6th Grade Mathematics Syllabus
Mr. Justin Bowland
jbowland@gm.k12.mn.us

Textbook:
Math Connects. McGraw-Hill. 2012

Course Description:
This year in 6th grade mathematics we will be covering a lot of new material, while building on previous skills and concepts. A big part of this year will be involving numbers and operations. We will be working a lot with fractions, decimals, and percentages. Along with that, we will introduce and start working with algebraic expressions. Another big portion of this mathematics class will be using measurements to find perimeter, area, volume, and surface areas.
Along the way, we will also be learning more about problem solving, how to use the tools and language of mathematics, and how to think mathematically. Things may be challenging, but I am here every step of the way to guide you and help with questions.
               

Course Outline
Chapter 1: Multiply and Divide Decimals
Chapter 2: Multiply and Divide Fractions
Chapter 3: Ratios and Rates
Chapter 4: Fractions, Decimals, and Percents
Chapter 5: Algebraic Expressions
Chapter 6: Equations
Chapter 7: Functions, Inequalities, and Integers
Chapter 8: Properties of Triangles and Quadrilaterals
Chapter 9: Perimeter, Area, and Volume
Chapter 10: Volume and Surface Area
Chapter 11: Analyze Data and Graphs
Chapter 12: Probability
 
 
Weighting of Grades/Grade Cutoffs:
Grades will be weighted according to the following:
70%     Tests/Quizzes/Projects
30%     Homework/Classwork

100%-90% - A to A-
89%-80% - B+ to B-
79%-70% - C+ to C-
69%-60% - D+ to D-
Below 60% - F

Late Work/Missing Work:
Assignments turned in late will be deducted a letter grade.  Any missing work at the end of mid-quarter will change to a zero.

Extra Credit
Extra credit will not be offered.

Make-up Work Policy
If a student is absent, the student is responsible for the information/assignments given during their absence.  Daily work/notes can be found on my webpage, Schoology, or can be copied from other students.

Classroom Expectations:
1. Listen and Follow Directions
2. Raise Your Hand Before Speaking or Leaving Your Seat
3. Respect Your Classmates and Your Teacher
4. Keep Hands, Feet, And Objects to Yourself

Cell Phones: 
Cell phones will not be allowed in class.  Cell phones should be kept in student backpacks and turned off.  If a student has a cell phone out during class I will take it and the student can get it from me at the end of the day.  If it happens a second time the phone will be turned into the office and a parent will need to come to school to get the student’s phone.

iPads: 
iPads are to be used for educational purposes only.  If a student is caught playing games, surfing the internet, or anything else that is NOT directly related to this class, their iPad privileges may be taken away.

Food & Beverages
Water is the only beverage allowed in the classroom, unless it is a special occasion. No food or snacks will be allowed in class. Gum will be allowed, but if I find it anywhere but the trash we will lose that privilege.

Rewards for following the rules:
Verbal Praise
Written note of positive behaviors
Call/Email to parents
Teacher discretion awards

Discipline plan when rules are not followed:
Verbal warning
Removal to hall/detention
Teacher/student meeting
Parent/student/teacher meeting
Removal from class/administration action

It is up to my discretion on how to handle a student’s behavior, but may require sitting down and meeting with parents and/or an administrator to establish a plan of action.
 
 
I am extremely excited to get to know each of you and do some enjoyable and exciting things in the math this year. I look forward to having a fun and successful school year!