Be attentive at all times while in class.
* Be an active, contributing member of the class.
* Leave all food and drink items outside the class.
* Respect school property and the property of others.
* Sharpen pencils before class and toss out trash at the end of the period.
* Work on schoolwork during the homework time given.

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.

Heading: Please 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#512    p. 980-981  (1-28 [odd], 36a, 40)                                Gouda Cheese- 3
                                                                                                                           17 September 2003

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 or during brunch.  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.

Grades by percent:       90-100            A range
                                        80-89              B range
                                        70-79              C range
                                        60-69              D range
                                        0-59                 F