Syllabus

Making the Grade

Syllabus

Mr. Ryan Karjala - - - 341-2365 ext. 319 - - - rkarjala@usd253.org - - - Prep Period 1:30 – 2:47 M – F

Objective:

This class will provide an excellent opportunity to learn a variety of mathematical skills and test taking strategies. The mathematical skills are directly related to the assessed indicators on the Kansas Math Assessment you will be taking this spring. You will have the opportunity gain insight into the concepts, skills, and types of questions you will be faced with on the Kansas Math Assessment.

Classroom Supplies:

Pencil & Pen (no red pens please)
1 ½ inch 3-ring notebook
4 Section Dividers
Notebook Paper
Graph Paper
Scientific Calculator (a graphing calculator will be provided when necessary)

Evaluation Procedures:

Grading Scale

90 – 100% A

80 – 89 B

70 – 79 C

60 – 69 D

59 & below F

1. Daily Participation

Daily participation will encompass 20% of your overall grade and will be based on your participation in classroom activities. You will be give 10, 5, or 0 points each day depending on how well you participate.

2. In-Class Assignments and Daily Quizzes

In-class assignments will encompass 25% of your overall grade. These assignments will include guided practice and independent practice based on daily activities. Daily quizzes will be given to assess whether or not you understand the topic.

3. Topic Assessment

Topic Assessments will encompass 25% of your overall grade. These assessments will be given at the end of a topic and will usually be given on Friday. These assessments will be multiple choice and write in a manor similar to the Kansas Math Assessment. The assessments will be cumulative in nature with a portion of the assessment being over “new” topics just completed and another portion of the assessment being a “review” of previous topics. The assessments will be multiple choice. You will be given credit not only for the correct answer, but also for using test taking skills. For example, a point would be given for the correct answer, a point would be given for eliminating an incorrect answer, a point would be given for appropriate work written out, or a point would be given for drawing an appropriate picture to help solve the problem.

4. Pre/Post (final) Assessment

Pre/Post (final) Assessment will encompass 10% of your overall grade. The Pre-Assessment will be given the first day of class and will consist of the topics the students are going to learn in class. The Post-Assessment will be given during finals week.

5. Making the Grade Notebook

Making the Grade Notebook will make up 20% of your overall grade and will contain all notes, activities, and in-class assignment. The notebook will be picked up September 2, September 30, October 14, November 4, and December 16.

Make-up Procedure

IAll assignments are on the west chalkboard in the classroom, as well as, in the absent student folders on the east wall. You will also need to turn in the assignment due the day you were absent at this time.
If you missed an assessment, then we will make arrangements to make it up.
If you need notes over the section covered during your absence, then make arrangements with a classmate to get a copy of their notes.
If you have an unexcused absence from class, you will receive a zero on the homework/quiz assigned that day. n the day before an assessment does not excuse you from taking the assessment at the scheduled time. Please visit with me before the next class period..

Seminar Procedure

The first 15 minutes of each seminar period are reserved for students who missed class and need to pick-up an assignment, take an exam/quiz/homework quiz. The remainder of the seminar period may be used to check assignments or ask questions. Students who are failing will be required to spend a minimum of 20 minutes each seminar in my room working on completing required assignments. While in my seminar, students will work quietly either on their own or in pairs. Lastly, please make sure you “sign-in” in my notebook each day you visit.

Classroom Procedures

1. You will be in your seat when the bell rings or you will be tardy. Your second tardy will result in referral.

2. You will treat the teacher and your classmates with respect. Failure to do so will result in the following:

First offense Verbal warning

Second offense Morning detention

Third offense Call to parent

Fourth offense Disciplinary referral

Tips for Success

1. Bring your book, pencil, notebook, and a calculator to class each day!

2. Keep your homework, notes, and reviews organized!

3. Ask questions!

4. Do your own homework!

5. Practice mathematics by doing every assignment!