ASSESSMENT AND LEARNING FACT SHEET
8th Grade Pre-Algebra
Mrs. McMaster
This document is intended to provide basic information regarding learning targets, grading, homework,
remediation, and enrichment/extended learning opportunities for this course.
The specific learning targets for this course can be viewed in PowerSchool.
Learning targets in this course are completed within a specific marking period. Remediation of those targets
only occurs during that marking period.
Mathematical communication is the only Pre-Algebra learning target that repeats over several marking
periods.
Grades and Evidence for this course can be viewed in PowerSchool.
To view specific details, click on the “standards” tab at the top of the screen. Please note: Learning is a process that is
on-going for students. As such, a score may be displayed in the Power School electronic grade book at the time the
evidence is collected; however, the grade for the learning target may change (up or down) based on continued learning
on the student’s part and as more evidence is gathered, including opportunities for application and strategic
thinking. Grades for the learning targets are not considered final until the end of each marking period.
Grades will be updated as I have evidence to report, which typically will occur weekly. I will post when grades are
updated in PowerSchool on my homework webpage.
Homework completion will also be shown on PowerSchool. This will be updated weekly. Homework completion will be
marked as followed in PowerSchool:
 Checkmark: Turned In/Completed (this does not indicate the proficiency of the given skill)
 Missing: Not Turned In or Incomplete
 Checkmark & Late: Turned in Late
Any evidence that exceeds the assigned date by two weeks will receive a score of zero.
Students in this class monitor and reflect on their own progress. Ask your student to show you their progress
by checking their:
 Tracking Sheet
 PowerSchool
Students will need to complete work for this course outside of the school day…homework.
All homework will be coded as PREVIEW, PRACTICE, or EVIDENCE. In some cases, assigned homework will be
based on a student’s individual learning needs and may be different from their peers. Evidence will be graded
and included in the score for the related learning targets. Timely completion of all assigned tasks is an
essential component of learning and is reflected in the grade report under Characteristics of a Successful
Learner and will be referenced in all college or work recommendation letters.
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Homework postings/communication can be found on the Strayer website.
Homework will typically be given on a daily basis.
Students will be asked to complete the following types of tasks (this is not an exhaustive list): practice
problems/worksheets, math crosswords, logic/trivia problems, word problems, quick checks, etc.
Students will complete a Transformations project later in the school year. This will be done both in
class and out of class.
Students who chronically choose to not complete the assigned work will be assigned to Guided Study
during Period G (Choices).
All students will have the opportunity to remediate LEARNING TARGETS, not individual
assignments, assessments, or projects. However, It is the expectation that all students
complete the necessary work and give their BEST EFFORT THE FIRST TIME.
The purpose of remediation is to gain proficiency in a learning target. It is important to note that remediation
requires effort and additional work on the part of the student, as determined in collaboration with the teacher.
Students WILL NOT be permitted to simply RETAKE the same test or quiz to remediate a learning target.
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Requirements to Remediate
o Students must complete ALL previously assigned homework and in-class work (notes).
o Students must make corrections to ALL assignments related to the learning target that they wish
to retake.
o Students must have completed and updated tracking sheets.
When/where/how can a child remediate
o Students must take the initiative to contact the teacher if they wish to remediate WITHIN 3
school days.
o Students should schedule a time during extension or after school for remediation assistance.
Students who need extended support may also be assigned to Remediation/Relearning during
Period G (Choices).
o The teacher will assign remediation work appropriate to the learning target and the student’s
needs. This could include, but is not limited to, the following: more practice, Compass, Study
Island, accessing other resources, etc.
o Students need to complete ALL assigned remediation work as well as any make-up work WITHIN
5 school days.
Remediation vs. Reassessment
o It is encouraged that all students remediate any and all learning targets that they are not
proficient in. Math is very skill-based and it is vital that students remediate the necessary skills
to help ensure understanding on future math concepts.
o Reassessments are not always appropriate. End of unit assessments are NOT able to be retaken.
o Students may ONLY reassess evidence during the current unit of study (this does not apply to
end of unit assessments). Tracking sheets, when used appropriately, are a valuable tool for
students to help guide them in deciding if remediation is fitting.
Note: Students who habitually choose not to exhibit Characteristics of a Successful Learner (complete all tasks
assigned, on time, etc.) may be required to petition the teacher for an opportunity to remediate.
All students will have the opportunity to enrich/extend their learning.
It is important to note that enrichment opportunities require self-advocacy, effort, additional (and often
different) work on the part of the student, as determined in collaboration with the teacher.
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Advanced learning opportunities will be provided during the course of each unit.
Additional opportunities are available to students as desired. Students need to take the initiative to
collaborate with their teacher if they would like further enrichment opportunities.
The best methods and times for contacting me are:
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For Students
o In class, when appropriate.
o During extension on days 1 and 2. If these days do not work with your schedule, work with your
teacher to determine an appropriate time during Period F.
o Via email (mmcmaster@qcsd.org).
For Parents
o Email (mmcmaster@qcsd.org) is best, but phone (215-529-2321) is also available. I will do my
best to respond within 2 school days.
o Please note that I will not be available during the school day because I am teaching.
Special requirements for this course include:
Students will be expected to have a:
 Math binder complete with all notes, practice, tracking sheets, etc.
 Math Vocabulary notebook either in a spiral notebook or on loose-leaf paper in their binder.
 TI-30 calculator
 Pencils & Erasers
Please refer to the student handbook/agenda for detailed information on
district approved policies and procedures.