Welcome To Desert Shadows Middle School

Advanced Algebra/Pre-Algebra Classes

Mr. Hoggard- room 712

Message phone-982-1110 ext.5446

Webpage: http://www.dsms.ajusd.org/%7Echoggard/index2.htm

Homework Hot Line- 677-7564
ext.4042-Advanced Algebra
ext. 4079-Pre-Algebra

Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to my Math class! It is my goal this semester to provide a positive and well- structured environment in my classroom. As a teacher, I believe that every student can behave appropriately in my classroom, and that every student has the capability to succeed. I will not, however, tolerate any student stopping me from teaching and/or any student from learning.

Your support of the following rules and recommendations will help ensure this environment is present.

Course description:

Algebra/ Pre-Algebra integrates functions, geometry, statistics, probability, and other mathematical structures with the goal of developing the student’s skills in all these areas beyond the introductory level. The student further develops his/her use of the language and symbolism of mathematics to communicate mathematical ideas as demonstrated in portfolio/ homework and other projects.

I believe that ,with my knowledge of mathematics, passion for teaching, and your commitment to your own success as a student, we will have a great year!

Teaching procedures:

Classes will start with students working quietly in groups on a Mindset activity. Next will be a quick review of previous day's topic and homework. New material will be presented through a combination of instruction, discussion, and hands-on exploration. Finally, students will have a chance to work on practice problems in preparation for the homework.

Homework:

It is essential for students to persevere through each homework assignment before the following class meeting. As with learning a new language, the only way to master mathematics is to dive in and start doing it. Students are encouraged to work together and to use the answers at the back of the book to help figure out any difficult problems. There will be time at the beginning of each class to answer any remaining questions about the homework. You must show your work on all appropriate problems to get a “yes” stamp.

Grading policy: Grades are assigned as follow:

50% -test
35% -classroom activities
15% final

Activities include but are not limited to the following:

1. Mindsets-Start of each classroom.
2. Quizzes/tests
3. Class Notes
4. PLATO-individualized Plato
5. Participation in all class discussions and assigned class work.

No extra credit will be accepted for anything.
Each test counts! We do not take re-tests for a better grade!

100% - 90% - A
89% - 80% - B
79% - 70% - C
69% - 60% -D
59% - 0% - F

Other materials: Students will be required to keep all notes IN a NOTEBOOK; loose- leaf paper and returned work in folder; a planner; stamp sheet; and two pencils.

Required materials for YES stamp:
Your folder with extra paper, planner, stamp sheet, 2 sharpened pencils, NOTEBOOK, silent reading book , HOMEWORK! A great attitude and a smile too!

Make-Up- If the student has an excused absence, she/he will have the same number of days absent to make up the work. NO make-up work from an unexcused absence will be accepted.

It is the student’s responsibility to find out what was missed before or after class, NOT DURING CLASS TIME. All tests, and quizzes must be made up before or after school, or by appointment only. Again, it is the student’s responsibility to schedule a make-up test, or quiz within the given time frame.

Team Rules: Students are expected to obey all school rules and classroom rules.

1.Be in your seat with all needed materials when the bell rings.

Materials include: Silent reading book, notebook with paper, pen, pencil, homework, stamp sheet, planner, etc.

2. Don’t talk without teacher permission.

3. Work quietly without disturbing others.

4. Follow directions.

5. Follow all school rules.

6. No food, drinks and gum in 700 building / except water.

I have two behavioral expectations:
Everyone in my class will work to the best of her/his ability.
Everyone in my class will treat everyone with consideration and respect.

Consequences:

1^st offense - warning
2^nd offense-Responsible Action Plan and removal from activity
3^rd offense – call to parents
4^th offense – office referral

SEVERE disruption -: immediate office referral !

Positive Consequences: following the above standards may result in the following consequences:
- Positive phone call or note sent home to parents.
-Points toward class celebration, theme or game day.

Backpack Policy: Please DO NOT bring your backpack into the classroom. If you do, you will be asked to take it back to your locker, and if you are late returning to class, you will receive a tardy.

Keeping classroom clean: All classroom waste is to be discarded at the end of the period. As the student exits the room, throw away undesired items into the trash basket. No one is permitted to discard waste materials after the period begins. Students need to leave behind them a classroom ready for the next class. Incoming students have the right to enter a clean and well- organized classroom.

EATING AND DRINKING IS NOT PERMITTED IN THE CLASS.

Tutoring/ Extra help: Tutoring is REQUIRED for students who are not passing proficiency tests. Tutoring is each Wednesday after school from 2:15-3:05. If students need extra help with anything, I will be available after school from 2:15-3:00 as my schedule permits. Please schedule an appointment in advance, and parent permission is needed.

It is my hope that my students and your children will have the best educational experience of their life attending our school. If you have any questions regarding our Math program or your child's progress, please contact me. A message can be left at the numbers at the top of the page.

Thank you for your time and cooperation.

Mr. Hoggard

Teacher reserves the right to change the classroom policy any time.

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Please cut off this part and bring back for homework credit.

Keep the above rules and procedure part at home!

Advanced Algebra/Pre-Algebra --- Mr. Hoggard -- Room 712

I read and discussed with my child the classroom rules and procedures.

Student Name.........................................................

Parent signature .........................................................

Student signature .........................................................