Math Theme II
About the Course
Math Thematics Book II continues the series of discovery-based problem solving to study more topics such as line and bar graphs, sequences, exponents, squares and cubes; probability; order of operations; angles; coordinate graphing; adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing integers; modeling functions, solving equations; prime factorization; adding subtracting, multiplying and dividing fractions, mixed numbers and decimals; factor trees; scientific notation; metric conversions, rotational symmetry; ratios and proportions; box and whisker plots; percents; ares of polygons and circles; multistage probability, square roots; surface area and volume of prisms; scale drawings, similar figures; angles formed by transversals; volume of cylinders; percent change; units of capacity; solving inequalities, circle graphs, quadrilaterals, counting principle; and volume of pyramids.
Course Overview
Goals and Objectives:
Schedule of Topics of Study
The following is a general outline of thematic topics in the course, under which a range of course content will fall. This outline is NOT final and is subject to changes.
Approaches to Teaching and Learning
We will engage in a variety of approaches to learning about the topics above including small group and whole class activities, and independent work. We will be using the textbook Middle Grades Math Thematics Book 2 by Billstein and Williamson with supplemental materials for homework assignments and projects.
Weekly Obligations
Problem Solvers: Problem Solvers consists of one or two problems that you will need to complete on a weekly basis. Problem solvers will be graded solely on process and evidence that a sincere effort was made to solve the problem (Absolute minimum 3 sentences). Problem Solvers will be collected on Mondays.
Required Materials
Your grade in this course will be determined by your problem solvers, class-work, homework, quizzes, tests and projects. Each of these sections of the course are weighted as follows:
Students will have homework nightly. Many of the math concepts will be taught in class and will need to be practiced. Homework is graded on quality and quantity. It must be completed and turned in on time to receive credit.
Make-up Policy
*** If you are sick, you will get as many days as you were absent to make up work and homework. All assignments handed out in class are posted to the class website and it is your responsibility to find and complete missing assignments.
*** If you are going on a family trip, to a family reunion, or any other planned event, you must see me before you leave to collect the work and homework that you will miss. All work and homework is due one day after you return to class. If you have a missed a test, you will take that test one day after you return to class.
*** Case-by-case arrangements can be made depending on the situation. See me to discuss your situation and get different arrangements.
- Students will demonstrate introductory proficiency and understanding regarding the concepts identified in the Vermont Mathematic Grade Expectations for seventh and eighth grade.
- Students will grow in their ability to perform mathematical operations, logically solve problems and construct writing responses supported by their solutions.
- Students will practice writing responses, organizational skills, and test-taking skills.
- Students will become more proficient in basic skills at grade level.
Schedule of Topics of Study
The following is a general outline of thematic topics in the course, under which a range of course content will fall. This outline is NOT final and is subject to changes.
- Making Choices
- Search and Rescue
- A Universal Language (Math)
- The Art of Motion
- Recreation
- Flight of Fancy
- Health and Fitness
- Heart of a City
Approaches to Teaching and Learning
We will engage in a variety of approaches to learning about the topics above including small group and whole class activities, and independent work. We will be using the textbook Middle Grades Math Thematics Book 2 by Billstein and Williamson with supplemental materials for homework assignments and projects.
Weekly Obligations
Problem Solvers: Problem Solvers consists of one or two problems that you will need to complete on a weekly basis. Problem solvers will be graded solely on process and evidence that a sincere effort was made to solve the problem (Absolute minimum 3 sentences). Problem Solvers will be collected on Mondays.
Required Materials
- Pencil
- Three-ringed binder either designated for math or a section within a binder.
- Textbook
Your grade in this course will be determined by your problem solvers, class-work, homework, quizzes, tests and projects. Each of these sections of the course are weighted as follows:
- Problem Solvers: 10%
- Class-work: 10%
- Homework: 10%
- Quizzes: 10%
- Tests and Projects: 60%
Students will have homework nightly. Many of the math concepts will be taught in class and will need to be practiced. Homework is graded on quality and quantity. It must be completed and turned in on time to receive credit.
Make-up Policy
*** If you are sick, you will get as many days as you were absent to make up work and homework. All assignments handed out in class are posted to the class website and it is your responsibility to find and complete missing assignments.
*** If you are going on a family trip, to a family reunion, or any other planned event, you must see me before you leave to collect the work and homework that you will miss. All work and homework is due one day after you return to class. If you have a missed a test, you will take that test one day after you return to class.
*** Case-by-case arrangements can be made depending on the situation. See me to discuss your situation and get different arrangements.