Sixth Grade Math Class Syllabus for 2015/2016 School Year Teachers: Ms. Sandy & Ms. Silvia Emails: 6b@panamericano.edu.co lcrt_3@panamericano.edu.co Website: http://6thmathscience.weebly.com Math Department Philosophy: The study of mathematics is important because it is the tool for understanding the world around us, by developing the processes of logic arguments, abstract, and critical thinking. It is essential in instilling a sense of reasonableness and transferrable skills of questioning, modeling, problem solving, analyzing, and understanding. We believe the learning of mathematics takes place when students struggle and persevere. This will lead to growth, and we are here to guide and support students in their learning. We value their processes and explanation of their thinking and reasoning. Students will develop mathematical literacy (reading, writing, speaking using appropriate mathematical language), participate in a variety of engaging activities, and demonstrate their thinking and skills in multiple ways. Course Description: This course is directly aligned to the Common Core State Standards. Student learning will focus on four critical areas: (1) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems; (2) completing understanding of division of fractions and extending the notion of number to the system of rational numbers, which includes negative numbers; (3) writing, interpreting, and using expressions and equations; and (4) developing understanding of statistical thinking. Throughout the year, students will actively engage in the following 8 Mathematical Practices: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them. Reason abstractly and quantitatively. Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others. Model with mathematics. Use appropriate tools strategically. Attend to precision. Look for and make use of structure. Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning. Units of Study: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Calculations Fractions Decimals Integers Ratios and Rates Expressions and Inequalities Geometry Statistics and Probability Course Materials: 1 Notebook Pencils & Eraser Highlighters Ruler Protractor & Compass iPad/Tablet only (No Cell phone) Grading Policy: Students will be graded on the 4-point grading scale as such: 4 - Advanced (Superior): Exceeds grade level expectations. 3 - Proficient (Alto): Meets grade level expectations. 2 - Basic (Basico): Approaching grade level expectations. 1 - Below Basic (Bajo): Not meeting grade level expectations. The only assignments whose grades will enter PowerSchool are tests, quizzes, and projects, which must be completed in school. I may provide grades on any task so that students can get feedback and grow. Missing Work: If a student is absent for a test or quiz, they will have one week to stay after school and complete the task. After that, the assignment will be given a grade of 0. Late Work: Parents will be notified immediately if an assignment is not completed on time. The student will be expected to stay after school to complete the assignment. If the assignment is not completed within one week of the due date, it will be graded based on what has been completed at that time. Resources: Text Book: Math in Focus (Singapore Math) Student Opportunity Time on Tuesdays 2:45-3:30 Thursdays 3:00-3:30 Classroom Policies: The behavior management policy will be given to students in the first week of school. Please review it closely it with your child, as you will both be asked to sign and return it. You can also find it on my website.