7^th Grade Mathematics Syllabus

Mr. Justin Bowland

jbowland@gm.k12.mn.us

Textbook:

Pre-Algebra. McGraw-Hill. 2012

Course Description:

This year in 7^th grade mathematics, we will be digging into pre-algebra. This will be more challenging than previous years, but we will take our time understanding each and every concept. We start the year off with our biggest unit, which works with rational numbers and equations. The thirteen chapters in this book can be seen below, plus the addition of the final chapter, which looks into next year’s Algebra course. These chapters really go in depth on each subject, so we will master each skill before taking the tests at the end of each chapter. This course will also have bell ringers and daily warm-ups, which will get our mind focused on math.

Course Outline

Unit 1: Rational Numbers and Equations

Chapter 1: The Tools of Algebra

Chapter 2: Operations with Integers

Chapter 3: Operations with Rational Numbers

Chapter 4: Expressions and Equations

Chapter 5: Multi-Step Equations

Unit 2: Proportions and Similarity

Chapter 6: Ratio, Proportion, and Similar Figures

Chapter 7: Percent

Unit 3: Linear and Nonlinear Functions

Chapter 8: Linear Functions and Graphing

Chapter 9: Powers and Nonlinear Functions

Unit 4: Two- and Three-Dimensional Space

Chapter 10: Real Numbers and Right Triangles

Chapter 11: Distance and Angle

Chapter 12: Surface Area and Volume

Unit 5: Data Sets

Chapter 13: Statistics and Probability

Weighting of Grades/Grade Cutoffs:
Grades will be weighted according to the following:
75% Tests/Quizzes/Projects
25% Homework/Classwork

Grading Scale:
A 94-100%
A- 90-93%
B+ 87-89%
B 84-86%
B- 80-83%
C+ 77-79%
C 74-76%
C- 70-73%
D+ 67-69%
D 64-66%
D- 60-63%
F 0-59%

Late Work/Missing Work:
½ Credit for a day late up until the Chapter Test. After that it becomes 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 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 will be kept in student backpacks or classroom storage bins.  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!