Welcome to Math 8!
Mathematics Department
Cole Middle School
2015 - 2016
Instructor: Mrs. Constant
E-Mail: mconstant@egsd.net
Room: 306
Extra Help: I am here to help you and will be available after school on a weekly basis. Please
check the calendar at the back of my classroom and www.teacherweb.com for my availability.
Course Description: Mathematics 8 focuses on three areas: (1) formulating and reasoning about
expressions and equations, including modeling an association in bivariate data with a linear
equation, and solving linear equations and systems of linear equations; (2) grasping the concept
of a function and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; (3) analyzing two- and
three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and
understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem. Students who successfully complete
Mathematics 8 take Algebra I as a subsequent course of study. Mathematics 8 provides students
with multiple and varied opportunities to
• Know that there are numbers that are not rational, and approximate them by rational numbers.
• Work with radicals and integer exponents.
• Understand the connections between proportional relationships, lines, and linear equations.
• Analyze and solve linear equations and pairs of simultaneous linear equations.
• Define, evaluate, and compare functions.
• Use functions to model relationships between quantities.
• Understand congruence and similarity using physical models, transparencies, or geometry
software.
• Understand and apply the Pythagorean Theorem.
• Solve real-world and mathematical problems involving volume of cylinders, cones and spheres.
• Investigate patterns of association in bivariate data.
Grade Breakdown: 90% Assessments & 10% Homework (aka Practice). The final grade is
computed by averaging the four quarter grades.
Required Materials: 1 ½ - 2” 3 ring binder, Pencils, Pens, Loose-leaf paper, Graph paper, 3hole punch/ruler, Dividers, Calculator.
**Please advise that some tasks or assessments allow - but do not require - the use of a
four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator. Consequently, you may want to have a
four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator with you during class and while working
on some assignments. For those planning to purchase a graphing calculator, the TI-84
plus is recommended. It should be noted that no task or assessment requires the use of a
graphing calculator, and that many tasks or assessments specify that a graphing calculator
may not be used. A portion of the state assessments allows students to use four-function,
scientific, or graphing calculators. The Mathematics Department does not supply
calculators.
Participation/Preparation: Your participation is very important in this class. Math class will
include individual, small and whole class work. You are expected to bring your textbook,
binder, pencils, assignments, and questions to class. In order to be successful in this class, you
much be prepared and ready to learn.
Class Attendance: Attendance will be taken every class. You are expected to take your seat as
soon as you enter the classroom. There will be consequences for any student that is late to class.
Absences: If you are absent, it is your responsibility to get the homework assignment and the
notes from the class that you missed. Please see the Team Eclipse Absence Policy.
Practice (aka Homework): “Math is not a spectator sport.” It must be done on a regular basis
to be learned. Typically, I will assign homework each day. Homework must be handed in on the
following day. I do not expect perfection; you need to make mistakes in order to learn.
However, I do expect that you TRY your best on each problem. You will have an opportunity in
class to circle any problems that you were “stuck” on and we will go over it. Homework does
count and is a part of your grade.
Assessments: A quiz will be given mostly each week. The quizzes should help you keep up
with the material and prepare you for the unit tests. If you are absent on the day of the quiz, you
are expected to take it upon return to school. Tests will be given at the end of a unit. If you are
absent for a test, a makeup test will be given upon return to school. Common tests will be given
each quarter.
Notes:
Show respect for yourself, others, and school property.
The policies and procedures of the Student/Parent/Teacher Handbook of CMS are adhered to at
all times.